Who would have thought the week after a long holiday pandemic holiday would be so hard? Admittedly we are struggling to get in the swing of things again, and are longing for carefree days spent in the sun, exploring the city we love and brunching at our favorite spots with friends and family. Sigh. Until then, here are five things to dive into that just may perk your week.
Follow us on Instagram at @betterchicago for more fun activities & tips to stay sane while staying home!
7 Easy Weeknight Dinners to Make With a Rotisserie Chicken
Heaven knows some nights it can feel like the culinary gods are conspiring against those who endeavor to cook a fresh, healthy dinner with some semblance of regularity (especially during a pandemic). Here are seven recipes that utilize the almighty rotisserie chicken and pull together a healthy and stress-free dinner in a snap.
Support Chicago Theatre—and Watch a Performance from Home
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With theaters shut down, Chicago artists need our support more than ever. Purchase the Chicago Acts Together shirt that benefits the Chicago Theatre Workers Relief Fund (ends June 2!). You can also take a Netflix break and watch a virtual show from home. See a full list here.
Planning a virtual event? We would love to feature—please submit your details here!
Quarantine With your Family Driving you a Bit Mad?
Escape with one of these nine books about dysfunctional families that prove that yours isn’t so bad.
Listen, then Watch: 9 Popular Podcasts that are Now Must-Watch TV Shows
Whether you listen to the podcast or watch the series first, here are five popular podcasts that have been developed into television series you can check out now, and four that are coming soon.
Tips for Not Being Swarmed by Mosquitos in your Yard
Just when the weather breaks and you’re finally able to enjoy the outdoors, that familiar, aggravating hum arrives. You can’t see them, but they’re there, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Here are some tips on escaping to the outdoors while avoiding mosquitos.
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.
