With a world still plagued with a virus itching to mutate, any opportunity to leave Chicago sends me in a state of bliss. That day came, as many do, with a spontaneous text from Brooke, words seemingly vibrating with excitement on my screen. Her brother-in-law is the master brewer at a space called “Metazoa” and they were happy to house us for a night to come explore the city.

On arrival, we were greeted by two small faces, bouncing with energy, the oldest contorting her face and bending herself into a pretzel as she stared into my camera lens. Brooke’s niece and nephew, Audrey and Jude, acted as the unofficial welcoming party, spoiling us with attention combined with random little hugs that loosened my ever-growing frustration towards humanity lol. The night began with burgers and whiskey and wonderful conversation, until we were off to the brewery!

Metazoa was a treat, first class tour behind the scenes, and the first non-staff members to try their new Prickly Pear Seltzer. Light and refreshing, not particularly my cup of tea (or beer) but their BEER…. oh my word. I had the DDH Hoppopotamus was and is one of my favorite IPAs to date. I wish I took home more cans…

The images below follow our adventures with the kids, road trip views, and everything in between :)

Happy day -