Christmas 2010, Part I

Grandpa Nick and Grandma Marilyn's

Kicking Off Christmas Break in the Windy City

Allison, Andrew, and Dad kicked off Christmas Break with a day trip to Chicago.  First we grabbed some breakfast and rode an early South Shore Line train into town.


Our first stop was Andrew's choice: The Lego Store


Then on to Allison's selection: American Girl Place


It was a short ride on bus #151 to a couple places that everyone likes: Lincoln Park Zoo and Lincoln Park Conservatory


By now everyone was hungry, so it was off to Portillo's Hot Dogs for lunch.  Allison had a Chicago-style dog complete with pickle, while Andrew opted for some pasta and a large Chocolate Cake Shake (that's a chocolate shake with a piece of frosting-covered chocolate cake blended in):


After a short subway ride under the river and a leisurely stroll in the underground warmth of the Chicago Pedway we took in some sights at Millennium Park.  In the nearby Theatre District we even saw the famous Puppet Bike!


And after checking out the window displays at Macy's and the lights along Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile it was time to head home.  We grabbed some hydration for the train ride, and even caught a nap on the way back to Michigan City.

Andrew's Christmas Program

Tonight Andrew was part of the Quincy Elementary Christmas Program:
 

School Photos 2010

Kindergarten:


2nd Grade:

Last Soccer Games of 2010

On a windy 40° morning Andrew and Allison both had their final soccer games of the year.

Allison the Performer

Allison performed at the halftime show of Quincy Elementary's Poultry Panic vs. Harlem Wizards basketball game at Zeeland West High School.

Late October Hike

We took advantage of today's 70° weather to hike Hemlock Crossing park. We checked out their new Nature Education Center and even found a rope swing along one of the trails!
  

Soccer Stars 2010