Wed 30/5 – 15024 steps
I skipped the hotel breakfast and had a slice of left over pizza. Fuel for the day!
We hopped back on the bus and headed for David’s first choice: Willis (was Sears) tower. It has 110 floors and on the 99thfloor, there is a Skydeck with glass balconies, so you can stand thousands of ft above the ground. Terrifying! Why would you want to?
But I did it! I focused on 1 point in the building and did not look anywhere else. My knees were shaking like jelly. Luckily David showed a lot of restraint and did not jump!
To recover, I opted for the peace and quiet of the Shedd aquarium and Field museum.
Big mistake!
Museums etc in USA are wonderfully interactive and geared up for children, unfortunately children on school trips have little no manners or respect for anyone around them. My suggestion is that they limit school trips to 1 or 2 days a week.I had to reflect on the way I raised my own boys when I overheard a young girl, probably 5 years old, standing in front of the glass counter at the café asking “Mommy, what are my options?” At that age, for my boys, it was more a case of “here it is, be grateful” – which they were and they have turned out great.
However, I was impressed by the See Art campaign which uses plastic found in the oceans to creat stunning artworks.
We finally got to Millers bar, a Chicago landmark, established in the good old days which has survived till now and had a delicious hamburger (first one).
Afterwards, exhausted, but determined, we trudged off in the rain to find Guy Buddy’s Legends, a traditional blues bar. What a great evening! I was reminded of my dad and uncles and I am so grateful they taught me to appreciate this style of music.
David’s best chuckle of the day: my absolute terror of the glass ledge
What I learned: Inspiration comes from all around, if you are open to it – Willis tower architects were apparently inspired by a pack of cigarettes lying open on the table with cigarettes sticking out.
There are ways to overcome your worst nightmares, get the photo and never have to do it again.
If you see more than 3 of the dreaded yellow school buses, don’t bother going in.
Oh yes, and old white dudes can sing the blues.
Clever idea: Perspex disks add color to garden
Kim's journey 