So, on Christmas Day it's supposed to be near 60 degrees here in Omaha with a chance of severe thunderstorms. Okay, whatever. I'll take it. Since I loathe winter and snow with every molecule in my body, I'll roll with it. Some people would rather have a white Christmas but not me. Although, that used to be me years ago, it's not anymore. In fact, I don't ever need to see snow again or feel temperatures below 40 unless I'm just visiting somewhere and my experience is short-lived. This weather has had me for the better part of my life, so it's time to part ways. Way past time actually.

But, I digress. Let me get to the point.

I realize these abnormal temperatures will not last, and it's the calm before the storm. I'm sure we'll get a horrific snowfall and low temperatures in January and February. So, in order to prepare for this ordeal, if I could just get some of my favorite Chicago staples this winter to help me through this difficult time, I'd be an extraordinarily happy girl.

I'm hoping about seven of some of my favorite Chicagoans--let's call them the South Side Angels--will hear my call and do me a solid and send me a foodie care package soon. You know, just a few of my favorite things. No big deal. I'd come there myself if I could, but I don't travel to Chicago in the winter anymore. (I don't ever wish to experience winter again, but I especially never want to see a Chicago winter and its accompanying wind again. For those who don't know ... thanks to the lakefront, 50 degrees in Chicago is actually 40 degrees, 40 is 30, and so on.)

So, without further ado...

1. I need one of you angels to figure out how to send me a large Italian Fiesta sausage and cheese pizza in addition to a large sausage, cheese, black olives, and fresh garlic thin crust (pay attention please) pizza from Pizanos. This is not the ideal travel situation, but you can make it work somehow. I trust you.

2. On one of your excursions downtown, perhaps you can pop into a Garrett popcorn establishment and grab me a jumbo bag of the cheese and caramel mix. You know as well as I do that the line moves fast, so don't worry. Also take comfort in the fact that this popcorn is easily transportable. However, I should provide some instructions: In order to preserve the highest level of freshness, you'll need to staple the bag shut, put it inside two other plastic bags, and tie a knot before shipping it off. Thanks in advance!

3. During the next visit to your neighborhood Mariano's grocery store, just do a little shopping for me too. You know, since you're already going there anyway. I just need an overstuffed bag full of goodies, and you are free to decide what to send. I trust your judgment and know that all of your selections will be mouth-watering. I can't wait!

4. Portillo's may be out of your way. That shouldn't matter if you love me though. Just don't go to the one downtown. I know it's a stressful location. Try the suburbs. And when you get there, nab me two of those delectable chocolate cakes. Yes, two of them please, but don't steal them. That shouldn't be necessary unless someone else beats you to the last couple of cakes! (Do not allow this to happen.) I won't even request any Italian beef sandwiches, as I know those won't travel well. Consider yourselves lucky!

5. It's been a long time, so I could really use a turkey burger from That's a Burger. You already know why. This burger will not travel well at all, but I trust that you can find a way. Notice how much trust I'm putting in you!

6. Now this one won't be too difficult. I need that rum punch from Mr. Brown's Lounge. As much as I love the jerk chicken there, I can't handle the spice so the rum punch will do. As for transporting, a mason jar is your friend!

7. I may not be able to handle Mr. B's jerk chicken, but I can certainly handle Uncle Joe's. I'll need two whole jerk chicken dinners with an extra serving of cabbage and plantains for both. It's really important that you get this order correct. Otherwise, your great act of kindness will be compromised. You don't want that!

I'll admit, I could actually use a lot more than what's on this list, but there's no need for greed ... especially at this time of year. I'll take whatever you feel in your hearts to send to me, and hopefully your heart is in the mood for getting me everything on this list. No pressure though. Well yes, yes there is some pressure.

(No, I don't think I've gone crazy, but it's a possibility.)

A girl can dream and believe in angels and all that, right? ;-P

Oh boy, I've actually made my mouth water something awful from this list. Good grief!

Happy Holidays & Happy New Year to all of you!

#Chicago #food #winter #WindyCity