Today there have been jackhammers going non-stop outside our building....seriously all day hammering. I woke up a little after 7:00, it's 5:30 as I'm writing this, and they're still hammering. Some days city living really grates on my nerves.
Anyone who reads my blog and/or Facebook page regularly, knows that driving in Chicago also drives me crazy. I literally try to drive as little as possible, but some days it can't be avoided. I swear, since the weather finally got warm the traffic has doubled. Especially on really sunny, hot days. That's when it seems like everyone in the city comes out of hibernation and hits the beaches....making Lake Shore Drive a parking lot. I usually love driving LSD because of the striking combination of city and lake views, and it's an easy shot North and South from where we live. However, lately I've been weighing the option of navigating through the city, taking on honking cabs, pedestrians, bikers, and one way streets instead.
I've started a part-time nanny job in Lincoln Park, which is why I can't avoid driving. The family is great and the 9 year old girl is fun to take care of, super smart, and talented. My job includes picking up Alexandra from school, taking her to after-school activities, grocery shopping, and running general errands. I'm getting to know my way around Lincoln Park. I'm also getting some much needed practice at parallel parking. It's a good thing the Liberty is kinda squatty...as SUV's go! I swear some days the hardest thing about my job is finding a parking spot where I won't get towed. Although I'm getting into the routine now and becoming more familiar with the parking situation, it has been a little stressful.
When I'm not working I don't feel like driving anywhere, which I can usually accomplish thanks to the CTA...love public transportation. I'm also trying to relax and take advantage of my down time before grad school hits. Brizz and I have gotten back into our long walks along the lake and through Grant Park. We didn't venture out as much during the Winter, for obvious reasons, but now I really look forward to our walks together. Poor Brizz, with her thick fur can't make it too far before she seeks the shade of one of the beautiful trees along the trail. We both happily plop down in the grass to watch the boats and passersby.
Today was one of those days when a lake front stroll was much needed. Even though there is still the rush of cars from Lake Shore Drive, I can somehow escape the craziness of the city with the lake in front of me. Now....if those jackhammers would just take a break......
