A Shopaholic’s Delight: A Day in Chicago 2016
Breakfast Debacle and Shopping Frenzy
Ah, another glorious day in the Windy City, marked primarily by one thing: shopping! Yes, folks, you heard it right. Today, my dear friends, was all about indulging in the sacred art of retail therapy. But before we delve into the shopping saga that unfolded, let me regale you with a breakfast fiasco that could rival a sitcom plot.
Breakfast Chronicles: The $40 Brew
Picture this: two cups of coffee, a lonely cup of tea that never graced our presence, a glass of orange juice, cranberry juice galore, a couple of cereal bowls, a humble round of toast, and a bagel adorned with scrambled eggs. Sounds like a lavish feast fit for royalty, right? Wrong! This spread cost us a whopping $40! And they say Chicago is the city of big shoulders; well, it seems they’re talking about carrying the weight of your wallet after a hotel breakfast.
Retail Revelry Begins
With our bellies somewhat filled and wallets significantly lightened, we embarked on our shopping escapade. After picking up Aunty Jilla from her gracious hosts, Julie and Joe, we set our sights on Aurora and the Chicago Premier Outlet.
Choosing the scenic route over the interstate, we found ourselves meandering past picturesque homes and buildings. Oh, the spaciousness! Where we cram houses like sardines, our American counterparts luxuriate in ample greenery and elbow room. Alas, as much as I fantasize about relocating, I fear I’m a tad past the prime for such adventures. So, for now, I’ll content myself with being a wandering visitor.
At last, we arrived at the shopping mecca, and let me tell you, it was a sight to behold! The layout was reminiscent of Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, and we wasted no time diving headfirst into the sea of bargains, dragging Aunty Jilla along for the ride.
Shop Till You Drop (or Your Credit Card Does)
Who would’ve thought I’d be the trendsetter, snagging the first purchase—a casual jacket to spruce up my denim game? But that was just the appetizer. The real feast began when Michele unleashed her shopping prowess. Jumpers, tees, shirts, hoodies, shoes (oh, the shoes!), and more shoes, all found their way into our shopping bags.
A safari set for Harry? Check. A wallet? Check. Yet more shoes? Double-check. And let’s not forget the panic-induced purchase of a new carry-on case, just in case our suitcases couldn’t contain the avalanche of acquisitions. As for the credit card, well, let’s just say it got a thorough workout, especially during a momentary hiccup in Ralph Lauren. But fear not, a Starbucks pit stop provided the necessary revival.
After what felt like an eternity (or four and a half hours, to be precise), I estimated Michele’s spending spree had neared the $1000 mark. But was she happy? Absolutely. Did we bicker? Not a chance. Did I get bored? Perish the thought. And as for Aunty Jilla’s company, well, let’s just say it was the cherry on top of our shopping sundae.
Post-Shopping Shenanigans
With Aunty Jilla safely deposited back at Julie and Joe’s, we crossed paths with Elle and decided to linger for a coffee before reuniting with our hosts. Julie and Joe had endured a house inspection, which unearthed a few wrinkles, but hopefully nothing substantial enough to derail the sale. With fingers crossed, we left them to their deliberations and sought solace in a hearty meal.
Culinary Capers: A Feast Fit for Titans
Our dining destination? Houlihan’s at Wheaton, a familiar haunt from two years past. Little did we anticipate that this time, it would be the victor in the battle of the bulging stomachs. Stuffed mushrooms arrived in abundance—seven of them, to be exact. Delicious? Undoubtedly. Digestible? Perhaps not so much. And as for our main courses, let’s just say we met our match. #overfaced indeed!
A Nightcap and Goodnight
Now, here we are, back in the sanctuary of our room, indulging in some much-needed downtime with Gotham on the screen and a bottle of Goose Island IPA in hand, however not as nice as the pint of Duke I had lastnight at Granite City. A fitting end to a day filled with laughter, indulgence, and a touch of extravagance. And as Michele succumbs to the sweet embrace of sleep, I bid you adieu.
Zzzzzzzzz…..
