Chicago Getaway - Ava's Turn

When Hannah turned five, we boarded a train and took a special birthday trip to Chicago. While there, Hannah became the proud owner of an American Girl doll that looked like her. Flash forward four years and it was FINALLY Ava's turn - she was beyond ready and excited!

Since it didn't work to go around her birthday in November, we let her pick out her doll online and order it (with the promise that she could pick out a new outfit when we could finally go). She really wanted a doll with "bwond" hair so she chose Julie. I was secretly delighted. After all, Julie is a girl from the seventies and has really groovy outfits. What's not to love about the seventies?! Our eldest, though, was a bit dismayed because someone, who shall remain nameless :-), made her first choose a doll that was Asian and looked like her. She quickly got over it when she realized that she'd get to enjoy Chicago too (and perhaps get a chance to play with Julie on occasion too).

We rode the commuter train to Chicago on a Sunday and enjoyed spending the day together as a family. One of our first stops was the American Girl Store, where both girls picked out outfits for their dolls. We spent some time at Water Tower Place before heading back to our hotel for swimming - Ava's trip highlight.

The next day, the girls and I headed to the Field Museum while Doug attended a conference. We LOVED seeing all of the animals and fossils at the museum. It took Ava a bit to warm up to the big scary dinosaurs, but she eventually came around and even stood near one. From the museum, we headed to Chinatown. We browsed in a few shops and bought a few items. I particularily enjoyed chatting with the ladies in the shops - felt like I was in China again. They were so sweet to Hannah and Ava. They gave them special treats and lots of smiles.

Doug finished with his conference around suppertime so we headed to our favorite Italian restaurant, Maggiano's. Maggiano's did not disappoint - we had an incredible dinner! Of course, dinner was followed by another trip to the hotel pool.

On Tuesday, Doug headed back to the conference while us girls walked around downtown and did lots of window shopping on Michigan Ave. Soon enough, it was time to load up and head to the train. I don't think I'll ever get tired of Chicago! What a great trip!

Flashback...Hannah's trip four years ago

The doll Hannah chose on her Chicago trip in 2007