SW Lake FEBRUARY 2016
SWLakeLifestyle.com
L
I
F
north barrington
E
•
lake zurich
S
•
hawthorn woods
T
•
kildeer
Y
•
deer park
•
L
E
™
long grove
EXPLORING ALASKA THE STATE OF ADVENTURE FALL IN LOVE AGAIN WITH YOUR HOME FEBRUARY IS HEART MONTH HOW TO HONOR YOURS
Lifestyle Letter
Fun Facts For February
north barrington kildeer
•
•
lake zurich
deer park
•
•
hawthorn woods
long grove
FEBRUARY 2016 publisher
Peter Fetzer | PFetzer@LifestylePubs.com
I
n leap years, it is the only month that begins and ends on the same weekday.
February 1865 is the only month in recorded history not to have a full moon. Before 2002, Super Bowl Sunday was held the last Sunday in January, but since 2002 it is more commonly held the first Sunday of February.
February starts on the same day of the week as March and November in common years, and on the same day of the week as August on leap years. On Valentine’s Day, nearly 189 million stems of roses are sold in the U.S
editor
Wendy Willison | WWillison@LifestylePubs.com
contributing writers
Kathy Bonifazi, Nicole Tardiff, Helen Oliveri, Sue Shimkus, Denise Snodell, Linda Smith contributing writers
Kathy Bonifazi, Cory Lehnert, Stephen Magnusen, Nicole Tardiff
CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Along with Ground Hog's Day, did you know we also celebrate American Heart Month, Bird-Feeding Month, Black History Month, Canned Food Month, Cherry Month, National Children's Dental Health Month, Chocolate Lovers Month, Creative Romance Month, Grapefruit Month, Hot Breakfast Month, Potato Lovers Month, Return Shopping Carts to the Supermarket Month and Snack Food Month in February? Phew– I'm going to be quite busy!
CHIEF SALES OFFICER
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
DESIGN SPECIALIST
| Nicole Sylvester
| Nicolette Martin | Ashleigh Thomson
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
WWillison@LifestylePubs.com
| Brad Broockerd
| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Kim Foster, Megan Seymour
LAYOUT DESIGNER
Wendy Willison, Editor
| DeLand Shore
| Sara Minor
ART DIRECTOR
AD COORDINATORS
Have a great month!
| Matthew Perry
APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER
| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park
by Community ™
SWLakeLifestyle.com JOIN US
4
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
TALK TO US
P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 SW Lake Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of SW Lake’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in SW Lake Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
February 2016
22
Departments 8
Good Times
12
Around Town
14
Artist's Palette
16
Water & Woods
18
Open House
26
Real Wives
28
Healthy Lifestyle
18 Fall in Love
30
Lifestyle Calendar
34
Parting Thoughts
north barrington • lake zurich • hawthorn woods kildeer • deer park • long grove
With Your Home
22 Exploring Alaska
The State of Adventure
26 Real Wives of SW Lake County
Introducing Laura Lambertsen
28 Health Heart
Ways to Honor Yours
18
26
28
Lifestyle Publications Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Idaho | Illinois | Kansas | Missouri | Montana | Ohio | Oklahoma | Texas | Utah
Introducing the
Real estate is a relationship driven, results driven business, and we consider both to be a top priority. Our success is not only measured by sales numbers, but by the long-standing client relationships we have. RENEE CLARK / 847.612.0027 / renee@reneeclarkhomes.com For over 13 years, Renee has distinguished herself as a consistent top producer in the northwest suburbs, finishing in the top 1-3% of sales associates annually and receiving numerous recognitions for achieving high sales volume. Renee excels in representing buyers and sellers in any stage of life. With expert ability to serve any need, she is respected for her honest, caring, and candid approach, preparing clients for every step of the buying or selling process. “My recipe for success? Active listening, consistent communication, keen market knowledge, and results with the least amount of worry and stress. These key ingredients are at the heart of every transaction for every client.”
SUE HUTCHINGS 847.951.1734 suehutchings@atproperties.com Sue specializes in working with buyers, sellers and investors as well as short sales and foreclosures. She is a respected real estate professional with expertise in sales, marketing and negotiating. Most importantly, she listens and is dedicated to helping you make your family’s real estate dreams a reality!
LEE CLARK 224.330.8501 leeclark@atproperties.com Lee specializes in working with first time home buyers. He is informative, patient, and is a strong negotiator. He is well respected by his clients.
CATHY ROANE 847.323.8506 cathyroane@atproperties.com Cathy is a licensed assistant with many years of real estate experience. She provides tremendous support to our team and is dedicated to serving all our clients!
TOM CLARK 847.946.3604 tomclark@atproperties.com Tom specializes in representing both buyers and sellers. He holds the SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist) designation signifying that he is specially qualified to address the real estate needs of those 50+. His lifelong career has been centered on marketing and negotiating.
PAUL HUTCHINGS 847.989.1734 paul@atproperties.com Paul has built his career on making his clients a priority. They benefit from his dedication to ensuring they are well informed before making any buying or selling decision. “We are so fortunate to work with Paul, especially while looking for our first home! He is exactly the kind of agent we needed!” - S.L.
EXPERT RESULTS with a PERSONAL APPROACH Stop looking, start finding®
Good Times
Holiday Fun at LZACC's Business After Hours
The Business Women Connected Group hosted the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce 'Business After Hours,' the very last of the year, at Hallmark Promotions, Inc. Chamber Members and Special Guest Mrs.Claus all agreed it was a great way to end 2015!
Bonnie Conte, Avalon Salon & Day Spa, Laurie Wilhoit, Call Me Social Butterfly and Susan Business Women Connected banner Passaglia, Caring Women’s Connection
Business Women Connected getting ‘pumped up’ for the evening!
Thanks to Hallmark Promotions, Inc!
Mrs Claus resting at the end of a very busy night!
Patricia Williams, Holiday Inn-Lake Zurich, Laura Cappelletti, Yin Yang Pilates, Inc and Patricia Deemer, Deemer Law Firm, Ltd
Mrs. Claus and her many helpers.
