We took a ride on Amtrak.

The train ride was a gift to us from our four children and all their families and important ones. It’s been a number of years since I’ve ridden the train and the ride was awesome. We rode through the gorgeous greenery of early summer landscape, passed Old Man River and into the northern suburbs of Chicago. I really thought I’d nap but found myself staring out the window at the passing scenery and simply chilling out.

The train ride presented so many amazing views and it was too short.

The reason to travel to the Chicago area was to see our son and his family there — including a certain Little One who had just turned 18 months old. I got the same warm feeling as when we recently traveled to New York City to see our two grandsons. But, those two boys know me. Would the Little One know me — recognize me? I lived the old axiom to walk softly and see what happens.

Long story, short: we had an absolutely fantastic time with our family! We had time to chill, to sip, to walk, to listen to music, to play with the Little One, to have very tasty meals, to see the spectacular Lake Michigan, to play games, to tickle the Little One and to laugh. There were so many things to do and say, and, very quickly, we were too short of time.

We did a fair amount of celebrating because there were birthdays to note, Father’s Day to toast to and reunions with family members. At one point, a bottle of Domaine Chateau Ste. Michelle Brut sparkling wine appeared and was mixed with some orange juice to create a tasty mimosa. What a fizzy way to begin a day! During our too short of a stay with this family, we did have a glass of Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon, too. Thanks, Columbia Valley, Washington — you grow and make good stuff!

Of course, we visited some play grounds for Little One to enjoy — or was it for the adults to enjoy? Either way, we all had a fun time climbing, sliding, twisting and running. One of the play grounds was a few steps from Lake Michigan and its brilliant beauty. The day so just the right temperature, no clouds and the sun made the lake vibrant with blue colors.

After a long day of fun filled activities, it was relaxing time and a cool can of Short Fuse Brewing Company’s Loosey Juicy Hazy IPA was thrust upon me. It was my first taste of this brew, and it was so refreshing. There wasn’t an abundance of bitterness and the beer tasted like its name says — juicy, citrusy and crisp. There were so many beers to choose from, and our time with this one was too short.

At one point in time, we strolled through a local communities music festival. There were multiple live bands playing a wide variety of music, many food vendors (I’d recommend the lobster sandwich), and since the day was warm, a Ravinia beer was placed in my hands. Hey! When you’re walking in the heat, one needs a tad of refreshment to continue ambling. The beer lasted a long time and was a very good ale.

Have I mentioned my multiple playing times with Little One? Yes, before we had to leave too soon, she was reaching for my hand to take me on walks, laughing at my tickling her and teaching me many new toys and how they were to be used. I can’t wait until the two boys from NYC are together with the one girl from the Chi-town area.

On the train ride back home, we were to be treated to a glass of wine, and since my long time traveling better half, didn’t want hers I volunteered to have her glass of wine. Oh, the sacrifices we sometimes must make. And there was Chateau Ste. Michelle Rosé presenting itself for me — a needed cool wine to continue reflecting upon our recent adventure.

You know, life is filled with so many adventures that are too short. Grab them when you can!