CHICAGO

Here are the rest of the photos as promised from our day at Millennium Park and The Art Institute.

First, we had a little picnic we brought from home in Millennium Park. The weather was phenomenal that day. It couldn't have been nicer. 

 After lunch we walked past The Bean on the way to The Art Institute.

 Lulu wanted to take some photos with her IPod.

 See lucy on the table to the right:)

 Then we headed over the Nichols Bridge to The Art Institute.

View's from the Bridge

The Modern Wing

 The Art Institute is free the first and second wednesday of every month for Chicago residence ALL of 2012. I am for sure going again! I would really like to try a few of their Family Programs. 

The Roy Lichtenstein art exhibit. 

Here are a few of my favorites from other parts of the museum.

VAN GOGH

 some shots up close of the amazing texture and strokes

Seurat

"A Sunday on La Grande"

Degas

Thorne Miniatures

Unbelievable. One lady made ALL of them.

We left out the "Front"

(secret: the lions roar if you sit on them)

Had to stop at Crown Fountain with the kids

Waiting for the water to fall.....

Water is falling

Walked thru Lurie Gardens at Millennium Park too.

Millennium Park is beautiful. If you are ever in Chicago you must go. It is a HUGE piece of art. 

CHICAGO

Here is a little photo from our family day downtown. We had a picnic in Millennium Park and visited the Art Institute. It is free for Chicago residents on certain days of the month. More details and photos to come:)

CHICAGO

We had some family come into town to visit, so we took them on a great architectural tour. Chicago really is an amazing city. Our tour guide had so much knowledge of it's history and the architecture. He was clearly passionate about the architectural history and brought such an appreciation of the artistry behind each building and the era they were built in. Love the reflection in this building below, purposefully designed to reflect the buildings surrounding it. The tall tower with the white balconies behind it is a residential building and was designed by a woman architect. It was stunning.

 My Uncle is quite an accomplished architect in Arizona and comes from a family of architects so I really enjoy and respect the artistry and passion that can goes into a building. Also my cousin is an amazing architect. He truly is an artist.

 Classic Chicago in the photo above. 

The El and Wrigley Field Ivy transplanted onto this building on the river.

 We went to Millennium Park after the tour to listen to the Symphony. You can come and listen for free. People bring picnics, blankets, chairs and sit with their family and friends. Such a fun environment to listen to music outside surrounded by the city and the beautiful park. 

 Had to take a look at the "Bean" while we were there.

 This cute couple below was waving at their reflection :)

 me:)

Millennium Park really is a piece of art. 

As the sun was setting we walked over to the fountains.

This girl below was clearly enjoying the fountain.

Just a few of many great things to experience in Chicago.