Its a very rare occasion these days that I get out by myself for fun.  Usually when the kids are with Grandma or cousin Sara, its so that I can run my errands in a timely fashion, not to have fun. 

This past Saturday night was a total last minute deal for me (that means there was a week's notice in planning).  I met up with Mel2 in the city (a friend who also is named Melissa). 

Can I just say that no matter how many times I am in Chicago city limits, or even looking at the city on TV or in pictures, I get this feeling of 'home'.  I love my city.

I enjoy Mel2's company because she is a city girl, a foodie, and a career-minded person.  She and I relate on many levels.  Her last boyfriend-ish up and moved...WHO does that??  Anyway, I digress.

We started the evening at the Trump Tower/Hotel.  One of the elevators was covered, I mean covered in gingerbread and frosting.  Um, yum.  If it wasnt treated to stay like such, I would have taken a bite...literally....yes, I would have....I have that kind of cooth when it comes to gingerbread.  (could you imagine the elevator doors open and here I am taking a bite out of the wall, licking the frosting from my fingers!!)



 Of course the hotel was decorated Trump style - always over-the-top and the best.  It was gorgeous.  My only picture doesnt do it any justice.


We went to Roots Pizza for dinner.  Had the best grilled ricotta, yes I said that ... grilled ricotta.  It was creamy, salty, sweet served on plain white toast.  Heaven!  The Northerner salad was delish, one of my favs. 

After dinner, right when we were going to wallow in men, we walked next door to the Bleeding Heart Bakery and delved into a giant cakeball.  Look at these things:


As we walked back to my car, we passed up probably one of the very last record stores.  This has got High Fidelity written all over it. 


Sweet Home, Chicago.