Chicago--Day 3

From the time we began looking at the weather for our trip, day 3 always predicted rain. With that in mind, we planned to do touristy things during the periods of rain. We woke up on day 3 to the beautiful morning sun streaming into the window just like every other day. We got ready and decided to take a boat tour.

Our hotel was located along the Chicago River so we had a few options with boat companies. Being the deal finder, I had BOGO coupons to both companies by our hotel. The one we chose first was sold out for the first cruise so we went over to the Wendella Boat Co. We took the 90 minute architectural river/lake cruise. I must say that for as mild of a July that we had, it was shaping up to be a warm one that day. The tour was awesome. Getting out onto Lake Michigan was my favorite. I love big open bodies of water like that. I told Josh that this was for me. That is one luxury I/we would love to own one day--a boat to cruise Lake Michigan!
The cruise was full of beautiful picture opportunities so I snapped away. We got really close to the Chicago Harbor lighthouse. No one lives there, but it does function--automatically. The city of Chicago used to rent it out for a whopping $1 per month. The person living there had to make sure the light was always working. What a cool place to live for $1 per month. In a place like Chicago (or anywhere for that matter), that is quite a steal on rent. Well, the city got fed up with the constant partying with scantily clad people at best climbing the walls of the lighthouse. So, now the light is automatic and no one lives there. One other thing that I thought was cool is that you can see Michigan/Indiana from the lake. Three states at once =).

We finished the boat tour and headed over to Sears/Willis Tower. It will always be Sears to me. Still, not a drop of rain in sight. Sears/Willis is located more in the financial district. The Wall St. area of Chicago. We crossed over LaSalle St. which is what is called money canyon. More $$ trades on LaSalle than even Wall St. No, none of it flew out the windows to us =). Upon entering the lobby of S. Tower the line was very long!! We quickly found out that it was 1 1/2 hours to get to the top. What else do you do in a line that long, why take a pic of Josh with the Prez. To me, I have been to Sears T as well as Hancock. Once you have seen them and/or flown over the city, it's pretty much the same a.k.a not that much of a thrill.
I was glad that we would get to try out the new LEDGES that just opened. I am not afraid of heights and I like thrilling things. We eventually made it to the top after a 60 second ear popping elevator ride to the 103rd floor. Upon arrival, Keirah had fallen asleep in her stroller. Imagine that. We immediately made our way to the ledges and stepped out. Cool--yes, scary--no! It made for great views/pics. Our conclusion was that if you aren't afraid to go to the top and look out, the ledges are no different. They retract every night, btw. Being at the top afforded many more picture opportunities of various landmarks. We got back in line to head back down. Fortunately, that line moved quicker.
We could not find a bus to head back to our part of the city, so after walking forever it seemed we got a cab.
We chilled out for a bit and then met our former neighbors at PF Changs for dinner. It was nice to catch up with them. We walked around the city and took the girls to Riverwalk and let them all run around.
Oh yes, did I say that it didn't rain a drop all day!