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Floradise

A lifestyle blog by Marette Flora

Hamilton | Broadway in Chicago

 

Hamilton Chicago, Broadway in Chicago, Privatebank Theatre

Like many Chicagoans, I spent quite a bit of time scanning Ticketmaster for “Hamilton” tickets when they first went on sale. Most of them were super expensive ($300-400) and sold out, so I gave up. Then, in November, I heard about more dates being released and found two balcony seats available for $80 each (including fees). I scooped them up immediately!

My friend Rachael and I took the train downtown (to Monroe stop) and walked a block to Privatebank Theatre, where we found a large crowd gathering outside. The lines to get in were quite a mess. We stopped to take a couple of photos and just wandered through the doors when we saw an opening. I was instantly struck by how beautifully ornate the theatre is. It opened in 1906, and you sort of feel like you’re stepping back to that time when you walk in the doors.

Hamilton Chicago, Broadway in Chicago, Privatebank Theatre

Because our tickets were on the balcony, we had to walk up stairs to get to our seats. I huffed and puffed my way up, wondering if my being out of breath was due to the excitement or a lack of fitness. (I’m sure it was the former. haha) The nearest women’s restroom is down the stairs on the second level, by the way, but there’s a bar/snack bar on each floor. Some seats on the balcony have obstructed views, but we were in Row M and I could see everything. At certain points a person a few rows down moved her head and blocked some of the actors’ feet, but that’s no big deal at all.

Hamilton Chicago, Broadway in Chicago, Privatebank Theatre

I won’t recap the story, because I’m sure you know what Hamilton’s about, but instead I’ll tell you about how it made me feel. It was stunning. I was blown away by the talent of the cast; and the songwriting is incredible. I also feel like I learned (or was reminded) more about history there than in high school. Maybe that’s an exaggeration. …

I had completely forgotten that Wayne Brady is currently joining the cast to play the part of Aaron Burr. While I am familiar with Brady, I had no idea his voice was so impressive.

As you can probably tell, I enjoyed “Hamilton” and want to try to see it again. I think everyone should see it if given the chance. It’s worth the hype!

Have you seen “Hamilton”? 

P.S. If you don’t want to pay for theatre parking or want to take public transportation, consider using Spothero to find more affordable parking nearby. Using my link gets us both a $5 credit. Thanks!

Birthday at the Field Museum Chicago | Free-Admission Days

A perk of living in Chicago is that many of the museums are free on certain dates/months. Luckily for us, the Field Museum is offering free general admission to Illinois residents during the month of February.

I awoke on my birthday thinking it’d be nice to spend the day wandering around the museum. As I’ve said before, you would have to spend days, even weeks, at the Field Museum to see and admire everything it has to offer. 
This time we started with the Nature Walk. We completely missed this section of the Main Floor on our first visit recently. We also checked out more of the west side of the main floor, including Mammals of Africa and Reptiles and Amphibians, before taking a break at the Field Bistro. Victoria took a nap in her stroller while Graham and I took a break.

I also was intrigued by the packaging of this lemonade. The beverage wasn’t as sweet as I expected.

Later we walked through the Ancient Americas exhibit, which explored Incan, Mayan and Aztec civilizations. It leads into the Northwest Coast and Arctic Peoples exhibit. I was captivated by the totem poles, masks, tools, history — all of it. It was one of my favorite parts of the museum. This exhibit ends at the North American Indians exhibit, another riveting section.

The museum will be free for the rest of February. More dates are announced throughout the year. 
I have a lot more to explore at the museum, so I may be back this month.

Have you been to the Field Museum? What was your favorite exhibit?

Previous Field Museum visit:

Dabble: Fused-Glass Dish Class with Chicago Glass Collective

My most recent Dabble.co experience was a Valentine’s Day fused-glass candy dish at Chicago Glass Collective. The ability to make something to give as a gift for the holiday piqued my interest. I also thought it’d make a great friend or Valentine’s outing, but I didn’t have any luck finding someone to tag along.

 I realized when I walked into the building that I didn’t know the suite number, but I saw a sign in the foyer for a Valentine’s Day event and assumed that was it. I was buzzed in and walked into the corresponding suite, only to see it was a boutique, not a glass workshop. I kept walking down the hall to explore. The next door was Chicago Glass Collective. Success!

Leslie, the instructor, had sent an email with directions and the suite number was on the class description, by the way.

The class was small, at three students, so we got to know each other better. We had a fun time, drawing inspiration from each other and sharing a bottle of red wine. The session begins with the basics of working with glass before you are set free to make whatever design you want. It didn’t have to be Valentine’s Day themed; you could use any of the provided tools or even Google a design.

 

 

 

I decided to make a dish with a clear base and a white top. (Sorry, I am not using correct terminology.) I knew I wanted leaves on it, but I didn’t know where to begin. Leslie offered to let me peek through her plant book for inspiration and she suggested tracing the design onto the glass with a Sharpie. (The black burns off later.) That was a genius idea!

