Jump Start on Christmas

Don't you think it's a little odd that the Chicago "Christmas" parade was held before the Thanksgiving parade? That's precisely what I asked Justin as we were standing in the middle of Wacker Dr., freezing our tushes off, trying to see the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival over the heads of about 900,000 people. We grossly underestimated the potential size of the crowd and waited too late to stake our claim for a good view....we couldn't even see the Mag Mile. Apparently people started camping out about 3 hours before the parade started. But, I guess the Iowa football game always takes precedence, especially when my brother-in-law, Andrew is in town. I can't blame it all on him though...my afternoon nap went a little long...Iowa football has that effect on me! 

Anyway, we bundled up and ventured out in the blustery 40 degree evening in hopes of catching a glimpse of the main attraction, Mickey Mouse with his girl Minnie, and maybe even see Santa and some fireworks. As we rounded the corner onto Wacker, the float carrying those famous mice pulled up right in front of us! We happened upon the very end of the parade route and there were M&M, decked out in holiday attire, disembarking from their floating Magic Kingdom and getting into their limousine. I never knew Mickey travelled in such style, but why not? He is the most famous mouse in the world!

We started to make our way towards Michigan Ave, only to discover there was no getting to it. So, we picked the least obstructed spot we could find and waited to see what we could see. Rudolph floated by, along with Goofy and Pluto, a random Chicago Bears player, and lots of floats advertising hotels. The inflatables were having a time of it in the wind, which made the parade a little more interesting. At least we got to see some of the festivities and got a glimpse of the buildings a glow in red and green.

rudolph's nose is glowing!

goofy and pluto made an appearance

We decided to head home early since we couldn't see much and our feet were going numb. On the way back we heard booms echoing from the parade, and we caught a reflection of fireworks in the buildings. Our patience had worn out just a little too soon! We were able to find a vantage point to see some of the fireworks show, so it wasn't a total waste. It seems Chicago does fireworks for everything, which is awesome, and they rival 4th of July in the Carolinas, I must say. I used to wait all year to see a great fireworks show, and now I've seen at least 3 in the last 3 months. The iPhone pics don't do it justice, and I'm sure it was beautiful over the Chicago River!

To make up for our not so spectacular Mag Mile Lights Festival experience, we headed to Michigan Ave. on Sunday evening to see the lights up close. I absolutely love Christmas in a bustling city. 

on michigan...no worries, I had the "walk" sign....

christmas tree in front of hancock

hancock and water tower

We decided to head up the John Hancock for a bird's eye view of the city. On the advice of some friends and former Chicagoans, we went up to the Signature Room on the 96th floor "for drinks" instead of paying $21 a pop at the official observatory. I had overheard on the street that the best view was from the women's bathroom, so of course I had to check it out. 

not bad for potty ambiance!

Although the boys felt a little jilted not having the fabulous potty room view, they got some great peaks at the city from the bar. It was a little foggy, but still not a bad view!

Our tour of Chicago Christmas actually started the first weekend in November with festivities at Macy's on State St. The store unveiled their holiday windows and officially began the shopping season with the lighting of their giant tree in The Walnut Room restaurant. As usual, we underestimated the crowd and missed the actual lighting, but we did get to see the tree. Apparently, lunch at The Walnut Room during the tree lighting is a much sought after reservation. We spotted Mayor Daley and family enjoying the tradition.

decor outside macy's

So, that's quite a start to the holiday season. I'm sure we will be out and about seeing more festive sights. Maybe I'll even get to see my 1st White Christmas! You can be sure I'll blog about that one, but first, let's get through Thanksgiving! Who knows...I may even see some of the white stuff then!

