Chicagoland

We drove to Chicago last Saturday because my favorite friend Joy was in town.  She was visiting her sister Jenna, and we make it our business to always be where the Engebretsens are.  Joy and Jenna (and their family) are the most wonderful, true-blue people on earth.  They're like my second family.

On the ride down to Chicago, we made a pit stop at the Mars Cheese Castle.  It's just on the side of the highway, and we marvel at it every time we pass, but have never ventured inside.  It's actually VERY COOL.  I think I'm going to buy all my Christmas gifts from this place. 

We also stopped by the Chicago temple.  It's there behind the shockingly red trees.  I wish my camera could capture the whole scene-- imagine these red trees (times about 15) all lined up, a flock of geese on the lawn, bright pom-pom flowers everywhere, two fountains spraying up water, a crisp blue sky, and of course a sparkling marble temple.  

 When we arrived at Jenna's house, she was jamming with little Amelia.  

We spent a relaxing afternoon at the Lake Michigan beach.  From left to right, you've got Benson, me, Amelia, Joy, Bryan, baby Theo, Jenna, and baby James.

Swing kids James and Theo

This has got to be swinging paradise-- I'd like to go back for a sunrise one morning.

Here's Theo, Benson, and Amelia testing the waters. 

Give a boy a truck and some sand, and he'll be entertained for hours.

Unfortunately this picture turned out fuzzy.  After the beach, we headed back to Jenna and Bryan's house for some deep-dish pizza.  Lou Malnati's is my new top pick pizzeria.  And (this is incredible), we all agreed their salad was as good as their pizza.  This food alone was worth the trip, plus the time with Jenna, Joy, and Bryan (and company) made it such a wonderful day.  Cole was heartbroken to say good-bye and he sobbed the entire. way. home.

Thanks for letting us tag along guys!  Till next time.