Dear Spring,

As much as I adore Chicago and have self-acclaimed, "fallen in love with the city", as I mentioned in yesterday's Spring post, I'm a bit fed up with the winter weather we're still experiencing. It's almost APRIL, come on! Feeling like a wrapped up marshmallow with endless layers, scarves, mittens, and heavy coats was nice in January, but Spring you are more than welcome to hurry up and bring some sunshine with ya.

                  

Zara Coat |Brandy Melville Sweater | Accessorize Scarf | American Apparel| Leggings | Steve Madden Boots

xx

happy spring!

Happy first day of spring! If you're in Chicago, it still feels like January due to the deceiving sun shining brightly and greeting you on your way out the door but quickly being fighting against the wind to make it down the street (if you can't tell, I'm quite ready for some true spring weather). For those of you enjoying the first day of spring in warmer places, get out there and celebrate! Here are some photos of the gorgeous daffodils I bought the other day, reminding myself of my New Year's Resolution to buy fresh flowers on a regular basis.

Despite heaps of snow and ice on the ground still, I ventured out to the Conservatory of Flowers yesterday to get in the spirit of celebrating Spring (and to see how it measures up to San Francisco's Conservatory of Flowers). Anyplace where loads of flowers are in one space is already a winner in my book, not to mention Chicago's Conservatory is free and in one of the most beautiful parts of the city, Lincoln Park. I still think San Francisco's Conservatory is my pick out of the two since it has a larger collection, especially of orchids, and is in Golden Gate Park. But, Chicago's still had lots to look at and take it since I could have spent hours in there! 

We walked through the zoo after, also free, and took in some gorgeous views of the skyline

Regardless of my opinions of the SF Conservatory, the Lincoln Park Conservatory is a relaxing escape from the city for a quick walk through or a leisurely stroll with a good friend. It's safe to say that I have completely fallen in love with Chicago and cannot stop exploring all of the experiences this city has to offer. 

http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks/lincoln-park-conservatory/

How are you celebrating the start of Spring?

xx

Butcher & the Burger

Chicago foodies will know about this local spot in the heart of Lincoln Park on W. Armitage. Accessible off the brown line, Butcher and the Burger doesn't mess around when it comes to a good burger. Honestly, who doesn't like a delicious juicy burger? This spot adds a whole new level to the burger trend. You start by selecting your patty: they have two beef options, house blended or grass-fed, but if beef isn't your cup of tea, grass-fed bison, pork, turkey, shrimp, salmon, and even a vegan option, a lentil brown rice burger are your options. Up next, you choose your spices, bun, and toppings. I went with the house-blended beef, Chicago steakhouse spice rub, pretzel bun, traditional toppings and extra avocado. My friend chose bison on a whole wheat bun, yum! 

taaaa-da

(I love the wood blocks the burgers are served on!)

extra avocado for me! and delicious crispy fries 

Fresh, local, and fast, Butcher and the Burger will not disappoint meat-lovers, burger-lovers, or those looking for a new neighborhood spot. I'll certainly be going back, but this time time, I'm thinking of going in the morning and trying a breakfast burger with egg & bacon.

http://butcherandtheburger.com

xx

six snaps

pink branches, only in SF

cute California prints 

pretty plane views

late-night Cheesie's run: Classic grilled cheese with extra bacon + tater tots

green Chicago river

killer Chicago sunset on St. Pattys Day!

xx