We have all sprung from a mom. That momma may be biological or adopted, or perhaps a mother figure, either way the presence is unmistakeable. Mom’s hold an unmistakeable force.

Being born is maternal love by source, the essence of being born is force taking action to create. Being born is human, living is our essence and being is our choice.

My mom came to visit in Chicago last weekend for her birthday. At a time where our bond keeps growing stronger, this was special time spent together, a time of indulgence in cool autumn interwoven with inner warmth and lovely feelings.
We did the local and touristy to-do while in the Windy City.
Our first stop was my place in Lincoln Park, where my roommate, a gifted piano player, played a mini concerto for us consisting of Beethoven, Mozart, Shubert and some groovy jazz.

Ray’s B & B

After questioning if we wanted to stay in the city or not, my mom and I decided to give it a go at a local bed and breakfast in the Bucktown/ Wicker Park area. Ray’s was exceptional and affordable. We were impressed with the comfortable, homey feeling that was provided. Every morning there was a menu for us to choose our homemade breakfasts from, with meals like eggs florentine or banana and nutella stuffed french toast. There was also bottled water, coffee and tea provided throughout the day. Ray’s has an eclectic, worldy, roomy and modern feel to it, with a relaxing sauna and steam room to indulge in. Ray and staff are incredibly warm and inviting, it feels like family. If you want to feel at home while being spoiled in Chicago, this is a great place to consider.

The first night mom and I bit-bopped over to a party in Logan Square, where she met a different type of family, you could call them my “musical family”.

This family is one that comes together for the love of music, fun and connecting. With the bass beat thumping and good friends vibing, mom was able to hear the music that is my soul’s beat.

Rewster’s

Next to the space is a cafe called Rewster’s, where good people and friends converge. A quaint and cozy cafe that has great energy. Here they serve incredibly rich and robust coffee and have a french-inspired menu using the finest ingredients. With breakfast, lunch and dinner, there are choices from sandwiches, soups, salads, pizzas and many other delectable goodies.

Ruby Room

Spa day for mom. I had heard from many sources that Ruby Room was a great experience. Integrating a spa, salon, store and boutique hotel, Ruby Room is centered around a spiritual approach. I booked my mom a massage, facial, blowout and makeup application. She said the service was impeccable, everyone was friendly. The massage and facial were directed towards different chakras and energy centers. With a cute store and wonderful products I recommend Ruby Room.

Bin Wine Cafe

After going to the many boutiques that dot Milwaukee, we decided to stop into Bin, a wine and cheese restaurant. The atmosphere was toasty and airy with a garage door open to the autumn streets. We decided to warm ourselves with a “flight” of red wines, consisting of four selected half glass specialities. To complement the wine we ordered four separate cheese selections, made from goat, sheep, buffalo and cow’s milk, each distinct and complementing one another splendidly.

Between Peruvian Cafe

My response…. AMAZING!
The first time I’ve had a Pisco Sour since being back from Peru. The ambience is warm, red, intimate and inviting. Between embraces Peruvian flavors, with a quinoa salad and a sauteed vegetable rice dish, we delved into all the spices of our South American fare. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience here.

Millenium Park & Navy Pier

The last two days were spent traversing around the city. I felt as though I was getting a new taste of Chicago, my first time on these adventures. We went to see The Bean, a landmark at Millennium Park. We then walked our way over to Navy Pier, where we took a ride on the ferris wheel.
Touristy? Yes…. To feel like a Little girl again, timeless & priceless.

This weekend was filled with the giddiness of youth, and the pleasures of indulgence. Mom left me with a feeling that I am very loved It was an incredible weekend, thank you so much mom!

xo,

Nicole
Ray’s B & B
Rewster’s
Ruby Room
Bin Wine Cafe
Between Peruvian Cafe