This is turning out to be an interesting trip - I am learning a lot about my tendency to drift off into introspective space and become oblivious to life around me. It seems that I go into “autopilot” mode a lot, brooding internally and losing myself in my own little world of swirling chaotic turbulent thoughts.

I have a hard time being “aware” or “present” or “quiet” in my thoughts - rather, I find myself doing things just to get myself to STOP brooding so much. Often, these are activities that detach me from having to be involved with what is going on around me.

Activities like checking my email. Or the news. Or my air travel itinerary.

Every minute.

Anyway, today, day three, found Igor and myself driving to Iowa City for dinner. On the way, I saw this sign and I just HAD to pull over to the side of the highway and take a picture: (click on image for full-size version)

Wow… that’s the only time I’ve seen ZERO used as an exit number, and not just any zero either - apparently Iowans demand a choice!

I’m glad Igor joined me on this trip - we have been having great conversations and he’s a genuinely good guy to be around. It’s hard for me to be depressed when Igor lets loose with one of his Ukrainian-American phrases