The Old Water Tower in Chicago is one historic landmark that everyone knows. Having it right outside the hotel window is a delight, though it's pretty bright at night. I had to close the sunblocking shade to get any sleep.

It's been cold here and wet -- freezing drizzle when not snowing or just ice-cold damp -- but that hasn't stopped the shoppers. Michigan Avenue is packed every day. Last night, too.

On last week's trip here, I was able to enjoy some stuffed pizza at Giordano's, but this time the lines have been out the door. I love stuffed pizza, and you can't really get it anywhere else. (Forget the "Chicago style" pizza offered at the nationwide chains -- It may be similar to some of the pan pizza here, but it's not stuffed pizza!) Maybe I'll have have the chance to run up to Edwardo's. It's just a few blocks away, but a bit further off the Michigan Avenue shopping path.