ON TOP OF THE WORLD A LOOKIN' . . .

We spent part of our morning at the Hancock Observatory. What a view! The Hancock Building is the second tallest building in North America; Chicago's Sears Tower is the tallest.

The Hancock (Big John to the locals) at ground level. Taken by McKenna.

Water Tower Place, the Chicago home of Oprah. When pointed out to McKenna, she said, "Now I know where President Hinckley and Oprah live. My life is complete!" What more does this poor eleven-year-old have to live for?

I accidentally took a wrong turn while at the observatory. One wrong step and I was in more trouble than I knew. Fortunately, I was able to gain my footing and enjoy lunch before I went back in the observatory.

A beautiful view looking southwest from the Hancock. The Sears Tower is the tallest building of the bunch.

P.S. We also killed some burgers and fries at Ed Debevec's, shopped at the American Girl store (Collin and Dad excluded), walked untold miles and rode virtually every train and bus operated in the City. We are tired, but happy.

The girls are just getting out of the pool, and we are heading for bed. Good night.

Finally!

We made it! After driving 23 out of 27 hours on the road, we found our hotel. Currently, the girls are swimming, the boy is watching TV and Mom is taking a shower. Life is good! The fighting was not nearly as bad as we thought it would be, but the drive was much more taxing than we expected. For the record, I do not suggest trying to sleep six in a mini-van for three hours while parked at a Nebraska rest stop. It's not pleasant. But, hey, we survived. Overall, the kids have been real troopers. Once I get the girls out of the pool and after everyone has showered, we are heading out for some Chicago-style pizza. Should be yummy.