Every year, in the weeks before Valentine’s Day, romance becomes the name of the game. Tables are reserved, flowers arranged, and chocolates purchased. Restaurants are full to bursting and couples feel the love on Feb. 14. But what about Feb. 15, and beyond? This year, let’s keep that Valentine’s spirit going. By all means, check […]
Need some authentically sweet tales to counteract all the saccharine of the season? Here are a few North Shore Valentine’s Day memories, starting with my own story. It was Valentine’s Day in 1981, and a boy in my class named John asked me to “go with him.” It was my first real “boyfriend,” and to […]
With all the hype, Valentine’s Day has the potential to be a big let down for women. Here’s an idea—this year, you play Cupid. Why set yourself up to be disappointed by a lame box of chocolates or a grocery store bouquet of roses? Set the stage for romance, and you might end up feeling […]
“I just want to be friends.” Devastating words to hear in any romantic relationship, but especially tough for a teen who’s hearing it for the first time. When her son and his girlfriend went to different colleges, he expected that they would keep dating, reports a mom in Deerfield we’ll call Brianna, but unfortunately […]
You need a shot of romance this winter, and there are lots of hotels in Chicago that are romance-ready. The trick is finding the perfect one. We figure you already know (or have stayed at) the Four Seasons and the Ritz Carlton, and as lovely as they are, we wanted to give you a few […]
If you can’t take a year off to follow Liz Gilbert’s “Eat, Pray, Love” footsteps around the world, don’t worry—you can “let yourself go” right here. EAT During her quest to find herself, Liz gained 10 pounds eating her way through Italy’s pasta, gelato and more. So go ahead and indulge a bit in the […]
The holidays were hectic, so when my husband suggested getting away for a weekend to celebrate our recent wedding anniversary, I quickly agreed. It would be wonderful to spend some time together. Our criteria–The getaway location had to be less than three hours drive from Evanston, a place where we could cross-country ski in […]
Life gets cozy in autumn. Shorter days and longer nights make for more snuggle time, and what’s better for one’s mental and physical well-being than a little skin-to-skin time with a willing partner? Sounds lovely, but we all know that life in a busy family is not exactly sexy, and distractions abound in the evening […]