Susanne DePaepe, Hallmark Promotions and Michelle Dorfman, Business Women Connected accept the Certificate of Appreciation from Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce President Ken Grooms, Grooms Insurance
Broken Earth Winery Live on WGN
WGN's Marcus Leshock visited Historic Long Grove where Broken Earth Marketing Director Paula Glassel took him through a tasting of a few of the winery vintages live on the air.
8
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
Schwake Stone
Brick & Fireplace
Now selling TILE
Since 1946
FROM RUSTIC TO REFINE
www.schwakestone.com February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
9
Good Times
LZACC's Welcomes MOD Pizza to Kildeer
LZACC's newest member, MOD Pizza, kicked off the grand opening party by awarding 52 pizzas—one per week for the entire next year—to one lucky raffle winner! Additionally, the sure-to-be-successful team generously donated 100% of the event's pizza sales to the Caring Women's Connection.
The Grand Opening Ribbon-Cutting at MOD Pizza was a great success.
Kildeer Village President Nandia Black was on hand to cut the ribbon.
Caring Women's Connection group in attendance.
MOD Pizza offers a “design-it-yourself” pizza experience
Raffle winner Diane Koester and son, Drew, pictured with Allan Racoma of MOD Pizza.
Mandile’s ristorante • banquets • catering
Live Entertainment every Saturday!
Italian Ristorante, Banquets and Catering for any occasion Fine Italian Cuisine Est 1999
2160 LAKE COOK RD, ALGONQUIN, IL 60102 847-458-4000 · WWW.MANDILESRESTAURANT.COM · FACEBOOK.COM/MANDILESRISTORANTE 10
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
If you haven’t heard about High Pointe, it’s time you did!
High Pointe of Hawthorn Woods Nestled in the woods will be 22 ranch and two story, villa duplex homes. Don’t worry about mowing the lawn or shoveling the snow - just enjoy your new home, customized to reflect your personal style. For more information, contact Greg Schmitt Rand Realty (847) 612-3978 prestigedevelopment.wordpress.com
To learn how MyRehab at Lutheran Home offers a successful approach to short-term rehabilitation always focused on you, call (847) 368-7400.
Lutheran Home is a Lutheran Life Community, empowering vibrant, grace-filled living across all generations.
800 West Oakton Street | Arlington Heights, IL (847) 368-7400 | LutheranHome.org
February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
11
Around Town
AROUND TOWN
SPOT A STROKE F.A.S.T.
•
After School of Rock Guitar lessons will be on Thursdays from 6 p.m.- 6:45 p.m. at St. Matthew Lutheran Church and School. Classes start on February 18 and run through March 24.
•
Babysitting Certification is a two-day course to be held Friday, February 19 and 26, from 4:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at the Hawthorn Woods Aquatic Center.
HAWTHORN WOODS POLICE DEPARTMENT WOMEN'S SELF DEFENSE PROGRAM Defend yourself with confidence after completing the Hawthorn
Reaction time is critical in the event of a stroke. The sooner a victim
Woods Police Department Women's Self-Defense program. This in-
can get medical attention, the sooner important intervention can take
teractive program provides training in recognizing and responding
place, often saving the patient from loss of brain functions.
to dangerous situations, and techniques for defending against and
F.A.S.T. is an easy way to remember the sudden signs and symp-
escaping attacks. You will learn how projecting confidence through
toms of a stroke. When you spot the signs, call 9-1-1 immediately. The
body language can make you less of a target. This is the perfect class
sooner a stroke victim gets to the hospital, the sooner they’ll get treat-
for women headed to college, or who live or travel alone. After com-
ment. And that can make a remarkable difference in their recovery.
pleting this program, you will feel confident and empowered to de-
•
FACE DROOPING Does one side of the face droop or is it
fend yourself. Classes to be held Wednesdays, February 24 through
numb? Ask the person to smile.
March 16, from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the Hawthorn Woods Village Barn.
•
ARM WEAKNESS Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
•
SPEECH DIFFICULTY Is speech slurred, are they unable to speak, or are they hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence like, “The sky is blue.” Is the sen-
•
Get ready for summer with a 2016 season pass to the Hawthorn
tence repeated correctly?
Woods Aquatic Center! Register before March 31 to receive 10% off your
TIME TO CALL 9-1-1 If the person shows any of these symp-
summer pass. For more information on the Hawthorn Woods Aquatic
toms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get them to
Center, including pass rates, visit online at VHW.org/AquaticCenter.
the hospital immediately.
MOST COMMON STROKE WARNING SIGNS: •
EARLY BIRD RATES FOR THE HAWTHORN WOODS AQUATIC CENTER AVAILABLE STARTING FEBRUARY 1ST
Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.
MORE THAN $55 MILLION RAISED. 285 LIVES SAVED EVERY DAY
•
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding.
•
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
•
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance
Macy ’s is supporting
or coordination.
the American Heart
•
Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
Association’s Go Red
•
This healthful information provided by our friends at the
For
American Heart Association. Learn more at Heart.org.
ment to inspire wom-
HAWTHORN WOODS WINTER PROGRAMS ANNOUNCED The Village of Hawthorn Woods has a variety of fun and interactive
For the 11th year,
Women®
move-
en and ignite action to save more lives. During the Go Red with
Macy ’s
event
Go Red with Macy’s
recreation programs this winter for all ages. These programs teach
(February 3 – 8, 2016), shoppers can wear red or purchase the
different skills and techniques, all while having fun. Come and sign up
official 2016 Red Dress pin for $3 to receive special discounts,
today! Youth programs starting in January are listed below. For more
with 100% of the pin sales benefitting the cause.
information about recreation programs at the Village of Hawthorn Woods, visit VHW.org. •
Fencing classes are held on Thursdays from 5p.m. - 6 p.m. at
For Women® , as well as exclusive Go Red Ideology active wear
the Hawthorn Woods Aquatic Center. Classes start on Febru-
available in select stores and online at Macys.com.
