05/02/2026
This week, we packed up the playroom and said goodbye to 2040 N Western Ave. Laura, Ashley and myself experienced the full spectrum of emotions, while reminiscing the stories (some of them very crazy, stories for another time) that unfolded in this space over the last 14 years. If the walls could talk, they would tell you stories of:
- moms braving breast cancer multiple times
- a birthday party canceled at the last minute because the birthday kid had unexpectedly passed away
- grand-parents attending their grandchildren birthday party for the last time
- a grandmother specifically choosing Purple Monkey because she used to refer to her late oldest son as her monkey
- moms navigating the ups and downs of business ownership while balancing family life and fighting imposter syndrome
- children going from babbling to saying full sentences
- children going from crawling to walking to running
- children becoming best friends for life
- giggles, laughter, and the kind of pure joy that just warms up your heart and gives you perspective through the tough times
- nannies, aunts, grandparents, parents and all the people we rely on to raise our little ones finding a village
- families celebrating their children’s milestone while honoring their cultural heritage
- inspiring the creation of more locally-owned, mom-owned indoor playgrounds in Chicago and beyond
- many more moments of watching the magic of childhood unfold naturally
Thank you to all those who gave life and meaning to our cozy corner of Bucktown. We carry these memories with deep gratitude and pride into Purple Monkey’s next chapter.
Gros Coucou,
Mouna
