Grandpa's 90th birthday bash, & Chicago

Grandpa turned 90 earlier this week and his four daughters planned a big family reunion party to celebrate. It was a celebration of 4 generations of family and it was really a pleasure to have made the trip back. This was the biggest gathering of the Elliott side of my family that I can remember, at least since Julie & Dave's wedding in 2008. I'm always very impressed with my relatives- they are the best collection of loving, positive, supportive and encouraging folks you could hope for.

Grandpa's cake almost burned the house down

I tried to imagine what Grandpa must have felt looking around and engaging with 3 generations of his descendents, all really genuine, kind and interesting people. He should be very proud that he's helped cultivate some great souls. I'm sure he is.

Two days of good family time, now followed up by a solo day of poking around Chicago on foot before heading back to the airport. Covered a lot of ground- Loop, Magnificent Mile, several miles of lakeshore, Lakeview and Logan Square before taking the train out to Midway. Made some friends along the way, and soaked up the energy that Chicago exudes.

A great day for March, the wind blustery and seas angry.

I came back from this trip feeling really refreshed and inspired. I've had some big changes in my life during the last few months and some even bigger plans coming up this summer. All my family really shares their support and encouragement, even if my life and plans are much different from theirs. It's a genuine love and I don't take it for granted.