Fall in the City

Fall in Chicago seems to be fading fast. The high today was 45, which makes for a very chilly morning and evening dog walk in the park. The city started turning off all the fountains in October, including the ones in our park. Poor Brizzie just couldn't understand what happened to her fountains. People on the streets are bundled up in their puffy coats and all the stores and hotels are already bringing out the lights and tinsel. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is on Saturday, complete with Mickey Mouse and Santa, of course. The ice rink in Millennium Park opens tomorrow, which I am super excited about. I can't wait to ice skate in the reflection of The Bean! It's hard to believe Thanksgiving is next week. We've decided to stay in Chicago and have our first Thanksgiving here with Brizz and the kitties. We'll be heading back to the Carolinas for Christmas, which may be a little strange considering we could be leaving a white Christmas here for an almost tropical one in Myrtle Beach. But before we get too far into the holiday season, I thought I'd share a few fall pics from around town.

yellow leaves in grant park

red maples outside the art institute

fall in brizzie's park

driving through the west loop to my art studio

the boats are gone for the season :(

  

fly-by from soldier field

people bundled up with their pups at the dog beach

crisp, clear fall saturday on the north side of town

getting ready for the turkey day parade 

(sponsored by justin's company)

beautiful fall sunset

It's Not a Trend, It's a Way of Life

I've had to rethink my wardrobe since moving from the hot, humid South to the dry, windy Midwest. The dreaded arctic blast is yet to hit, but I'm preparing in advance, keeping an eye out for winter boots and a puffy coat.  We've had a taste of the bitter cold to come. I've decided that Fall here is like Winter in NC. Not only is the weather different, but I'm also adjusting to a very different day-to-day existence. I'm still a bit too reliant on my Jeep, unlike most Chicagoans who use only public transit or their own two feet. However, I am walking much more to get from one place to another, than I ever did in NC. These climate and lifestyle changes definitely call for a wardrobe overhaul, which much to my husband's dismay, I am more than willing to tackle!

 I'm not usually a trend setter or fashionista, but I do like to look cute and somewhat in style. However, comfort is always a concern, no matter the cuteness factor. I have been noticing the fashions of Chicago because:  #1 - I'm a people watcher and I can't help it, #2 - I would only like my accent, not my wardrobe to give me away, #3 - What the heck do I wear walking around in this wind tunnel of a city?!

Through my not-so-scientific study of the street wear of Chicagoans, I've determined that many of the trends seen on the streets are not trends, but in fact are results of people adapting to living in a big city and one that's so far North it's almost Canada. This isn't the first time I've encountered such fashions, but I'm definitely seeing more of them and in a different light, so to speak. I've complied a selection of wardrobe items and looks that are not only "in style", but also a basic necessity and/or outcome of living in Chicago. It's my theory that city dwellers are the inspiration and inventors of these popular looks. Here are random pics of random people I found online who are exhibits for my theories:

 #1:  the layered look

This says:  It takes twice as long to walk where I'm going than to drive and I have to catch my train/bus so I'm going to grab whatever I can get my hands on and wear as many layers as I can to keep warm, because once I get where I'm going I'll have to shed 2 or 3 layers anyway so it doesn't matter if they match, plus if I don't look like I'm trying then people won't think I am. 

#2:  ballet flats

These sole savers are great because they're cute and easy to walk in. I've discovered the key is to make sure they don't rub your heels, don't have a pointy toe, and a little cushioning/support is always good.  My motto:  just because they're flat doesn't mean they're comfortable. But, it is possible to have cozy feet without wearing sneakers....and they won't come untied!

#3:  flat boots

This is my fav must-have-city-wardrobe-item....worn in flat boots. Women wear these with everything. They're easy to slip on when you're in a hurry (see #1), you can wear them with skinny jeans (see #5), they keep your ankles and shins warm, it doesn't matter if they get scuffed up/messed up, and most importantly they're comfy. Flat boots of any kind are great and definitely a staple around Chicago. From ankle boots to above the knee...they're everywhere. 

#4:  shorts n' boots

People wear boots here in all kinds of weather. Even if it's warm-ish out I see boots and shorts or skirts everywhere (same with scarves). I didn't really understand this look in NC, but in Chicago it makes more sense....not warm enough to wear flip flops, but I want to wear my shorts because the sun is out and my boots are so comfy!

