Hello from warm sunny Chicago. I can't believe that I am writing that in February and that I am not joking! A heat wave has hit and the city has sprung to life after a period of hibernation. Everyone is out and about and trying to take advantage of the warmth before it gets chilly again. Here is what I have been up to:
The Windy City Blogger Collective hosted an event with Native Foods Cafe, a vegan fast casual restaurant with delicious food. I know that the word vegan can be a turnoff for meat lovers, but you could eat there and not even realize it is vegan. I especially loved the Avocado Crunch Wrap, buffalo cauliflower, and the brussels sprouts. I could eat there daily.
My friend Allegra and I went to a Trombone Shorty concert. Charles and I first discovered Trombone Shorty at Lollapalooza a few years ago and have been fans ever since. Somehow Trombone Shorty is able to sing, dance, play trombone, and conduct his band at the same time. If you have the chance to see him - go.
Charles and I spent a weekend exploring breweries and hunting for the best cheese curds in Milwaukee. It was my first time in the city, and I was surprised by how much I liked it. I definitely want to go back in the summer.
My sister came to town for 24 hours so we could see Hamilton! It was amazing! I know that there is so much hype that you think that seeing Hamilton can't possibly live up to your high expectations, but it is just that wonderful. I have been listening to the soundtrack on repeat and with every listen, I discover something new.
After dinner, we went to our favorite Chicago restaurant, Bavettes. It's next to impossible to get a reservation (I made our reservation for Charles's birthday 5 months in advance). But! If you want a 10:30 reservation on a Tuesday, that is no problem. We feasted on steak, red wine, and the chocolate pie. The chocolate pie is one of the best desserts in the city, and Kelly was very excited to have it again. I might get in trouble for posting this photo... but it is too silly not to share!
While Kelly was in town we met up with my friend Margaret for lunch at Roister. Roister is one of the best new restaurants in Chicago, and it's the place to go for lunch in the West Loop. The fried chicken is fantastic.
I went to a launch party for the two new Big Mac sizes. Dozens of my blogging friends and I feasted on burgers and fries. It was an indulgent evening and a great chance to catch up with friends.
Charles and I spent Valentines Day at an 80s Prom Party. It was a fun low stress way to celebrate the holiday.
Jocelyn and I spoke at the Women Driving Excellence event at the Chicago Auto Show, which was somewhat ironic since I haven't driven a car in 5 years.
I have been working at Soho House once a week, and it is the perfect way to socialize while getting work done. I always run into a handful of friends there, and it is so nice to get out of the home office - if I am there every day it can get lonely! If you are in Chicago let me know if you want to co-work!
This weekend I am going to a fun Oscar party at The Conrad. I am embarrassed to admit that I haven't seen any of the Oscar movies this year, but I am very excited for the party! You can follow the link to buy tickets and join the fun.
And Charles and I will partake in our weekend routine of spin class at Flywheel followed by brunch at LPQ.
Oh and if you are a blogger, or if you just are curious about how bloggers make money, check out this article that I wrote for Muses App.
