Chicago in the summer... there's nothing quite like it. Magnificent.
My stars lined up perfectly. Where I should have missed my flight with 25 min before take off, I fly through the airport getting clearance to "take your chance and run to your gate", bypassing all waiting in lines, because I was randomly selected as the "easy one" and getting clearance... at my gate in 5 minutes from stepping out of the car... and having to wait because my "group" wasn't called yet. (I'm still shaking my head that all that happened in my favor).
An amazing night with Irish crooners Glen Hansard, Lisa Hannigan, members of The Frames, and Levon Helms band...all at The Metro last night, Sunday, June 9th, 2013 -a big 30th Anniversary celebration for The Metro. Chicago is Glen's 2nd home. "The people of Chicago have always welcomed us with big open arms." he said. It's their home base for the states. I know what you mean Glen.
Another night tonight at Millenium Park with Glen again performing a free concert. Old friends who I haven't seen since the age of 14 shall be there... and friends who have been at my side all through the years. This time, my son too. All this forshadowing a very important meet up with members of my family from my father's side, who I haven't seen in over 30 years. (There's that repeat... 30). I will get a chance to be reunited with them, introduce my son to them, and get access to the "Allen" geneaolgy book that dates back over 200 years, to Ireland, and to England. I am humbled and amazed in how all this just came together with such ease and perfection. I feel so much gratitude that this is being made possible.
I leave you with a few pictures and videos from last night's performance. Magical doesn't even begin to describe it!