The Unplanned Odyssey: From Manchester to Chicago via Dublin

I still vividly remember the day in 2014 when we decided to embark on an escapade to the United States. Yes, you read that right – we travelled to the US! You see, up until that moment, the idea of crossing the Atlantic had never really made its way into my list of aspirations. But life has a funny way of nudging you into adventures you never knew you wanted.

Jetlagged, Delighted, and a Little Confused: Touchdown in Chicago

So, there we were – my two youngest boys, Lewis and Josh, Michele and I – flying from Manchester to Dublin and finally landing in the Windy City, Chicago. The journey felt like a comedic odyssey with short layovers and airport shenanigans that could rival any Hollywood script. And just like that, our 1st trip to the US began with a combination of jetlag, delight, and a dash of confusion.

The Lisle Chronicles: Cousin Julie, Chris & Elle

Our haven in this unfamiliar land? Lisle, a quaint suburb where my cousin Julie resides with her two kids, Chris and Elle. It was a familial welcome, complete with a slice of American suburban life. Lewis and Josh found immediate allies in their counterparts, and we found solace in the fact that family is the same everywhere – filled with love, chaos, and shared laughter.

Chicago, the Marvelous Melting Pot

The days that followed were a whirlwind of exploration. Chicago, a city famous for its architectural marvels, cultural hotspots, and deep-dish pizzas, opened its arms wide for our eager family. We embarked on a sightseeing spree that would make any seasoned traveler envious.

Zoos, Towers, and Legends: A Chicago Itinerary

Our Chicago checklist read like a blockbuster movie script:

Lincoln Park Zoo: Lions, tigers, and bears – oh my! A day well spent communing with the animal kingdom in the heart of the city.
Willis Tower: Where scraping the sky meets stomach-flipping thrills. The Willis Tower Skydeck had us questioning both our life choices and the structural integrity of glass floors.
John Hancock Centre: An architectural masterpiece with panoramic views that made me appreciate the vastness of this city.
Navy Pier: Ferris wheels, street performers, and the scent of adventure in the air – Navy Pier was a carnival by the lake.
Wrigley Field: Chicago Cubs and the holy grail of baseball. Witnessing a game here was like being part of a passionate, cheering sea of blue.
Chicago River Cruis e: A leisurely float down the Chicago River, revealing the city’s history through its architectural veins.
Buddy Guys Legends: Blues, soul, and a side of grit. Buddy Guy’s club was a sonic journey into the heart of Chicago’s musical soul.

And of course, there was the shopping – because, let’s be honest, no trip is complete without a suitcase brimming with souvenirs and questionable fashion choices.

The Unlikely Love Affair: Chicago, You Charmer

I must confess; I hadn’t shown the slightest interest in visiting the U.S. before this impromptu journey. But Chicago, with its charisma and welcoming spirit, managed to flip my indifference on its head. It’s as if the city itself was saying, “Surprise! You didn’t know you needed this, did you?”

And just like that, what started as a trip out of curiosity turned into an unexpected love affair with the city’s diverse offerings, friendly faces, and the distinct rhythm of life that pulses through its streets.

Closing Thoughts: From Skeptic to Chicago Convert

As I boarded the plane back to Manchester, I couldn’t help but reflect on the unpredictability of life’s adventures. Sometimes, the places you least expect to capture your heart end up doing just that. Chicago, with its bold skyline and warm embrace, was a lesson in keeping an open mind and letting the journey surprise you.