The Oscars, of course!

Can't believe this is the 3rd year in a row we've celebrated the Oscars in Chicago!

What a fun and vibrant city and we love the convenience of the train. The Amtrak, not the Southshore. I know, the SS is cheaper but it seems like a city bus to me and stops way too many times. If you're staying over, the Amtrak is a much better trip that leaves from St. Joe and is not that much more (only $17 one way) and how can you put a price on upholstered seats, clean bathrooms and the option of a decent Chardonnay and smoked almonds on the way home?

Our stay at the Hotel Intercontinental on Michigan Avenue was splendid from the reservation process to the checkout. Those people know service. Just across the street was the exciting "Meet the Oscars" exhibit. Last year, it was presented only in Hollywood and New York, but this year in Chicago! Hooray--you knew I'd be on my way! Who knows when my next chance may be to hold an actual Academy Award (they're made in Chicago) and smile for the camera? What fun to get all dressed up and have a taste of what the stars experience!

Thrilled and still glowing after our photo op, Dan & I braved the cold and walked to the Hard Rock Hotel for their Oscar celebration. Cabs for the rest of the night was the agreement as our eyeballs were frozen upon arrival. We warmed up with delicious "theme" drinks and a fun trivia contest as we watched the pre-show on "E!" and the opening number by Hugh Jackman, a true showman. Kudos and applause!

After a stop at City Scape Hotel midway, we took our formal-clad selves back to the Intercontinental for a nightcap and the final envelopes. Since my pick Mickey Rourke lost to Sean Pean, we ordered up his film "Milk" in the room before we checked out. Very well done.

Love Chicago, love the Oscars and the fact that the two combined this year made it better than ever. Check out the photos at http://www.thecoast.fm/. Next up? Something fun for ladies as we celebrate Girl's Night Out in 2009!

We'll see you very soon!

Cheers, Robin