Welcome to the Windy City

I had another work trip to Chicago.  This time Derek took a few vaca days to come with me and watch Everley.  We had a blast, and glad he was there with us.  His best friend lives there, so we were all able to hang out and enjoy the city before I had to do work stuff.  Thankful for my parents for taking care of Eli while we were gone.  It take a village, and so thankful for them!

 On our way - 3rd trip in the books for this girl.

 I have never been to Chicago, and I was pleasantly surprised -- starting with the view on the flight in.  If you didnt know any better, you would thing Lake Michigan was the ocean.  Such a pretty view.

 Hanging out and stollin the streets of Chi-town

  

 I went to college with Julie and Travis.  The lived in Austin for a little bit, and then Colorado.  They have only lived in Chicago for a few months now.  Glad we were able to get together for dinner and finally meet their precious little girl.

 Deep dish pizza at Lou Malnati's -- apparently it is the place to go.

 The Drake hotel and the Hancock center.

 Loved this place, Beatrix.  Had an amazing and delicious brunch.  Plus their bakery was out of this world!

 Joshua and Derek = BFF's forever.  

 My sweet traveler

Derek and Joshua were roommates in Austin for 3 years before we got married.  The dogs, Buckley the basset hound, and Billie are quite possibly his children or at least his dog niece and nephew.  Derek is their "Uncle Diddy".  Needless to say, D reunited with the sweet doggies was a moment for all of them.  They love him and he loves them.

 

 Joshua, Derek, and Ashley with their sweet lamb chops (dogs)

 Next time we see Joshua and Ashley will be in Austin for their wedding, can't wait!

 Hanging out with dad at the hotel.

 Snuck off to Sears Tower (now Willis Tower) after work meetings.  No line, went straight up, took a picture and left.  103 stories high - stepping out on the sky box was a little nerve racking at first, but we did it!

 View from the Willis Tower - you know me, show me water and I am in!

 Mr.Mom!  Thanks for taking care of our sweet girl.  I will cherish this picture forever!

On our way back.  Missing our little boy!!  Speaking of ... thank you to my mom for coming to Austin to watch Eli during the week.  They had a blast together, zoo, parks, pizza, who wouldn't love Mimi time.