Welcome to the windy city!

After Andrew completed the written portion of his test, we loaded up in the car (we won't discuss the number of miles the kids have put on their car seats...) and headed to Chicago for his clinical skills test. The kids, as always, did wonderful in the hotel.

After the test (i.e. FREEDOM!) we found a park near our hotel and went for a walk. How amazing to see the weight lifted from Andrew's shoulders once he was finished with 3rd year. For a few days, it seemed medical school didn't consume and control our lives and family.

The next day of our Chicago trip, we visited the Chicago Lincoln Park Zoo. This free zoo was different than some we'd visited because it was designed to resemble a park (there were even people going for their daily jogs through the zoo). Although the animals weren't super exciting, the zoo was beautiful!

After the zoo, we walked through the nearby park and stumbled across a beautiful and lush Conservatory. It was as if we were transported to another area; almost a tropical oasis within the cement walls of the city. Alexander took advantage of the stillness and took a much needed nap while Elizabeth, Andrew and I marveled at the different plant species.

Andrew and the city of Chicago developed a love-hate relationship. One could blame the 1-hour stop and go commute, expensive parking, or the plethora of people... Well, actually, I'm not quite sure where the love part of the relationship is...?

Day two started much the same as day one (long commute) but this time we visited the Navy Pier. The kids had fun looking at the big boats, people watching, dancing in the funny mirrors, and pigeon chasing.

Before (almost) a big storm settled on the city, Elizabeth and Andrew decided to take a ride on the Ferris Wheel. Alex slept in the stroller while I hovered over him with an umbrella. Although I couldn't hear their conversation, I could tell by her expressions Elizabeth giggled the entire time!

After the clouds cleared, we wandered around Chicago a little...

We also hit up the Chicago Children's Museum's free family night. The museum was packed with super kid-friendly learning stations. Some of our favorites were dinosaur digging, airplane building, alarm clock designing, and automobile maintenance.

Thanks Chicago (and I suppose medical school for the excuse to take a family vacation)!