CHICAGO MARCH 2004

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We chose to spend part of our spring break in the windy city this year.  Most people don't go to colder regions during spring break, but we thought it would be the finest, cheapest place we could go in a few days.  During our stay, we saw snow, bitter winds, and 30 degree temperatures.  WOO!  SPRING BREAK!

The quickest way from the Kansas City area to Chicago is to take I-35 to I-80... across Iowa.  Iowa was very scenic the first time we crossed it, during warmer weather as we headed out to move to Spokane.  This time of year however, Spring had not yet sprung, and the fields that had been plush, rolling green hills were now drab, dead spans of grey.  Nonetheless, it was a nice voyage.  We stayed our first night (as with our earlier Chicago trip) in the suburb of Carol Stream, near Jeff's mother's old hometown.  I'd suggest this to other travelers.  If you're not planning on going into the city your first night anyway, staying in the suburbs is easier on the driver, less expensive, and typically a better bargain (with "convenience" hotels offering free parking and  large continental breakfasts).

After a brief driving tour of Glen Ellyn, including one of our favorite stores, Trader Joes,  We headed into the city.  Our goal was to have a lazy stay and wander to a few fun things.  We stayed at a great hotel with the perfect location at the north end of the Magnificent Mile, the Tremont.  I'd highly recommend it, it was a great price for the location and beautifully decorated.     During our stay, we drove by Wrigley Field, window shopped at the stores along the Mile, ate at Bob Chin's Crab House (delicious!), saw the Lincoln Park Zoo, had a snack at Navy Pier, saw the view from the John Hancock observatory.  Not bad for a relaxing few days!  We topped it all off by driving through Illinois to our alma mater, EIU, and seeing our family near St. Louis.

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