A Morning Walk with Sydney and Jennie.

The trip to Chicago was so busy and full with a shower and the bachlorette party. But one of my favorite parts was an impromptu walk with Jennie and puppy Sydney. First thing on Saturday morning, Jennie took Sydney outside to take care of business. I was finishing up a book and Jennie text up to Gaby and me, "Does anyone want to walk for coffee?" I said, "ME! But I have to finish these last five pages." The book was pretty great.

I threw on some walking pants and a sweatshirt and hurried down to meet Jennie and Sydney. We started our super leisurely walk through the Bucktown neighborhood. It was a lovely morning. I am a huge fan of being able to walk places - that's why I love my neighborhood too. We peeked in houses and just talked. Those first slow, sleepy conversations of the morning are sometimes the best.

There was a long line at Starbucks, which surprised me because Jennie's neighbors love their independent shops. But it was super yummy, and we started the day with two lattes.



Sydney sometimes has a mind of his own. He was done walking right here on these bricks, which was fine with me so I could capture his sweet spotted face. I love my friends' kids - even their furry ones.

Let me tell you the truth - these are the real perks of being a maid-of-honor - the extra time to share stories, laughs and lattes with a very dear friend.