That’s me. The drive to Chicago wasn’t actually that bad. Nice country, beautiful weather, and the 65 mph speed limit brings out the best in Mrs. Hermanson, miles-per-gallon-wise. But when I got to Chicago, my exit off Highway 90 was closed, and that was a harbinger of things to come. I couldn’t find my motel on the basis of my Yahoo map. I even invested in two cell phone calls to the manager before finally finding the place, about three hours after I should have. My searcing got me lost at one point, and I ended up in Skokie before I figured out I needed to turn around.

Also I accidentally drove past one of the toll stations (something that didn’t use to be possible, before electronic passes). But I saw a sign at a later station with a web site where you can go and do penance. So I think I won’t be getting one of those fine letters based on camera surveillance.

Managed to find the location for tonight’s opening reception. Finally met Prof. Torgrim Titlestad, and sat at his table. We chatted for a while. He’s excited that they’re about to start archaeological surveys for the site of the Battle of Hafrsfjord. That was a sea battle, but I guess they think they’ve found the location. If correct, that will be very exciting.

Also saw (but did not meet) Prof. Birgitta Wallace, former chief archaeologist at L’Anse Aux Meadows. I need to see if I can get her photo for my Vinland PowerPoint lecture. All told, I met three internet friends I’d never actually encountered in the flesh before.

I am bloody, but unbowed. What I am most is tired.