ary 18 and run through March 24. 12
Macy’s will also donate 10% of the purchase price of three exclusive red dresses by Kensie, Thalia and Calvin Klein to Go Red
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
The Law Offices of
BEES, TREES, AND MOSQUITOES The Citizens for Conservation Community
Education
Com-
DOMINICK DIMAGGIO Concentrating in Real Estate Law and Criminal Defense
mittee speakers will discuss all three subjects—along with plant conservation—in its winter proCitizens for Conservation Winter Series is Now Underway
gram series.“Native Bees in the Garden,” the first program, featured Adrian Fisher, sustainabil-
ity coordinator at Triton College. The upcoming programs in the series will include: •
“Mosquito Abatement,” on Saturday, February 6. Ruth Kerzee, executive director of Midwest Pesticide Action Center, will describe the detrimental effects of mosquito fogging and discuss
call today for your free consultation Dominick DiMaggio is a practicing attorney with over 20 years of experience in Real Estate and Criminal law. He currently serves as a Trustee for the Village of Hawthorn Woods. In regards to real estate transactions, his practice concentrates in representing Sellers, Purchasers and Short Sales. His criminal practice includes representing clients charged with a DUI, Traffic, Misdemeanor or Felony charge.
alternative controls; •
“A Wealth of Possibilities for Native Shade Gardens,” Saturday, March 5. Peggy Simonsen, chair of the Community Education Committee, will discuss native shade plants for all seasons
•
“Plant Conservation in a Changing World,” on Saturday, April 9. Learn which plants may adapt to climate change and which may go extinct locally or globally. Featured speaker will be Dr. Kay Havens, director of the division of Plant Science and Conservation, Chicago Botanic Gardens.
238 Robert Parker Coffin Rd., Long Grove
(847) 383-5538 · dimaggiolegal.com
Please visit CitizensForConservation.org for more details.
SAVE THE DATE! With Spring around the corner, it’s time to celebrate the Joy & Love of Life. Come see our Houston Llew Spirit Tiles & Lizzy James jewelry.
The Caring Women's Connection will hold its charity event, Gatsby Gala, Saturday, February 27 at the Biltmore Country Club in North Barrington. Please visit CaringWomensConnection.com for event details and ticket information.
8TH ANNUAL JBTL FUNDRAISER "OLD TIME MOVIES—LZ STYLE" On February 5, the Band Boosters of Lake Zurich (BBLZ) will host its 8th annual "Jazz by the Lake" (JBTL) concert and fundraiser. This years theme is "Old Time Movies—LZ Style" and will feature the award winning Lake Zurich High School Jazz Band throughout this adult evening. JBTL ticket order flyers can be obtained on the BBLZ website. Come enjoy a wonderful dinner
LZHA Presents Jazz By The Lake
and evening of excellent Jazz performed by a top-notch group in the Grand Ballroom of the Makray Memorial Golf Club in Barrington—it will be a memorable evening for all who attend!
E PILOGU E
130 Old McHenry rOad lOng grOve, Il 60047 • 847-383-5912 info@epilogueart.com • www.epilogueart.com
A S tore
of
e xtrAordinAry t hingS ! February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
13
Artist's Palette
WORDS DENISE SNODELL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
W
hile hunting down a birthday gift for a creative friend, an enthusiastic boutique clerk introduced me to coloring books for grown-ups. “People love these,” he told me. “We’ve sold out quite a few versions!” I thumbed through what was left and thought: no. I wondered. How did this happen? Adult coloring books? Did the late Georgia O’Keefe once have a head-on collision with an unstable preschool teacher, and we’re just now learning about it? The concept is great, actually. These books have been trending and seem unstoppable. Imagine pages of intricate, fantastical illustrations tempting you to bring them to life with colored pencils, markers and/or extra sharp crayons. I can understand the soothing zen of getting lost in imaginary gardens. We all need to occasionally block out Grown Up Land. A plantar fasciitis flare-up? Forget it, there’s a baby panda begging to be neon. Tax forms and utility bills? No, wait, let’s give the world a flaming tangerine lizard. The escape is alluring. 14
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
But. Anything that takes me back to kindergarten craft days, even if it’s tweaked for people who can legally buy vodka, seems far from therapeutic. This might be all me, but I must vent. For the sake of art. For one thing, if I were to try an adult coloring book, I would skip the rainbow pencils and choose old fashioned crayons. I have a million untouched boxes already jamming closets in my house, thanks to college-age sons who were forever underwhelmed with the kiddie coloring scene. If armed with a 64-pack, I would catch myself mid-mandala, remembering how one can never really sharpen a Crayola back to its original state of perfect pointiness. A lopsided, blunted carnation pink is the opposite of soothing.
What’s more, crayons smell bad. Can we finally admit this? I’m sniffing a box now, for research purposes. I’m reminded of the desperate times when, as a kitchen rube, I put frozen food items in the oven, but forgot to peel off the “must remove” wrapping. Bingo-that’s the scent! Crayons are just little colorful tubes of melted burrito plastic. Behold the Crayola whiff: a subliminal flashback to the youthful failures of not reading directions, and the reprimands from coloring outside the line. And consider the cruel trickery of “red violet.” I’m sure, way back, every one of us experienced the red violet smack down. We thought we were reaching for red. But we put it to paper and— zammo--what could this be? Purple? Red? Rurple? No, it was the tint of a ruined cardinal. A weird fire truck. The overwhelming shade of disappointment.
Home Technology, Simplified. ECO Automated Designs is your professional home technology expert.
Low Voltage Wiring Home Automation Audio Distribution Video Distribution Home Theater Home Networking Simplified Control Security Surveillance
Call today for your free in-home consultation. 847-475-4442 sales@ecoautomateddesigns.com www.ecoautomateddesigns.com
Maybe I have issues with trying to recapture my “carefree” youth. But I’m both practical and suspicious. I worry it’s only a matter of time before our grown-up-ness kicks in on this new, “centering” pastime. We’ll soon become competitive about our enchanted forests. We’ll post our work on our wine refrigerators, or worse, on social media. We’ll judge each other’s lost oceans. Then complaints will roll in about neck strain from looking down too much. There will be endless paper cuts. Lawsuits. Gel pen scams. Give it time. We adults are going to ruin this innocent hobby. These are agitating thoughts. Maybe I really do need the calming magic of an adult coloring book. If I can find one titled “Empty Rush Hour Highways,” and a box of crayons without red violet, I’ll be totally in.
