H-O-T-T-O-G-O

This past Thursday I had the opportunity to take my daughters to Lollapaloozo in Chicago. I knew it would be fun and they would like it. Upon a few days of reflection, I think I needed it more than they did.

Takeaways:

1. I work way too much. I have always enjoyed music and concerts, and have always taken experiences like this for granted. I have a daughter who is 14 (Lydia) and one who is 11 (Matea). They have never experienced anything like this. I’m thrilled I could be there with them. I use to do more “fun” things and really need to get back to that life instead of working 6+ days a week.

2. Chappell Roan is an absolute ROCK STAR. I’ve never heard of her before a few weeks ago, so if you haven’t either, don’t feel alone. But from the size of her crowd, we who didn’t know who she is are in the minority. She came on stage for a 45 min set and completely owned it. You may not like or agree with her songs, that’s fine. It’s ok in life to support and enjoy the art of an artist and not agree with 100% of the artist. This goes for life too. We need to learn that it’s ok not to be in exact line with someone else. That doesn’t mean we can not support them. Here is her set from the show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9OOwiFgNR0

3. I still miss my mother. My mom passed away April 25, 1999. Benson Boone sang a song in memory of his grandmother. The song is “In the Stars.” Before the song, he addressed the crowd how this is all of ours song for someone we have lost. The line that got me is: “Now Sunday Mornings I just sleep in. It’s like I buried my faith with you. I’m screaming at a God I don’t know that I believe in. Cause I don’t know what else I can do.” I wanted to scream AMEN. For the longest time, I’ve felt alone in this feeling. It was so powerful to hear Benson feels the same way. My daughter Matea is a huge fan of Benson Boone. I really didn’t know who he was. I feel a huge gratitude to her for bringing me to his stage. Listen to Benson’s song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2n5GKLdrTfk

4. It’s good to get away from Wisconsin for a few days. Don’t get me wrong, I love living in Wisconsin. Wisconsin has a huge drinking problem, one in fact most Wisconites are very proud of. Near the end of the day, one thing was strange. I’ve been in an environment where they served alcohol all day and I haven’t seen one drunk person. If you’ve been to a concert, wedding, kids baseball game or really anything in Wisconsin, you will understand.

5. I’m a really cool Dad.

6. Downtown Chicago is Awesome. We arrived Wednesday night, checked into our hotel. Then grabbed a Slice of Real Pizza. We then walked up Michigan Ave, visited the “Bean” and hung out for a few hours before going back to the hotel.

Thursday Morning, my brother, Ben joined us for the day! He showed us around Downtown. It was great for the girls to see what it’s like to work and live in a big city!

7. Megan The Stallion is WILD. I have no other way to describe her concert. I think she and her fans would appreciate my description of her show.

What a great day. I love spending time with our awesome children.