Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Chicago Trip, September 2009

Bryan and I went to Chicago Sept 19-23rd. We met up with one of Bryan's friends, Stephen Carter, a friend from UT Martin and Memphis. It was wonderful to see and visit with Stephen again...and we learned he's a great tour guide! Thanks for a great time, Stephen!:)

Stephen took us first to the free Lincoln Park Zoo. Here are a few shots of the animals and plants we saw there.

"Pinks"--a new appreciation for them now that we've seen and smelled them at Lk. Nakuru.:)



Colobus Monkeys, another favorite of Kenya.









This, along with a few to come, were ones we couldn't pass up!
When I read this sign, my first thought was, "Where ARE the "roads" on safaris?" Of course there's a path, but not many "roads" like in the States. I laughed out loud!:)


Stephen then drove us by the famed "Wrigley Field".

Stephen then showed us all of Navy Pier--and told us of the many stories it held.:) We ended the evening by watching a fireworks display.









Day 2.
This LOOKS to be just a picture of the Hard Rock Cafe, like an adorning fan would take; but, the tall building behind is where Stephen lives--about half way up. He has a great view.

Stephen then took us to Millennium Park. We really enjoyed our walk. Afterwards, we went to the Art Institute.












After saying goodbye to Stephen--taking in a few sights...


Taken at a Lego Store--for my second cousin, Thomas.:)

Our Dinner! YUMMY! Would be great if we could have just one slice every Friday evening!:)
Day 3.
Museum Campus (Campus of Museums)

The Shedd Aquarium







The Planetarium.
For one of my best friends, Babs, at Adler Planetarium.
We then took a boat tour of the famous Chicago architecture. I would highly recommend this--with a jacket.:)



















Night of Day 3.


Stephen recommended we head to the Signature Lounge for dessert and have a look at Chicago at night. Man, it's great to know locals!:)



Day 4.
We began at the Field Museum--and stayed for quite a while. Another HAVE-TO-GO place--get a free tour guide!













Sights from the Sears Tower, now the "Willis" Tower.


The following pictures are of Bryan and I standing on the new ledges/windows on the 103rd floor. Pretty cool.

Notice the girl behind me--laying down. No thanks.

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Labor Day Fun 2009

For Labor Day, we decided to take Wil to the TN Aquarium in Chattanooga. We had good time. Wil LOVED IT!
Leaving Grandmother and Grandfather's for Chattanooga.
Bryan and Wil ascending up the escalator.

Do I want to pet it?
Sure, if Dad does.:)
Smiles for the camera.
Wil petting the new rabbit.
In awe....
Wil loved the diver.
Wil...wanting to be a Maasai?

Sweets from a creamery.
Beautiful birds.
Wil pointing to the butterfly.

Wil in the tunnel.

Wil loving the water outside the aquarium!

The three of us enjoying the water.

Various September Pictures

Photos of Wil during our stays in Knoxville: Playing on the couch; in the hammock; a UT game; playing with neighbor Thomas,; picking Grandfather's raspberries!!; and riding a bike.













Birthday Celebrations!

The following pictures are of two birthday celebrations in August.
First, Christopher Waterman, (Bryan's--our-- nephew) turned 15!!! earlier in the month. He requested Holy Cow cake...always YUMMY!


Then, Sara Knight, a friend of ours from church turned three. Wil had a blast at her party. They're becoming good friends.





Audrey Stewart riding into the sunset!
Wil discovering the hula hoops!



HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MISS SARA!!!