Public Transportation 1, Hannah 0

When I moved to Chicago, I knew that committing to public transportation would put me at the mercy of, well, public transportation. And up until this point, it has been a fairly smooth transition. I've had to figure out routes and I'm sure I've gone out of the way a time or two, but overall, not too bad. This morning I had my first unfortunate experience with the good ol' CTA.

This morning was somewhat dreary - cloudy and rainy. I made my way to the train station in my wellies and raincoat to discover that the southbound trains weren't running. I knew something was amiss when I saw the hoards of people standing on the street under the tracks. I was just really hoping that it wasn't my train. Of course, it was.

Now I take the train to work everyday, so I'm pretty unfamiliar with other routes to get to work. I know, however, that there are a few express trains out on Lake Shore that will drop me off pretty close to the CBOT. I begin the trek BACK to Lake Shore with the intention of hopping on a bus. Still raining... As I approach the bus stop, I see two buses just leaving. I'm not too worried though, because at this point, I'm not even sure what bus I need to get on. I still have to check Google Maps on my phone to see what route I need. Another bus comes as I get to the stop, I think I can take that number, but still unsure. Better to wait and make sure, right? I mean, another bus will be here shortly, I'm sure of it. Twenty-five minutes later, I'm kicking myself because, in fact, I could have taken that bus, but here I am, boarding the same route to head downtown. We packed that bus like a can of sardines. The bus lumbers down Lake Shore and I finally get to my stop. It's raining and windy, so much that everyone sort of hunkers down with their umbrellas in front of their faces. I can see about two feet in front of me (my umbrella obscures the rest of my view of the sidewalk). The rain and wind is whipping my hair around; I'm sure I look like a drowned rat. Finally, I arrive at work. The CTA may have won this time, but it won't best me again! Or rather, next time, I'll be more prepared and know better alternate routes!

On a lighter note, in case you are interested in what Walter looks like when it rains, here is a little preview. I wish I could somehow attach the his wet-dog aroma for you all to experience as well =) His cuteness makes up for it!

Wet Walt

Here's hoping for sunny skies! Love, H & W