Windy City or Bust?

Pastor Stuart invited us to Church Sunday morning, so of course we went!  There is something special about going to church in a small town.  The community is small, but so faithful!  On Sunday, there were about 18 people at church, and the atmosphere was full of joy.  

Pastor Stuart welcomed us at the beginning of service, and when we shared peace, everyone welcomed us with big smiles.  I absolutely loved the close, casual vibe.  It was like a conversation between the congregation and pastor.  As he was giving his sermon, people would respond , or comment as they felt.  We laughed during church, and kids raised their hands to share prayers that were in their mind.  

And I loved listening to Pastor Stuart.  He is such a passionate and loving man, and as he spoke you could hear the love in his voice.  During one of the hymns he teared up, and shared that the way the beautiful music  honors the history it holds on the church touches him. 

After church we spent time chatting over coffee.  No one knew anything about our family but we adored the company all the same.  Zwingle may be small, but the love and community is huge!  I love that little town!  

After Zwingle, my mom and I decided to head to Chicago.  We had no plans for the next 2 nights, and figured - why not?  It's only 3 hours away. On the road, up until Chicago, our scenery was still just corn and soy beans!  Farm country.

Per Pastor Stuart's recommendation, we stopped at a delicious pizzeria, for Chicago'a signature deep dish pizza.  Oh my gosh!  My mouth is salivating just thinking about it!  And Gino's East had a very cool, artsy vibe.  Turns out everyone in Chicago has an alliance to a different pizza joint (every person recommended a different place as best pizza) but we thought ours was pretty awesome.  Then we walked around some shops and buildings on the magnificent mile. We went up trump tower, and I was freaked out!  Too tall for me.  My favorite building was the Chicago Tribune building, engraved with powerful quotes about freedom of speech.  

We were super excited for our unexpected stop in the Windy City!  We got a hotel outside the city, ready to explore the next day!

 

The United Harmony Church of Christ

Chicago city skyline

My mom at Gino's East

Me!  Seriously.  I want some! So worth the lactose intolerant attack.

The Chicago Tribune Tower