Thursday, May 17, 2007

CNU XV HQ...


This is where most of the CNU event is happening. A very hip hotel, indeed.

Right now, as I listen to Witold's keynote on Thursday evening (yes, this is what I call CNU tri-tasking--listening, blogging, and chewing gum at the same time), let me take a moment to thank everyone who has been reading, encouraging, laughing, and--heck--even mocking this Car-Free to CNU Philly effort.

Someone asked today "Why are you doing this?"

Well, I wish I had a fancy answer. One that would inspire, uplift, and make a grand statement.

But, alas, that's alot to ask of a blog about riding trains to a conference. Still though, I did have two answers.

The first is a simple one: because it's fun.

The whole journey has itself been grand because, frankly, it feels weird to have not been inside a car for going on four days now. Fortunately, the side effects of going "cold turkey" on motor vehicles has--other than sore feet and burning calves--had very few side effects.

The second answer is somewhat more philosophical: because it's important.

Why?

Quite simply, we need to show that we can get places without the crutch of a car. That's not to say that we all need to give them up. Only that we should try and experience life without them every now and then.
It's refreshing to do so. And, thought-provoking.

So, there you have it. The reasons why I'm going Car-Free to CNU Philly.

In closing, let me note the blogging schedule for the next couple of days:

Friday: a photo essay called The Streets of Philadelphia

Saturday: another photo essay called Scenes from the CNU

Sunday: The Long "Car-Free" Road Home

Okay, that's it for now. I'll be back with more on Friday...
[p.s. gratuitous shot of Dawson Kendell Emerson & Cullen Thomas Emerson--daddy says Hi!]

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