Life of Wry

This is why we come to Ann Arbor… to see the kiddos and to experience a slice of their life. So here’s how this day unfolded:

Our basement apartment at Chez Claire-Lisa is — as I’m sure I’ve said before — lovely, quiet, comfortable and fully equipped. Fully equipped includes all the usual guest amenities, but add a fully stocked exercise gym and a laundry room.

So, this day started with a spin on Claire’s Peloton (again). This photo shows the space we walk through on our way to the bedroom/bathroom. When guests are not occupying the basement, it’s also their big screen TV room. Things to note in the photo: the Peloton over there in the corner; my traveling workout notes (I’m a weirdo); and especially that huge, plush couch, which C&L are bequeathing to Peter and Maya, sure to be the nicest piece of furniture in their new studio apartment.

The other thing I’m loving about this summer trip to Ann Arbor is the cool rain, humidity (well… only in the shade when it’s unseasonably cool, like this morning) and all the GREEN! This is the view to the backyard (could also be the neighbor’s yard.. they don’t really do fences around here).

After a leisurely morning, Jim and I went into town to hang out at Argus.. my absolute favorite corner in A2.. we sat in the green house (not sure what they call that space) and drank coffee/tea and ate croissants prob for a couple hours. We then bought a bunch of locally farmed produce and headed into Kerry Town to finish our dinner shopping at the Coop and Zingerman’s (birthday cake).

We headed back to Loch Alpine and having exhausted himself, Jim took a very long nap! I prepped dinner.. fun to make my way through somebody else’s kitchen….not hugely efficiently, but I found most of what I needed.

Dinner was some cheese and cracker apps, a sheet pan Greek chicken that’s been a fave at home (though guessed on the marinade.. and it came out great), a big salad, some fantastic bakery bread, wine, and a weird tropical birthday cake and ice cream. Yummers.

Best part of the night was Maya’s willingness to share a presentation she’d made to her company this week. It was about 15-20 minutes long (with our frequent interruptions and questions) adn it was a compelling and thoughtful look at the impact of school design (good and bad) on the well being and productivity of students. She delivered it as she did to her colleagues so it was like seeing her in her professional role.. and it was impressive. I felt so proud of her.

I do love these kids.