Here's what we were up to:
Explored the Art Institute
 |
| One of my favorite paintings: The Water Lily Pond by Monet |
Saw the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
It may have been lightly raining but the lights were absolutely beautiful & we even got to see some animals which we weren't expecting.
Giraffes are my favorite animal, and I was so excited to get to see them. I think they are the most interesting animal and could watch them for hours. Natalie pretty much had to drag me away from them so we could see more of the lights...
Took a 3 mile NYE morning run.
I've written about it many times before, but I seriously enjoy a run so much more when I have a running buddy. It's even better when the running buddy is your best friend who you trained for and ran a half marathon with.
Played in the Bean.
It may be super touristy, but I absolutely love playing in the Bean & taking tons of photos. It was a classic, freezing cold Chicgao day, but we had fun hanging out in Millennium Park & walking up Michigan Avenue with my roommate and her friends from Texas.
Rung in the New Year in style
My good friend Clare hosted a party at her apartment, so I was fortunate enough to have a blast on NYE without having to pay a fortune for a bar package. It was full of champagne toasts, dancing & meeting new people and was truly a blast.
Made New Year's Day Chili
I've never been a big chili person, but this winter I can't seem to get enough of it! I found this Smoky BBQ chili recipe on Oh She Glows and knew I had to try it. It was the perfect new recipe to start the new year.
Hung out at the Signature Lounge
I had never been to the Signature Lounge in the Hancock Building and was excited when Kathryn suggested it. The view was absolutely amazing & I enjoyed a fresh fruit tart :)
 |
| I love Chicago |
 |
| Me & Nat |
 |
| You can't tell, but this fork was huge! |
 |
| Kathryn & Me |
2011 was a great year, but I'm feeling that 2012 is going to be even better. I have a job I love in a beautiful city and am blessed with caring friends and a great roommate. 2012 here I come!
I hope everyone else had a beautiful start to the new year as well!
