The WayBack Machine: July 2009.

Because it’s the 6th anniversary of my house-buyin’, I thought I’d thrill you all with what- exactly- was going down 6 years ago this July. A first-time and almost third trimester hot mess, a three story and falling-down homestead, and two recently married kids just stupid enough to think it was all magical. Enjoy. *** Anyone have a Tums? july 9, 2009 So, in roughly the amount of time it took to BUILD a new (and smallish) house, we managed {Read More}

Taylor Swift tickets & 4 passes to the MSI’s Robot Revolution

So, there’s this new singer/songwriter named Taylor Swift– maybe you’ve heard of her? She just so happens to be performing two sold-out Chicago concerts on July 18th & 19th at Soldier Field (good for her- not so shabby for an up-and-comer!)…and you could definitely win one of two pairs of tickets. The good folks at Savers in Downers Grove (2900 Highland Ave.) are holding a big ol’ giveaway on July 17th. All you have to do is show up and {Read More}

Jasper, Chicago Tourist.

While his sisters attended camp during the morning hours this week, Jasper was subjected to my undivided attention. Which- on paper- he loves. But- also like paper- once he has it, he really, really doesn’t want it so much anymore. Let’s review. Monday 9 a.m. The girls are at camp! 9:02 a.m. Whiplash from twisting around in car seat to find nonexistent, minivan-hiding sisters. 9:37 a.m. Check-in at Children’s Memorial Hospital for a mouth-related, pre-op consult. 9:38 a.m. FIND THE {Read More}

Just the bullet points, folks.

This week has been mentally, physically, psychologically, and culinarily exhausting. (Okay, I just threw that last one in there for fun. Our food situation has been just fine.) But here are the highlights: The girls have attended half-day vacation bible school with a bunch of their friends this week; even though we really haven’t been going to church a ton lately, Nora and Suzy certainly know enough to hold their own in a super-chill camp environment of the spiritual variety…but {Read More}

Win a week at Camp Bubbles, Chicagoland!

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post on behalf of Bubbles Academy. Even though I’ve been compensated, all thoughts, opinions, and euphoric children are entirely my own. *** Chicago parents of teensy Littles: I know you know Bubbles Academy (that 14k square foot marvel located in Chi’s Near North ‘hood). I’ve been taking kids there since before I was married. That’s right, I’ve had a longer relationship with them than with P.J. I’ve long extolled their clean, safe, happier-than-happy play spaces and {Read More}

Bowling, Books & Brains, Oh My!

Remember how I’ve been taking a break from the Wednesday round-up for the past few months? (If you don’t remember, just nod and smile. We’ll both believe what we both believe.) WELL. There’s just so much fun stuff going down this summer in Chicago- so here’s a good start: A Smattering of Things Your Kids Want To Go Do You know that sound your kids’ brains make as they looooose their haaaaard-eaaaaarned knowledge(eee)? Brain drain is real, folks. Luckily, so {Read More}

Selfies, 2k For Your Community & Huggies’ #UltraHug.

Friends, Huggies is giving communities the chance to do something great.

Have Daughters? You Need These Shirts.

Disclaimer: Yes, this is a sponsored post on behalf of Clever Belle. No, I didn’t receive any compensation for it other than some supra-cool shirts for the gals. Yes, I know and admire one of the company’s co-founders. No, I was NOT seen trying to squeeze into one of Nora’s shirts because I like them so darned much. We good now? *** “Creative clothing options for girls who want to succeed in a real career instead of marrying into royalty.” {Read More}