Chicago Day Two--Rehearsal

We woke early the next day, still on our East coast time. I made a pot of coffee in the sunny kitchen and we feasted on the bounty Stacia's family had provided. We didn't have a lot to do since we wouldn't be meeting up with everyone until the rehearsal later that afternoon. So we eventually ventured out to explore the town. The area was so different from ours--flat, with wide open spaces of farmland interspersed with new little shopping centers and housing developments.

There were few businesses and few chain restaurants. Searching for lunch became the number one task. Damien had his GPS but it didn't give us many suggestions. Not knowing the area, we didn't want to wander too far. We headed down one road in search of something that sounded good, but it was closed. Someone remembered we had passed a little strip mall and had seen a sign that said "Tacos Locos." A very small strip mall, a very small sign. But we headed there.

Inside Tacos Locos was a pleasant woman at the counter and several small clean tables. The woman brought us menus and Damien and Gretchen, admitted food snobs, were delighted to see authentic Mexican food. Cheap! We ordered and were delighted with our meals. Great filling food! Tacos Locos will become one of those fond memories.

We met up with Stacia's family and Dominic at the venue. It was a long drive from the house where we were staying. Not long in miles, but long in travel time. Damien was beside himself with how slowly the Midwesterners drive. I found it rather refreshing. The people here do not live with the frantic pace we have. I enjoyed seeing the different little towns and the wide expanse of land all around us.

Dominic and Stacia had planned an outdoor wedding in a beautiful setting with gardens and a fountain and gazebos--perfect for photographing. I met Stacia's mother and her aunts as they bustled around setting up the decorations. Real people, authentic people. There was no pretense, no front, no cold reservedness. Each person welcomed us warmly. I have a lot to learn from their hospitality.

Family members set up a large buffet of food on tables outdoors. Stacia's mom had prepared gluten-free food to make sure Dominic and I could eat. It was delicious! Are there insects in Illinois? We didn't see any on this summer afternoon. The weather was perfect, sunny and warm. Dominic invited me to sit with Stacia's mom at their table so we could get to know each other. I think we would be friends if we lived in the same area. She is a lovely woman, open and friendly and generous. Dominic is so fortunate to become a part of this family. After our wonderful meal, we walked across the grass to the gazebo to rehearse for the wedding. It was a lot of fun watching everyone joke around and practice their parts. Afterwards we traveled the dark roads once more and rested in that peaceful home. I discovered another difference in this area and ours. Stars! We could see millions of them spread out like fairy dust across the sky! I had forgotten about stars in our neighborhood where lights from the city always intrude.