daily slice-of-life photo blog of a Gen-X dad
What a full day! We left our hotel in Chicago, grabbed breakfast at the amazing Lula Café, then drove back to Indianapolis to meet Koa at the airport. Our flight to Austin was non-stop (always a win) and I passed the time with music and my Kindle. We made it home around 8 pm, which feels pretty good after such a packed day. Time to crash!
Today we made the drive from Indianapolis to Chicago for some sightseeing and friend time. First stop after rolling into town was brunch at Avec, and wow, those chorizo-stuffed dates were super-flavorful!
Once we were fueled up, we checked into our hotel and strolled over to Millennium Park to see “The Bean.” It really is such a fun sculpture to walk around and snap photos of. Then it was off to The Art Institute of Chicago, where I geeked out over Monets, Picassos, Kandinskys, and Matisses. There’s something magical about standing in front of the very paintings you once studied in college.
Next up was the Architecture Boat Tour, which was equal parts fascinating and gorgeous. Floating down the Chicago River surrounded by all those incredible buildings felt pretty unforgettable.
We wrapped up the day with friends at The Purple Pig for a delicious dinner. Honestly, it was the perfect Chicago day!
Tonight was Koa’s final performance of his DCI career! Before the big show, Mariko and I took one last walk around Indianapolis. I’m not sure if we’ll make it back here again, but over the past four years we’ve really grown to love this city. It’s been such a special backdrop for so many unforgettable memories.
“Canal Walk” Indianapolis, 2025
The Blue Devils’ finals performance was absolutely incredible – their best of the season, in my opinion. I couldn’t be prouder of Koa. To think that he earned a spot with the Blue Devils his very first year, went on to experience two championship seasons, and then finished his career in the center marimba position with a leadership role – it’s just amazing. Watching him grow through these years has been such a joy.
I truly believe that joining band back in middle school was a turning point in his life. The friendships, the lessons, and the community have shaped him in such a positive way. Band kids really are something special, and I’m so grateful Koa has been part of that world.
Tonight we watched Koa and the Blue Devils perform in the DCI Championship Semi-finals, and wow—their show just keeps getting better! Even though they’re too far behind the leaders to make a run for the title, I couldn’t be more impressed. To me, their performance is simply wonderful.
Afterward, there was a special ceremony honoring all the members who are aging out this year. Seeing Koa out there was such an emotional moment. He’s been with the Blue Devils for four incredible seasons, including two undefeated championship years, and the memories he’s made will last a lifetime. I’m so proud of him for everything he’s accomplished and so glad to see him truly soaking up this final year.
We flew to Indianapolis today for the DCI Championship weekend! This is a big one—Koa is performing in his 4th finals, and it’s also his last year since he’s “aging out.” We met up with him and the Blue Devils front ensemble in the lot before their prelims performance, which was such a special moment. Wishing them the best of luck this weekend!
