Westward

From Harrisburg on Saturday we made our way to Akron OH, where we were able to connect with family and experience the beginnings of Autumn... (It came quietly under the doors this year; we awoke today and realized we'd missed that celebratory first day. Nevertheless: Welcome, Autumn; how we missed you--)

We replenished our podcasts before heading out for Kalamazoo-- And as it was Monday morning, there were new episodes of our favorites (drumroll for the exposure of us as continuing npr junkies)... We were distracted enough by the greatness that we missed our first turnoff from I-77 and landed in Cleveland, taking 480 back over to the turnpike. (This means oh so little to non-NW-Ohioans.) (It was only like 8 miles; never fear.)

Justin got rather sick on the way, and we spent a great deal of time at an exit off the turnpike trying to get him feeling better, and so we're terribly fortunate that the folks at K College were so kind and patient. Very very special thanks to Kate and to Danielle for your compassion and help with our rushed load-in...
And we had a great time at the college show. It was the first day of classes and the inaugural musical event in their new Student Center, so we were honored to share an evening and chat with some of K's fine students... And how restful to spend the evening at The Hall House, a nearby bed and breakfast. Such a treat--

Today we took off for the long trip to Eau Claire WI. (Today and Thursday are massive driving days for us, so we've settled in to the idea of massive time for good conversation, listening to music, and making moments for every podcast ever made.) :)
It was a stunning day for driving; the weather is amazing, SO fall-in-the-midwest... The skies were blue with wispy clouds, and the breeze was blowing...
Chicago was brilliant; its traffic nearly effortless (oh the wonder!) -- And then driving through Wisconsin, as many of you know, is one of our favorite things in the world. There are few landscapes so endlessly breathtaking... Which is perhaps unexpected to many of you, but it does remain one of our favorites, connecting with something deep in our bones.
Hello Midwest, your Autumn settling light on our skin.