Chicago Babies Take Ohio: Spring Break Park 2

After all the fun in Springfield I drove the kids to Chicago. Ben flew in and met us there. You can get a LOT done in a day in Chicago with these kiddos. They can walk for miles and miles, they are unafraid of mass transportation (they seemed utterly delighted by the no car seat in the cab policy) and they are up for anything!

Before Ben got there we hit Marshall Field (now Macy's but I cling to the old names). We bought some Frango Mints and ate them on the sidewalk. Those are tasty.

Once we found Ben and checked into the hotel and immediately got some stuff off our to-do list. Bridget's birthday was coming and we went to the mecca for little girls - The American Girl Store. I always thought that Bridget would want a historical character. But, did you know that they cycle the girls in and out? The ones that are currently offered are lame. Super mega lame. So, Bridget picked a new special friend.

Here we are going into the American Girl Store.

And post conquering the world. That big box? Her benevolent Aunt Colleen and generous Uncle Justin purchased a horse (later named Donut) for the new American Girl. The bag was full of outfits and a special carrying bag from my Mom.

We dropped off the purchased and took a cab to the Sky deck of the Willis Tower (gross - it will always be Sears). From here the photos are no chronological. Forgive me. I'm too tired to sort them.

If you get to the Disney Store when they are opening they let you chant the magic words that release the magic of Disney and....turn on the lights. Most people that work in Children's Specialty Stores are magnificent and these people were no exception. It takes a lot of energy to make each day special while all around you children are having meltdowns. Henry was a little put off by their energy and kept a firm grip on Emmett and Bridget. Just in case.

This guy covered in spray paint scared the crapola out of the kids when they tried to touch him. To make it up to them he gave them balloon animals. I hate balloons. No matter how much you warn a kid that it will pop / deflate they are always shocked and appalled when it happens.

We got to see Brian and Jorge. I love this picture. It looks like Jorge is walking him to school. Henry hates to hold hands. Hates it. But, he will always hold Jorge's or Brian's. Too adorable.

Here Emmett and Jorge look like they are considering deep thoughts.

Brian and Emmett having an eye wrestling match.

We eventually had to say goodbye.

Henry doesn't like to leave them. He wanted them all the way to the El and checked for them up on the platform.

Ah hah! Here are the sky deck photos. 4 years ago we took the kids up for the first time. Then, Henry was 4, Bridget 3 and Emmett 1. Bridget was the only one who went right out on the ledge. Henry looked and refused. Emmett crawled to the edge and went no further. They haven't changed a bit.

Bridget went right out onto "her" ledge.

And then she made herself comfortable.

I went out. Henry came out and - his words - went turkey. I was so proud of him for trying something that he was clearly terrified to do.

Mr. Sillypants was comfy going out there once the lights went down and he couldn't see the street below.

And we saw Millenium Park, our old neighborhoods, Boy's Towns (some interesting and insightful questions there), State street, the Mile, Buckingham Fountain, Wrigleyville, and on 4 different colored lines. I'm telling you - these kids are explorers.