Things That I'm Into: Valentine's Day by Kiddos

Done by the lovely nettlehorst kids. Love the shout out to the dentist. Happy Valentine's Day!

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Things That I'm Into: After the Blizzard

The next morning, after receiving word that it was a SNOW DAY at work (hallelujah!), Deets and I set out doing some post-storm exploration. Unfortunately, Blisstal did not bring us any cinnamon rolls before we set out. Totally unfair.

Our street.

Our car.

More street.

Some brave souls had shoveled narrow walk ways out to the main streets. 

Reporters were on the scene!

The lake looked otherworldly.

Some poor - but lucky- folks crashed right before heading into the lake.

Lake Shore Drive was closed, so Matt got to pose in the middle. 

Kids got to ride on sleds. 

And we finished out the day with some card games and beers at a bar with a fireplace.

Definitely into blizzards.  

Things That I'm Into: Masked Lions

Only in boystown?

These dudes are totally ready for an Eyes Wide Shut party. 

These are a block away from my street.  My street is much more dignified. 

Things That I'm Into: Container Flower Gardens

Some from the neighborhood. 

Things That I'm Into: Backyard Parties

Our downstairs neighbor throws a HUGE pride party every year in our backyard.  It was great hanging out, meeting some cool peeps, looking at awesome outfits, and occasionally escaping to our air conditioned apartment to survey the scene from above.  There are five units in our building, and I think all of our building mates are really chill and interesting people.

Things That I'm Into: Nettlehorst School Decorates for PRIDE

The elementary school (public!) next to my house always has amazing art installations. They recently decorated their playground for the pride festival/parade that is happening in Chicago this weekend.

From a sign near the installation: "In 2009 -- as a visible sign of our continued support for the neighborhood we are part of and the families that we serve -- Nettlehorst became the first elementary school to walk in Chicago's Gay Pride Parade.  This new tradition underscores the commitment of respect for all Nettlehorst families and symbolizes our collective intention -- that each of us becomes kinder, gentler, and more accepting." Tugs at the heart, right? I love that elementary students are learning early. They asked members of the community to tie a piece of fabric to symbolize their commitment to education and equality.

I tied one of the green pieces.

I love walking by the playground everyday, especially if it is windy out.

The Pride parade is weekend, so our neighborhood will be a little crazy. I've actually only been to the parade once (for some reason I always go out of town in June), so I'm excited to see it all go down.