Wandering in the Windy City

Walked uptown yesterday. To the Chicago city model in the Santa Fe building, the Palmer House Hilton (Chicago's most opulent hotel), Atlas stationers on the Loop, Heaven on Seven Cajun brunch (fried shrimp and cheese grits), Chicago Institute of Art on Michigan Ave (why do cities have fabulous art collections and decaying infrastructure), back via Fine Arts Building with hair-raising ride to tenth floor in ancient lift. To Lou Malnati's on State St., for deep dish pizza last night - the place was packed while local chain restaurants were deserted. Chicago has been cold and windy but warmer weather is on the way for St. Patrick's Day - about time.