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Rural Illinois

Today my travels took me on a road trip from downtown Chicago to the corn laden fields of rural Freeport, Illinois.  It's a town that only a few years ago was a bustling place to be but today it's a shell of a town but the people still have the amazing American spirit and the work ethic to rebuild. I love rural drives, although this NOW city girl ain't gonna live rural.  :) I have always been in awe of barns and silos. I have no idea why they have always spoken to me... Well, on this fine fall day (sunny and 55 and the weather girl in Chicago said... "The high is 55! It's Spring Ya'll")....  This little red barn spoke loud and clear. For those who have never been to rural Illinois it's miles and miles of barns and silos... and some glorifying God too!



I then drove south toward Normal, Illinois. Like I often do, I went to Trip Advisor from some advise about where to eat and Destihl seemed to be the place to go! It's a local brewery and gastropub. The reviews said... "Ya gotta have the beer friend Asparagus and the Thai Fried Chicken!" Well, being the southern girl I am... I had no choice but to go with the FRIED everything recommendation.  Both choices were out of this world but I must say, the Thai Fried Chicken is one of the best dishes I have ever had and I know my way around good food!  God, the hint of lemongrass and Sriracha with the sweetness that Thai food is known for was an explosion of epigastic rightness. I wanted to jump out of the booth and kiss the chef dead on his lips!  FANTASTIC!



Just when I thought this couldn't get any better, the server said, "Oh, let me bring you some banana creme pie. We make it to order!"  Well, my mama didn't raise a fool...  It's like southern banana pudding and creme brulee all rolled into one. Stupendous chef! 


I am in a food coma! Here's the best thing!  I brought all my leftovers to the Marriott and the front desk clerk said... Destihl is my favorite. I said here you go! He was so excited! 

Next stop St. Louis! I am sure I will have an adventure or two there!  More later! 



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