 #5: skinny jeans

The skinny on this wardrobe must is they are perfect for trudging around in the city. My theory is they were designed to wear with flats, and fit tight so that your jeans don't drag on the ground and get torn up....unless you're going for that look. Skinny jeans are also perfect with boots, which again are irreplaceable in Chicago. 

#6: the boyfriend jeans

I think this pic is a perfect example of when to wear these baggy, torn up jeans...when you're going to the park with your cutie pie baby (or Brizz dog) and you know you're going to get jumped on, slobbered on and quite possibly knocked down. They've got plenty of wiggle room for squatting, bending, and sitting cross-legged. The mommies have spoken and the boyfriend is what they got.....hmmmmm....

#7:  the cross body bag

As Reese skillfully demonstrates, the cross body bag enables you to multi-task on the go. Wether it is ordering a latte, swiping your CTA pass, or toting groceries, the wearer of the cross body bag will always have a free hand since she's not holding on to her purse. This bag has also proven to be useful when taking walks along the lakefront and needing a fashionable tote for doggie bags, cell phone, and such. 

#8:  puffy coats, puffy everything

Before I moved to Chicago, I couldn't imagine why anyone would want to spend their hard earned money on a piece of clothing that would make them look like a marshmallows.....now I understand, and I admit to trying on a few puffy coats in search of my least puffy, but still warm puffy coat. I've heard ankle length is a must, especially if you take public transit. I've spotted women in their ankle length puffy coats taking the dog out in the morning, when the puffiness definitely wasn't warranted. My theory is that the puffy coat is always accepted, even if it's only a bit cool, and plus.....first thing in the morning it's the perfect throw-on over PJ's.

#9:  the messy hair look

This look that celebs and the fashion world have perfected, I believe stemmed from cities, such as the windy one I live in, where people got tired of trying to keep their hair looking just so.  So now the "I don't care what my hair looks like" look has become popular....even in cities that aren't quite so windy.

#10:  infinity scarf

Again, a response to dealing with the wind.....this scarf is much less likely to whip you in the face or go flying over your shoulder. Like the name suggests....there is no end, so you just loop it around your neck for unlimited warmth and coziness.

#11:  creative legwear

Leg warmers, fish nets, sweater tights, knee high socks over tights...you name it! Maybe it's a case of...I want to wear a skirt, but it's too cold, so I'll cover my legs with as many different types of legwear as possible. Or maybe it's...I don't want to look like a marshmallow in my ankle length puffy coat, so I'll layer up to stay warm (could also apply to #1). Whatever the case, I think creative legwear is a fun way to change up the stand-by winter tights, but not sure if I'm buying into the legwarmers...hello Get in Shape Girl!

#12:  doggie attire

Last, but certainly not least, the pooches need to be protected from the elements as well.  I never thought I'd be that person who puts a sweater and booties on the dog, but I have a feeling it's coming. A fellow dog park goer (and native North Carolinian) informed me that the booties are a necessity to combat the snow salt from tearing up doggy paws. Not sure if Brizz will need or want a sweater, but I may just have to try the booties.

So, maybe I'm more practical than fashionable, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. I apologize to my blog readers (of the male variety) who I have neglected with this post and those who have no interest in this sort of thing. Maybe I have a little too much time on my hands or maybe my inner fashionista is coming forth with so many different styles all around me. My first word was in fact "shoes", so perhaps I've missed my calling. Anywho, this was fun for me, and I hope you have enjoyed my rambling and far fetched theories and commentary on Chicago style.

