Should Kids Be Invited to Weddings?

For families with a “No Child Left Behind” policy when it comes to weddings, a couple’s decision to make their nuptials an adult-only affair can not only be seen as controversial, it can be enough to start a family feud. Whether or not you plan to include those pint-size cuties on your invite list, wedding […]

Say ‘I Do’ to These 2015 Wedding Dress Trends

When it comes to bridal fashion, trends can be tricky. What might seem de rigueur today can look like a poufy-sleeved meringue-monster with a hat-veil in photos later on. Trends come and go (thankfully!), so we tapped the experts at Kleinfeld in Manhattan, national wedding brand BHLDN, Chicago design house Mira Couture and Doris Bridal […]

Spiritual Playdate: New Playgroup Program Teaches Kids About Faith

Play dates are a great way for children and parents to spend time together socializing in a non-structured environment. But, what about a play date with a more meaningful purpose? That was the question Glenview mom Edwina Cowell asked herself when her oldest son (now a teenager) participated in a weekly play date with a […]

9 Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors in Chicago

After being stuck inside all winter (and, let’s face it, most of spring), are you ready to enjoy the great outdoors? We know we are! Whether you are a self-proclaimed survivalist looking for a backwoods adventure or a city slicker wanting to reconnect with nature, here are nine ways to take advantage of the summer […]

7 Books That Will Inspire Your Junior Superhero in Training

Bam! Pow! Bang! From Batman to Wonder Woman, kids can delve into books featuring their favorite DC superheroes. They’ll engage in reading while learning about shapes and colors, right and wrong and even how to make a Superman Up, Up, and Away Yogurt Parfait. If it inspires your child to read, that’s a victory for […]

Camping 101: Your Checklist for a Great Adventure

Ah, the great outdoors. Fresh air, swimming in pristine lakes, sleeping under the stars, waking with the birds. Sound serene…or intimidating? If you’re not a camping pro, here’s what you need to know to make sure your epic adventure doesn’t turn into an epic fail. Gearing Up for Adventure Go to an outdoor equipment store […]

Engagement: David Simon and Lesley Smith

David Simon asked Lesley Smith to marry him in front of her entire family during an annual Smith family summer birthday bash last year. The couple, who met through friends, will marry Sept. 12, 2015 at Old Oak Tap in Chicago. They plan on including personal touches throughout the ceremony and reception to honor family […]

The Upside of an Empty Nest

“I love you Emma, and I’ll miss you when you go to college,” I tell my youngest child, holding out her crumpled coat, festering soccer socks and encrusted fruit smoothie glass from the night before, “but I am not going to miss your mess.” Emma smiles and breezes past me, tossing her dark hair over […]