Despite being freezing here in IL (1 above 0 with wind chill), it was theater day.

Called oldest daughter in sick, as did her best friend's mom. My mom joined us and we took the 11:00 train to Chicago. Took an hour (every stop on the line!). Took about 15 minutes to walk (very briskly!!) the .7 miles to the Cadillac Palace theater.

We ate lunch at a nice mediocre restaurant - food was good, ambiance good - perfect for 7th graders who split a plate of pasta and grown ups who like soup. Bill was $29.50 food, $6 tip.

Walked across the street at 1:15, perfect timing for doors opening. Wandered the lobby and perused over-priced souvenirs. Great balcony seats to see Wicked.

It was the second time my daughter and I saw it (she was in 3rd grade last time and didn't really appreciate it). It was my mom and *E*'s first time. I LOVE that musical. It reminds me how much I like the theater and want my kids to enjoy it.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the music. We have a copied CD somewhere that I've got to dig out. We've youtubed our favorite songs for the poor fam members who didn't go.

DH managed to live my life successfully, getting to speech appointments, picking up from tutoring appointments, plus a basketball practice. He also got all of the homework done with the kids AND the kitchen is clean.

You can't beat a day like this. Now I've got to go listen to "Popular" again!