I never would have anticipated that it would be so humid in Chicago. Fortunately the sun is still hiding behind the clouds as I step outside just after nine. From the Langham I head south to the Millennium Park to have a look at that infamous Bean. And I must say, it really is rather cool how clearly the surroundings are reflected in the building. Eventually I think I spend about half an hour cavorting in front of the thing and taking a whole series of embarrassing selfies that I must really never show to a living soul…
From The Bean I head east until I hit the lake. Perfect weather for a stroll along the shore. This is an excellent spot to do some serious people watching. Especially the sporty ones. To be sure, it is not my intention to belittle their achievements and performance. But it is just so funny to observe the social interaction between the sexes – even if it is all nonverbal and very subtle. Eyes swiftly grazing, assessing and evaluating.
There is a dress code. This season these funny stocking type things seem to be à la mode with the ladies. I am not sure what they are supposed to be good for – the stockings – except that they cover the lower part of the leg and probably make you sweat like something nasty.
For the gents a run along the shore is a good enough excuse to get their kit off and go topless. Some of them indeed look rather amazing as they push past you in vigorous, powerful strokes. Others alas, had better kept their t-shirts on. But it takes all sorts, they say…
Eventually, my foray into the exciting and highly entertaining domain of anthropology and social behaviour wears me out and I decide it is time for some heavy duty shopping to revive the spirits.
knightofmalta 