December 13, 2016

Chi-Town

Chi-Town, My Town, The Second City, The Windy City, The City of Big Shoulders…

Back in October, Estela and I took a girls road trip to Chicago with our friends Mandy and Maya.  We went over a longer school break (go teacher schedule!) and enjoyed time exploring the city, eating delicious food and being with family and friends.  Here is a little recap:

Photo Oct 19, 7 59 50 AM

Pre 7 hour road trip, excited to get on the road.

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We stayed with family in Wheaton upon our arrival which required a trip to the Popcorn Shop.

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Estela loved filling up her bag with candy!

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We spent a few nights in downtown Chicago, this awesome brick wall was right outside our hotel.

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It was fun to be on public transportation again after being away from Managua.

Photo Oct 21, 4 46 22 PM

Full days of seeing the city meant taking naps on the bus.

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Estela enjoyed her first Dim Sum in Chinatown, it was delicious!

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We took our obligatory pictures in front of The Bean.

Photo Oct 21, 5 17 59 PM

Did you know that The Bean’s official name is Cloud Gate?  I did not.

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We spent some time at Maggie Daly Park, which was incredible and definitely worth a visit.

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We enjoyed the Chicago skyline.  Now whenever Estela sees a large building, she asks if we are in Chicago.

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One night, Estela and I went to the top of the Sears Tower, which is now known as the Willis Tower.  They recently built 360 degree observation decks, Estela was brave enough to walk out, however I was a bit hesitant.

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Cool street art = Photo opportunity

Photo Oct 20, 9 30 04 PM

We found Estela’s Mini Market!

Photo Oct 22, 1 54 31 PM

We took a wonderful architecture boat tour through downtown Chicago and learned all sorts of fascinating facts, which I have already forgotten.

Photo Oct 22, 3 39 30 PM

We walked Magnificent Mile and did not buy a thing!

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A mutual friend is starting up a photography business and offered to take a few pictures of Estela.  We love how they turned out!

Photo Oct 22, 5 34 49 PM

On our last afternoon, we visited Irazu, a Costa Rican restaurant in Chicago.  We were able to eat gallo pinto, maduro, tortilla, queso fresco – it almost felt like we were back in Nicaragua!

Thanks again Chicago for a great visit.  We will be back soon!

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