Stroll down Michigan Avenue
Tonight, I ventured into the big-city sensory overload that is Michigan Avenue. It was stunning and bewildering. I was struck by the density and diversity of the crowd representing all colors, sizes, ages and heard many languages being spoken. The majority of the crowd was well dressed in an upscale urban fashion; in contrast to my sketchers, capris and blue wind-breaker. I realized that I am something of a hick in the big city … so be it.
I recognized the songs of a street trumpeter: ‘A Whole New World’ and the more subtle melody of ‘The first time I ever saw your face’: his repertoire going from Disney to Robert Flack in the wink of an eye. We chatted a bit, and I learned some music trivia, including the fact (?) that Herb Albert wrote the theme song for the Dating Game. He was right when he said I was aging myself by recognizing his songs: So be it.
I quickly gave away all the $1 bills I had to the street musicians and to the homeless panhandlers that were on every corner: Some of whom were completely and anonymously bowed under their obligatory cardboard sign; others were chatting with passerbys with their children (or grandchildren?) on the sidewalk. I realize that I am a soft touch – so be it.
The traffic created a constant cacophony underlying the entire experience. I ducked into a couple stores and made a few modest purchases — including the best hamburger I’ve had in years from a fast food place called M Burgers.
It was a ‘just right’ taste of a truly big city. A great place to visit, but I wouldn’t want to live here. I am a small(er) town gal at heart – so be it.