The Elite Private Yacht

This year’s work party was held at a private yacht from Elite at Navy Pier.  People were hesitant if it was going to happen at all due to the weather.  Thunderstorms were predicted but luckily it cleared up before the end of the work day.  As usual, we had a trolley service pick us up from the office and transport us there.  I love the trolley rides!  That’s an experience itself!  The trolley went through traffic pretty quickly considering it was Friday during rush hour.  Once we arrived we killed some time by walking over to the Beer Garden to have a cocktail.  There was a band that was playing as well.

We finally boarded, and despite the skies looking questionable, we set out to sea!  I’m usually nervous on boats in general, but this yacht was pretty big.  I never felt a thing.  We had dinner at the downstairs lobby, and again, despite being on a lower level, I still never felt a thing.  The food was delish!  I was very surprised at the quality!  They even had a cutting station for meat.

We went back up to the upper level to enjoy some music from the dj.  Our work parties have been a little wild out on the dance floor over the years, but I think this time it wasn’t so.  I have a feeling if they had dimmed down the lights a bit it would have made people less shy.  Oh well.  Regardless we had a blast!

Rolling Stones Exhibitionism

Last week on my birthday I took my mom to see the Rolling Stones exhibition at Navy Pier.  The weather was calling for passing storms so we made sure to bring our umbrellas just in case.

 

She was SUPER EXCITED we were doing this.  The Rolling Stones were her band during the 60s and she’s followed their career ever since.  I am familiar with their music although I was never a true fan.  But since word around town is that this was a good exhibit, I figured I’ll go with someone who will truly enjoy their impact in music history.

 

We have not been back to Navy Pier ever since it went through a renovation, so it was nice to go with a new set of eyes.  Once we arrived inside the exhibit, my mom started taking as many pictures as she could!  Lol.  I could tell this was a big deal for her and I let her take her time with each display.  I was very impressed with the history of the Rolling Stones from their startup back in London to their contributions to stage design from their world tours.  They put a lot of thought into the “art of entertaining”.  I also enjoyed the portraits from the Andy Warhol collection.  We had a great time!

 

Afterwards we sat and grabbed lunch from the Billy Goat tavern at the Pier.  A mini shower came and went and we patiently waited for it to pass.  Looking back on my birthday weekend, I realized I got a chance to do everything I wanted to do on my list.  I felt very privileged being able to celebrate with my family and friends.  I am truly humbled.

 

The calm before the storm part 3...

One of the cool things I did in October was to check out some djs at Navy Pier.  First of all, I'm very impressed with the layout there.  I never imagined going to an indoor dance party with the similarity of an outdoor music festival!  It's a great way to get your music fix without having to wait til next summer.  I've been wanting to see Disclosure for some time, so when they announced they were coming to Chicago, I bought my ticket right away!  I loved it!!  I'm glad I got a chance to see them especially since now they are nominated for a Grammy for best dance album for Caracal. 
That show fell on a Thursday, and the following Friday I chilled out.  I was invited to go back to Navy Pier to see another dj for Saturday's show: Kaskade.  I grew excited once I got there again.  I know it seems silly, but even though I was in the same venue, I knew this dj was going to bring a completely different vibe.  While Disclosure was a live set with band played by the Lawrence brothers themselves, Kaskade had more of a electronic sound to it.  I danced away for both shows and had a blast, but for now, I'm going to hold off a bit for these shows.  First of all, they are pricey, but secondly, they're exhausting as well!  It's non-stop action as soon as you step in there.  I need a break in between months...lol.
 

Just two brothers throwing an amazing show!  I'm impressed how well they performed.

Peace!  Ran into some friends there and hungout with them.  It's always fun when you go with people who appreciate good music...

Selfie time!

Two days later for Kaskade!

Kaskade had a great crowd going!  Good times as always!

What I wore this to see Kaskade.  We headed to The Mid to see him perform at the after party.  I knew I was going to be on my feet all night so I wore my Frye boots, and skinny jeans.  Since the weather wasn't too cold yet, I wore a light jacket to both events.