Saturday, June 6, 2015

Chicago Concert

Lily Grace has been playing the violin for almost three years now.  She is quite good and has even started working on her vibrato.  
Her music teacher, Mr. Caleb introduced her to Lindsey Stirling several months ago.  Some may remember Lindsey from America's Got Talent years ago.  Apparently, she was on the show and that along with her You Tube videos became quite popular.  She now tours the world playing sold out concerts. Lindsey is unique in that she not only plays the violin, but she also dances while doing so.  Now I am not a violinist but from what I know after watching Gracie, it's not easy.  She is quite entertaining and along with her fun and colorful style, she is "amazing" according to Lily Grace. 
When we found out that Lindsey would be coming to Chicago for a concert, we knew it was the perfect way to end the school year. Not to mention, we love going to Chicago and any reason sounds good to us.  (Even though our trip started with a cloudy high of 60, which made it quite chilly and a low of 49 in June, Chicago was and is tons of fun!) Oh this midwest living!
Lily Grace was beside herself with excitement. She'd been counting down the days and constantly humming/playing every Lindsey Stirling tune.  She finished school on Thursday and we left on Friday morning for the concert Friday evening. 
Lily Grace had one big goal in mind.  She wanted desperately to get close to Lindsey Stirling and get her autograph.  
Matt and I agreed that hanging out in the back of the Chicago Theater after the concert wasn't a good idea with a nine year old just to try and get an autograph.  So, we splurged in an effort to make her first concert a special one and upgraded two of the tickets to Vip status.  Lily Grace and I arrived three hours early for a special Q&A with Lindsey and soundcheck.  Gracie with that little hand diligently in the air, was called on and what do you think she asked, "May I have your autograph please?"  I am happy relieved to report, she got it!!!  She was so excited and wore the biggest smile.  The keyboard player even commented on how much he liked her fashion glasses and well.....night made!
I must admit, it was a really good concert and lived up completely to Gracie's expectations.  Matt and I loved watching her get so excited and trying to predict which song Lindsey would do next.  
We didn't get out of the concert until almost 11:00 p.m.  We walked back to the hotel and enjoyed a very late dinner at Michael Jordan's.  Lily Grace was so tired (I think the pure excitement wore her out.) she could barely keep her eyes open at dinner.  Needless to say, partying like a rock star may not be her cup of tea. ha! ha!  We all collapsed back in our room around 1:00 a.m. when we finally said goodnight.  
We woke this morning (definitely not early or by alarm) and enjoyed breakfast at one of our favorite spots in Chicago.  We couldn't leave without the homemade donut holes and caramel sauce or stopping by American Girl.  
Gracie Cakes, we hope that your first concert was as memorable for you as it was for us.    Daddy and I had an amazing time with you.  

LG had this outfit planned out for months.  She requested a curled side ponytail.
Too cute!  Right down to the glitter wristlet


Loved our special VIP time together Gracie!
Lindsey gave a special acoustic performance at the VIP event.
The Chicago Theater is beautiful.  Lily Grace's favorite was the large chandeliers with the changing ceiling color. 
A freezing cold selfie before the show
Lindsey's opening


She is famous for doing a to the floor back bend while playing and Lily Grace thinks it's the coolest.
So excited to have her autograph

Yummy goodness!!!!
Trying out Julie's egg chair at American Girl

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