February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
15
Water & Woods Energy efficient and long lasting high intensity grow lights will provide the greatest yields when growing tomatoes and other fruiting plants indoors.
n w o r g e H om F l av o r FROM AN INDOOR GARDEN ARTICLE MELINDA MYERS | PHOTOGRAPHY GARDENER’S SUPPLY COMPANY
16
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
A
dd some homegrown flavor to your winter meals. From microgreens to tomatoes, it is possible to grow produce indoors. Microgreens are a quick and easy way to add some flavor and crunch to your plate. Just plant seeds labeled for sprouting or microgreens in a shallow container filled with a sterile potting or seed starting mix. Within two weeks you will be harvesting nutritious mini vegetable and herb leaves for salads, sandwiches or snacking. Take it one step further and grow a few of your favorite herbs on a warm sunny windowsill. Select a container with drainage holes and set on the appropriate size saucer to protect your woodwork. Fill the container with well-drained potting mix and plant seeds or transplants. Purchase basil, chives, parsley, oregano and rosemary plants from your local garden center or the produce department. Greens, like lettuce and spinach, will also grow in a sunny window or better yet under artificial lights. Grow them in a container filled with a well-drained potting mix similar to your windowsill herb garden. Plant seeds according to the seed packet. Continually harvest the outer leaves when they are four to six inches tall.
Those that like a bit of a challenge may want to try growing a compact tomato, pepper or eggplant. You’ll get the best production with a combination of natural and artificial light or full spectrum lights. Natural sunlight and full spectrum lights contain the variety of light plants need to grow, flower and fruit. Blue light promotes leaf and stem growth, while red combined with blue promotes flowering. Consider investing in energy efficient and long lasting high intensity grow lights for the greatest yields when growing tomatoes, peppers, eggplants and other fruiting plants indoors. Leave lights on for 14, but no more than 16 hours each day. Plants need a dark period as well as bright light each day to grow and thrive. Use a timer to ensure the plants receive the right duration of light. Most flowering and fruiting plants need a high intensity of light, so keep the lights six to twelve inches above your plants. Use reflective surfaces under and around the plants to bounce light back into larger plants. Increase your indoor growing space by going vertical. Shelf units with built-in light fixtures like the Stack-n-Grow Light System (Gardeners.com) provide multiple layers of growing space. And once your tomatoes, peppers and eggplants start flowering, you will need to shake things up a bit. Gently shake the plants several times a week, better yet daily, to move the pollen from the female to the male parts of the flower so fruit will develop. A gentle breeze from a fan or vibrations from a battery-operated toothbrush work
well. Indoor gardening won’t yield the same results as a sunny outdoor garden, but the flavor can’t be beat when gardening outdoors is not an option. Gardening expert, Start by growing a few of your favorite herbs on a TV/radio host, author sunny windowsill & columnist Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books, including "Small Space Gardening' and the "Midwest Gardener’s Handbook". She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything: Food Gardening For Everyone” DVD set and the nationally syndicated "Melinda’s Garden Moment" TV & radio segments. Myers is also a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Myers’ website, MelindaMyers.com , offers gardening videos and tips.
Call for a FREE Consultation on Design Build and Installation on Any Project. Outdoor Living • Outdoor Kitchens • Outdoor Fire Places • Patios Hardscape Outdoor Living Spaces • Retaining Walls • Gazebos Pergolas • Wood Structures • Outdoor Accent Lighting Landscape Planting Design & Install • Drainage Systems Fire Pits • Water Features • Walkways & Much more...
SEASONAL
LANDSCAPE
SOLUTIONS
847-652-8458 SeasonalLandscape.com fl 12 to 18 Month Same as Cash Financing No Money down February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
17
Open House
Love FALL IN
ARTICLE HELEN OLIVERI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
WITH YOUR NEW HOME!
1
Women are more likely to crush on a home that is out of their price range: 41% of women said their home crush is out of their price range, compared with 30% of men.
I
t’s the time of year that we all start thinking about love and pretty soon we’ll be in the busy spring market. If you do not love your home, maybe it’s time for a new one. Buying a home is a lot like dating. With time and effort you can turn a crush into a love if it’s meant to be. A survey by Realtor.com shows that falling head-over-heels for a house is fairly common—69% of respondents reported that they have had a home crush. House-hunters with a “home crush,” as defined in the survey, are drawn to the same house again and again. Realtor.com surveyed the 1,082 individuals who reported having had a home crush and found:
2
Men tend to move from one home crush to another: 36% of men said they find a new home crush weekly, compared with 29% of women.
18
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
3 Outdoor living spaces are the most at-
A Retirement A Retirement Income Strategy Income Strategy
tractive home attributes to both men and women: 54% of women and 46% of men said outdoor living spaces like backyards, decks and patios make them fall in real-estate love. In addition, 42% of women preferred open-floor plans, and 40% of men indicated garages.
4
Pictures matter the most: Nearly 80% of home buyers first find their home crush on their computer. After that, about onethird then decide to go see the house in person.
Fortunately, unlike with relationships, picky home buyers do not need to limit themselves to what’s on the market. Rebuilding, redecorating or building from scratch are also options. The best way to keep in your price range and make sure you fall in love with a home you can afford is to let an agent search for you. Start with a list of your needs and wants, and avoid the temptation to search on your own. A good agent will send you a list of homes that you can crush on and help you narrow down to the one you can fall in love with. Helen Oliveri is a 12-year real estate professional who loves our community and helping clients achieve their real estate goals is her priority. She is the managing broker of the newly opened Keller Williams Realty Partners, home of The Helen Oliveri Team in Hawthorn Woods where she also resides. Feel free to visit the new office in Cherry Hill Plaza at 101 W. Gilmer
We specialize in providing Lifetime Income Strategies We specialize in providing The financial realities of our world are complex Lifetime Income Strategies
and ever changing. More and more Americans who hard realities while planning for their Thework financial of our world areretirement complex are increasingly being forced rely upon their and ever changing. More andtomore Americans ownwork retirement savings to create who hard while planning for the theirretirement retirement they will need. OurtoNext areincome increasingly being forced rely Phase™ upon their Retirement Income Strategy provides a sound own retirement savings to create the retirement foundation forneed. creating that income. income they will Our Next Phase™
Retirement Income Strategy providestoday a sound Let’s start a conversation foundation for creating that income.
