The flight back wouldn't have been too bad had it not been for the over exuberance of 6 days partying in England.

I finally arrived back at the Clabby's at 8pm Chicago time, or 2am UK time. I had already eaten but talked to them while they had their dinner. I must have looked like a zombie and threw in the towel 2 hours later.

The bad news is I fear I have gotten over the jet lag already as I easily slept through until 7am. I was hoping to use some early starts to my advantage when I begin riding again on the 5th of July.

After spending the morning re organising my life from 1 bag into 4 Panniers I made the 11 mile journey across Chicago, back to Hostel Earphoria.

That's where I'm basing myself for the 4th of July celebrations. The day we finally got independence from America. That's right isn't it? ;)

The ride over was strange. Part way along easy bike paths, part sharing busy roads with cars and buses. My legs felt good getting back into it, but my body and mind were not in shape. the first few days heading out and away from Chicago are not going to be easy.

Strangely it's been cooler here today than it was in England. Very mild but that is apparently going to change soon.

There was a little bit of wind to cope with but that was down to dodgy aeroplane food ;)

Thanks again to Mike and Susan who were really helpful, nice people to stay with. They live in a great part of Chicago in a big house with a good feel about it.

Apparently the church that featured in Home Alone was very nearby. As soon as I heard that fact I realised that this part of the city really reminds me of that film.

I will miss it, but Logan Square is a cool place to stay too.

It's been a flying visit back to England but so worth it. I'm pleased to say that I have had the most amazing time and I'm really going to miss it. 
Thank you to all the friends and family that I managed to see for making things so much fun. And sorry to all the people I missed.

First stop was the wedding of James and Katherine which was a beautiful day that went without a hitch. The service was in Sherston and the reception moved on to the Hair and Hounds at Westonbirt. Great speeches, beautiful bride, good weather, much cider and plenty of dodgy dancing.

That was the presentable part of the trip done. Next step was the legendary Glastonbury Festival which never disappoints and always leaves you looking and feeling slightly dishevveled.
48 hours of pure partying. Smashing pumpkins, the XX, Rolling Stones. I should have watched more music but as usual the atmosphere was about all I managed to really soak up. 
I caught up with some great friends and family, survived my nephews face painting, avoided any form of cycling, missed out on lots of sleep and shared the engagement of Steve and Liz - congratulations :)

I want to do it all again. Next year.