Getaway to Milwaukee

When Ivan and Isabel Allum were in town, Ivan spoke a prophecy over Perry and I that was very surprising. He said we need to learn to stop striving. He said "I have one word for you: Vacation." This was not what we expected to hear. Both Perry and I work pretty much constantly, and have more to do than we can get done. But if Ivan said it, it must be done. So we set out to Vacation. We figured out that long periods of time away were more than we could do, but we could carve out at least two nights away fairly regularly. So we try to take two or three nights away every 6 to 8 weeks.

Our latest trip was just last week to Milwaukee. And once again, it was a time of real refreshment for us. When we get away, physically and mentally, our outlook changes and we can open ourselves up to our relationship with God and with each other. We are finding what works and what doesn't in terms of logistics, but regardless of the details, the time away is well worth it.

Milwaukee was great because we were able to hop on a Metra train and connect with Amtrak. No driving, no worries about weather or snow-covered roads. We just settled into our seats and got some wine and almonds and relaxed.

We had found a great deal on Hotwire for Hotel Intercontinental. Perry doesn't really care where he stays, but I have found that a really nice hotel gives me a totally different level of relaxation, and can often be just as cheap as a moderate hotel if you know how to shop. We booked tickets for a show the following evening and went out for Ethiopian food. Perry and I share a love of interesting cuisines, and even though Ethiopian is not my favorite, it is so very much better than a burger or a steak.

The next day we visited the Pabst family mansion, which is now a museum. We have toured mansions all over the country, and I find them fascinating. The details of how people used to live are just so interesting. Then we headed over to the Milwaukee Art Museum.

The museum is beautiful, and right on the lake. In some of the rooms the artwork is overshadowed by the beauty right outside the windows.

We both thought the huge table and chairs was pretty interesting. I'm not sure it's art, but it makes a good photo op.