Almost home

We changed our travel plans and instead of taking the ferry across Lake Michigan, we headed to the windy city, which immediately lived up to its name. We encountered major traffic all the way there and drove through downpours. The universe must be crying that our trip is coming to an end.

Our first stop was one that took us 9 years to get there. Ever since Ann heard that this place had the best corned beef we've tried to eat here. Our Garmin faithfully led us to this hallowed spot and we were very hungry after all the traffic.

Ann got the Barack Obama special of corned beef on rye with a potato pancake. Randi had homemade beef stew. The food was delicious and well worth the wait.

We wanted to visit downtown Chicago and knew just where we should park, but on our way to Michigan Avenue we saw swarms of people and heard loud music blaring from the park. No, the Harley guys had not followed us here but Lollapalooza did. Hundreds of young people were flocking to hear bands, such as The Killers, even in the pouring rain.

When we finally parked and got out we were so happy to be in Chicago.

We always enjoy having our picture taken in The Bean.

The Bean is just one of the many contemporary sculptures that sit in Millennium Park.

Even the artwork was raining today.

We didn't mind the exorbitant parking fee because we got into the Art Institute free. Target hosts free nights in the summer. Ann got to see her favorite Cassatt painting and we spent many dry hours wandering among the beautiful artwork.

Ann was inspired by all the great artwork and took this artsy farewell shot.

Our trip out west has ended and we continue eastward. No more kicks on Rt 66. One more stop tomorrow before we return home.