Travel

Let the Sun Shine.

/ lavitaebrom / Leave a comment

This year, Spring was over in the blink of an eye.  We went from frost warnings to glorious 75 degree days over night.  After a long, brutal winter, I can’t complain.

This past weekend epitomized a Michigan summer.  We started at Bambino’s bestie’s birthday party.  We celebrated with barbecue, watermelon, a bonfire, and Michigan brews.  A few feathered friends made an appearance too.  (I think the grown ups loved the birds more than the wee ones!)

   
          
The next day, we headed to St. Joseph, Michigan for the 3rd Annual Blues, Bluegrass, and Barbecue Festival.  We jammed with Buddy Guy and the Infamous Stringdusters.  Bambino loved splashing in the fountain too.  

If you’re looking for a small, affordable festival with great music, delicious smoked meat, and craft beer, consider this one next year.  A generous re-entry policy allowed our wee ones to take a break at the splash pad (or the nearby beach) too.   It’s definitely gets the Bambino stamp of approval.

   
    
Sunday, we had the neighborhood over for a backyard picnic.  We had a house and yard full of kids, laughter, and awesome food.  I grew up in a rowdy neighborhood that held bike parades, barbecues, and included the loving and watchful eyes of a lot of great parents.   I’m incredibly thankful that Bambino is getting the same kind of childhood.   

By Sunday night, we were all a little sunburnt. Bambino ate more cupcakes than any child should.  We were exhausted, but so very, very happy.   

 

Shine on.

Chicago:  Blues, Bears, and BBQ

/ lavitaebrom / Leave a comment

Chicago was very good to us.  We laughed, talked, and played.  We slept in, and enjoyed lazy mornings reading books.  It was a precious (and well-appreciated) break from reality.

  

On Saturday, we visited Brookfield Zoo.  I have wonderful childhood memories of visiting this zoo.  In retrospect, it was probably a little too big and hectic for our independent toddler (who insisted on walking and climbing everywhere).

Nonetheless, we had moments of magic and wonder.  A polar bear put on a show–  splashing in his pool and playing with a ball.  The lions basked happily in the sunshine.  A gibbon and her baby performed acrobatics.

   





After all this excitement, we needed a break.  A short rest at the hotel, the always wonderful James, was followed by a happy hour and dinner of BBQ and bluegrass.  

The music at dinner inspired a visit to Kingston Mines, one of Chicago’s classic blues bars.  While the club welcomes minors, Bambino was definitely the youngest blues aficionado  present.   The acoustic set wrapped up a busy, fun day.  

We all slept in the next morning.  

Bambino Recommends:

Buddy Guy Legends– While the club is 21-and-over at night, their acoustic lunch welcomes all ages.  Bambino visits every time we’re in Chicago.

Kingston Mines–  I wouldn’t take my little one to late nights there, but the 7:30 acoustic set was great.  They even sell ear protection and toddler tees.  However, please note these locations are first and foremost blues BARS.  Do not expect crayons and a changing station in the washroom!

The James Hotel–  One of my favorites, pre-Bambino.  The location is fantastic, the service is great, and I love the modern aesthetic.  To make things even better, the have a children’s program that offers a milk-and-cookie turndown.

Maggie Daly Park–  A playground of epic proportions, with lake views and ample picnic space.

The Field Museum– My favorite Chicago museum.  Visit the dinosaurs, Egyptian mummies, and learn about our amazing and diverse world.

Eataly Chicago–  Duh.  Have you read this blog?