I wrote a bucket list (of sorts) when I turned twenty five. One of the items on my list is to visit a new state each year. First up for 2015, Chicago, Illinois. I was fortunate enough to stay at a friend's apartment in Ravenswood while she was away on vacation. Each day I went out and explored the truly beautiful city of Chicago.

Day One

Big Star for tacos and beer the first night I arrived

Day Two

Breakfast at Over Easy, just a couple blocks away from where I stayed

I spent about three hours inside the beautiful Art Institute of Chicago

Amazing dinner at Homeslice while the Blackhawks played in the Stanley Cup

Day Three

Getting ready for the Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise

Then headed over to Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain

Went to the top of the Willis Tower Skydeck

Ended the night at a Cubs game with my dad who was in town on a business trip

Day Four

Started with some yoga, then a coffee at my go-to spot in Ravenswood called Groundswell Cafe

Ended the day at Quartino for an amazing meal where I completely over ate...but that is what vacation is for!

I got an insider tip that you can order almost any of the dishes in a half portion. And the wine I ordered is a Sangiovese, which is a wine I learned about and loved on my wine tasting trip in May.

Day Five

Easily the best day for me, because I had no plans. I woke up around 9am, went to Groundswell for a coffee and pastry, then hopped on the L and rode into downtown. I spent most of the afternoon along the Riverwalk, got a sandwich from The Corner Bakery, and people-watched. The weather was perfect, I listened to some Sara Bareilles, D'Angelo, and Leon Bridges...My soul was content and filled with gratitude and humility.

Around 4pm I got back on the L and rode it to Midway

My favorite shots from the whole trip...

Until next time, Chicago...

xxo