Today was a big day for all of us. The day started for Laura and I at the American Girl Place store. Aunt Jill, Elliotte, and Ryleigh went with us for Laura’s big moment. She’s been wanting an American Girl “Just Like Me” doll for a very long time and had already named her “Lauren Mary.” We had gone by the American Girl Place store the night before, so Laura knew exactly where to go in the store. As soon as we walked through the door, Laura said, “Mommy, let’s go to the escalator!” I haven’t seen Laura quite this excited in a long time. It was really cute. Our salesperson even commented later, “I saw you all walk in, but I could tell that she [Laura] was on a mission. She knew exactly where she had to go.” I think it was one of the best hours I’ve ever spent with Laura. She was just so happy and full of smiles. Aunt Jill took lots of pictures and Elliotte and Ryleigh talked all about their dolls with Laura. By the time we left the store, Laura was carrying Lauren and I was carrying a couple of bags worth of gear. It was a GREAT hour!
We met up with Andy and John at the Lego store where John was as happy as could be. I think he was in Lego overload. He eventually settled on a Lego train set that is motorized. (Okay, so maybe the train set is really more for Andy to put together, but John will LOVE it too!)
After all the shopping excitement, we had breakfast with BlumeNation and then said goodbye to them as they were getting ready to leave for home. We went back to our hotel and checked out, but had them hold our luggage for us as we walked back to the John Hancock Building for a trip up to the Observation Deck. The kids were amazed looking out over Chicago from way up there. The view was just awesome and we wandered around up there for roughly an hour.
After an extremely busy morning, we finally loaded up in our truck and headed to Scot and Sheila’s apartment for the rest of the day. It was very relaxing and just a fun time. Unfortunately, I did not take any pictures (how does that happen?!?). Ian and Amanda came over for dinner and it was so much fun hanging out and talking the night away. I found myself sitting back a couple of times and just listening to the three brothers talk and laugh. Good times. We’ll definitely have to do it again sometime and sooner rather than later!