You have two hours to make your dish, but we all finished a bit before that. Once you’re satisfied with your creation she will put it in the kiln for you. You don’t take it home that night, because it won’t be ready.

My fellow students’ creations:

 

 

Chicago Glass Collective offers other classes on Dabble.co, as well! It’s a fun way to spend an evening and you make something pretty to take home or gift!
Have you tried Dabble? What was your favorite class?

Previous Dabble experiences:

Watch my glass-dish class video:

 

** I am a Dabble ambassador, so I receive a discount on classes. Use code bit.ly/MaretteDabbles10 to get a discount on your first class! Dabble is available in cities such as St. Louis, Austin and Denver!

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest Haul

I had one of those perfect Chicago summer weekends. I don’t know how I’ll top it. First, I love spotting the blooms in the neighborhood.

Also, Graham’s parents visited us on Saturday and we had a wonderful time catching up. Once our visitors left, Graham and I walked to the Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival to check out the vendors. Last year we purchased a couple of art prints and some natural skin products, along with the most delicious frozen sangria drink I’ve ever had.

This year, we wanted to shop different local vendors to spread the love. We typically walk around the entire length of the market before committing to a purchase. We passed by a van that we thought was a nice concept for a shop, so we stepped inside. I purchased two soy candles in tiny glasses that happened to be on sale. I also liked a T-shirt that said “Chicago love” but it was only available in kids sizing. (The designer has women’s online.)

Two new candles in our living room.

T-shirt by Megan Lee Designs.

On the way out I noticed a natural skin care booth, so I picked up natural deodorant that has a lovely coconut scent.

Graham gravitates toward anything to do with plants, and he immediately purchased a little cottage with a living moss roof from another seller. It, too, was a great deal.

We noticed the storm was about to hit, so I quickly browsed a booth that should all things wood. I saw a lovely bird-cage ornament with a red bird and I had to get it. Graham and I collect ornaments from places we go, and this would be ours to represent Rogers Park, our neighborhood. We probably would have bought more had it not started storming.

Events such as the Glenwood Ave. Arts Fest make me proud to live in this diverse and accepting neighborhood.

Watch my video below and subscribe to my channel if you haven’t already!

Last year’s recap: Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest 2015

Heartland Cafe, Rogers Park, Chicago

Any day that I get to spend exploring Chicago is a gem, especially if I have Graham as my companion. Last weekend we had the rare ability to go out to breakfast together. I finally had the chance to try out Heartland Cafe on Glenwood Avenue in our Rogers Park neighborhood.

I’ve seen the quaint shop/restaurant on the way to yoga and during the Glenwood Arts Fest. It seemed like a perfect spot to grab breakfast or lunch. Breakfast on the patio was the best choice on that crisp, cool morning after a rainstorm.

I chose the Heartland Panhandler scramble with eggs (instead of tofu) and veggie sausage ($9.50). I have never been a fan of sausage, but I was curious. It also had broccoli, cheese, mushrooms, onions and Jack cheese. The menu said potatoes, but if it had spuds they were reduced to mush. The dish was tasty and filling, but the sausage was a little much after a while. Believe it or not, I also ordered a side of potatoes that never came, but by the time I was done with my scramble I didn’t want them anymore anyway — at least that’s what I told myself.

Graham went with the chocolate-chip whole-wheat pancakes ($8), continuing the trend of him ordering a sweet breakfast while I stick with savory. He devoured every bite (minus a few bites that I stole).
I get the worst case of buyer’s remorse all the time when I try something new at restaurants. I wondered if I should have ordered the dish without the veggie sausage. On my next visit, I may opt for the breakfast pie, described on the menu as “baked eggs and cheese delivered between two golden-brown sheets of puff pastry, served with our savory sauce.” Sold! For dinner, the vegetable gratin is on my list.

 

Afterward, we admired the murals along the L train tracks on Glenwood Avenue. They cover both sides of the tracks.

According to this mural, President Barack Obama began his senate campaign at the Heartland.

 

 

Happy Friday! What breakfast spots are you hitting up this weekend?

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest 2015

Seeking to find artwork for our abundant bare wall space, Graham and I walked over to the Glenwood Ave. Arts Fest in our Rogers Park neighborhood on Sunday.

The farmers market was held next to the fest, creating one big walkable marketplace. One of the first booths to catch our eye was Anastasia Mak’s. We were drawn to her vibrant pieces, many of which were of Chicago landmarks. We made our way around the entire fest before deciding we wanted to buy a print for my office. I also walked away with a print of a turtle from Bala Thiagarajan and a homemade body wash in a Raspberry scent. I wished I could have bought something from every artist.

 

A sangria slushie took my mind off the humidity for just a little while. I wanted more, especially with Graham stealing sips of mine.

The murals of Rogers Park complemented the event.

Besides the food vendors, Heartland Cafe was a Sunday brunch option. I’ve been wanting to try it for weeks.

The Sunday farmers market was to the east of the train tracks.

