"We wander for distraction but we travel for fulfillment." -Hilaire Belloc
Traveling is one of my true passions in life. Whether it is an hour away for a weekend to boat, hike and shop or halfway across the world to see castles and eat exotic foods, traveling fulfills my innate zest for adventure and discovery. Recently my travels have taken me just a short plane ride from Missouri, to the Windy City, Chicago. I have been to Chicago once before when I was in my middle school days to see the sights with my family. Highlights of that trip included an architectural boat tour, an authentic dinner in Greek Town, emptying our wallets on Michigan Ave and walking along the Michigan Lake shoreline. I was also a student at Northwestern University for a summer in their journalism program during high school and definitely took advantage of a quick "L" ride into the city to explore. I love the sights and sounds of Chicago. The music, the history, the museums, Miracle Mile, the food and the hustle bustle make it a busy yet friendly city.
Chicago is a great place to go for weekend trip and an easy jaunt for me from school, so my mom and I met there this past September to celebrate her birthday. Her birthday dinner was spent at the restaurant on top of the John Hancock and we wined and dined looking out over the city lights. The Jazz Festival in the Park happened to be that weekend as well so we took one afternoon to walk around and listen to some talented jazz and blues artists of all ages. In the mornings, we would power walk along the the shoreline of Lake Michigan, stop for coffee after our workout and spend the day shopping and sightseeing. Dinner and a taste of Chicago nightlife filled the evenings. My mom and I really enjoy live music so we went to a few different bars, clubs and piano bars playing blues and jazz or contemporary music. Finishing the night with some dancing was always a must. Another highlight of the trip was a fireworks dinner cruise around the Chicago harbor. The view of the skyline with bright fireworks dazzling over the buildings is something I will never forget. I am very lucky to have such a great, close relationship with my mom and that we can share our passion for travel.
This coming weekend I am making another trip to Chicago to celebrate my birthday. The weather may be a little chillier but just a quick change in my packing plans and I will be on my way! I am very excited to spend another weekend discovering new sights and sounds in a city that I love. Get ready Chicago, here comes the birthday girl!
No comments:
Post a Comment