Forest Glen – going back is like old shoes with new soles!

Friday, March 12, 2021

Before I start, every evening around 5:15 pm, a few of the ladies who live in my building walk down the hall, on their way home from what must be a daily gathering. No matter where I am in the apartment, I can hear their chatter – even if I don’t catch everything they say, I know they’re wishing each other a good evening, a good dinner, and a good night. Usually they’re accompanied by a little white Lhasa Apso. I didn’t hear her tonight, so I’m wondering if she’s all right. There are squirrels out there almost the same size.

At the time this was going on, I happened to be reading Hemingway’s Nick Adams’ WWWI adventures in Italy. Hemingway himself was wounded (he was an ambulance driver) and his character, Nick Adams, was wounded even worse. The clash of ladies chattering excitedly in the hall and a harrowing account of bombs blowing poor, young solider to bits in 1917 made for an interesting mix. 

Cod was on the menu tonight, with Alexia potatoes (“Alexa, potatoes, please.” “How do you want them?” “Hot and on my plate, right next to the fish.” “You’re funny, Mr. B.”)

This isn’t me of course, but’s an actual picture of my friend Al S.

Tuesday, I went to Forest Glen by myself for the first time in maybe a year. I’ve been there with friends, but  this time I hopped the Metra, said howdy to the conductor who remembered me and got off in my old happy place. 

Was once my jogging place, toned it down to walking, many years back. It’s where I took  my son Kev (who’s turing 30 tomorrow), fishing, exploring, talking to the neighbors, and plenty of photos over the past 34 years. 

High 60s for the walk, not a cloud in the sky, a sweatshirt and windbreaker and my new camera phone was all I needed for the trip. 

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Everything’s set for Spring, but Spring’s not quite here yet. Warm weather, dry, no foliage or blossoms yet, but you can feel that they’re coming soon.

A favorite tree. You can’t see the train station when all the leaves come out.

Soon the alleys will be filled with kids playing.
Across from the woods and playing field.



Looking east on FG Ave. Heading toward the river.

Hazelton House


A great intersection in my part of the world.
Welcome to the Glen.

More Later!

Btw – My good friend, Ron Smolen emailed me this one. Ron leads the RSO Orchestra. Dancing and great music from years gone by. The vid is proof positive, comparing The Sound of Water vs the Sound of Beer. Enjoy!

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