Hello from Chicago!

I was a huge fan of The West Wing during its award winning seven-season run. I can’t help wondering if the show would have made it past Season One if Jed Bartlet was a convicted felon and won the Presidential re-election by defeating a female former Attorney General of California. Somehow, I don’t think it would have even made it through the first episode. Then again, I could be wrong.

There’s no denying we’re living in unprecedented times and finding the best way to cope is challenging. I’m keeping informed but limiting the amount of daily news I consume. Supporting organizations that represent my values is one way I can be pro-active. Like lots of writers, I’m an introvert. Books, music, and yarn as well as time spent with family and friends provide much-needed escape. And even though it’s winter, I feel blessed to be able to find solace with walks along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Shawn’s Special 17^th Strategy

October 17^th — On a sunny fall day I headed to Old Town, home of The Second City where I once performed on the same stage as famous alums like Amy Poehler and Tina Fey. Really? Okay, I was unexpectedly plucked out of the audience to participate in a pantomime. Lesson learned—don’t ever sit that close to the stage. My reason for a visit to the neighborhood this time was to check out the new Slant of Light bookstore and to stop by The Spice House on North Wells Street for a jar of Vietnamese cinnamon.

November 17^th — A leisurely Sunday was the perfect time to browse at the Chicago Artisan Market featuring 100 top artisans selling food, fashion, home goods, jewelry and art at a spacious indoor market. It was a great opportunity to shop local and also explore the restaurant choices in the Fulton Market District.

The Sequel by Jean Hanff Korelitz is, in fact, the sequel to The Plot which I read first and strongly recommend doing so. Both books about writers and writing are equally captivating. My second recommendation: before you start reading, clear your calendar.

On Sunday, October 13, over 52,000 runners hit the streets of Chicago for the annual Bank of America Marathon. At Broadway and Roscoe, spectators and participants were entertained with disco music and dancers representing the cast of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. I’m not sure when this tradition began and how movies are chosen to be the theme, but it’s always a crowd pleaser.

Until next time — However you choose to celebrate, here’s wishing you HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

Slainte!

Shawn