Why I Love Chicago: Lake Shore Drive

After three months in this city (to the day), I can say that I am officially a sucker for Chicago.

You’re probably thinking, Ha!  Wait ‘til that famous Chicago winter hits!  To which I would like to reply, yes, it will be cold, but get this:

·         I lived in Erie, PA, for five years, so I know something about cold and snow.

·         I don’t have a car, which is a whole different hassle in the winter.

·         And I have a floor-length down coat with a big fur hood, so take that!

Things I don't have to worry about.

Anyway, my main point is this: I love Chicago.  It’s not perfect, but it is pretty, pretty great. 

You can order any kind of food you like and have it delivered.  Tonight I am having pad Thai.  Last week I had a Cajun shrimp po’ boy.

If you need something, there is a good chance you can find a store or a service very close to where you live to get it done.

If there’s a musician or a show you really want to see on tour, it probably won’t be too long ‘til the show comes to town.

These are all efficient and convenient things, but that’s not the best part.  One of the best parts is the view on my commute home from work.

See, I have a job in Hyde Park (haha!  Guess where!) and I live up in Lakeview.  This accounts for a loooooong ride to and from work. 

In the morning, it can be a little rough, but in the evening, riding the bus along Lake Shore Drive offers the most breathtaking view.

This picture was taken in the summer, and not by me, but whatever.

You’ve got Lake Michigan on the right, which might have waves crashing on the beach if it’s windy enough, which it often is.  And up ahead is the city skyline. 

Last week the bus I got on was so crowded, I had to stand up at the very front, right next to the driver.  This has become my new favorite place to be on a bus.  You can see everything through the enormous windows, you don't have to drive, and if you happen to be coming into the city on Lake Shore Drive at dusk, well, it's an experience worth having.  If the bus is going really fast, it feels like flying.  Is that sentimental?  Well, I'm sentimental.

Not that public transportation is anything to be passionate about, but it does have its perks.  Gorgeousness is one of them.

Chicago is beautiful.  The end!