Steve, the kids and I returned to the West Egg for breakfast then took a cab to the Museum of Science and Industry. This is the kind of museum that you could spend three or four days exploring. We spent about five hours, which was almost too much for Katie and not enough for Cooper.
Jim, Betty and Jim met us at the museum not long after we arrived. I really appreciated having so many adults to keep track of the two youngest Damms. Steve was able to walk from exhibit to exhibit with us and participate when he felt strong enough or sit when he needed.
Katie loved the farming section, water space, circus area and transportation space. She lasted about two and a half hours before falling asleep in Grandma's arms.
Cooper loved all of it, especially the extensive submarine exhibit, the Swiss Jolly Ball (a giant pinball machine-like display), the toy-making factory and the water space. 
We left the museum in the middle of a gentle rainstorm. After getting Cooper and Katie settled in for some quiet time, Steve and I ventured out again, for a quick trip to the Art Institute.
Steve and I love art, but we don't agree on favorite styles. He loves modern art. I love impressionism and post-impressionism. The Art Institute offers enough to satisfy us both. The collection includes some lovely Monet paintings that reminded us of our five-year anniversary trip to Europe.
We returned to our hotel, and while Steve rested, Jim, Betty and I took the kids to the hotel's indoor swimming pool. They were able to "get their wiggles out" before dinner.
The seven of us met at Brasserie Jo, a French-style restaurant in downtown Chicago. The noise level was high enough that no one was bothered by two children, and the staff was very accommodating. The food was perfect -- special but not too fancy. Our entrees included beef wellington, steamed mussels and red wine chicken coq au vin. Desserts included chocolate mousse, creme brulee and a cheese plate. Katie was adventurous enough to sample her daddy's blue cheese and discovered she doesn't like veined cheese.
After more than two hours, a little wine, a lot of food and great company, we headed back to our temporary home. Cooper got out of the cab and raced for the revolving door. Katie raced behind him. Only her fingers made it in the door, and then they were stuck! The doorman was quick to rush over, and together he and I pulled the door back and set her hands free. She was understandably scared but not injured, and we avoided revolving doors the rest of the trip.
For more photos from the day, click here.
Coming next: Day 3 report
No comments:
Post a Comment