Somehow, I survived 4 trips to Chicago in one month. It was mostly work, and not a lot of play. But luckily, my job is pretty dang fun.

For the first trip, I met up with my sister for an AdvoCare training, called Great Beginnings. We were both personally invited by corporate to attend this event – which was a huge honor! The room was filled with people who are striving to make a difference in other’s lives and their own. AdvoCare has been a part-time gig for me for almost 3 years, and I’m so proud to represent the company.

During that trip, we were also able to stay with our aunts and catch up with them. That included a trip to their favorite Mexican restaurant… and tacos are something I’m ALWAYS on board with. One of my favorite parts about the weekend was finding a hidden gem – Barbara’s Bookstore in Burr Ridge. Damaris and I left with 12 books and it was just the cutest little place!
Next up was Dye the River Green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. I was on the COUNTRY Financial boat while the bright green dye was being dumped into the Chicago River! This was my second time attending Dye the River Green, but my first time actually being ON the river while it happened. It was the coldest I’ve ever been in my life, but it was oh, so worth it. Such a fun tradition – put it on your bucket list!

The next trip to the city included Battle of the Badges and Chicago Flower and Garden Show. Two very different events, but both such a blast! We partnered with Yuri Sardarov of Chicago Fire to help us support Battle of the Badges. He was super down to earth and extremely friendly. My favorite thing about him was that he personally shook everyone’s hand and asked each individual their name. Oh… the little things in life 🙂 Battle of the Badges is a friendly boxing match between Chicago Fire Department and Chicago Police Department. This event helps raise money for the families of fallen first responders – so, not only is it an amazing cause, but it also gets people together to celebrate the people who keep us safe. The gym was filled with pride and patriotism.

Chicago Flower and Garden Show was such a great way to end the weekend. Navy Pier was filled with stunning displays of hydrangeas, sunflowers, succulents, vegetable gardens, and every other plant you can imagine.

I’ve been trying to get the hang of the Canon 5D Mark III and I’m really starting to fall in love with photography! I have A LOT to learn but I can tell how much of a difference a nice camera makes!

Has anyone else had any fun trips to Chicago lately? and for the photographers out there… what’s your favorite camera and what do you like about it?