The Real Reason.

Did I forget to mention that my amazing daughter finished 2nd (by .10) in her age group, and 4th in the nation at the USTA National competition last week? 
Well, I don't mean to brag, but SHE IS INCREDIBLE!!!


This was our real reason for our visit to Springfield, Illinois. 
The rest, as they say, was just icing on the cake.

Speaking of Springfield.

I recently had the opportunity to visit Springfield, Illinois for the second time in my life. The first time was almost 40 years ago, when my father took my sisters and I to visit Abraham Lincoln's home and tomb. A lot has changed since then.

Home to more than 120,000 people, Springfield truly is the land of Lincoln. Community leaders and visionaries have done a remarkable job of not only working to restore their city, but in also dedicating their efforts to teach the true story of Abraham Lincoln and his role in American history. 

The city also boasts of being a home to midwest value. I would agree. Hotel rooms and restaurants are reasonably priced; bus services to historical areas will cost you a whole $1 and when you get to your destination, most are free. 

I've heard the best things in life are free. I think many of them might be in Springfield!

Click here to visit the Springfield Visitors Bureau website.

Click here for Historical Sites in Springfield, Illinois.

For more images from Springfield, click on the montage below to visit my flickr photostream.

Yes. Another bird picture.

I know. I KNOW. But, I couldn't help myself. 

I mean, look at the little guy.

During a recent trip to Springfield, Illinois, I discovered this sweet baby complaining from his perch on a fence rail. 

While momma bird swooped and chirped, this toddler let the humans gathering around him know how unhappy he was.

Lucky for this little bird, his home was in a tree near Abraham Lincoln's historic Springfield house, where park rangers were in charge of his destiny.

Within minutes, through careful manipulation with a tree branch (no human touch), he was lifted back to the tree from where he fell. 

Momma bird greeted him with a firm lecture.