2016/04/27/hero-mom-to-know-april-2016
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PATTI SAMIEC OF OSWEGO, VOLUNTEER ATRECYCLED ROTTS, INC. 
 
 She grew up in Naperville but has been an Oswego resident for the past 17 years.  Patti’s heart and soul belong to her husband and children - three dogs, Jacie 10.5 years old, Mugsy 9.5 years old, and Stella 1 years old.  “I can't remember a time in my life that I have not had a dog in my life,” Patti says.  “For the last 30 years I have had at least two Rottweilers at a time in my home.”  Taking that love for dogs, Patti has been volunteering at Recycled Rott’s, Inc. in Oswego for the past 20 years and became President in 2002.  Recycled Rott’s, Inc. is a Rottweiler rescue 501(c) 3 corporation founded in Oswego in 1994.  “Our total number of dogs we have taken in between 2000 to 2015 is 2089,” she says.  “We have always run on a shoe string budget with the help of our volunteers and veterinarians.” Although for the past 19 years, Patti has worked a full-time job as a Construction Coordinator for Crestview Builders in Naperville, she commits equal the amount of time to Recycled Rotts processing the more than 400 applications they receive each year to ensure a perfect match for each family.  An added bonus to her day job is that she gets to bring ‘her children’ to work!  This iHeroMom is so thankful for modern day social media and websites like Petfinder and AdoptaPet that expedite placement and educate the public on this dynamic and wonderful breed.  -Kristen Kucharski  Know a West Suburban Hero Mom? 
 
 Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com #HeroMomstoKnow

HERO MOM TO KNOW | May 2016

PATTI SAMIEC OF OSWEGO, VOLUNTEER ATRECYCLED ROTTS, INC. She grew up in Naperville but has been an Oswego resident for the past 17 years....

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THE STEAMBOAT HOUSE GALENA, ILLINOIS 
 
 If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway that is fairly close to home, then Galena is just the spot. Guests love all of the unique attractions, the quaint shops and more. Treat your favorite mom to a bed & breakfast with classic charm. One that truly stands out is The Steamboat House, a 7,000 sq. ft. grand home featuring a billiard room, library, parlors, fine antique furnishings, huge front porch, gazebo and gardens.  The award-winning inn is one of Galena’s largest and most luxurious mansions situated in a perfect location – just 1.5 blocks from historic Main Street. She’ll love the 3-course breakfast each morning, evening “wine time” and the many places to read and relax.  The Steamboat House has been included in three national cookbooks and many other publications, and now Glancer Magazine. Be sure to check out the many fabulous packages available such as Lift Your Spirits! which is their new distillery and wine tour package.  Choose the “Super Taster” -- includes a tour & tasting at the Blaum Bros. Distillery, a tour/tasting/purchase at Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery, plus 2 Steamboat House souvenir wineglasses ($65) or the “Little Taste” -- choose either the Distillery or Winery Tour which also includes souvenir wineglasses ($40). Packages must include a 2-night stay.  Remember to give the gift of experience this Mother’s Day and treat her to a charming stay at this Galena favorite. www.thesteamboathouse.com 
 
 -Lindy Kleivo #TrendyTraveler #GlancerMagazine #TravelLeisure #April2016 #LindyKleivo

TRENDY TRAVELER | April 2016

THE STEAMBOAT HOUSE GALENA, ILLINOIS If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway that is fairly close to home, then Galena is just...

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MAMA MIA! 
 
 Brunch Italiano Style Looking for a perfect place to treat mom that’s filled with rich tradition? Then head to Buca di Beppo in Lombard where they serve up authentic Italian cuisine in a fun, eclectic, vintage setting. Dishes are served family-style, meant to be shared by everyone at the table and every dish tastes delightful. Mom will love you for it! www.bucadibeppo.com       MOTHER NATURE Eats & Outdoor Treats If you love the great outdoors and all that Mother Nature stands for, then celebrate Mom and all that she stands for at Morton Arboretum‘s Mother’s Day Brunch at Ginkgo Restaurant on Sunday, May 8. Enjoy all of her favorites, plus a world class kid’s buffet every parent will love! Seatings at 9am, noon, and 3pm. www.mortonarb.org     TAPAS TIME 
 
 Moms Love It! Mom will feel wonderful after brunch with all of her favorite people at Meson Sabika in Naperville. Indulge in a medley of delectable cold and hot tapas, paella and other specialties. A special treat is that each guest over 21 will receive a complimentary glass of Champagne or Mimosa. Cheers! Reservations fill up fast. www.mesonsabika.com    HAZEL, ANYONE? 
 
 Brunch & A Musical Treat your sweet mom to a beautiful day filled with fun. What better way to celebrate Mother's Day than with her entire family at Drury Lane? Before or after brunch, take her to the theatre for the world premiere musical "Hazel" directed and choreographed by Emmy Award Winner Joshua Bergasse. She will be so happy you did! www.drurylane.com #OnTheFunFront

ON THE FUN FRONT | April 2016

MAMA MIA! Brunch Italiano Style Looking for a perfect place to treat mom that’s filled with rich tradition? Then head to Buca di Beppo...

