We left Santa Cruz and headed more inland to the Garlic Capital. This was not because of our obsession with garlic (though we do like it), but because it had a good RV park that we could leave Brander for a few days and a nice dog boarding facility for Mikey. We parked Brander at Gilroy Garlic USA (http://www.gilroygarlicusarvpark.com/). A nice RV park off the 101 (near outlets and other shopping needs) and we found a pricey (by Denver standards, but I hear normal for Cali) kennel for Mikey at the Dog House Inn (http://doghouseinn.com/).
On June 29, we headed to Oakland airport and headed east to Chicago. We got in late that Thursday so just stayed by Midway, but then headed into the city on Friday morning. We walked around town until our room was ready (Inn of Chicago) and then headed out for a fun evening. Later that night our friends (Nate & Carissa from Denver and Jess & Ty from LA) made it in.
Saturday we had a fun boat tour of Chicago. It was great to see the city from the water. The rest of the trip was spent exploring the city. Hot dogs, pizza, and views from the top of the world. It was a fun detour and was a great time with friends.
To finish off the adventure, we flew home July 4th evening. It was amazing getting to see the fireworks from the sky. Never seen so many fireworks!
