Colorado Should...: Laubs in Chicago

In January 2003 Megan and I moved from Boise Idaho to Chicago Illinois in a 24 foot U-haul.

Our fist day we go snowed in at the mountain-pass going into Salt Lake, and we had to stay the night in Burley, Idaho after only traveling a few hours.

In that hotel I realized that I had my mother-in-law's keys. We had to mail them to her the next day.

We fought icy patches, blowing snow, and light snow flurries all the way across country. All our: shampoo, olive oil, and bath-tub-bubble-bath froze across the plains, as we experienced negative 20 and 30 degree weather.

Finley (our dog) seemed depressed on the trip (even thought he got more space than Megan or I), and slept all most the whole way there. Each morning we would have to break the ice out of his doggy bowl.

We arrived in Chicago on their coldest day in 4 years. There was a 100 yard walkway between our apartment, up the stairs, and to the U-Haul.

It wasn't fun, but we were alive, and finally together again.

There's something truly special about a visit from your parents. It's a gesture that speaks volumes about familial bonds, love, and commitment, and I've been lucky to experience this multiple times. Despite the long, 22-hour drive from their home to mine in Illinois, my parents have made the journey not once, but four times. They've driven here twice, flown twice, and even brought their trailer on one occasion.

Sure, my home might not be the Ritz Carlton, and they've had to make do with our pull-out couch, but these small inconveniences never dampen the spirit of their visits. We always cherish their company, the shared laughs, stories, and the joy they bring, especially to their grandkids.

One visit that stands out is from September 2010 when both Mom and Dad came out after Philip, my son, was born. Their excitement and eagerness to meet their new grandchild turned their journey into a grand adventure. We spent a lovely day at the Chicago Arboretum, creating memories that we still fondly look back on.