For New Year’s Eve we decided to plan a day in the city, something we don’t do as often as we should. We started with seeing Hansel and Gretel by the Emerald City Theater (right on Michigan Ave., in Water Tower Place). I really enjoyed the show. We see a decent amount of children’s theater, but this was really of the highest quality, probably the best we’ve seen with the kids. This was our first one by Emerald City Theater, and I think we will try to see a lot more shows here.

 Ollie said, “I want a picture with the witch.”

 Evie was very reluctant to take this picture, even though Gretel was her favorite.

Next we went to lunch at the Signature Room, on the 95th floor of the Hancock. I had never been up in the Hancock at all, and I thought the kids would enjoy it. I have to say, I was a bit impressed. The food wasn’t anything to write home about, but it wasn’t bad by any stretch, and the views were as advertised. If I’m going to pay to go up a tall building, I would much rather have a nice lunch (and a full belly!) to show for it.

Luckily there was a New Year’s Eve buffet that day, so everyone was happy. Did I mention there was an *awesome* hot cocoa bar?

Afterwards, we ended the evening in style: with games, puzzles, and (of course) popcorn. Maaaybe there was a little ice cream. After Ollie went to bed, we let Evie stay up and play some “grown up” games with us. (Forbidden Island and Bohnanza…ages 13 and up! She was excited.)

Here’s to a happy 2015!