During a typical week, we would be sharing our top picks for events and festivals to check out this weekend. But as you know, this is not a typical week. Events are postponed, everything is virtual and we are all trying our best to keep things positive. In our effort to help us all stay sane, here are a few ideas of things to do when going outside is limited.
Green Up Your Space
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If you are lucky enough to have a patio or some green space, it’s time to plant your garden and get those flowers blooming! Local garden stores like Chalet Nursery and City Grange are delivering or offering curbside pick up, and also are available for any questions you may have.
Treat Yourself
This giant, gooey, and delicious chocolate chip skillet cookie by Joy Food Sunshine goes above and beyond. The process is as quick and easy as making regular cookies, but instead of cookie sheets, you spread it in a skillet, pop it in the over and voila! Looking for more to bake? See our round-up of delicious recipes here.
Cheer Up a Friend or Loved One
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We are all in need of some cheering up nowadays, so why not send a small gift to a friend or family member? We love Neighborly’s gift sets, especially since they source from local artists and makers. For more local items we’re loving right now, check out this list.
Tune In: “The Last Dance”
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It’s safe to say that everyone in Chicago was tuned in to ESPN last Sunday. Don’t miss the next two episodes of the Michael Jordan biopic this Sunday, and relive a bit of the 1990s Chicago Bulls history.
Host a Virtual Happy Hour
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Before you Houseparty or Zoom, why not plan ahead and enjoy the same happy hour snacks and cocktails? Many local stores are offering “virtual happy hour” kits for contactless delivery or pick-up, like All Together Now in Ukrainian Village. If you’re stuck on what to order, call their “Wine + Cheese Hotline” for personalized picks.
How You Can Help
As you take care of your own well being and mental health, consider that many are also struggling right now. Here are some organizations that accept donations that help give people the support and supplies they need to get through this time.
- A Safe Haven Foundation
A Safe Haven provides housing for individuals and families whose lives have been impacted negatively by addiction. - NAMI Chicago
NAMI provides hope and improves the quality of life for those whose lives are affected by mental health conditions. - The Family Institute at Northwestern University
Connect virtually with therapists, researchers and educators.
Find more deserving nonprofits on our Better List.
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Macaire Douglas lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband and two sons. She proudly supports Save Abandoned Babies Foundation, a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that works tirelessly to prevent the illegal abandonment of newborns nationwide. Since its inception in 2000, more than 3,600 newborns have been safely surrendered and adopted into loving homes.
