Chicago, Illinois

Chicago may be known as "The Windy City" to most, but to us, it's "The City of Love!" 

Johnnie and I drove from Missouri to The City of Love on Friday, December 17th so that we could help celebrate my cousin Brad and Bethany's daughter's 2nd birthday.

The birthday party wasn't until Sunday, so we took the opportunity while we were in town to visit "our" Marriott, located on bustling Michigan Avenue.  A little history for those who don't know...

I was staying at this Marriott in January 2005 when Johnnie and I met in Chicago.  He then proposed to me in the lobby of the hotel 2 years later.  Although the Marriott has been completely remodeled since then, we still love to stay whenever we have the chance!

Having a drink in the Marriott lobby...

On Saturday afternoon, we went to McGee's for lunch.  This is where we met 6 years ago!!

Sitting in the EXACT spot at the bar where it all began!

Saturday night, we headed up to the 'burbs and had a wonderful evening with Aunt Frances, Uncle David, my cousin Meredith and her husband Tom, cousin Brad, Bethany, and the birthday girl - Cayden!  

We had a family party for her that night, including presents!!!

Tucking her "Groovy Girl" into bed...

Cayden opening the stool that my parents sent her...

Sitting IN the stool. :)

Cake time!!!

Cayden assessing the situation: 'What do I need??'

She figured it out...a giant serving spoon from Grandma's kitchen!

Meredith and her "kids."

Johnnie holding Rocco with what appear to be the hands of a giant.  :)

Birthday party #2 was on Sunday afternoon.  LOVE the B-day hat!!!

Opening presents with Dad's help...

Happy Birthday Cayden!!!

Every time we are in Chicago, Johnnie and I always say we could live there.  We absolutely love that city...can't wait for our next visit, City of Love!!!