Some days are simply red letter, and this past Friday was no exception. In lieu of wrapped Christmas gifts this year, Jason and I decided to give each other a night out on the town for New Year’s Eve. We were already planning to be in the Chicago vicinity to visit family for post-Christmas Christmas, so we planned an evening set aside for just us. We thought it appropriate to wind down an oh-so-eventful 2010 together, while soaking in the last NYE we’ll celebrate without little ones in the mix for a long time. The recipe?

–A night at The Wit, in one of their fabulously appointed rooms with an awesome view of State Street.

room with a view.

the chaise. absolutely essential.

the view, late afternoon.

–One White FrosTea Chocolate to share at Argo Tea. My new favorite beverage.

–A smattering of Christmas windows at Macy’s, depicting “Yes, Virginia, There Is”…made of paper!

virginia in the library.

–Shopping at Macy’s on State (in the maternity department, with ever-so-patient Jason in tow).

inside macy's. love the ceiling!

–Dinner for two at the Rosebud, Theatre District.

see the sidewalks, city sidewalks...

–Two tickets to WICKED the Musical. I’ve had the music in my head ever since. We couldn’t have enjoyed it more!

defying gravity!

–A celebratory balloon drop,

balloons, pre-drop, at the Wit

–Baby-friendly bubbly for toasting (sprite:),

baby celebrates, too!

–Memories from 2010 to close it out, and

ready for 2011

–Dreams for 2011 to ring it in!

4 months to go!

Mix together with enthusiasm, optimism and a dash of romance. Simmer ’til the new year. Enjoy.

And so we did!

mm