Good news, no news, and the Windy City.

Last week, I took a bit of a blogging hiatus because, in a way, I took a life hiatus. After weeks of unrelenting stress, my fatigued body and mind finally teamed up against me and called a Zack Morris-style time out. Resistance was futile, so I headed home for a few days to bother my parents before returning to Indy for yet another doctor's appointment.

Long story short: Still no answers to my health ailments, but more appointments on the way. More importantly, I'm slowly taking the steps necessary to improve how I deal with everything. More to come on that front...

So, what did you miss in the last week (since I'm sure you're on the collective edge of your seat)? Something huge.

My mom's halfway-through-chemo CT scan came back completely clear. She was also finally cleared to continue treatment after a four-week postponement due to infection and blood clots. I happened to be home for the good news and I assure you there was no shortage of tears, hugs, smiles, or celebratory Mexican food.

Wheat and I also took a super quick trip to Chicago, thanks to the WNBA Eastern Conference Finals. After meeting him at the hotel and dropping off my bags, we took the Metra downtown for some touristy sightseeing. We had dinner at Roti Mediterranean Grill before waiting in line for heaven on earth Garrett's Popcorn. While in line, we spotted a trio dressed as Ferris, Cameron, and Sloane from Ferris Bueller's Day Off. Wheat talked me out of approaching them outright (for fear that the outfits were not intentional - you never know with hipsters), but that didn't stop me from taking a sneaky, poor-quality picture from behind.

Next, we headed to Millennium Park to take the obligatory pictures of the Bean (which is actually called Cloud Gate, by the way).

By chance, we also stumbled upon the Chicago Jazz Festival and some art fairs, which were happening in the park. So, we slowly ambled through the crowd, listening to some guy kill it on the upright bass, while I took countless pictures of the gorgeous architecture.

Our wandering continued until we hit the Riverwalk, which made for even more beautiful photos of this dreamy city.

Finally, we found ourselves at Navy Pier, which was a welcome respite from the heat. We admired the gorgeous fountains inside before heading outside to watch the famous ferris wheel. Wheat ordered a hot fudge sundae funnel cake and we parked ourselves on a bench to talk and fawn over the Chicago skyline at dusk.

On a whim, Wheat decided to get us tickets for a nighttime lake cruise. So, we cuddled together against the chilly wind and listened to the history of Navy Pier and notable buildings on the skyline. I was only half-listening as I nuzzled closer to him, felt myself finally relax, and enjoyed the gorgeous view from the lake.

The next day, Wheat had his game, so I ventured downtown alone to see Morgan and her new place. We headed to Old Town for lunch at Benchmark and frozen yogurt before going back to her apartment to watch movies and talk. There's nothing quite like a little quality time with an amazing friend...and I'm already looking for excuses to visit again.

Our whirlwind trip seemed to be the change of scenery I needed to boost my energy. I'm back at work this week and maybe, just maybe, might even clean our apartment tonight...but don't hold me to that. Until next time, Windy City...