815-459-6800 815-459-6800 www.doriongray.com
Let’s start a conversation today www.doriongray.com
2602 IL RTE 176, Crystal Lake, IL 60014-2225
E-mail: info@doriongray.com
Securities offered through America, member FINRA/SIPC. 2602 IL RTE 176,Securities Crystal Lake,Inc.IL 60014-2225 Advisory services are offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. E-mail: info@doriongray.com Dorion-Gray Retirement Planning, Inc. located at 2602 IL Route 176, Crystal Securities offered through Securitieswith America, Inc. member Lake, IL 60014-2225 is not affiliated Securities AmericaFINRA/SIPC. companies. Advisory services are offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. Dorion-Gray Retirement Planning, Inc. located at 2602 IL Route 176, Crystal Lake, IL 60014-2225 is not affiliated with Securities America companies.
Road and online at HelenOliveri.com. February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
19
FEBRUARY
The Month of the Heart Give Yours Some Loving Care ARTICLE CORIE GOODSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
T
he heart is often referred to as the symbol of love. While love is vital to a fulfilling life, a healthy heart is crucial to it A healthy heart functions without us having to even think about it. It beats about 100,000 times per day and pumps 1.5 gallons of blood through the body per minute. The more in shape the heart is, the lower the heart rate because a stronger heart can pump more volume per beat. Made up of its own specialized cells that are not found anywhere else in the body, the heart pumps nutrient- and oxygen-rich blood through the cardiovascular system. The blood is essentially a delivery system and a garbage truck. It first nourishes us, and then transports toxins and metabolic waste to the kidneys and liver for disposal. Without this vital system, we would all cease to exist. Unless we develop a problem, we don’t pay much attention to what our heart does for us 24 hours a day. Kind of makes you want to give it a bit more respect, right? That’s especially true when you hear the statistics that say heart disease and diseases of the cardiovascular system remain the number one reason lives are cut short. Heart disease can go undetected and be asymptomatic for decades before an incident occurs. No one gets critically ill overnight, which means heart issues cannot be reversed overnight either. The good news is that we can often help change destiny. While heart disease can be hereditary, it may not necessarily have to dominate one’s landscape.
20
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
We do have a lot of control over how healthy we are by taking some simple steps. Small changes can add up to big results over time, especially if there isn’t a major defect that cannot be altered by lifestyle alone. Most of us know now that the traditional food pyramid we grew up with is completely upside down and antiquated. It has long been thought that reducing fat in the diet was the primary way to reduce heart disease. When it comes to convenience and fast food, I would agree. The more modern contention is that we should eat food that doesn’t come with labels. Fruit, veggies, nuts and seeds, eggs, meat and fish should dominate your grocery cart. Single-ingredient, nature-made food eliminates the often confusing list of ingredients. Avoiding the inner aisles of the grocery store as much as possible makes this easier. Cardiovascular exercise is as important to keeping the heart healthy as what we eat. As little as 30 minutes a day can change your health profile. So, instead of perpetuating the saying that “we are a nation of people living short and dying long,” let’s get up, get moving and put nutrient-dense foods on our plates to keep that wonderful small, but mighty, organ running its best for as long as possible. Corie Goodson, MPH, CNC, earned her master’s degree in public health in 1995. She is a health educator, wellness promotion speaker, author and certified nutrition coach.
Landmark 7.083"x3.15"SWLake adSchaum fin .pdf
1
1/6/16
10:20 AM
Repurposed Furniture • Home Decor We will customize anything you may have at home!
20% OFF Furniture and lighting Black Friday-Christmas
847.383.6244
118 OLD MCHENRY ROAD, LONG GROVE, IL 2FANCIEGALS.WIX.COM/SHOP
Official retailer of
Rewined Candles
HOURS: MON. BY APPOINTMENT TUES. & WED. 11AM–3PM THURS.–SUN. 11AM–5PM February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
21
Explore Alaska Discover your family’s untamed soul SUE SHIMKUS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
W
Alaskan Cruise
22
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
hether breathing in crisp glacial air or marveling at rich green rainforest, your family is sure to be inspired by the raw beauty of Alaska’s wild. Your options include cruising to over 24 ports, and countless ways for every age to explore Alaska by land, sea or air. Last summer I experienced Alaska for my fifth time on a cruise from Vancouver to Seward, followed by a customized tour to Denali, which included the dome rail car through the majestic mountains and even playing a round of golf at midnight! My personal suggestion is to combine travel to exciting ports by cruise ship combined with a land stay to truly experience all the best of Alaska.