You Can't Be A Gringo (or Southerner) Forever

A couple weekends ago Justin and I found ourselves surrounded by about 20 Italians...all speaking Italian. We were invited to a surprise birthday party for a man who works at Justin's company. It was an interesting evening, even though we couldn't participate in the singing of "happy birthday", a few people were kind enough to speak English to us. There was a whole smorgasbord of food, lots of wine of course, and music from techno to old world Italian. (I am always amazed at how much European women can eat and still stay so thin!) We left right after the espressos and just before the mojitos....I think their evening was just getting started. Espresso at 11:00 p.m.....no thanks, I'd be up all night and the next day. Don't think I can keep up with the Italians, and I would definitely need a new wardrobe to do so!

Last week Justin was working from home and had a couple conference calls on speaker phone. It's amazing how the Italian accent can even make business development sound romantic. When Justin joined his new company, his manager told him, "You can't be a gringo forever!" I think we may both have to learn a little Italian or at least brush up on our French so we don't seem so typically American. 


This past weekend was halloween, and we found ourselves in the same situation times 10 plus costumes. It was literally a club room turned discotheque. We had a fun time and saw some interesting costumes. Even though we may not have romantic accents, I think Americans win the prize for creative costumes and knowing how to do halloween right.

  

Our queen bee and beekeeper costumes were a hit. Surprisingly we had several people ask to take their picture with us. Justin thinks it was just because he was the only "white" guy in the place.

pre party pic with the brizzbee

It's exciting living in a city where there is such a large population of people who don't speak English as their first language. Walking through the streets of Chicago I can hear all sorts of accents. There are people living and visiting here from all over the world, and it's fun to meet people with completely different perspectives and life experiences than mine. 


People are usually interested in where I'm from too. Once I open my mouth, I typically get a comment like, "you're not from around here are you?" I never thought my Southern accent was that strong, but I do catch myself sounding very Southern sometimes. I've had a few people tell me they love a Southern accent and it makes everything sound sweet. (Guess I'm giving those Italians a run for their money!) I was surprised to hear that, since I think it sounds a bit redneck, especially compared to the non-accent of the Midwest. I'm definitely more aware of how I speak here. Some people have told me they can't tell I even have an accent, although one man asked if I was British....I was definitely shocked to hear that one!


So, I'm not exactly sure how people perceive me here, but it is nice to not feel like I have to fit in a mold. There are so many types of people living in Chicago that I could be a different person everyday and still find my niche. It's relieving not to be living in a fishbowl and have people actually interested in who I am and where I'm from. I think I've always been a big city girl at heart....just took me a while to get here.

Art in the Loop

One of my favorite things about Chicago is how accessible art is. Art is everywhere....it's in architecture, museums, outdoor sculpture, parks, and people...the city itself is art. 

I can't go anywhere without coming across something beautiful, creative, or interesting. I love that these things are out in the open for everyone to enjoy....or not enjoy, depending on one's opinion. 

You don't have to go to a museum to engage in something visually interesting or captivating, because it's right in front of you. That's what is so awesome about public art. It makes art known to the casual passerby and hopefully engages people who otherwise wouldn't be interested. 

  

I am one to seek out the creative, which is exactly what I did last Saturday. I convinced Justin to go with me on a walking tour of the Loop neighborhood of Chicago, which is the area of town we live in. It's also the main business district and full of public art. I was absolutely amazed to be able to stand in one spot and have views of sculpture by 3 world famous artists. I dusted off my "real" camera and had a little fun. Here is a link to my album:


http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=294897&id=584913342&l=3fee4ecbb4

Hope you enjoy your mini tour of Art in the Loop!

People, People Everywhere

Sitting on my balcony I can hear all sorts of sounds of the city.....dogs barking, cars honking, fire trucks blaring, construction workers pounding, even fireworks booming at Navy Pier on Saturday nights.  Today I hear marching bands from the Columbus Day Parade. Brizz and I took a walk this afternoon through Grant Park to check out the festivities, but she was more interested in the random bits of trash....I mean treasure....buried in the grass, as usual. So, we visited our favorite fountain and enjoyed the walk back up the lakefront trail to our home. 

