“I live in my own little world. But it’s OK, they know me here.” – Lauren Myracle

I thought we were in for a slow day yesterday. How wrong I was. With it being the final day in Chicago for the D’s and Z’s, we crammed as much as our sore and tired bodies would allow us. ‘Twas a beautiful morning, sunny. It has been said there are not many sunny periods to be had in Chicago, the norm is partial or full cloud. The day we were on the 96^th fl of the Hancock building saw grey and smoggy conditions. But yesterday was beautiful. And 30 degrees once again. We must be fully acclimatized by now as I don’t think we have had a day with a lower temp than that since we arrived on Day 1.

So it was onto the hop on hop off bus once again to the Navy Pier, which is a popular hub for holiday makers and locals alike. This being a public holiday holiday w/end half of Chicago’s 8 mill population converged as one upon what was like a poor mans Luna Park. There was nothing to like about it at all. Tacky shops, food outlets and questionable rides for the kids. And the people – thousands upon thousands. And then some more. Most of them squealing, complaining, rude little upstarts.

Still, the others didn’t seem to mind queing up for lengthy periods to participate in some mindless ‘entertainment’. My friends may also say I was upset at the fact I was the only not to score a hole in one at mini golf and could not join their club. But at least I’m the only member of my special club, which is important to me.

A further HopOn Hop Off bus ride saw us defeat death as the very funny tour guide, bordering on risqué, entertained the packed bus with his original take on what touristsn need to hear. The driver took a detour under some very low bridges – very very low bridges. There wasn’t one person aboard who didn’t feel the need to duck below seat level. I’m sure that sort of risk would not be allowed at home, but it was hilarious to see everyone’s reaction. Me? Why I took photo’s of course, but I haven’tr checked the quality as yet. But the dude on the mic was excellent with his very hiphop approach and was provided with a sizable tip as we disembarked. When asked what would be the closest bar (the golf had been thirsty work), he could’t answer us as he wasn’t old enough to have such knowledge. That means, as good a patois as he had, he was not yet 21!  

We visited the Sears/Willis tower. But didn’t enter as there was a 2hr or so wait! After an early dinner we saunterd back to the Navy pier for a twilight tall ship sailing adventure on Lake Michigan. This was worthwhile – a tremendous view of the city skyline was enjoyed by all aboard. Then a 6-8 km walk home, with a cheesecake stop and a visit to Buckingham Fountain (“love and marriage…’). We finished with another look at the city lights from our room, interrupted once again by the nearby One Direction concert. Bloody Tweenies!

P.S. – you know I really do love kids...