Chicago, Chicago....

If you ever find yourself in the windy city you'll certainly never run out of things to do. I took the chance that my Southern California butt wouldn't freeze off in Chicago in November and went out for a few days to visit a friend. I surprised to find that not only was the weather perfect for fall but that I completely enjoyed the city, too.

Chicago has the big city vibe just like any other. Of course, I found some great shopping. As my mother once said about me "she can smell money being spent". At the intersection of Armitage and Halsted in Lincon Park there's a charming area where one can wander the streets, shop, eat or just enjoy the architecture.

Loris Shoes is a fantastic shoe store that is must see for any shoe addict. They offer fantastic unique designer shoes at prices that won't melt your credit card. You'll find boots, flats, pumps and every other shoe type under the sun at Loris. You'll also find a bevy of accessories such as large tote bags and clutches. Loris Shoes (The Sole of Chicago) is located at 824 W Armitage. If you're dying to visit the place but just can't get there, visit the web site www.lorisshoes.com.

In the same quaint neighborhood, you can get a good chocolate fix. Just venture west on Armitage and you'll find Ethel's Chocolate Lounge. This inviting chocolate shop offers every type of chocolate you can imagine. In addition to truffles in fun flavors (be sure to check out the cocktail collections), hot chocolate, coffee and fondue are also available to enjoy there at the lounge. Ethel's has several locations in Chicago and also in Las Vegas. Check out their web site for all the locations. http://www.ethelschocolate.com/

After an exhausting shopping excursion, my friend and I headed to the John Hancock Center for cocktails. The Signature Room is located on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center. This restaurant offers a brunch that will rival all others. If you're not in the mood for food but just a little cocktail, you might want to head to the 96th floor, to the Signature Lounge. Make sure you visit on a clear day so that you can fully enjoy the fantastic view of the city and perhaps a cocktail or two... or four. Surprisingly enough the ladies room on the 96th floor is known for the view. With a 180 degree view, don't forget to bring your camera to the ladies room… well, maybe not, but do enjoy the view.

Of course, the food in Chicago is incredible. For those that love seafood there's Devon Seafood Grill (39 E Chicago Ave). It's just a quick walk from Michigan Ave. After a day of sightseeing and helping out the local economy, Devon's is a fun place to people watch and enjoy good food and drinks. Right on the corner of Chicago Ave and Wabash Ave, Devon's bar offers a great local.

Another fun spot is the Landmark Grill (1633 N Halsted); they have a menu that will make you drool just a little bit. Try the scallops - they're fantastic. The Landmark Grill is quite near both the Steppenwolf Theatre and the Royal George Theatre; they accommodate theatre goers to make sure they get to their seats on time. Just next door to the Landmark Grill is the Royal George Theatre. If the grand-scale theatre productions (and their grand scale prices) aren't your thing perhaps you might find something that suits your taste at the intimate Royal George.

After a weekend of shopping and eating I felt as if I had truly accomplished a great deal. I only sampled a few of the fun things to do in this town. I can hardly wait until next trip to Chicago to see what I missed.