You would never know it's October in Chicago. The weather for the past week has been more like the South than the Midwest.....low 80's and Carolina blue skies. There are people everywhere enjoying the warm temps, which is how it's been since I arrived. I get the impression that Chicagoans truly appreciate a nice day and don't take them for granted. Yesterday we noticed a group of people in the park sitting on a picnic blanket around noon. They were camped out until close to dinner time. People are constantly playing soccer, flying kites, walking dogs, or just sitting and enjoying being outside. I've had to get used to walking through different parks in the city and coming upon a person just lounging alone in the grass. When I see someone sitting in the sun, I get the impression that it's not because they want to get a tan, like most Southerners, but they are soaking up the warm rays and enjoying the wonderful weather while it lasts.

Chicago has been especially crowded lately because of the marathon of 45,000 people, which was on Sunday. It started at 7:30 a.m. a couple miles south of our building. At 7:45 we could see the pack of runners sandwiched in Lower Columbus Dr., and they didn't stop coming for at least half and hour. 

yep, those are people in there!

We decided to walk down to the finish line to see the leaders come in. It was amazing to see such incredible athletes and even more awe inspiring to think they finished a marathon in just over 2 hours! Some of them looked like they had just been out for a morning jog instead of a 26.2 mile run. I felt ashamed as I stood there in the sun, squished by spectators on all sides, thinking how hot I was and how much my feet hurt. 

men's winner

women's winner....she was booking it on the home stretch!

We made our way to the 26 mile marker (which was up a cruel hill), and as we watched longer, the more "inexperienced" runners started coming in. It was difficult to see the pain on their faces as they pushed through the last .2 miles. Some got a huge smile of relief and joy as they spotted the 26 mile sign. Others were doing all they could to make it up the hill. One guy lost all his Gatorade and collapsed on the concrete. Less than a minute later he sprang up and kept going. There were amputees racing, men and women of all ages, one guy dressed like Minnie Mouse, runners high-fiving the spectators, and people carrying their country's flag. 

It was inspiring to think about how hard these people had trained, and I have a new respect for marathon runners. However, I will use that experience to inspire me in other areas. Call me a wimp, but I still have no desire to run like that, especially not after seeing the pain of the Chicago runners. Kudos to them, but I'll stick with yoga. 

By the way, I did finally make it to my yoga class. 

Namaste.

4 Years, 5 Moves....are we home yet?

Justin and I have now moved 5 times in the 4 years we have been married. When we decided to move to Chicago I was so nervous that we had made the wrong choice, but I had this gut feeling that moving was what we were supposed to do.  Part of me was trying forget my aspirations of living in a big new city, and just settle in Charlotte....and I really didn't want to deal with moving again. Then, I started finding Chicago all over Charlotte. It was little things, like turning on the radio and hearing Jimmy Buffett live from Chicago, spotting a Chicago Bears license plate, and that little Starbucks bear wearing a Chicago t-shirt staring at me in the Marshall's checkout line. Our first trip to the grocery store in Chicago, there was that durn bear again, wearing the same shirt. These things seem random and insignificant, but to me they were little signs that helped to ease my worries.

Thursday is our 4th wedding anniversary. Ironically, we were planning to be visiting Chicago this weekend months before we learned we would actually be moving here. Justin was planning to run in the Chicago marathon, and we were going to celebrate our anniversary. With starting a new job and moving, Justin hasn't been able to train for the marathon, but we were destined to be in this city one way or another! 

It's been one month since we moved here and Charlotte seems like another lifetime. So far, living in Chicago reminds me a lot of when Justin and I lived in Australia for 4 months. Getting used to a new city, new people, new places, new routine.....reinventing ourselves. Since it's all so new, it still seems like we are just visiting, and I wonder how long it will be until our new life really feels like home. It's exciting and scary at the same time, but I'm so thankful that we took the leap to try something different and not stick with what was comfortable and familiar. There is still a lot to figure out, but it's only been a month, and I can't wait to discover what this great city has in store for us!

buckingham fountain in grant park

one of my favorite places