C H I C A G O

 Wrigley Building

 Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower)

I love Chicago, one of my favorite cities. Although it is the third largest city in the United States, it is very charming with its wonderful neighborhoods and old buildings.

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So what are you reading right now?... I am reading all the books by Amulya Malladi, a great indian author.

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See you soon!...Take care!

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Mother and Son

It was my son's birthday and we went to Olive Garden to celebrate. We had a great time and it was extra special because my nephew and his girlfriend were here from Germany to celebrate with us.

Can you tell we are related?

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We had some gorgeous weather since last week. In the 70's with lots of sunshine, but I guess it is not going to last. Colder temps are on the way, but it's still early in the season.

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My Flickr friend Masko (Stitchin Sista) is from Japan and helping with the relief. I have purchased some of her beautiful work. Check out her Etsy store, Siam Square, here.

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Triple XXX

Welcome to theTriple XXX Family Restaurant, Route 66 Diner. It is located just a few steps away from Purdue University. It was first opened back in 1929 and was a drive-in. Now it is a dine in only, with lots of 1950's diner charm and character. It was even featured on the Food Network TV channel.

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Blog I love - Hotel Mama.

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Went to Indianapolis today and stopped at Stein Mart. I love browsing that store and  always seem to be able to find something there.

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Flowers

I love Rubia Flower Market, reminds me of the many "Holland Flower" stores in Germany. Always fresh cut flowers at very economical prices. I go there every week and love browsing for my weekly bouquet. My friend Kelly, on the pic above, was so nice and let me take all these photos. Thanks Kelly!

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Last week was another busy one, more visitors from Germany. Took them to Chicago, Bloomington, and Indianapolis, lots of sightseeing. Now they have left and I am busy trying to catch up on many things...

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Can't wait for our trip to Las Vegas the end of April.

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Mark Strauss - Artist and Writer

Meet the artist Mark Strauss.

On our vacation last fall we visited Mark Strauss' wonderful gallery in Edinburg, Virginia. Housed in a beautiful old building, the gallery features all of Mark Strauss' prints and many of his paintings. And to our surprise, the person at the desk was the artist himself. He is a remarkable person and his paintings are fascinating. We enjoyed talking to him very much. 

His paintings and prints are owned by patrons throughout the United States and the world.

If you are ever in the area please visit his gallery. It is located in the center of Edinburg at 108 North Main Street on State Route 11 and take a tour conducted by the artist. You also might want to check out his website. The gallery is open from Wednesday through Sunday.

Thank you for your hospitality Mr. Strauss. It was such an honor to meet you.

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Run Gracie, run...

Miss Gracie has lots of energy, loves to run, and chase her red ball.

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It is finally getting warmer here and the snow has started to melt. The cranes are coming back and flying north and that means spring, soon...At least I can get out again and go for a walk with Gracie.

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My favorite two Etsy stores right now are 2ndlife and annavee. Beautiful photography, handcrafts, and hand knitted items from Finland. Check it out.

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Having another nephew and his girlfriend come from Germany at the end of this month for a one week visit. I haven't seen him in seven years. I am so excited...

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P.S.: There seems to be a problem with the video. You might want to view it on my Flickr Photostream to the right or Facebook.

Blizzard Dog

Had to get the heavy duty fleece coat out for Gracie. She is standing on top of 10 inches of frozen sleet and ice, try to shovel that, it is nearly impossible...That blizzard just about closed the whole city...so I was home for two days and it was nice...got caught up on many things...I hope this is the last snow storm of the season. I want spring!...

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I am off to the airport in Indianapolis tomorrow to pick up my nephew. I haven't seen him in five years, way too long....

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Wishing you all a wonderful weekend.

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