My Kind of Town...Chicago

Friday, July 22nd was a great day to spend enjoying the sights and sounds of Chicago. Kevin and Kelli and I had decided weeks ago to pick a Friday and ride the train into Chicago for the day. At the last minute, Carrie decided to join us with Nolan and Grace - especially since she had ALL the help in the world! We left South Bend at 8:00 in the morning and arrived on Randolph Street about 10:30. Let the adventure begin!

First stop - the Sears Tower. This was the only thing Kevin wanted to do. We bought our tickets and in a few short minutes, we were HIGH in the sky - overlooking the city of Chicago and Lake Michigan. It was an overcast morning - which helped keep the heat index down, but didn't do much for the view. Kevin was satisfied and that was all that mattered.

Next on our list was Navy Pier and lunch at
Bubba Gumps- so we hopped aboard the Shoreline Water Taxi and took the scenic route along the Chicago River. Twenty minutes later, we disembarked at Navy Pier ready for lunch. Bubba Gumps was a delight - a fun waiter who played Forrest Gump trivia with several tables.

After stuffing ourself with shrimp and hush puppies, we made the rounds on Navy Pier - including a stop at the Thomas the Train store (much to Nolan's delight). Of course, we had to give Grace equal time at the Build a Bear Workshop.

And, what would a day at Navy Pier be without a ride on the giant Ferris Wheel? By now, the clouds had cleared and the sun was out in full force - making for a beautiful view from high above Navy Pier.

Before heading back to the Randolph Street Station, we decided to do a little shopping on Michigan Avenue - and NIKETOWN was at the top of the list for the kids. Only Kevin would shop in Chicago, and buy a St. Louis Cardinal jersey!

After 8 hours in the city, this weiry bunch was ready to board the train for home. We packed a lot of sightseeing, food and MONEY into one day!!!