Wednesday turned out to be another warm/hot but clear day in Chicago. After the "big breakfast" we caught our morning shuttle and headed into the downtown via the Orange Line. The "L" as it is referred to locally is really exceptional, and for many reasons. Firstly, the mostly above ground system provides a great view. In many ways it's like riding the bus, minus any other vehicles. We relaxed and got tours throughout the city... which we all enjoyed. Secondly, it was just so stress free!!! Moving around removed the concern of driving and the kids became expert at reading the maps and remembering which stop was ours.

Our first stop of the morning was at Millennium Park... a fairly dynamic space comprised of a mixture of multi-purpose infrastructure (such as the Pritzer Pavilion which serves as a tremendous outdoor music venue space) static areas (such as the long water trough we soaked our "hot feet" in, and a series of artistic/sculptural works that invite the passerby to interact. In particular two huge fountains / video works (named Crown Fountain) and the Bean (or formally Cloud Gate) turned out to be excellent distractions, as the kids (Monica and half of Chicago) played in the water and reflections. After watching visitors, it was interesting how very drawn they were to the pieces.

Shortly after, on walk about, we fell into the surprise of landing amid the downtown disorganization and chaos of two Transformer 3 movie sets. Pretty cool, as we got to scope out a series of takes which happened near Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park. Then, even more interestingly, we stumbled up an overpass that gave us a great view of cabs, cars, taxis and police vehicles that were smoking, flipped and smashed. Tow trucks and staff were making sure all was in the correct position and ready for film. The sheer size and work that go into what I assume are short scenes lead one to the conclusion that costs must be astronomical to complete the deal.

Our next attraction was one Janie and I were looking forward to, the Art Institute of Chicago. Arriving just before opening, the line quickly moved as soon as the doors opened and we started on the second floor. The building is gorgeous, and the staff very helpful. In fact one lady, who felt bad about asking Peter not to take pictures, showed him an AIDS awareness performance art exhibit where he could take a piece of candy (that was allowed). Highlights of the exhibit were Wood's American Gothic, Cassatt's The Child's Bath, Nighthawks by Hopper and especially Seurat's A Sunday on La Grande Jatte (à la Ferris Bueller). We spent several hours wandering the exhibits, Peter wanting to see some of the ancient Roman and Greek pieces and take pictures (he got a couple of good shots) while Monica monitored her museum guide in a redo of our "Art Hunt" activity that started in Washington. Great visit!

I tried to program something a little different after the art gallery, trying to keep things moving for the entire group. My Friday night prior to leaving research had unearthed Broadway Shrek, and a Wed afternoon matinee (which more fully caters to Monica's sleeping habits) showing of Shrek. We knew it would be rambunctious (summer afternoon and Shrek) but secured tickets and made it part of the trip. After a short trip for "smoothies" at the Atrium Mall we crossed the street to the home of the cast and crew of shrek at Cadillac Palace, in the heart of Chicago and the loop.

The show was very well done... and we especially fell for the antics of "donkey" and the amazing costume created for the dragon. We sat near a "day camp" group of visitors, and were privy to many strange sounds, sights and smells. However, it didn't seem to dampen our spirits and the two hour billing seemed to fly by! Lots of action, great music, even farting and burping... darn close to our visit to the ball game.

We were plain worn out after Shrek... and hopped on the first train home. Surprise of all surprises, when we arrived back at our accommodations we were treated to a pulled pork supper with pop, desert and even beer (shhh - it was free too). After a huge supper the kids got into their swim suits and then pranced to the pool. After a refreshing dip, and Dad's ball game, everyone quickly nodded off getting a good night's rest. Pretty darn nice day!