We could hardly have had a more marvelous day than our Wednesday in Chicago. Thursday didn't stand a chance. And while it certainly didn't enjoy the hype that Wednesday got (the Dodgers at Wrigley! Hamilton!), Thursday was its own charming delight. Here's the truth: when John and I get to be together and remember all over again why we like each other and play all day, it can only be good!

That said, the weather was pretty abysmal, which meant sleeping in was delightful but everything else we did was pretty wet. And given that rain snuck into the forecast at the last minute, I was not prepared with great footwear to be tromping around puddly, slick streets. I actually squished when I walked.
After a very slow start, which we savored, we headed out to a highly recommended (by Trip Advisor) brunch place. It took a while to get there, and since it was a random Thursday morning, we thought it wouldn't be that difficult to get in. We thought wrong. There were people tucked into alcoves all over the street trying to avoid the rain while we all waited for tables. And my phone kept issuing flood warnings.

Turns out, it was totally worth the wait. And, as I noted before - since it was just John and I hanging out, we were able to enjoy waiting. We could never wait 45+ minutes for anything with our children. The flight of french toast was completely divine, and I wish that Lobster Omelettes were more readily available to me at all times.


The rain had slowed considerably, so we decided to be regular Chicago tourists and head straight to Millennium Park and the Bean, which is actually known as Cloudgate. It really is mesmerizing and so shiny.

We decided to walk to Navy Pier, because a flight of french toast does not exactly sit lightly and walking seemed to be in order. Lake Michigan was cloudy and gray, and we could barely see the city skyline through the fog.


It was fun to see Navy Pier before heading back to our hotel to pick up our luggage and head back to the airport.

Our flight ended up being delayed due to weather, and since the weather had been horrendous much of the day, O'Hare was packed.

And while we were tired the next day, it seems that we might be reaching a new era. For many years now, we've been too exhausted to do much tripping together that involves more than laying around (and there is definitely still a place for this kind of trip always). This time we managed to work in fun activities, make friends with people around us and enjoy the adventure. It is encouraging to feel that we are gaining ground on the energy front.
All of this was possible because John made magic happen, and because his parents were able to keep our children on short notice - we are so grateful! And now that I fully understand how wonderful Chicago is, we will definitely be heading back!