Humpback Whale Watching
Resolution ...Take time for yourself We chose a boat tour through the Misty Fjords in Ketchikan, while others in our group visited the Totem Pole village or toured the authentic gold rush town. Take the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s tour to get a glimpse into the amazing life of commercial fisherman as you sail the Aleutian Ballad, featured on season 2 of Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch." For family fun, participate in a competition with other families in a treasure hunt of the area. Using a GPS device and coordinates, your guide will take you to a remote island where you will search for clues to win the hidden treasure! In Icy Strait Point, go airborne on the world’s largest zip line as you accelerate to 60 mph, 300 feet above the treetops. Or team with Naturalists on a Marine Mammal cruise to view humpback whales, sea otters, and sea lions. You can also journey to Spasski River Valley
COMPLEMENTARY ANTI AGING PEPTIDE SAMPLES WHILE SUPPLIES LAST COME IN OR CALL FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Permanent hair removal cuStomized FacialS reJuvenation anti-aging microcurrent led non-invaSive Face liFting le, cPe
(847) 970 -7546 Janet.Sharlach@gmail.com www.electrologyandSkincare.com 21196 w. commercial drive, mundelein
CONTINUED >
February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
23
EXPLORE ALASKA
(CON TI N U ED)
Stunning Sitka, Alaska Aerial view of a cable car moving down, Mount Roberts, Juneau, Alaska
and going back in time and discovering the life and hardships of the largely unsuccessful miners. Families can also experience the rustic Frontier up close in the Big Nugget Challenge while panning for gold. Extend your stay in Alaska and enjoy the beauty of all the state! Take a day cruise around the Kenai Fjords to see stunning wildlife or try a glacier cruise in Prince William Sound. For stunning beauty like no other, visit Alyeska (Girdwood) and hike a glacier or raft through the Portage Valley. Anchorage offers many choices for Denali and Telkeetna River
and follow your guide through the wilderness as you search for brown bears. Juneau can give you three great experiences in one unforgettable day—view wildlife on a catamaran cruise that features guaranteed whale sightings, enjoy a salmon bake feast at beautiful Orca Point Lodge, and take a scenic drive to view and photograph the famous Mendenhall Glacier with many options for hiking as well! Visit the port of Sitka as Alaska is a fisherman’s paradise and the salmon capital of the world—the area has the saltwater sport’s highest king-salmon catch rate. Charter a boat on the Pacific or go fly-fishing with an outfitter in one of Sitka’s rivers, where trout and char are also known to bite. The eerie ghost town of Skagway was a booming gold-mining settlement in the late 1800s and is a favorite for visiting the local saloons 24
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
Cruising Glacier Bay
The Hubbard Glacier
adventures to surrounding areas, or journey by domed rail to gorgeous Talkeetna (one of my personal favorites) or onward to Denali National Park. Visit the home of Iditarod champions and their dogs to enjoy a dog sled ride! Continue to Fairbanks where you can take an excursion to the Arctic Circle, air and land adventure, stay in a fishing lodge or take a dip with the Polar Bears in Prudoe Bay! From the pioneering spirit of Juneau and the dramatic icebergs of Hubbard Glacier, to the incomparable glow of Aurora Borealis in the winter, Alaska is truly the last frontier. Let us help you make the most of your trip to this last frontier, because a trip of a lifetime can be enhanced greatly when planned by professionals! Alaskan Huskies of the Iditarod
Sue Shimkus is president of Lake Zurich
Travel and Lakeside Travel Advisors in Wauconda, and a specialist in selling travel to Alaska.
February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
25
Real Wives
Real Wives of SW Lake INTRODUCING LAURA LAMBERTSEN
26
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
HOBBIES/ACTIVITIES: My favorite hobbies/activities include: yoga,
trail running, hiking, and kayaking. I love being outdoors and experiencing nature. It is important for me to get outdoors almost every day – even during inclement weather; it is energizing, yet calming at the same time. IMPORTANT ADVICE FOR KIDS TODAY: “Never underestimate the
power and value of receiving an education – your education is something that no one can ever take away from you.” Also, “Get outdoors!” MOST PLAYED ARTIST ON YOUR MUSIC PLAYLIST: The Who. FAVORITE SPLURGE: A bottle of Rombauer Chardonnay. FAVORITE TYPE OF VACATION: The best vacations are those that
focus around outdoor activity. For the past several years, we have been taking vacations to the national parks of North America. It is important that the kids grow up with an appreciation for the beauty WHO LIVES IN THE HOUSE: Erik, Dean (son, 15), Grace (daughter,
13), Oreo (Havanese dog).
and history of the national parks. So far, some of our favorite parks have been: Acadia National Park in Maine, Glacier National Park in
BEST PART OF LIVING IN LAKE COUNTY: Lake County has wonder-
Montana, Haleakala National Park in Hawaii, and Jasper National
ful schools, shopping, and forest preserves. Also, it is not too far from
Park (especially the Columbia Icefield) in Alberta, Canada. This sum-
Chicago, one of the best cities in the world!
mer we are planning to visit some of the Arizona/Utah parks.
EDUCATION: I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Communications,
and Sociology from Cornell College, and my Master’s Degree in Busi-
FUN FACT THAT PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU: Over the years,
ness Management from North Park University. WORK OR AT HOME: Before the kids were born, I worked in the
Admissions, and Communications departments at a local University. After the kids were born, I chose to stay at home, while volunteering and working a few hours per week for a local corporation.
wines
|
RECOMMENDED READS – King Peggy by Peggielene Bartels and
Eleanor Herman. Also, Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv.
craft beer
I worked as a paid background “extra” on several movies and television shows that have been filmed around Chicago. GUILTIEST FOOD PLEASURE: Lou Malnati’s Pizza and Garrett’s
cheddar cheese popcorn.
|
accompaniments
$6 OFF *
A BOTTLE OF YOUR CHOICE
To be enjoyed in our Long Grove Tasting Room *Must present this ad at time of visit. Offer valid through 1/30/16. Not available for carry out; not applicable to private events.
Tues: 1/2 price glasses of wine | wed: 10% off wine flighTs Thurs : $1 off beers | fri : live Music | sun: 10% off on-preMise
food
A CAliforniA Wine experienCe in long grove, illinois (847) 383-5052 | www.brokenearthwinerylg.com 219 r obert P arker c offin r d . l ong g rove , il 60047 February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
27
Healthy Lifestyle
February is American Heart Month
Heart Disease Facts You May Not Know: •
•
• ARTICLE LINDA SMITH, MARKETING DIRECTOR OF LUTHERAN HOME PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
C
ardiovascular disease – including heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure – is responsible for one out of every three deaths. It is the number one killer of American women and men, and it is a leading cause of serious illness and disability. The good news is that heart disease can often be prevented when people make healthy choices and manage their health conditions. Anyone, including children, can develop heart disease. It occurs when plaque builds up in your arteries. When this happens, your arteries can narrow over time, reducing blood flow to the heart. Smoking, eating an unhealthy diet, and not getting enough exercise all increase your risk for having heart disease. Having high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes also can increase your risk for heart disease. 28
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
•
• •
•
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for people of most racial/ ethnic groups in the United States, including African Americans, Hispanics and Whites. Cardiovascular diseases claim more lives than all forms of cancer combined. Coronary heart disease is the most common type of heart disease, killing nearly 380,000 people annually. In the United States, someone has a heart attack every 34 seconds. Every 60 seconds, someone dies from a heart disease-related event. About 720,000 people in the U.S. suffer heart attacks each year. About 300,000 people experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in the United States. Of those treated by emergency medical services, only 10% survive. Direct and indirect costs of heart disease total more than $320 billion.
