The people

It was such an absolute delight to meet Connect members from near (Wheaton, IL) and far (Australia) during the seminar and for drinks afterward. I saw some really fantastic and creative project planning and tracking sheets drafted up by Nancy, who is an entrepreneur/mother (talk about busy successful folks who need GTD). I got inspired by her to look at spending more time in the public schools teaching GTD to kids. When I see pictures of kids proudly sitting at their desks using an inbox or writing a note it just makes me grin inside and out. I have always wondered to what extent grade school through college actually prepares kids for the jobs they will take, and it seems to me that GTD has so much more to offer in terms of real-world life skills.

I also got inspired by a new members who shares my alma mater to reevaluate a large project on my list: Clarify how I will contribute to caring for myself and the environment in an ecological and progressive way. It's a gigantic project, but what this one conversation did for me was point me in the direction of some introductory behaviors that can help me get in the game. So I came home and started composting. It's something, it's doable, and it breaks through the psychological barrier of "I can't make a difference." Big thanks to Jim for this epiphany. I'm fascinated by how this "getting started" syndrome relates back to GTD. Specifically, what are the entry-level behaviors for GTD that we can all adopt to ease into a very new way of working and living?

There were a multitude of other connections. I especially enjoyed previewing some newer Pocket PC technology (since I'm in the market for a new PDA). I also bumped into quite a few folks who are using GTD to support their work in as reverends and church volunteers. Always great to have a strong ClerGTD turn out. These folks remind me of the connection between the 50,000 ft. life's purpose and the very next physical action. There is something comforting in knowing that not-for-profit and service groups have caught the GTD bug. If you happen to be a Connect member, check out this discussion on GTD for the clergy.

The buildings

I grew up in a small farming community where the largest building in town had 4 stories (max). So it's always a treat to see something a bit older and taller, like the heart of Chicago's financial district. I learned that our very stylish venue, the W Hotel, actually dates back to 1927 with much of the original architecture and flooring in place. On first sight I had simply thought the hotel was aiming for a strange blend of classic and ultra-modern. But alas, the gold leaf ceilings were original. I also captured a few shots of pretty high rises while out and about in the city.

The food

Still big on my raw food kick, I visited the only two raw food restaurants in Chicago. Karyn's Raw Gourmet, though stylish and in a sweet little residential neighborhood, was not to my taste. I found their use of garlic totally overwhelming, and the raviolli just didn't compare to the raw raviolli I've had. The pasta primavera was quite nice, though, with a sweet sauce. Given the choice, I'd cruise uptown to Cousin's Incredible Vitality any day of the week. The atmosphere is very relaxed and fun, and the dishes are fantastic. Try a green smoothie, they are just as sweet and smooth as they are healthy. I had a baby greens salad with walnuts and ginger tahini dressing, totally delicious.

The bean
Speaking of food...

The most phenomenal thing I saw was "the bean". I had a blast interacting with it and watching others conquer its mysterious ways. Click below for more pictures of what I consider one of the most inspiring and playful pieces of art I've seen.

The bean and my boots- this is what it's like when you bravely lay under the bean.

Looking into the bean- totally mind-boggling, like fractal art in 3-D.

Me and the bean- A passerby insisted that she snap this shot because the sight of it was cracking her up.

I just love Chicago! A fabulous trip to one of my favorite cities, with some great connections, lessons, and inspirations.