Chicago! Chicago!

Before I start telling you about my trip to Chicago, I again apologize for not having posted sooner than this. I have been making a priority of keeping my home cleaner, and and even bigger priority of building a relationship with my sweetheart. We have been dating three months, and I can honestly say that he is the best man I have ever dated! He drives an hour one way to come see me, but still manages to make the trip an average of twice a week, and sometimes more! I've been staying busy with a lot of fun activities, and will try to share those with you soon too.

However, I'll start with a very belated account of my trip to Chicago in April of this year. I had taken the train there to attend a women's retreat called Women On Fire, and I can honestly say that it was one of the best things I have ever done for myself. It was enriching and the fellowship was fabulous. I was among some of the most vibrant, intelligent, and supportive women I have ever met!

I stayed at the Embassy Suites in downtown Chicago near the shoreline. These open floored hotels must be the new thing. This was the pretty dining area. It's open all the way to the roof! While this looks cool, for an acrophobic like myself (scared of heights), this presented quite the challenge. I clung to the walls on the way to my room and tried not to look out over the edge! I kept my back turned in the glass elevators!


These two story bamboo trees were pretty.


I also liked this water wall. I love fountains and the sound of water.


I had a great view of Lake Michigan from my hotel room! I couldn't wait to get down to the shore and get near the water. Navy Pier was right there and within an easy walking distance. I bundled up in my jacket as it was in the low 50s, and took a hike.



It was so exciting to approach Navy Pier! This was a place I had always heard of, but really didn't know what to expect or see.



Here is a look back at the city, from where I had just come.


One of the first things I wanted to check out was the Stained Glass Museum...and it was free! I highly recommend it. Some of these were by Tiffany!






After that, it was onward to explore the rest of the sights. Me near the Beer Garden. No, I did not drink any beer!


The famous Harry Caray's restaurant. There were a lot of people out despite the chilly weather.


And here is the famous ferris wheel. I am terrified of heights...didn't ride that!


This theater is at the very end of the pier.


After my stroll through Navy Pier, I decided that I really wanted to get out on the water, despite the chilly temps and wind. I love being on the water, and the tours were not really too expensive.

This looked like it could be a fun ride!


The pirate ship approaches from the lake.


Although this might have been a lot of fun, it was a little more pricey than I cared for.


I spotted this seagull while I pondered my decision.


There were so many to choose from!



I eventually chose the shoreline tour for $14.


I had great views of the pier.



And some of the lighthouse.


And even one of a naval ship far in the distance. Great Lakes Naval Base is not far from the city.


There were great views of the Chicago skyline.




On the return trip, I spotted these noisy seagulls. There were literally hundreds of them!


Once off of the boat, I decided to head out from the pier and take in a few last sights before heading back to the hotel. I was so intrigued of this sculpture of TV's Bob Newhart with his psychiatrist couch! That was such a funny series.



I also loved this sculpture of a sea captain.


I said my last farewell to Navy Pier.


See the smile on my face? That's because I had such a great time!


Later that day, I ran into Debbie, founder of the Women on Fire event, and my former babysitter! This was the first time I had seen her in decades. Oh how wonderful it was to see her again! Such great memories, with more to be created over the next couple days!


Even later, I met my roommate Carin, a most amazing lady! She was the coolest and we got along so well. I had never met her before that night, and was so happy that Debbie suggested we room together. We had an instant connection, and I feel like I've found a new sister!


This wouldn't be complete without a picture of me with Debbie and Stedman Graham. See, I really did meet him! This was right after I handed him my business card.


Chicago is an amazing city. I hope to be able to take the train back and visit again someday! I would also stay at the Embassy Suites again. The hotel was really nice and the breakfasts are included in the cost of the room and were delicious. The only drawback is that if you drive, it will cost you over $40 to park your car at the hotel. Since I took the train, that was not a concern.

I'll really try to make a better effort and posting and visiting! I have so much to share, including a wonderful garden tour which afforded me the opportunity to take some wonderful pictures!

I've missed you all!