La ciudad ventosa

I guess this whole Chilean adventure really starts here, in Chicago. After all, I could not spend a year (legally) in the country without my visa, which is why I am here. Tomorrow I have an appointment at the Chilean Consulate high up in the John Hancock Center where I will get my passport back and supposedly be fingerprinted.

I've always liked architecture, and I've always liked Chicago's architecture. I went straight from the airport to the Chicago Architecture Foundation for their 'Modern Skyscrapers' walking tour. It was very interesting, and very cold. I had almost forgetten what it felt like to see snow on the ground and to have to wear gloves, a scarf, and hat. The wind whipping down through the canyons created by the tall buildings can get strong. Everything is all decked-out for the Bears now that they're in the Super Bowl.

I also changed some money into Chilean pesos, but was only able to get larger bills (1000 peso notes, which equal about $18.50 each). I was hoping to get various denominations, but oh well. I don't think Chilean pesos are a very high-demand currency in the bureaus de change.

Tomorrow after the appointment at the consulate I plan on going to the Museum of Contemporary Art. Free admission Tuesdays sponsored by Target. YES!