Graduation Day
Surprisingly, I was up in time for Emily's Graduation! The week payed its tool, and I could have slept for three days. Excitement helped me get up and ready for her big event. Graduation was scheduled for 10am. Afterwards, we had reservations for more pizza. Later in the day, the whole family planned to attend a Chicago White Sox game. Sounds like a good Saturday to me.
I joined my dad, Chelsea, Gran and Aunt Milly in the lobby. The Graduation ceremony was being held at D.L. Moody Church just off MIB's campus. It was a short walk to the campus where buses shuttle us to the church. Mom and Jocelyn arrived early and saved seats. We walked up the church steps at that same time as Cousin Ken, Cousin Dee, Kristen and Kameron. Perfect timing. We all took our seats with plenty of time to spare.
I've never been a fan of long ceremonies. Who is? At least the interior of the church was gorgeous. Everyone had an individual comfortable seat instead of a traditional pew. The speaker was from Moody's sister school in LA - Biola Bible Institute. He was witty, entertaining and encouraging. His address might have been the best graduation speech I have heard. Soon after it's completion, the procession began. Em only graduated with a few hundred students. Of course the Ws were near the end, but we did not have to wait forever. I was extremely proud to watch her walk across the stage. There are two graduates in the family! When the celebration was complete, Emily joined us at our seats. We snapped a bunch of photos, gathered our composure, and left for lunch.
Lou Malnati's restaurant was only a short ride from the church. You have to love the proximity of a everything in a great city. Emily and a friend reserved an upstairs room for both of their families. Our family was able to squeeze around one large table. Drinks, salad, pasta with sauce, and deep dish pizza was promptly served. I ate to the gills. This pizza is amazing. Only Teresa makes better! I can't get over the thick thick crust and layers of cheese, meat, and sauce. I sat next to Emily and Gran. I was very happy to be at the table with my entire family. We don't have many opportunities to gather as one. All of us enjoyed Kameron's antics. I am not sure who was acting sillier -- my mom or the baby. Emily and I talked about her up coming plans. She is so lucky. Someone already offered her join in LONDON. She might live abroad for a year before grad school. I should be so fortunate. It is also possible she will remain in Chicago. Either way, I'll have to visit.
As the meal winded down, I needed a nap. The Fuchs packed up the baby and drove back to the suburbs. Gran and Milly went as well. I helped Emily finish moving out of her dorm room. She had two more quick trips to the car. She is staying with friends for the summer on the Northside. We planned on driving her stuff up there on Sunday morning. Her dorm was on the fifth floor of a high-rise. Her roommate seemed awesome, and I was happy to have final met her. Emily must have had mixed feelings about leaving. I did when I was packing up from school.
Back at the hotel, most everyone was taking a nap. I tried to stay awake, but I was unable to keep my eyes open. I slept for about an hour, and I felt much better. We were a bit late getting out the door for the ball game, but who really cared? I can't remember the last time we did anything as a complete family. All six of us were taking public transportation to the Southside. Crazy. The Red Line was closed so, we had to figure out a detour. The game had started when we got to Cellular Field. Ooops, the box office was almost sold out of the upper deck. We could not purchase six seats in a row. Oh well, we decided to walk around the city. It was back on the "L" to the loop.
In retrospect, I am glad we didn't get into the game. It is still really cold in Chicago. This night, it dipped down past 50 degrees. We would have frozen in the upper deck. The wind is strong! Actually, I borrowed a slightly small sweatshirt from Jocelyn. No problem. Above it I wore my jacket. The decision was made to check out the Navy Pier. Kinda touristy, but I was a tourist at that moment. The idea constituted a nice walk through the middle of the Loop. The sun was setting, and the city was a buzz with the impending Saturday night.
Before catching a bus to the Navy Pier, we visited the Chicago Water Tower. It is one of they only buildings to survive the Great Chicago Fire. It is a striking limestone building that stands out from its modern high-rise neighbors. Down at the Navy Pier, we walked to the end for awesome sunset views the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse. You could also look back from the pier to the city. Even though the wind was howling, the view and experience were fantastic.
To warm up from the cool air, Emily took us to a late dinner at Tempo Cafe. This cozy diner offers excellent food and quick service. Its the type of place you'll never be disappointed with a meal. She said late dinner is the best time to come because; you can't hardly get a seat the rest of the day. My open face turkey sandwich was perfect.
After our dinner, we called it a night. I really enjoyed the day. I had so much fun with my entire family. I still can't remember the last time we had a full day to ourselves. Emily was a gracious host to her home of four years. I believe, I could live in Chicago. They might need to warm up the winters, but the city has always been intriguing. Before Emily moves, I hope to visit at least one more time. Emily -- congrats on finish school!
