Chicago

 

 Growing up I spent some time in the Chicago area with cousins--I have always liked this big city--a far cry from our place in Montana!  We are once again guests of our traveling friend Kelly--our platinum Delta and Marriott friend--soooooooo, we are staying in a lovely two bedroom, two bath suite high above the street with a gorgeous view of the Chicago skyline.

We all arrived Wednesday--I was very brave and took the train from the Chicago O'Hare airport into downtown--a $5 ticket versus a $50 cab ride!  As I was running on empty (my flight left Billings at 6:40AM!!) we enjoyed a mid-afternoon lunch then retreated to our hotel room to catch up on our lives.  

Thursday we braved the cool temps and major wind to walk the streets doing a little shopping--

And enjoying the gorgeous fall decorations.  In the afternoon we took a boat ride--an architectural tour of the Chicago skyline--incredible trip!!

Let me tell you, that wind coming off Lake Michigan was brisk!!  Our Fitbits told us we put in over 5 miles of walking.  After our boat trip we took a cab back to the hotel, relaxed for a while then walked to dinner.  There are so many incredible dining options in the big city!

Tonight we are in for a treat--Alison (Kelly's daughter-in-law) is an aspiring opera singer--I heard her sing at her own wedding and know how spectacular her voice is--she is giving a recital this evening.  We are so looking forward to this event!  Afterwards we are going to try and have coffee and dessert in the Signature Room on the 95th floor of the Hancock Building.  

The above photo is The Bean, a bean shaped stainless steel reflective sculpture by Anish Kapoor.  As you can see, it's a popular place!  Made of 168 stainless steel plates welded together with no visible seams.  

Lunch was Chicago pizza at Gino's-- not my favorite meal.  Saturday I fly home to the cowboy and Ms. Emmi.