A hot time in the old town...

We didn't need Mrs. O'Leary or her cow and lantern to experience scorching conditions last week in the Windy City. Wednesday (hard to believe it was already a week ago) was the hottest day. Not realizing that the temperature had already hit the 90s by mid-morning, we hailed a cab and headed to Millenium Park.

There we discovered a mix of arts, culture and family activities, all of which were overshadowed by just how miserably hot and humid it was.

A very large tent was set up which at least got us out of the sun. Inside, we found all sorts of things to do, including hula hoops... 

... and bean bag toss games.

For AJ, the second best part was discovering a giant fan. (How hot was it? They closed down the tent about a half hour after we left because of the excessive heat.)

This was topped only by the craft table sponsored by the Chicago History Museum. As he worked on creating a "flaming Mrs. O'Leary pencil", he started talking with one of the museum employees. If it hadn't been for the 20-year gap in their ages, I would suggest AJ had found his soul mate. He asked her what her favorite war was. She chose "Am Rev," which I'm assuming is history buff shorthand for the American Revolution. She then turned the tables on AJ, asking him who was his favorite general. AJ sat stumped for a moment before answering George Washington. She then told AJ all about her favorite general. The last name was LaFayette, I believe. AJ was fascinated as she summarized a biography she'd just finished reading. (It's not a coincidence that on our last day, instead of visiting the planned science museum, we instead went to the Chicago History Museum.)

Eventually we dragged AJ away and walked to the landmark "Big Bean".

At least it was relatively cool walking under it. Of course I had to get a picture of my "Sydney Bean" standing in front of the Big Bean.

For the kids, this modern art sculpture simply couldn't compete with the make-shift sprinkler set up a short distance away. Urban relief from the heat!

Nearby in the park was an ampitheater, and despite the heat, an orchestra was performing a mid-day concert. Sydney took advantage of the music and sprinkler to perform her version of a water ballet.

Around and around she twirled as the cooling water rained down, accompanied by upbeat orchestra music. Certainly not something she'd likely have a chance to do back home!