It's session time, so of course we leave Judson behind. Erin loaded up with me and the twins for our three-day adventure on Sunday. The kids fell asleep before we even got out of Indy. They awoke pleasantly and after a snack at a truck stop, were satisfied listening to the Mary Poppins Soundtrack all the way to Chicago.
Upon reaching the Windy City, Veronica started asking about horses. Erin and I were not quite sure where this was coming from and placated her - only to later notice horse statues everywhere!
We had a warm welcome from the Kluegs... Including Watermelon!
Sunday evening, Curt was gracious enough to stay home with the FOUR sleeping (or at least in bed) toddlers and send the girls out to catch up. We went to a cozy little pizza joint/bar where the bartender enjoyed teasing Erin.
Monday morning we corralled the kids to the Forest Preserve (used to be a place for those quarantined, in the middle of the city!). They had a great nature center with books, bones, puppets and more! After the nature center, we went for a hike on a great trail. Thomas enjoyed staying back at his own pace, investigating every little bit of snow that was left on the ground. After finding a turtle, crossing a bridge, and splashing sticks in the water, we had a picnic lunch.
"Time for the music show, everybody!" Thomas informed us.
Rehema showing us how a deer pees.
Thomas on his own trail.
Lunch time!
Proud of their manicures.
“I like my manicure...
...but you're not taking this picture to embarrass me later, are you?"
The afternoon entailed a cold walk and short visit to a playground that I'd love to see on a warmer day. While dinner was being prepared, the kids warmed up with some dancing to... "Step in Time."
Monday evening we were spoiled by another girls' night. We walked to a neighborhood restaurant called Uncommon Ground to hear live music. Diana Lawrence (piano, vocals) and Dave Saenger (guitar). She'd just finished playing improv piano for Second City on a cruise ship. They were FABULOUS! She wrote her own music - some funny, some jazz, some blues, etc. Great variety - great pair. I hope to hear more from them in the future. They are part of a band called The Dishes.
Anita and I tried the Treetini - for each one they planted a tree. Citrus, yum... we planted four trees. Erin had the most beautiful and big hot chocolate I'd ever seen! We were able to chat by a fire after the music ended. Tuesday entailed a trip to the Nature Museum for butterflies, zip lines and kitchen fun.
After the museum, Erin's cousin, Caitlin, came for a visit. She's a professional dancer (tap) in the city. The kids (especially Rehema) took to her quickly.
Tuesday was also Anita's birthday. Curt made us dinner and bough a fabulous coconut cake for Anita. We celebrated in style. The kids made crowns, bathed together, and then we hit the road.
It was a fabulous trip. Veronica had actually been asking to see Bethany for a month! It was a great time with friends... mine and those of my children!
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