Sunshine & Samples

Summer in the city is off to a great start, minus this week of constant overcast. A few weekends back we forced ourselves out of bed and went to the farmers market in Lincoln Park! Chicago is full of markets, almost every neighborhood has their own (Logan Square’s market is next on our list). The absolute best thing about farmers markets are all the *free samples* If you love trying jams, cheeses, and other yummy treats, make sure you pull yourself out of bed early at least one Saturday this summer to check out any of the Chicago markets. Shannon and I both got purple asparagus, which was super fresh and delicious on the grill. Andy got a cherry tomato plant, which weaka I get all the free tomatoes I want this summer (these plants produce like crazy so you get the best bang for your buck!). Click here to find a farmers market in your neighborhood!     *Alert: Dog lovers* The  second best thing to free samples are definitely all the pups at the market!

Andy and I grilling our fresh and tasty food from the market! How do you usually spend your Saturday mornings?

Shannon’s Summertime Wishlist

1. Embroidered blouses // 2. Mini backpack // 3. Statement earrings // 4. Black romper // 5. Sandal booties 

Summer has finally hit the midwest with full force, and I couldn’t be happier about it. This winter was a long one for us, so it’s pretty amazing to finally enjoy the outdoors again (yay for outdoor seating, patio bars, and long walks around the city). A new season means new items that I have been oogling over. I keep noticing embroidered tops around the city, and can’t wait to get my hands on a flowy number like this old navy one. Carrying a purse around the city can hurt one of my shoulders, so a fun little backpack like this one would be a good investment. Statement earrings, because duh. I love me a good romper, and I think I need a plain black one that could be dressed down for daytime, and dressed up for a night on the town. Last but not least I have been eyeing these summer sandals for MONTHS, but still don’t have them for some reason…

Do you have any summer items on your wish list?

Summer in the City: Week 1

Guess what guys, Kayla and I are reunited for the summer *cue: jumping up and down!* Guess who else is living in the city, Logan! All of my favorite people in one city, could life get any better? I moved in exactly a week ago today, and have been having a BLAST. My internship doesn’t start until Monday, so this week has been super chill.

Last weekend Logan and I explored Logan Square (I know, I know, a Logan in Logan Square). It was pretty funny because his name was literally plastered everywhere; street signs, billboards, boutique names his name was omnipresent. Logan Square was super fun, it’s full of little boutiques, candy stores, coffee shops, and restaurants.

I made Logan pose next to this fun wall art, but as people started passing us, Logan became less willing to stand for pics.

What kind of explorers would we be if we didn’t check out the bar scene in Logan Square?!

First stop: Marble. This bar was super laid back and had AMAZING patio seating. My little heart is so happy that I can finally enjoy the weather, and sit comfortably outside while sippin’ on a nice glass of wine. This bar also had free food served from 11pm-1am. Logan and I made sure to help ourselves to some pizza and sloppy joe sliders.

Second stop: Scofflaw. FREE COOKIES AT MIDNIGHT!  That’s right guys, Logan and I were drinking our tasty signature cocktails (only $8) when a very nice waiter approached our table with a tray filled with freshly-baked chocolate chip cookies, for free! Obviously, my heart is easily won…

Monday’s in Chicago are not a drag because the city puts on free concerts every Monday during the summer at Millenium Park! Kayla, Logan, and I decided we would make it a summer tradition to make it to as many of these fun and free concerts throughout the summer. The bands they get are pretty good, and the atmosphere is so laid back; it makes for a perfect way to start your week.

Week 1 of summer 2014 was a great time, I can’t wait to share more of our adventures with all of you!

Do you have any fun plans for this summer?