23 Months

I've been tardy posting all the happenings since my last post. First, I went on the McMiller family vacation to Disney World. Jennifer, who is.a colleague of mine, was kind enough to invite me along to her birthday celebration - and family getaway - to the happiest place on earth. I had not been to Disney in more than 40 years (yes folks, I"m old). I had a blast - and Jennifer and her family were such good sports allowing me to tag along. We rode the rides, we ate and drank our way through Epcot, I walked more than 65,000 steps and 33 miles in 3 days, 5 pairs of ears, and countless accessories worn. 

Cosmo would have loved this time of year. It is cooler outside and our walks would be longer. And, we'd always stop at the fountain across the street to take our picture. We knew it was fall when it turned orange.

22 Months

So much has happened in the past month. I keep seeing sweet pictures of Cosmo pop up in my social media feeds and I'm instantly sad. I miss him. 

First, Fernando and I went to see Gun N' Roses. For me, it's all about reliving my youth (I love a good hair band). I was shocked at how well they played given it was 103 degrees when the concert started. We had the best time, except for the heat. I'm surprised I didn't end up with heat stroke.

 

We went sailing with our friend Christian.

 

And, we went to Riot Fest.

21 Months

21 months without my sweet Cosmo. I'm still struggling with walking in the City since my mugging. So, I either drive or Uber everywhere. I know I have to get back into my old rhythm. But, I'm admittedly scared. I've updated my mace and added a personal security alarm (The Birdie) to the things I'm carrying on a daily basis. 

Since my last post, I've turned a year older. 

I had planned a "staycation" so-to-speak with a few concerts, a trip to the museum, and my traditional architecture boat tour. Well, one of my concerts was postposed until next. year (I guess almost dying will do that to an artist - thanks, Madonna). I did get a chance to see Bruce and the boys. I've seen him a number of times, but this time felt different. Could have been the setting of Wrigley Field, could be his song selections (a few that have not been on the set list for decades), or maybe I just appreciated it more. Regardless, a fantastic time.

I also had a chance to see the Van Gogh exhibit at the Art Institute. A fantastic exhibit and always a fave spot of mine when I need perspective and to reset.

I then took my yearly architecture boat tour. This time, I chose the 90-minute tour and went quite a ways down the south branch of the river into Chinatown. On the way back, our docent spoke about the history of Chicago food and drink. She told us all about the history of Malort. Quite possibly, the worst liquor made. Well, a few of the boat riders thought it would be great to buy the entire boat a shot of Malort. As they say, when in Rome...you take a shot of Malort. 

It absolutely is the WORST liquor I've ever had. But, a Chicago institution (or folklore). 

Finally, I spent this weekend poolside watching the Chicago Air and Water Show (well, the air part of the show, or at least what I could see).

Later this week I'm headed to Guns 'N Roses at Wrigley. Keeping up with the summer tradition of living out my youth - or trying to get back to my youth - or something like it. I'm a sucker for a good 80's hairband (my expectations are low, but I anticipate having a great time anyway).

20 Months

20 months to the day that Cosmo crossed the rainbow bridge, I was mugged on the streets of Chicago. I was in my own neighborhood, just a few blocks from home. I fought and ran after him even after the fact. This happened on a busy street and me screaming to stop him and the words help prompted not one person to help me. When I could no longer keep up (lost sight of him after a block and a half), I stopped and quickly realized all that was taken from me. The absolute worst part was my Mom was on the phone with me when it happened and she could hear me screaming the entire time - helpless to help me. 

There were a few lessons I've learned from this situation:

• You must call 911 in order to get your ID early replaced. And yes, to file an insurance claim.
• The cops in the city of Chicago - no matter how many of them are on the same street where this crime occurred, cannot help you because, as the 911 operator told me, have no idea why they are there.
• Always have a second phone. If I didn't have one I would not have been able to start the process of cancelling all my financial stuff and recovering my ID, etc. as quickly as I could
• You think you know exactly what you'll do in this situation when it happens to you, and now I know you will forget all of that as it is happening. 
• No matter how secure you think your belongings are, if they want them, they will find. way to take them.
• You'll still be shaking the next day (and won't get much sleep)
• You'll avoid the area for fear it may happen again.
• You won't walk - even to work - afraid it will happen again.
• You'll feel guilty that you're being dramatic when all that was taken was your purse, wallet, phone #1, $150 in cash, hairbrush, house keys, hand sanitizer, lotion, sunglasses, and an extra mask. 
• Your faith in humanity will be tested.

I always thought if Cosmo was with me or I was on the phone (through my ear buds) that no one would approach me. I was wrong.