Chicago Chronicles – Day Thirteen: A Birthday Bash to Remember
Cheers to Another Year Older, Wiser, and Funnier!
Birthdays are like annual free trials of being fabulous, and on my recent trip to Chicago, I decided to cash in on the extra fabulousness. Day Thirteen, the day of my grand entrance into the world, promised nothing but good food, great company, and a touch of cheeky charm.
Morning Rituals: Cards, Wishes, and Family Love
As the sun flirted with the clouds, we woke up to a cooler breeze, thanks to yesterday’s storm that decided to grace us with its presence. But who needs warmth when you’ve got the love pouring in? The day kicked off with the sacred tradition of opening birthday cards, accompanied by the sweet symphony of kind wishes posted on the vast, virtual birthday bulletin board—Facebook.
Lunchtime Extravaganza: Where Size Doesn’t Matter
With the morning rituals out of the way, it was time to indulge in the culinary delights of Chicago. Elle, our designated chauffeur for the day, skillfully navigated us to Cooper’s Hawk in Naperville, a restaurant and winery that’s basically a symphony of flavors. We all unanimously agreed on diving into the lunch-sized entrees menu, a testament to our commitment to culinary exploration.
Salad Big Enough to Share: Elle’s Lunchtime Triumph
Elle, the salad aficionado, made a bold move by ordering the salad. Little did we know, it was a green masterpiece that could’ve easily fed a small village. A salad so epic, it made us rethink our life choices—why hadn’t we ordered salads before?
Chicken Chronicles: From Madeira to Giardiniera
As for Michele, Julie, and yours truly, we embarked on a poultry adventure. Julie and Michele opted for the classic CHICKEN MADEIRA, while I, in my quest for culinary uniqueness, went all in with the COOPER’S HAWK CHICKEN GIARDINIERA. Let’s just say, my taste buds had a birthday party of their own.
Wine, Dessert, and a Dash of S’MORE BUDINO
No birthday lunch is complete without a generous pour of happiness, and we had it in the form of wine. Julie sipped on white, Michele chose Sparkling Rosé, and I, being the rebel, went for Cooper’s Hawk Red. Elle and Michele, the dessert divas, sealed the deal with a delightful S’MORE BUDINO. If only every meal could end with a dessert that fancy!
Lazy Afternoon Vibes: Chris Drops By and Relaxation Rules
Post-lunch, we embraced the lazy afternoon vibes, lounging in the house like royalty. Even Chris, the honorary guest, swung by to toss in his birthday wishes. Because, let’s face it, no birthday is complete without a cameo from friends who add a sprinkle of joy.
Evening Escapades: Bar-Hopping in Lisle
As the sun dipped below the Chicago skyline, Michele and I geared up for an evening of bar-hopping in Lisle. Our first destination, Evviva, embraced us with casual fittings and an atmosphere that felt like a warm hug. A couple of drinks later, we strolled into NWB, the trendy Lisle Whiskey Bar. Sliders, drinks, and a sneak peek into Rye whiskey—it was a night to remember.
Sliders Symphony: Small Buns, Big Flavors
NWB treated us to a slider symphony, where three small buns stole the spotlight. Two were pulled pork maestros, and one, a traditional burger virtuoso. It was a culinary performance worthy of a standing ovation. Cheers to sliders and the genius who invented them!
Rye Whiskey Revelation: My First Dance with John Drew
In the midst of laughter and clinking glasses, I decided to dance with destiny—a glass of John Drew Rye Whiskey. My first time trying Rye whiskey, and oh boy, was it a revelation! Smooth, bold, and a hint of rebellion—just like a good birthday should be.
Sweet Rides and Sweeter Surprises: Elle’s Toffee Gift
As the night reached its crescendo, Elle rode to our rescue, picking us up and ensuring we landed safely at Julie’s. And because no birthday is complete without sweet surprises, Elle gifted me not one but two packs of Werther’s toffee. A sweet gesture that added the perfect finishing touch to an already fantastic day.
Birthday Bliss: Late-Night Chats and Bedtime Chronicles
With the clock ticking away the remaining moments of my birthday, we managed to squeeze in a chat with Lewis after his work. The day, filled with laughter, love, and a dash of whiskey wisdom, came to a close. Now, off to bed, because even the most fabulous birthdays need their beauty sleep.
