Meeting Jackie Smith in St. Louis

 

I believe that The world is not in a book or map; The world is out there. I hit the road again; this time, I’m off to Chicago (City in a Garden). It’s a 4hrs30mins drive from St Louis and the long hour drive is worth it (#dbrowntour). The adventure that awaits me there is appealing. As you all know, Chicago is the Birth Place of modern architecture; The two iconic Corn cobs buildings (The Marina Condominiums) and numerous sky scrappers can attest to that. (#check out the background of the two bean photos). It will be interesting to know that Chicago is the home of the tallest building (Aqua tower) ever designed by a woman architect (Jeanne Gang). What about Movable bridges; Chicago has about 37 movable bridges, the highest number in any city in the world. That’s Commendable.!!!

I can go on telling you many interesting facts about chi-town if you permit me, but something inspired this tour. I went to hang out with my buddy Louis Rankin. He is a former Raider and Seahawks, player. He probably knows more about this city and didn’t hesitate to show me its wonders.

At first, we visited The millennium park, where I graced a remarkable reflective surface structure known as The Bean (The Cloud Gate). It’s a stainless steel structure designed by Sir Anish Kapoor and unveiled in 2006. This giant Bean measuring 66 feet long,42 feet wide, and 33 feet high, reflects every movement in the park, the surrounding skyline, and beyond (#see the photo captioned The bean 4). This unique structure now serves as the most famous symbol of the city; and attracts millions of tourists every year. Your visit to Chicago is incomplete if you don’t visit this park.

While enjoying the view of this windy city, we have to grab a bite at The Wildberry Cafe. I was stunned to see the love they dish out in food forms. You might have an issue selecting the delicacy you want due to how rich their menu is. The restaurant is known for offering locally farm-grown fruit, and they are proud to use their recipe and fresh ingredients to create meals bursting with a wide range of flavors. Their menu includes everything from egg dishes to sandwiches. Their wealth of experience in Pancakes production is second to none. The fluffy nature is unique and rich; you are to select your choice of flavor, either plain or the signature Berry Bliss which features a sweet fillings of berry mascarpone topped with a mound of fresh berries. Every bite is worth your visit.

Louis had me pass the night in his house, and the next day, we set out to do our early morning routine walk to maintain fitness. We walked 8 miles…that’s a long walk that can take up to 1hr30mins to complete. I believe that Determination is the key to staying fit. The health benefits associated with walking are numerous. A 30 minutes walk in a day will reduce your risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. You will have a tremendous improvement in reducing excess body fats, cardiovascular fitness, and muscle power endurance. Give Walking a try, and I’m sure you will not regret it.

Our day has us basking under the sun at 12th street beach. The beach is full of lively activities, with an amazing view of the city in the background. The environment is beautiful; the beach feeling is fantastic (#check out the picture captioned 12 beach street). As the sun delivers a golden glow on our skin, I wonder what life would have been if we didn’t make it Beautiful. I must appreciate the Chicagoans and their government for their efforts in making the city a Welcoming one. To the Audience, Thank you for reading and inspiring this Tour. Please check in for more interesting findings and fitness tips as I take my next trip to Memphis.