How is it already a new decade? When you were young, the days felt long, but the years flew by. Now that you’re all adults — some with children of your own — even the decades fly by. As you know, I’ve lived an improbable life and you (six children, two step-children, five in-laws, six […]
What’s the best way to spread holiday cheer? By cutting back on single-use plastic! We have partnered with the Conservation Team at Shedd Aquarium to bring you some tips for making your next holiday party more environmentally friendly. Plastic pollution is pervasive in ecosystems, impacting animals big and small. Locally, some 22 million pounds of […]
The annual obligatory gift list creeps up on us every year, spurring a mid-December dash to the ATM — or, worse, a bankruptcy-inducing trip to Target. But holiday tipping doesn’t have to be stressful, and once you hit the generosity sweet spot (hint: it’s located somewhere between being a total Scrooge and bribing your way […]
From local jewelry to gifts that give back, our picks are sure to delight. So go ahead and spoil that loved one in your life. FEED x Lingua Franca Tote, FEED, $198 A holiday exclusive, this one tote provides 100 school meals to fight childhood hunger with each purchase. Diamond Sunrise Arc Ring, Mineralogy, $280 In […]
Disclaimer: this gift guide for kids is tech-free. And that is a good thing, as we choose gifts that kids will love, and some that will even bring the whole family together. El: The Chicago Transit Adventure Board Game, Transit Tees, $40 If you have a child that loves the El, this new game is […]
Not sure what to buy for the men on your list? They’ll love these ideas, which include some Chicago-made products and classes with their favorite celebrities. Chicago Athletic Association Sweatshirt, The People’s Garment Co., $40 This super-soft sweatshirt is designed and made in Chicago, and you can shop The People’s Garment Co. products at Chicago […]
Truth be told, the most wonderful time of the year can also be the most stressful. Between now and the New Year, there are plenty of stress-inducing situations you may need to handle with care. Are you feeling guilty about how you’re splitting time among family members? Does your spouse’s over-the-top gift budget touch off […]
Being grateful is well, great — great for your health, great for your kids, and great for everyone around you. Studies show grateful people are less depressed and stressed and report higher levels of happiness and optimism. It also improves your overall mental health. So how do you encourage gratitude in your family? Start at […]
The thunder of drums is reverberating through Puerto Vallarta’s downtown and parade participants in bright colors and skeletal face paint are dancing and marching and twirling along the parade route. It’s Día De Los Muertos: The theme is death, yes, but the celebration is exuberant. It’s in this moment that I feel joy and grief […]
Fall is almost here, which means it’s time to start planning a day trip to one of the many apple orchards and/or pumpkin patches around the Chicago area. Plus, the arrival of fall means there will be plenty of days perfect for snuggling up in a cozy sweater with a good book or the hottest […]
