Bacon really does makes everything better, doesn’t it? Before it’s time to put that New Year’s resolution to get healthy into action, go for once last indulgence on Dec. 30, National Bacon Day. Try one of these six tasty recipes that feature at least one slice of juicy bacon. 1. Pasta Carbonara 2. Hearty Potato & Cheddar Soup With […]
Fill up a bowl with popcorn, grab a blanket and settle in for a movie session. Make It Better staffers share their favorite films to get lost in on a cold winter’s day. “The Sound of Music” My all-time favorite movie. I grew up wanting to be Maria — and practically achieved it with my large family who […]
Feel the wind whipping across your face as you glide gracefully across the ice at one of the many great outdoor ice skating rinks in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Bonus: You can burn off some of those holiday cookies while having your fun on the ice. An hour of skating blasts a whopping 490 calories per hour! For […]
Snow enthusiasts get ready! Start finding all the warm clothing you have and pull your sleds out of storage. We’ve gathered up this handy guide to all of the best sled hills in the Chicago area and the suburbs. All activities are weather permitting. Make sure to check conditions before venturing to any location. Did […]
Dressing up in your festive best for elegant holiday soirees is something most of us look forward to every season. But the holidays are also about slowing down and spending time with family and friends, so don’t feel pressured to make every gathering a formal affair. Here are three holiday party ideas for those times when you just want to keep it […]
The Make It Better staff is always out and about, trying new restaurants, visiting boutiques and finding new products we love. In this recurring column, we’ll provide our recommendations. Susan B. Noyes, Publisher and Founder Every business featured in Shop For Good. I’m doing all my holiday shopping with them! Brooke McDonald, Managing Editor There’s […]
Looking for a low-maintenance, unfussy holiday hairstyle that doesn’t involve a million bobby pins stabbing you in the back of the head? A blowout is a simple yet party-appropriate option. “It’s a quick way to look glamorous without having to spend a lot of money,” says BlowDry Boutique co-owner Vikki Kokuzian. This is the time of year […]
Don’t forget your favorite four-legged friends this holiday season. 1. Canines for Veterans Gift Bucket: Give back this Christmas with this pet gift. A portion of the bucket’s sales goes to Canines for Service, which “rescues shelter dogs, rehabilitates military prisoners by teaching them how to train the dogs and revitalizes the lives of wounded veterans by […]
The men in your life can always use something stylish, but don’t forget about the fun. 1. Elephant Tie: Add a bit of whimsy and color to your guy’s wardrobe with an elephant-patterned tie. It comes in a few great color combinations. There’s also a version featuring crabs for the seafaring fan. $95, J.McLaughlin, 567-A Lincoln […]
Traveling for the holidays is rarely trouble-free. Some snafus are unavoidable (thanks, Chicago weather), but you can at least ensure you’ve dressed comfortably and are carrying the right luggage and accessories to make your trip as smooth as possible. Shop For Good has several items that will help set you up for travel success, plus you’re giving back every time […]
