The Lanterns

We try and make it down to the Botanical Gardens every summer when they have The Chinese Lanterns.  This year Bennett (nephew) and Elaine (mother-in-law) joined us.  We watched the Chinese Acrobats.  I thought they would be a  snoozer but they were actually very enjoyable.  Everyone thought so!  Now, if we could only find a restaurant in the Loop that is open on Mondays!

Ghouls in the Garden

Sunday was an absolutely beautiful day.  My mom and I met Chris, Sunny & Olivia at the Botanical Gardens for our first ever Ghouls in the Garden.  After our experience at Mark Twain Park, this was a refreshing treat.  There were no scary costumes or people jumping out to scare the kids.

Olivia wasn't too sure about Mother Nature.  She didn't have any candy!

 When this friendly witch cackled, Olivia did it right back!  She was very proud of herself.

Food and Lanterns

Two weeks ago we packed up Tommy & Jena  so they could head back to the bright lights of Hollywood!  But first we needed food and fun!  Jena's parents and sisters came up to help with the packing (and the food and fun part).  The first meal was Mexican.

 The next meal we added Karen & Vince and son Mike and headed to the loop to eat at Pi. Great deep dish pizza, salads and shakes.

 After dinner we went to the Botanical Gardens to see the Chinese Lanterns.

 Jena and her mama.

 The 2 giant dragons were made out of dishes.  Look closely and you can see the plates and bowls.

 Jena's dad Paul is taking a break.

 I love to take pictures that have water reflections.

 Tommy & Jena