Signs and Symptoms of Heart Disease: The signs and symptoms of heart disease can vary greatly. Chest discomfort is the first sign. This may include chest pain or discomfort that doesn’t go away after a few minutes. But it may also include • • • •
Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back Weakness, light-headedness, nausea or cold sweats Pain or discomfort in the arms or shoulders Shortness of breath
SUPPORT OUR MISSION TO
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
IN A CHILDS LIFE
There are several tests to diagnose heart disease, including chest X-rays, coronary angiograms, electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG) and exercise stress tests. Ask your doctor about what tests may be right for you. If you have heart disease, lifestyle changes can lower your risk for complications. Your doctor also may prescribe medication to treat the disease. Talk with your doctor about the best way to reduce your heart disease risk. February is American Heart Month. Take some time to review your lifestyle, make changes and get to the “heart” of the matter. And in support of American Heart Month, wear red during the month of February!
IS A PROUD SPONSOR OF
MISSIONS.ME/LIFESTYLEPUBLICATIONS
February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
29
Lifestyle Calendar
February FEBRUARY 3 - 28
FEBRUARY 9
SHAKESPEARE'S FIRST
WINE DOWN TUESDAY
FOLIO EXHIBITION
BROKEN EARTH WINERY, LONG GROVE
LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY
Escape to Paris, the City of Love, through paint-
MUSEUM, WAUCONDA
ing and a nice glass of
The Lake County Discovery Museum has
wine. Broken Earth Winery
been selected as the host site for the state
hosts Bottle & Bottega -
of Illinois for the national traveling exhibition
space is limited, register at
of the Shakespeare First Folio, one of the
BottleandBottega.com;
world’s most treasured books. Accompany-
$35 includes canvas, paint
ing the rare book will be a multi-panel ex-
and professional instruc-
hibition exploring the significance of Shake-
tion. Half price glasses of
speare, then and now. Numerous programs
wine every Tuesday!
for the public and families!
8TH ANNUAL VINTAGE SNOWMOBILE RIDE & SHOW
SECOND WEDNESDAY EVERY MONTH
COOK PARK, WAUCONDA
BOOK NOOK READING CLUB
Celebrating 48 years of snowmobiling history in Lake County! Regis-
HAWTHORN WOODS VILLAGE HALL
tration begins at 9:45a.m., entry fee is $3 donation per sled (maximum
Enjoy a good book and share with friends in the Hawthorn Woods
of $10), ride only if conditions permit, food and beverages available,
Book Nook Free Reading Club. All books will be provided for
snow or no snow and everyone is welcome to come and have fuy
you courtesy of Fremont Library. Our leader, Peter Ponzio, is a dis-
FEBRUARY 7
tinguished published author and professional editor. New readers always welcome! Contact Amy at ascholz@vhw.org with questions or to obtain a copy of the current book.
FEBRUARY 10 SENIOR MONTHLY LUNCHEON VILLAGE BARN, HAWTHORNE WOODS Join us for our monthly luncheon! The Hawthorn Woods Senior Group meets once a month on a Wednesday from Noon to 1 p.m. Enjoy new friends, good food and memorable moments. For more 30
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
information visit VHW.org and search Senior Monthly Lunches.
your life. The cafe will be transformed into a boutique with delicious
Attendance is complimentary; please bring a dish to pass.
items that are perfect gifts for Valentine’s Day. Decorate heart-shaped sugar cookies to be beautifully packaged, and hand craft a Valentine card for just $3.
FEBRUARY 20 3-ON-3 POND HOCKEY TOURNAMENT LINDY'S LANDING, WAUCONDA The tournament will consist of one division this year with the maximum number of teams 32. The top 12 teams will make the playoffs with the top four seeds earning a bye in the first
FEBRUARY 13 & 14
round. There will be a sched-
56TH ANNUAL CHAIN O' LAKES FISHING DERBY
ule board so teams can check scheduled playing times and oppo-
AND WINTER FESTIVAL
nents. Drink specials and more!
THIRSTY BEACH, ANTIOCH Bring the family and friends to enjoy the good old-fashioned winter fun. Come watch the fishermen register their catch of the hour hoping to win a prize for the smallest or the largest fish. Plenty of good food at the Conservation Café and a children's auction will be held on Sunday.
FEBRUARY 20
FEBRUARY 13
HAWTHORN WOODS WINTER CARNIVAL
SWEETS FOR SWEETIE
COMMUNITY PARK
LAMBS FARM, LIBERTYVILLE
Shake loose from being cooped up inside and get out and enjoy
Come out to the Magnolia Cafe
Community Park for a fun family afternoon complete with refresh-
& Bakery to make and buy spe-
ments, entertainment, music, snowman building contest, games,
cial treats for the loved ones in
sledding and old fashioned wagon rides.
WHOLESALE CARPET DESIGNS Our Service and Selection Will Floor You
Carpet • Hardwood • Vinyl • laminate • CeramiC • Granite
WHOLESALE PRICES TO THE PUBLIC!
Family Owned & Operated We pride ourselves on always giving the lowest possible price - No hidden fees!
