Chicago 2018 Chronicles: Day Seven – Sun, Fun, and Family Calls

A Toast to Warmth: Embracing 30 Degrees

Ah, another day in the Windy City, but hold onto your hats, folks, because today, the sun decided to crank up the thermostat to a toasty 30 degrees Celsius. Now, if you’re not accustomed to the Celsius scale, let me assure you, it’s warmer than a cuddle from a koala bear.

Late Riser’s Delight: Skype Shenanigans with the Folks

Rolling out of bed fashionably late, we decided to kickstart the day with a bit of family time, courtesy of our good old friend, Skype. Picture this: me, nestled on the decking at the rear, savouring breakfast while catching up with mum and dad. Now, here’s the kicker – dad missed out on the backyard spectacle of Red Cardinals and woodpeckers, but fear not, it wasn’t a case of failing eyesight, just a dodgy camera situation. Classic dad move, really.

Geneva: More Than Just a Timepiece

With our spirits high and the sun blazing, we embarked on a whimsical journey to Geneva, a mere 30-minute drive away. Expecting the typical tourist trap, we strolled down the main street, only to find it about as exciting as a cucumber sandwich. But fear not, intrepid explorers, for we swiftly veered into a side street and struck gold. Geneva unfurled before us like a vibrant tapestry of history and charm.

Pink Lemonade Dreams: Sippin’ and People Watchin’

Picture this: nestled against the backdrop of the historic Geneva Court House, we stumbled upon a quaint little restaurant that seemed plucked straight out of a postcard. With the sun kissing our skin, we indulged in glasses of pink lemonade so deliciously refreshing, they might as well have been nectar from the gods. And the best part? A mere $3 scored us two glasses, endlessly refilled. Talk about a bargain bonanza!

Riverside Rambles: Bird-Watching Extravaganza

Fuelled by lemonade-induced euphoria, we embarked on a leisurely stroll along the Fox River, where nature put on quite the show. Picture birds reminiscent of cormorants and herons, gracefully gliding across the water’s surface, their silhouettes a testament to the wonders of the natural world. It was a sight to behold, my friends, a veritable feast for the eyes.

Retail Therapy Rendezvous: Premium Outlets Extravaganza

With wallets itching and a spring in our step, we made a beeline for Aurora, and from there, onto the hallowed grounds of the Premium Outlets Shopping Centre. Ah, yes, a shopaholic’s paradise, where shoes and clothes beckon with promises of style and sophistication. Needless to say, it was a successful expedition, leaving both Michele and me with bags brimming with treasures.

Tomorrow’s Tango: Canada Bound with Kindred Spirits

And now, as the sun begins its descent beyond the horizon, we find ourselves reclining in the company of Elle, Julie, and Michele, plotting our next escapade. Tomorrow’s destination? Canada, dear friends, where adventure awaits and memories are waiting to be made.