The Carlson Family: Summer Fun!

I looove where we live/love my life! Jack and I are having the best summer! We have been able to do so many things for free. We have been to the park, the beach and the zoo a lot. We have been to the beach almost everyday. It's fantastic because we can go for just an hour or so and if Jack gets tired we can just walk the 5 minutes back home.I've got it all down pat.

6/19 We went to the Lincoln Park Zoo to meet Meghan Stigmon and her family. Her boys Grayson and Rohen are precious! They were so nice to Jack! And he wanted to be just like them! He thought he was such a big boy :)

Rohen explaining the gorillas to Jack.

Jack talking gibberish back :) but with enthusiasm!

6/20 We went to Maggie's for a playdate with Ethan and Ellie; Molly came too with Patrick and Thomas. Maggie set up a water table and sprinkler in their front yard. They had a blast!

We've turned our balcony into an art studio for Jack :)

6/21 It rained in the morning so we went to Trader Joe's where Jack pushed his own cart and loooved it! And he finally got a haircut. Although, daddy and I like it a little longer :) But the afternoon was fabulous. And this is why I love where we live. I didn't really know what to do. So we packed up the stroller with a variety of things and I was in my workout gear. First we headed to Lincoln Park and kicked the soccer ball around. Then I got inspired to go for a little run since it got nicer out. During the run I decided we should stop at Oak Street Beach and play in the sand/water. I love that we don't have to pack, fight traffic, deal with parking, and make a whole day of it. I love that we can just make an impromptu visit to the beach for just a few minutes if we want. I decided to take the under pass that goes on Michigan Ave. Then I reflected on how lucky I am that the Magnificent Mile is part of my neighborhood. Later, it was a beautiful evening. Perfect, really. So John and I had wine on the balcony and listened to old Italian music and soaked in our view. It was just a perfect day...

6/22 Jack and I went on an adventure! It was a day of "firsts"! First we went on the El-Jack's first time. We took the Red line to Monroe. ( he was not big fan :) Then we walked to Millennium Park. He thought The Bean was funny :) Next we ran around in the fountains and he LOVED it! We did that for awhile. Finally we shared a hot dog on a shaded park bench. I decided we should try the bus on the way back and that was much better! He was a huge hit! The passengers loved him :) He of course told them stories in his own language :) Another perfect day in the city! I was proud of us too!

(note: I didn't take my "good" camera so the pictures are a little over exposed....)