Chicago, IL. Yes, I made it to Chicago and was too busy to post but now I'm determine to catch up. In the photo above my new buddy Guan Carlo and I took a tour of Sears Tower... I mean Willis Tower's Skydeck.

For a small cost you can have a great, mesmerizing view of Chicago especially at night! The views, which I photographed below, remind me of scenes from The Matrix and also Tron. I was in awe, these were views you couldn't even capture in New York City.

Above is photo of Lisa who I met while visiting Willis Tower. She was visiting Chicago from Wisconsin pursuing a position in the energy field. From what I can tell she's a very driven young lady and I know she will find the perfect position.

Below are some great mostly southern views of Chicago from Willis Tower.

2/6/13

Fairmount, IN. Above is a photo of a great man by the name of John (on the right alongside his dog, Rocky) next to his good good friend Tony (on the left). I met John after looking for non-existing restaurant in the nearby city of Matthews, Indiana (I ended up having a huge satisfying meal at a BP gas station). After seeing my huge "NY -to- LA" sign John knew I had a interesting story and offered me a place to stay overnight for a couple of days which I gladly accepted. That ample time would allow me to plan my upcoming route.

After we spoke and we got to know each other I discovered John was a top director for The Cardinal Greenway (headquartered in Muncie), which is the bike path I had been travelling since Richmond, Indiana to that point (roughly 60 miles). While staying in his home he also kindly informed the Marion newspaper of my journey which transpired into a interview, photoshoot, and finally a newspaper article.

Being a map expert he showed me the best path to take that point forward. John's dog Rocky was also awesome abd was the most relaxed canine I have ever seen. Rocky and I went running in the snow a couple of times which was a lot of fun. I haven't been running since Centre Hall, PA.

My bedroom was extremely cozy and had its own bathroom, I had no problem falling asleep. While staying there I had some of the healthiest meals on my journey, all hand made by John -- tons of great food and I even learned a new technique to make oatmeal. He also repaired the tip of one of my hiking poles which was great!

The things I took from John that spoke loudest to me was his great humility and positive attitude. I also admired his focus on health, not only eating right and being physically active but his advocacy for cycling and The Cardinal Greenway. The excellent bond with his friends was something I took note of along with his overall openess and care. Loved it, great experience!

This is the humble Rocky who is always in chill-mode.

Beautiful living room that was warm and cozy especially with the fireplace going.

Nothing beats morning breakfast, cardinals & blue jays, with a touch of sunrise.


1/23/13 to 1/25/13