Sweet Summertime

Before moving to Chicago everyone continued to rave about the amazing Chicago summers. I now understand why!

Although we’ve been lucky with beautiful weather, summer in the city has lived up to my high expectations. As a lover of all things outdoors and bright colors, we’ve taken advantage of the Lake Shore Drive running/biking trail, North Avenue beach, outdoor dining and grilling, and have spent numerous hours in the park and exploring our new neighborhood.

We’ve taken full advantage of our apartment’s rooftop by either sipping on a glass of wine or, my personal favorite, grilling with sangria. It’s a great spot to socialize with friends, which we’ve done once, and plan to do more once we make more friends. :) 

 

Sangria

View of the Harbor.

My grilling buddy :)

We’re steps away from the Lake Shore Drive running/biking trail (that stretches 27 miles long!) so we biked to the North Avenue beach with Harley, only to find out dogs weren’t allowed on the beach. Luckily there was a great little grass area where we camped out for a bit.

Hydrating after a mile bike ride to the beach.

Here’s a recipe for my favorite summertime drink! My friend gave me her recipe and I can’t get enough! It's kind of a "pour until it tastes right" recipe.

Summertime Sangria

1 bottle Pinot Grigio

Lemonade

Rum (4 oz)

Triple Sec (4 oz)

1 cup brown sugar (melt sugar on stove top)

Fruit (Strawberrys, Oranges, Apples, Berrys) 

Harley’s Heaven

 
Around 3 years ago when we decided to get Harley I never knew what an important part of my life he would become. So when it came to the move I was a little worried with how he would adjust.

I’m happy to say that I don’t think he could be happier. We have a dog beach and park just a quick walk away. Since he’s part Golden Retriever, he LOVES the water. I’ve never seen a dog sprint so hard and play so long in the water before. The dog beach has been great, because not only can he run around leash free, but he also gets to play around with other pups. When we lived in Lincoln, Harley didn't get socialized enough, so I'm hoping we can make up for that while in Chicago. I can't say we mind the view of the dog beach either. I can’t get enough of the harbor. 

Then there’s the “dog park.” It’s not a designated dog park, but everyone lets his or her dogs off the leash so we followed suit. I was worried that he wouldn’t listen to us and would take full advantage of being leash free with the city at his disposal. But luckily, he’s been very good and runs right around us and comes back when we call him. 

The only "problem" with Harley is that he lives off of a routine. And when I say live, I mean that he usually knows when it's time do something often before I do! So now when the evening hits he gets so excited for his time spent out doors with his new puppy friends.

Having a dog in the city has been a great conversation starter. Harley gets compliments every time we step out the door. While he's busy making doggy friends, I get a chance to meet my neighbors. I think it helps that he's such a sweet dog and instantly befriends people and dogs alike. I hope any dog lovers out there appreciate this post. :)