A city so full of life..

Chicago.
What an inspiring city.
A constant flow of people swarm the streets, feet constantly pounding the sidewalks.
The chatter from outdoor patios makes me smile.
It reminds me of a scene from Sex in the City.
Groups of girl friends laughing and talking, enjoying lunch.

I find it simply inspiring.

Eclectic shops line city streets.
A place where there is always something to do, or something new to see.
I think I was meant for big city's like this. 
It reminded me how much I miss Nashville.

Sunday, we woke up and headed to Navy Pier.
I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was more then excited.
The sun heated our backs as we made our way from the expensive parking garage to the pier.
We walked one end to the other.
Baby bear even walked--No stroller.

Perhaps we somewhat regret that choice...

but he felt proud and made most of the voyage like a big boy!
The water, the boats, the city view...it was everything I hoped it would be.
When we got to the end, an ambulance and firetruck were on scene helping someone out.
I think this was baby bears favorite part.

Needless to say it was a Father's Day well spent and we all had a great time!
It is without a doubt something I would do again.
Before we left, we rode the giant ferris wheel.
Baby bear was fearless and loved every minute of it.
I... well let's just say wasn't exactly thrilled when we got to the top.
The view however was worth every second of anxiety the height caused.
Simply breathtaking. 

We originally planned on heading back to Michigan afterwords, but decided to stay an extra night.
The sun and the heat wore us all out.
The remainder of Sunday was spent on the couch relaxing...
Much, much needed relaxing.
Monday came before we knew it.
We all sullenly said our goodbye's.
Soldier man headed to work.
Baby bear and I spent the morning cleaning and packing up.
We filled the tank and hit the road.
I was sad to be passing through Chicago one more time, this time on the way out.
The city never ceases to amaze me.
The gas prices however, are not as thrilling.

That's right, $70 bucks to fill up my Nitro.

I dread every penny that goes into the gas tank, but the trip was worth it.
We had a blast.

I miss Chicago already.

After being in a city so full of life for almost two weeks...
Plain old Michigan seems like a slow - painful death.
See ya soon Chicago!



--AA

Fire flies and Chicago skies

I'm standing outside, between two buildings--sidewalks cut between the grass.
The perfect summer breeze makes my hair dance, and I see fireflies for the first time in years.
I hear the train plow down the tracks. Airplanes coming, airplanes going-cluttering the sky.
I step inside, pull up the blinds. Big city feel right outside your window.
People coming, people going. The bus lets off, straight ahead on the street.
Constant. Coming. And. Going.
I silence the lights. Lay down on the old brown couch and close my tired eyes.
The train howls. The planes still fly. I hear it perfectly, as if still outside.
Eyes closed, and I still see the fireflies. I feel secure. Alone, but secure. What a rare feeling.
They say the city is dangerous. Filled with crime and hate.
It's beautiful. Perfect sounds. Perfect feel.

I don't see 42 murders overnight. 

I see fireflies, trains and planes and perfect. Just perfect.
The air silences. It's quiet. No trains, no planes. The sidewalks are empty and the sky dark.

((photo by me. Thank you instagram))

"Daddy where are you?"
And my heart sinks.
I know this is what I will hear when we return.
Michigan bound tomorrow.
He will miss you.
I will miss you.
No longer close enough to O'Hare to hear the planes.
Trains wont shackle down the tracks close enough to recognize.

But for now I silence my heavy heart.

Once again, I am where I want to be.
I'm standing outside, between two buildings--sidewalks cut between the grass.
The perfect summer breeze makes my hair dance, and I see fireflies for the first time in years.
I hear the train plow down the tracks. Airplanes coming, airplanes going-cluttering the sky.
I step inside, pull up the blinds. Big city feel right outside your window.

((photo cred: timesunion.com))

Before we leave tomorrow, we will be admiring Navy Pier.
Check back tomorrow for my update and pictures I'm sure.
Until next time, Big Windy City, Until next time.



All my love,
AA