Cheeseborger, cheeseborger, cheeseborger

The hubby and I just got back from Chicago this past weekend for his sister's wedding reception. The reception was at her new In-law's home in Belvidere, Illinois (about an hour away from Chicago). About 200 hundred people showed up and there was a beer truck, a DJ, four different kinds of barbequed meats, and massive illegal fireworks. Plus, the twin nephews got drunk off an alcoholic fountain punch and had instant hangovers. Everyone was in their kilts again, but w/out the fancy shirts this time.... it was hot and humid.

I have never been to the midwest before, and I must say that it was a bit of an eye-opening experience. As much fun as we had there with the two families, I must say that I am glad to be back at home. I am a total wimp when it comes to humid weather, and I love being around hills, mountains, and the ocean!!! Plus, I love vegetables and fresh produce. The politics is a lot different, and I can't tell you how many American flags we saw over there. The cherry on top was when we passed by a home with the American flag painted on their entire two car garage. So, I made sure I didn't bring up politics with ANYONE. I just realized even more, that we live in a bubble. Other than that, the it was great fun and was only sometimes awkward to be the only Asian person around.

Our little guy, Nigel, had to stay home and was he stayed with the hubby's co-worker who has three dogs. Nigel now has a girlfriend named Bella. She is older, but they weigh the same. And damn! We missed him like crazy!! This was the first time that we traveled and was worried about anything at home.


Chicago was a lot bigger than I expected it to be. I guess I'm just used to little San Francisco. The people there were great, and I was just fascinated with the Chicago accent. We went to Billy Goat's Tavern, where the "Cheeseborger" skit from SNL was taken from. I ordered a single Cheesburger and of course it was replied with, "Double's better, double for you." I didn't argue, just ate my double cheese with pickles.

I'm so glad to be home though. I love our weather out here, I love our food, and I love the diversity of people and culture. Though, I do not love the cost of homes. We looked at some of the real estate out in Rockford and DAMN, we could have bought a freakin' mansion w/the money we spent on our little condo here. Oh well, it's all about location, I guess.