 

On the walk home, we more spotted local restaurants that we’d like to try out, including a Mexican food place. We realized there’s still so much of Rogers Park and Chicago we haven’t seen.

Free things to do in the Phoenix area

This blog began thanks to my desire to be a tourist in my own city. As a frugal explorer, I always appreciate advice on free or low-cost things to do. This post is an attempt to compile a list of such activities in my area. I hope to add to it regularly. Any more ideas on free things to do? Send them my way!

1. Check out the lawn games at the Yard.

2. Hike at one of the countless Valley trails.

3. Walk, run or ride your bike down Murphy’s Bridle Path or the canals.

4. Check out what’s going on at 200EVB during EVB Live.

5. Attend a free yoga class at Lululemon at the Biltmore on Sundays.

6. Visit the Phoenix Art Museum on Wednesdays from 3-9 p.m. or during First Fridays.

7. Check out Scottsdale ArtWalk 7-9 p.m. Thursdays or First Friday in downtown Phoenix.

8. Drive to the top of South Mountain.

9. Stroll through the Japanese Friendship Garden.

10. Take a walk or run around Tempe Beach Park and on the pedestrian bridge.

11. Check out a Culture Pass at the library to get free admission to Valley museums.

Mesa Contemporary Arts

12. Attend Arizona Cardinals training camp during the summer.

13. Peruse one of the local farmers markets.

14. Attend a free ice-skating lesson Saturdays at AZ Ice Peoria. (This class can only be taken once and you should register in advance.)

Desert Botanical Garden’s Chiles and Chocolate Festival

There was no more perfect way to spend one of the first 60-degree days we’ve had in Phoenix in a while than a day at Desert Botanical Garden. An added, and delicious, bonus was the treats at the Chiles and Chocolate Festival for us to sample and purchase: chili, sopes, chocolates, cookies, burritos, chocolate martinis, Cave Creek Chili Beer and more. There was even a GroupOn deal available Saturday for two-for-one admission to the garden — it’s as this lovely day was meant to be. (And I was able to just show my smartphone displaying the deal at the admission gate instead of printing anything out.)
Desert Botanical Garden
The first order of business was to eat. We picked chicken sopes that didn’t disappoint. (Cheese, lettuce, salsa, beans, chicken on slightly dry masa.)
Desert Botanical Garden
Next came a stroll through the garden to check out the sculptures and magnificent plants. I can’t think of a more gorgeous setting for a walk.
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
A sculpture from “Whispers of a New World” by Carolina Escobar.
Desert Botanical Garden
You’ll find wisdom along the way.
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
And you’ll learn about Native American history.
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
You’ll spot bees hard at work.
Desert Botanical Garden
Be sure to check out Philip Haas’ Four Seasons sculptures — the most striking. They are so detailed and awe-inspiring. My favorite was Spring, for its blooms. 
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
You may encounter some critters along the way.
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
This little fellow was not shy.
We also checked out the monarch butterfly exhibit ($3.50 extra per person). The butterflies were mostly clustered on the ceiling of the enclosure, but a few could be seen floating throughout.
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
I enjoyed sampling and taking home various local companies’ offerings, including chocolate honey by Made By Bees, barbecue sauce from Anthony Spices and toffee by GoodyTwos. And there was no better way to work off those calories than walking around the garden’s various trails, enjoying the sunshine and breeze, taking in the views.
Desert Botanical Garden
The goodies I purchased from Arizona companies.
The DBG also had unique offerings in its plant sale and gift shop. I wanted everything.
Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
I fell in love with this stone owl and turtle.

Mesa Contemporary Arts

I discovered the Phoenix Library’s Culture Pass recently, which gives you free admission for up to four people to such Valley attractions as the Desert Botanical Garden and Phoenix Zoo. The trick is to get to the library as early as possible to check out the pass, which I was told gets snatched up quickly. I managed to grab a pass for Mesa Contemporary Arts.

The center is made up of five small galleries that house works by local, national and international artists.

Mesa Arts Center

Here are my faves, created by Mexican artists:

Mesa Arts Center
Mesa Arts Center

I was deeply touched by “Domestic Arsenal,” Eileen Doktorski’s memorial to victims of domestic violence. It uses common household items — phone, chair, candlestick holder, etc. — and recasts these things as weapons used to inflict pain upon the victims. Newspaper articles on the walls drive the message home.

Mesa Arts Center

Have you visited Mesa Contemporary Arts?

Phoenix Art Museum: Best Day to Visit

One could easily spend an entire day admiring — or trying to figure out — the various works of art on display at the Phoenix Art Museum.

I discovered that I like Philip C. Curtis (although I’m not sure I understand him). I also liked:

Phoenix Art Museum
I especially liked this sculpture, which is made to resemble a real stack of comic books.
Phoenix Art Museum
And this:

Phoenix Art Museum
Take advantage of free admission at the museum each Wednesday from 3 to 9 p.m. It’s a good time to visit because you can save on the cost of admission, plus the crowds weren’t bad at all.

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