An unexpected bout of homesickness has washed over me since about Tuesday. Small hints of missed streets and riding fast without (as much) fear of close car confines and of being surrounded by those whom I've spent years of my life enjoying the company of are jumping into my mind like popcorn.
Twice I've teared up.
Five times I've said "I miss Minneapolis".
And although there's not a part of me that is wishing to live back in the Twin Cities metro, I think my brain feels that since I'm going back this weekend for a visit, it can wax nostalgic in the middle of my workday. It's becoming disruptive I tell you. Especially when I see pictures (Courtesy of Deplaqer) like this:
Meanwhile, I'm finding tasty bits of Chicago to add to the fledgling memory box up inside my head. Each day I ride home I take pictures for my Fall Picture Project. And once our internet is ironed out at home, I'll be able to upload them properly without missing any (as is not the case right now) on my flash drive. Through my lovely but beaten up camera I see wonderful signs of nature, city dwellers, urban architecture and sites roughed up and gentrified.
On the days where I take the train, I'm reminded of this life I lead. It's only a small percentage of the geographic area of America that trek across and under streets full of such a variety of people. Moving up escalators, standing as the train lurches into and out of stops, walking/riding through taxis and delivery trucks...
How easily you forget about life without all this excess and busy behavior. As much as I love it, I am reminded more now that I am part of this swell of humanity rather than the quiet of towns where my other family members habituate. What a large and diverse world I have moved myself into. I'm looking forward to stepping back to Minneapolis to evaluate the differences that I've grown accustomed to since I moved here in April.
Also I hear there will be cake. And I get to dress up. I think I'll need to procure a curling iron.
Wishing you fondness of recalling what you might have left behind (for now)...
Love love love,
K.
13 hours ago