I was in Chicago last week to attend the Craft and Hobby Show, the trade show for anything related to crafts (a consumer show followed the trade show). It was exciting to see the show floor filled with people who also seemed excited as well.
While there, my friend Brenda Pinnick and I took some time off to catch the El and go into Chicago to visit the museum at the Art Institute of Chicago. Its a fabulous museum and had expanded with a new modern wing that has been open a year.
The weather was fabulous, much cooler and less humid than here at home so Brenda and I spend some time walking through the city as well. Chicago is so clean and beautiful and there were flowers everywhere along the streets. Large planters divided the street on Michigan Avenue as we walked toward the museum. And there were plenty of sidewalk cafes with vibrant flowers.
Huge planters also lined the street. I just happen to be in front of this one.
I am a huge fan of Art Nouveau and in Chicago, you don’t need to go to a museum to see a lot of this style as its prevalent throughout the City on buildings and other items of interest.
These 2 pictures shows some of the art nouveau designs on buildings.
And here is the famous Chicago Theater landmark on State Street, probably the most photographed building in Chicago. 
One final shot – the Chicago River. Didn’t I tell you Chicago was beautiful!
We enjoyed our day and it rejuvenating to have a break. The next day, it was back to the CHA show for meetings and to walk the show as well as visit with friends.
Here’s to a beautiful day for everyone!
Phyllis