VERNON HILLS, 195 N. Milwaukee Ave. Phone: 847-415-2000 • Fax: 847-415-2901
LIBERTYVILLE, 1410 N. Milwaukee Ave. Phone: 847-549-9500 • Fax: 847-549-9504 February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
31
business directory AUTOMOTIVE Motor Werks (847) 969-5425 motorwerks.com
COMMUNITY EVENTS & ORGANIZATIONS Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce (847) 381-2525 barringtonchamber.com
FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING
2 Fancie Girls (309) 265-4227 2fanciegals.wix.com/shop Schwake Stone and Fireplace (847) 566-0799 schwakestone.com Wholesale Carpet Designs, Inc. (847) 415-2000 wholesalecarpetdesign.com
Dorion Gray Retirement Planning (815) 459-6800 doriongray.com
HOME SERVICES
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Seasonal Landscape Solutions (847) 652-8458 seasonallandscape.com
Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago (847) 662-1818 advancedfertility.com/ Crossroad Coaching (847) 508-3001 crossroadcoaching.org Illinois Vein Specialists (847) 277-9100 illinoisveinspecialists.com/
HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS Boone Creek Cabinetry and Design (815) 385-8414 boonecreekcabinet.com Suran Built (815) 444-1293 suranbuilt.com The Fetherling and High Point Developments Prestige Development, Inc. (847) 612-3978
32
HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
Eco Automated Designs (847) 475-4442 ecoautomateddesigns.com
LEGAL SERVICES Dominick T DiMaggio (847) 452-7992
OTHER
Epilogue (847) 383-5912 epilogueart.com Lake Zurich Chamber of Commerce (847) 438-5572 lzacc.com
PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE Helen Oliveri Team (847) 967-0022 helenoliveri.com
Landmark Partners Commercial Realty (847) 649-2666 lpcommercial.com
Renee Clark @properties (847) 612-0027 reneeclarkhomes.com
RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Broken Earth Winery (847) 383-5052 brokenearthwinerylg.com
Mandile’s Italian Ristorante, Banquets & Catering (847) 458-4000 mandilesrestaurant.com
SALONS & SPAS Avalon Salon-Spa (847) 726-8855 avalondeerpark.com
Eighteen Eight Fine Mens Salons (224) 633-2188 Electrology and Skincare by Janet (847) 970-7546 hairremovalbyjanet.com
SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES Lutheran Home (847) 368-7404 lutheranhome.org
TRAVEL & LEISURE
Lake Zurich Travel & Cruise (847) 438-5551 lztravel.com Midwest Spas (847) 438-3500 midwestspasinc.com
Lake Zurich Travel & Celebrity Cruises invite you to discover Alaska with Naturalist and storyteller,
Brent Nixon. Lake Zurich Travel & Celebrity Cruises invites you to discover Alaska with Naturalist and storyteller, Brent Nixon. On a Celebrity Alaska cruise, you won't remember a single thing-you'll remember everything. The glacial vistas from your private veranda stateroom. Planning tomorrow's memories today. Discovering that the best way to see nature is on nature's terms. No one understands this better than Naturalist Brent Nixon. Brent has dedicated over 30 years to wildlife. He has published several books and contributed video footage to National Geographic, Animal Planet, and the Discovery Channel. He's conducted research on both the Humpback and Orca whales. Most importantly, he's put his passion to work as founder of several non-profit wildlife protection and education organizations. You will be in awe of his tales and his gripping delivery! Join us for this very special presentation on February 16 at 6pm at Hawthorn Woods Country Club, enjoy appetizers and a glass of wine. Call Lake Zurich Travel for details, reservations required and limited seating.
461 S Rand Rd Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047 | 847.438.5551 | lztravel.com February 2016 | SW Lake Lifestyle
33
Parting Thoughts
Food Ruts Can Happen Anywhere WORDS DENISE SNODELL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
I
magine an early evening in the 1970’s, somewhere in Provence, France. The late Julia Child is at her vacation home, taking inventory in her kitchen. Fresh, hand-picked ingredients, ever so abundant in the local markets, are heaped on her counters. Culinary confidence emanates from her heart and mind, straight to her fingertips. Alas, it’s close to dinner time. But Julia looks out the window and gazes at the rolling lavender fields. She sighs. This is not just any sigh, but the curious exhale of a person who, at the moment, has just about had it. It’s that familiar epiphany when one recognizes a food rut has boiled over. Boeuf Bourguignon again! Clearly, I made up the above scenario. But I can only guess this kind of thing happened to Julia--yes Julia-- an icon of the epicurean world. She was, after all, human. For those of us who are lesser kitchen mortals, we accept our home-grown kitchen ruts. We even relish our Tuna Melt Tuesdays, or our endless pasta-thons. These are the dishes we can prepare at home, reflexively, with little brain power. We forgive ourselves, because life. But now I’m in the throes of a personal food rut I can’t completely excuse: it’s an eating out one. A kind that, perhaps, should never happen. 34
SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2016
My husband and I discovered a casual “indie” restaurant that suits us like no other. This eatery, in my opinion, matches Julia’s ingredient standards. Every offering is locally sourced, slightly off beat and just plain delicious. The décor is what I would call industrial-yet-warm. Functional-yet-cool. Seating choices are either cozy or center-stage, but always coveted. It doesn’t matter where we sit, though. We go there for the food. We’d happily perch ourselves on a nearby street curb to indulge. I have dubbed this restaurant The Place. We frequent it way too much. I realize many couples have go-to dining spots, but that’s not really the rut part of the equation. The repetitive ingredient is me:
I choose the same menu item every time. Every single time. My eat-and-repeat dish is a fried avocado taco smothered in watercress and other stuff I have yet to identify. The fried aspect might not sound gourmet, but oh man. Generous green chunks of nature’s superfood are coated with a thin layer of breaded heaven, and then gently dunked into simmering liquid gold for just the right amount of time. I will not budge from this selection. Nope. I’ll never try another thing at The Place because one time I did. The veered-off dinner was tasty and great, but it was avocado-less. Not a spec of watercress passed my lips. So much regret to swallow. Never again. Some friends tell me they, too, default to the same menu items at their own favorite dining spots. Like me, they glaze over when food servers recite the chef ’s specials or catches of the day. We become laser focused on That One Dish. I don’t know what this eating out inflexibility thing means. Are we creatures of habit? Stubborn? Unadventurous? Then again, if something is delicious and makes you happy, then why not indulge with fixation? As our old friend Julia Child used to say, “Bon appetit!” Hmm. Talk about ruts. She uttered that phrase a lot. Like, all the time. So there.
We’re Cooking Up Luxurious Plans. astonishing living environments from suran built From kitchens and baths to complete renovations, SURAN BUILT is committed to making your next home remodeling project an outstanding success. Our helpful staff and skilled tradesmen understand that good home design is more than a construction project. Commitment, integrity and attention to detail are the backbone of our work ethic and fuel our ability to create breath-taking living environments that are a reflection of your personality and lifestyle.
SURAN BUILT is now booking for 2016 and we encourage you to schedule a FREE consultation to discuss your home-remodeling ideas. Of course, every home and project is uniquely different and we pride ourselves on our problem solving process that will help transform your dreams into a living reality. To secure your spot in our 2016 project calendar, visit our Crystal Lake showroom today or call SURAN BUILT at 815-444-1293.
30 N WILLIAMS | CRYSTAL LAKE, IL | 815.444.1293