Luck of the Irish

Alright, so I am working my way up to the present but let's start with the big St. Patty's day plans. Well, it had gotten a bit colder by the saturday, but I was psyched about seeing the river dyed green and even convinced a couple of friends to join in for old times sake. Well, that morning I woke up - a bit later than I had hoped - but still had time to make it down to see the river and the parade. I should mention I was feeling a bit out of it, but counted it as being a bit tired and laissez-faire. Got dressed, went out with Cam, and as the cold air hit me, realized I was more than just tired.

We probably walked about two blocks when I decided it was time to turn around and head back home. Came home and crashed into bed and that is all I remember for the next six hours. I knew I was feverish, knew I was defintely not feeling well, and in that sixth hour, realized I had to get one of my friends to take the Camster out. So I called best Chi-town bud and she came over, took Cam out, confirmed the general "Yep, you've got a fever" and then got me drugs and lots and lots of juice. She also brought over this wonderful thing called Thera-Flu which I drank (probably the first thing I had that day if I remember correctly) and offered to have me stay with them (me and the Camster).

I should pause and say that if you know me at all, you know the one thing I hate most is to be dependent on others and sick. So, I was greatful but decided to tough it out on my own. Thankfully, my fever broke that night (thanks to the Thera-Flu gods!) but I was still a bit under the weather for days (and stayed the course by drinking Thera-Flu every day; I love that stuff! I am bringing it with me where ever I go from here on out!).

I chalk being sick up to a late season flu, the amount of stress I had been under a couple of days before (imagine that suddenly your life plans jump forward by about three months unexpectedly - it is quite a bit of time, especially when we are talking about the life plans I am making), and the wonderful up-and-down of Chicago temperatures/weather.

So, sadly, I did not see green for my last year in Chicago but that just means that my ass will be back here one fine St. Patty's weekend to relive the fun and say "Finally! After all my years of being a Chi-towner!". And then board a plane back to the real Ireland so I can see and experience the real deal.......If anyone wants to plan it (maybe for the year of my thirtieth), I am up for making it a friend adventure.

Though I missed out on St. Patty's, at least I got my proof this year that global warming is real and has definitely landed in Chicago. Next time: Why it always rains in Spain, mostly on the plains........