Our Second Annual Christmas Extravaganza was a smashing success! For those of you who haven’t heard, the “Mystery Trip” took us to the Windy City this year. Everyone loved Chicago, and all 26 of us enjoyed the fellowship, fun, and food. Maggiano’s for an exquisite Italian dinner, and the classic Walnut Room the next day, were culinary highlights.
It wasn’t the Polar Express, but train travel to and from our destination was uniquely conducive to making the trip feel like a big family vacation. “What happens on the train, stays on the train.” We’ll just leave it at that.
Themed photo contest. Field Museum and Art Institute. Roaming seven floors of Water Tower Place. Historic hotel right in the hustle and bustle of Michigan Avenue. “I Love Lucy” on stage. Photobombed in broad daylight! Enough laughter to fill Lake Michigan.
We were treated to a private trolley tour of the sites and lights of the city, Navy Pier, and the tip of the Gold Coast (including the skyline view from Adler Planetarium). Outdoor German market, shopping along the Magnificent Mile, and cheering the Cats to victory from 400 miles away.
Garrett’s and Ghirardelli’s. Frango and Fred (Mertz). Taxis, trees, and tinsel. And enough snow flurries blowing around in the air to make it feel like Chicago. Picture perfect.
What will we do for 2015? I suppose the mystery continues …
Thank you, Lord, for a family of believers with whom we can “do life” together. You are so good to us. Help us treasure each other as a reflection of how much we treasure You!
So glad you all had a wonderful trip!
We want to go next year. How do you get on this Guest List?