We recently took a trip to Chicago where my son, Derek, competed in the nationals for Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). He didn’t get a trophy this year but he represented Missouri well. We are proud of him!
If you have spent time with me, or skimmed my bio on Twitter or Instagram, you know that I like my pony, crochet and tea. You might guess these are things a homebody would like. You would be right!
Since FBLA nationals aren’t usually held in the brushhogged fields of rural Missouri, it was time for me to pack up the crochet, give a last carrot to the pony and hit the road. (I trusted that Chicago would have tea for me, and I wouldn’t have to bring my own.)
Reluctant to leave home, I got to Chicago and had fun despite myself. How could I resist the food, the sights, the languages and the music?
We walked all over the Loop and I put more steps on my FitBit than seemed possible. Although I never saw any ponies, I did get to see a lot of city dogs. The Hyatt Regency even had a 24-hour Starbucks, so there was plenty of tea for me day or night.
Best of all, I got to hug old friends and hear their new stories.
The city won me over. Thanks to all the people who made it a memorable trip. Until next time, Chicago!
All photos by Derek Howard, howderek.com
Photos of Chicago
The trip begins
A striking skyline familiar to me from growing up on the North Shore
A mix of more scenes showing skyscrapers in their complicated, impressive, imposing glory
Good food
In Chicago, you can eat way too much food because it is all so tasty! My favorite breakfast was a Mediterranean scramble from Pittsfield Cafe, a place with character. Yolk (show below) had great modern atmosphere.
Our room with a view of the Chicago River
Lake Michigan
Transportation
Public transportation in Chicago is amazing! We took the trains and the water taxis.
Dramatic spaces
We are book people and enjoyed visiting a couple of nice libraries. The indoor Winter Garden on the ninth floor of the Harold Washington Library Center shown below was gorgeous. Other awesome spaces included the Great Hall at Union Station and the Tiffany Ceiling at Macy’s.
I found a used book called Knitting Yarns where writers write about how great knitting is! The perfect read while waiting at the train station.
The Bean
What is a trip to Chicago without taking a selfie at the Bean??
Wishing you a week filled with blessings of friendship, food and happy memories!
Light to grow in; reflections by Genevieve Howard 
I loved seeing the photos of you guys being charmed by the little pleasures you found along the way in the Big City of tall buildings! Did Derek take the photos of you and Logan?
Yes, he did! A real talent.
Looks like an amazing trip. I’m glad you all had fun!