The chill in the air here in Chicago is a stark contrast to the familiar Texas warmth, but my heart is radiating a warmth that defies external temperatures. Yesterday and today was a significant solo trek, and the beginning of a week-long adventure filled with promise and profound joy.
Matthew, had to travel to Chicago for onboarding for his new job as Human Resources for a freight airline. It’s a big, exciting step for him, and when he asked if I would join him, there was no hesitation. In an effort to be practical and save a bit of money (always a good idea, even when love calls!), I opted to drive instead of fly. So, with a full tank of gas, a meticulously curated playlist, and a heart brimming with anticipation, I left Abilene yesterday morning and set my sights on the Windy City.
The Great Plains Blur: A Wintery Traverse to the Midwest
The drive from Abilene to Chicago is, in a word, formidable. It’s roughly 1,100 miles, a journey that typically takes about 16-17 hours of pure driving time. I pushed straight through, clocking in a solid day of continuous travel. The landscape initially unfolded in familiar Texas plains, but as I made my way northeast, the scenery began its subtle shift.
Crossing into Oklahoma and then Missouri, much of the drive became a blur of highway miles, small towns, and the rhythmic drone of the road. My primary focus was the endless ribbon of asphalt, keeping my eyes peeled for rest stops and the next gas station. However, the weather added an unexpected, and frankly, unwelcome, layer of challenge. I drove straight into a winter storm. The sky turned a heavy, oppressive grey, the temperatures plummeted, and the landscape became a stark, muted canvas of brown and white. The roads became slick with sleet and patches of ice, demanding unwavering focus and a tense grip on the steering wheel. Visibility dropped, and the steady fall of snow and freezing rain created a constant, unnerving battle against the elements. It was a challenging stretch, physically demanding and mentally draining, proving that even a journey fueled by love requires grit.
And then, a bizarre, almost surreal, roadside anomaly broke through the monochromatic landscape: the Uranus Fudge Factory. With its garish, over-the-top signage and audacious, wink-wink-nudge-nudge branding (yes, it is exactly what it sounds like, every pun intended by them), it was so utterly ridiculous that I actually pulled over. Despite seeing it with my own two eyes, stepping inside, and witnessing the sheer volume of themed merchandise, I still, to this moment, refuse to believe it’s real. It exists, I’ve been there, I’ve seen the fudge, but my brain simply cannot process the level of intentional absurdity. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated comedic relief in an otherwise grueling, wintery drive.
Chicago’s Embrace: Love, Lights, and the Promise of Winter Wonder
After battling the winter storm, navigating the absurdity of cosmic fudge, and logging countless miles, I finally pulled into Chicago. The city lights, twinkling through the still-chilly December air, felt like a beacon. And then, the ultimate reward: I was greeted by the love of my life. Matthew’s embrace was warm, real, and instantly melted away every mile, every ache, every bit of road fatigue. To see him, to feel his presence after that long, solitary drive, was a profound relief and a surge of pure joy. We ended the night with a nice dog from Portillo’s and their legendary Chocolate Cake.
As I sit now, late at night, in a hotel near the airport, the man of my dreams peacefully asleep next to me, a profound sense of contentment washes over me. The view from our window offers a glimpse of Chicago’s vastness, its urban sprawl stretching into the horizon, hinting at the adventures that await. It’s the beginning of December, and Chicago, even in its early winter chill, has a palpable energy. The air is crisp, carrying the scent of festive anticipation. The promise of the holidays is already in motion, with lights beginning to twinkle, window displays being dressed, and a general festive ambiance starting to settle over the city.
Matthew will be doing a lot of working during the week. It’s a demanding period for him, and I respect that immensely. But I look forward to exploring when he’s off, particularly delving into Chicago’s legendary food scene. I’m excited to experience Christmas time in Chicago, to see the holiday decorations, perhaps visit some of the famous landmarks draped in festive cheer, and, of course, discover new culinary delights.
I look forward to posting the happenings over the next few days, sharing the magic of Chicago, the warmth of new beginnings, and the sheer joy of living life fully, one experience at a time. This journey, long and challenging as it was, was utterly worth it for this moment of peace and happiness.
What are your experiences with long solo drives? What are your favorite holiday traditions or destinations? Share your thoughts below – let’s keep this Wildcard Wanderings buzzing with adventure and festive cheer!