Family on the road.

[ Chris + Simon on the swings at Navy Pier ]

We've been in Chicago for just about a week now.

We combined a couple of work things (me teaching a class at Windy City last Thursday + Chris attending the Democratic Leadership Council annual meeting this past weekend) with some sightseeing and family fun/adventure.

We embarked on lots of tourist stuff: an architectural boat ride up the river, checked out the Lincoln Park Zoo, Millenium Park, Navy Pier, the Lego Store, the Shedd Aquarium, etc. I think Simon liked the Lego Store the best.

Chicago is a very cool city - I have been here many times but always ended up out near the convention center for CHA (will be back here for that next month) and just not enough time/energy to be able to come downtown and see all the tall buildings and hustle + bustle.

My travel reality: I am wiped out. I think I am much more of a beach vacation person...where there is very little to do except relax by the pool. I think Simon does better with that too - all the coming and going and walking of an active vacation takes its toll fairly quickly (even when focusing on the kid-friendly activities).

We heard a lot of "will you pick me up?" and "are we getting a cab?"

Chris mastered the public transportation system by the second day (the first day included way, way too much walking and whining while looking for the right bus). We spent lots of time on buses and on the train (Simon loved both of those).

Random silly memory: Simon and I ordered room service the last two nights while Chris was in meetings and we had a lady that brought up our dinner and each time she would say, "beautiful order, beautiful order." Made me giggle both nights.

Here's a look at some of my favorite photos from the week:

Simon in the hotel room at Hotel Allegro (got a deal through Priceline - another one of those things that Chris loves to experiment with). Cool, modern hotel with very small rooms.

On one of those great double-decker buses. We stayed on here until we were all melting in the heat.

On the small train at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Checking out the view from the Sears Tower.

Lots and lots of looking up. The buildings here are really amazing. I especially am a fan of the combination of old and new mixed in together.

Playing with goodies from the Lego Store.

I definitely have enough photos and memories for some creative documenting. Looking forward to time to play with the photos + words soon and looking forward to getting back to "regular life." I also have some plans for a couple upcoming series I hope to get underway in the next couple of weeks.

Happy Monday!