Stepping outside – with temperatures steadily in the 70s and 80s – it is hard to believe fall is upon us here in Chicago. But, one step in the grocery store and I know it is true. Summer fruits like plums and peaches are no longer available, and the last hanger-oners like strawberries taste dull […]

We are still enjoying excellent October weather. We’ve had some stressful weeks as a family, so the warm temperatures and sunny skies are a wonderful distraction. The impact Mother Nature has on our well being – emotional and physical – should not be ignored. I believe she gifted us this fine fall so we could […]

I need a weekend after this weekend. I love holidays – and I love three day weekends! – but with four kids these special days create a lot of extra work. If I want memories to be made, I have to help make them. So, Chris and I organized a neighborhood party that included classic […]

I made a quick butternut squash soup for dinner tonight.  Served along with a loaf of homemade bread and a big salad, it was a delightful little supper. I’ve been craving Caesar salad lately, so I whipped up a simple Caesar dressing tonight. My recipe doesn’t call for raw egg (can’t eat it because I’m […]

I made such a pretty lunch today, so I thought I’d share it.  A salad full of bright colors and generous flavors is the perfect way to load up on more than a few of my daily vegetable servings.  And, the homemade lime dressing took about 32 seconds to make – waaaay healthier (and cheaper!) […]