The past couple of days, I spent some time in Chicago. I was generously given Southwest buddy passes - A HUGE thanks. It was the first vacation I've taken in over 4 years. I purposely didn't bring my camera or laptop so it was very relaxing and low-key. I did, however, snap off a few iPhone photos to document my trip. I've done the touristy stuff in the past, so this was just a chance to spend time with my brother and see some things that most people miss.
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Leaving BHM.
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Birds-eye-view of the Chicago suburbs.
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Brunch at Bongo Room in Wicker Park. Yes, those are banana-bacon pancakes and they were delicious. Too much food to eat. (Tip: You can order half-sizes and single stacks.)
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Meet Roscoe, my brother's rescued pet turtle. He enjoys begging for dried shrimp but really wants crickets!
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piece. Very tasty thin-crust pizza served on large baking sheets. Highly recommended.
Puppetbike. This thing is C-R-A-Z-Y! Adults stand around and laugh at these puppets. This bike comes complete with music and lights. But, I have to admit - it's pretty funny and entertaining, as well as confusing.
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A night out at
Marty's. A cool martini bar where we met some awesome people. The night went downhill from there.
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Tiny car in Andersonville.
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I did a lot of antique shopping while I was there. Loved these stacked pots and wish I could have bought them all. But I doubt they would have survived the trip back.
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The hidden entrance to
Violet Hour. Complete with fake "coming soon" sign painted on the outside and various graffiti. That lonely looking guy is actually a bouncer. Cool concept and equally cool space.
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This concoction is a bloody-Mary in a tiki-faced glass from
Tweet. Despite being kinda weird, it served a great brunch. And we were even given apples as we left. Why you ask? For earth day of course.
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Even the runway at MDW has insane traffic. Leaving Chicago...Goodbye to friends old and new.
A thank you goes out to Jim and Zach for letting me spend the weekend with them and showing me a great time. I saw some really cool things and ate some incredible food. I don't get to spend much time with them so I hope they will visit soon.