Whereupon Tyler and Daniel started the morning by going to Dollar Tree for ponchos and Tara and I went to a country dance competition, ballroom style. I have no words. I am all about some dancing with the stars - pending that is the only thing on - but, they at least play different songs. Tara and I had first caught a glimpse of one of the competitiors in line for Starbucks (I know, so surprising). We had to take a look. At least I did. We had to actually "sneak in" by saying we would only stay a few minutes. Apparently, they give you a rainbow bright reflective wrist band to be near this large event. We stayed long enought for 2 rounds of the same song and to document the event. When the boys returned, we walked to the Rosemont rail station and headed into the city. I, personally, have been to Chicago 3 times, but I have never taken advantage of the public transportation. I have tried the bus once, but I don't really count that as we still had to walk most of the way to our destination. Moving on, this trip will forevermore be known as the trip where I utilized google to find us the best places to eat. According to CBS Chicago, one of the best donut places is called Huck Finn's Donuts. It also is a restaurant, and they make fresh donuts 24/7. We were not disappointed I had a chocolate coconut donut, and I have never been so satisfied after eating one. Generally, donuts leave you with a greasy feeling, along with a stomachache from all of the sugar. We then hit a few thrift shops along the way back to the rail station. The best find? A hat for Daniel that was only $11, and barely used. I also found an old mason jar, one of the clear blue kind, for mom that broke later in the day. We made a pit stop at Harold Washington Library, which has 10 floors, complete with an art gallery, music library, film library, music rooms to practice/record, etc. Each of us then grabbed a bag of the Chicago Mix at Garrett's popcorn. It's a mixture of cheese and caramel (for those of you curious and for no particular reason, I say it 'care-a-mel') flavors, and it is heavenly. Daniel and Tyler were craving the typical hot beef sandwiches that are standard in Chicago. We stooped by Portillo's and Al's, so they could get two samplings. Yes, I know, we ate a lot this day. We the. Headed for the Magnificent Mile, where we stopped in Tiffany's and Coach. Ah. Tiffany's. How much I love your little blue boxes. I do feel that Tiffany's should be reserved for very special occasions, but I do enjoy looking. We set out for Navy Pier after that, and sat on the docks eating our popcorn and people watching. We had dinner at a place called Vegetarian Express, and it was delicious (if you are craving meat, do not go here). Prior to this, we found a store that had 4 floors of fashion. Not making it up, it's what the sign said. It had a normal clothing store, army surplus, and vintage store. All in one. Back to the food. This was Tyler's choice I promise! We did head across the street to Clark Street Dog, for some famous Chicago hot dogs. They had a veggie dog that I had to try even though I was stuffed. I was not disappointed. This was where the mason jar broke, cue sadness. Being a fan of Tina Fey and SNL and comedy in generally, we went to find the Second City. Of course, the main show was sold out. We went to Starbucks to rehydrate and dehydrate (coffee) and decide if we would pay the money for the show on the other stage. However, we talked so long that when I looked at the time, the other show was already well on its way. At this point, we had been in 4/5 different parts of the city, so we went back to the hotel. I still had to rearrange luggage for our flight to get it under 50 pounds. I may have packed extremely light, but all of the gifts we are taking sure added up. Tara graciously let us borrow a duffel bag and we made it work! Success! I celebrated with some French fries, as you should when accomplishing such a feat. Then it was off to bed!
Mr. Bird was not having the caramel popcorn.
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