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THE WILLIAMS FAMILY of WHEATON 
 
 Having been raised on the south side of Wheaton and assuming the role in his family's business as 4th Generation Owner/Funeral Director at Williams-Kampp Funeral Homes in Wheaton and West Chicago, Dan bleeds west suburban blood through and through; so it was a natural choice for he and his wife, Jenny, to purchase their family home in 2007 and raise their son, Aaron.  
  
 
 Jenny received her BA in Psychology at Aurora University and a MAT-LBS1 from National Louis University in Lisle. She continues her career as Vocational Coordinator/ Teacher at Wheaton North High School.  
  
 
 The couple extends their west suburban outreach to membership at St. Irene’s Catholic Church in Warrenville and weekly Sunday dinners with extended family. Their network expands to Dan’s Wheaton Lion’s Club membership and Jenny’s affiliation with DuPage TPC (Transition Planning Committee). 
  
 
 From shopping at Danada Square, to eating at their favorite Wheaton restaurant, Front Street Cantina, to watching Aaron play basketball at the Glen Ellyn YMCA, the Williams family feels as though they are living the American dream.  “We are grateful for the opportunities that have come our way, have provided each other continuous support and look forward to what the future holds" Jenny shares.  “We are fortunate to be able to give back to our local community through our daily work.” 
  
 
 With couture and fashion at the forefront this month, The Williams love shopping at the Chicago Premium Outlet Mall. While Jenny frequents J Crew and Express, Dan and Aaron can be found expanding their athletic shoe collection at Nike and Under Amour.  Overall, this family values all the positives in their lives and love living in the west suburbs of Chicago. -Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Mike Mantucca

FABULOUS FAMILY | April 2016

THE WILLIAMS FAMILY of WHEATON Having been raised on the south side of Wheaton and assuming the role in his family's business as 4th...

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7 SPECTACULAR ON-TREND PLACES FOR MOM THIS SPRING Moms love to be on trend, as hard as it may be at times! With juggling crazy car pool schedules and meetings with the boss, it can be challenging to find time to shop for the latest styles. And when we do have time, we often find ourselves asking the question of where to go so we won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed while browsing, but leave feeling satisfied. Get ready to shop, because we have just the places in mind...7 of them to be exact!  1. Evereve 
 
 Founded in 2004, Evereve (formerly Hot Mama) was built around the theme of motherhood. Founders Megan and Mike Tamte, created an upscale boutique that is a fashion resource for moms by offering on-trend, contemporary apparel + accessories that fits a mom’s lifestyle. Just be a mom. They'll take care of the rest. Naperville & Wheaton. www.evereve.com  2. Jeans & a Cute Top Shop 
 
 A friendly, and affordable, contemporary women’s boutique located in Wheaton, Downers Grove, and St. Charles. There are no surprises when you enter each sunshine-inspired shop, as they stay true to their concept of featuring jeans and cute tops, but also jackets, sweaters, shoes,  jewelry, accessories & dresses. www.jeansandacutetopshop.com  3. Anew 
 
 Is your wardrobe looking a little tired? Renew your look without paying new prices. Anew is designed for women and teens in the Fox Valley who are discriminating shoppers, but also wish to be responsible in their spending. The on-trend boutique consignment shop is a popular place on the Geneva retail scene. www.anewwaytoshop.com  4. Bella Roba 
 
 You will love this high-style bazaar with an eclectic mix of clothing, jewelry, accessories, antiques, furniture, home decor and fond items. Known for on-trend and unique pieces, this place will leave you clicking your heels with complete happiness. Located downtown Wheaton. 
 www.bella-roba.com 
 5. Glam & Glitz Boutique 
 
 The philosophy that this chic boutique has in approaching each customer is integrity. Their aim is never to sell anything that does not compliment their clients (we love that!). Not only do they want you to leave the Boutique with a wardrobe that brings your style a little more fashion forward, but they are all about helping you feel beautiful! Party packages for your stylish girl also available. 
 www.glamandglitzonline.com  6. Boutique Repeats 
 
 Fun and fashion all in one! This area boutique provides customers with new and gently used clothes, purses, jewelry and so much more. They buy, consign and sell designer and better brand name women’s apparel, accessories, home decor and furniture. Each time you visit, you will be so impressed with what’s new. This place is truly one of a kind. Located in Aurora on Eola. www.boutiquerepeat.com  7. Kie & Kate Couture This Elmhurst boutique is on trend and ready for you to indulge in all of your favorites! Women’s clothing, handbags, accessories, jewelry, candles, inspirational signs & pillows, gourmet treats and so much more. You’ll love browsing this unique shop so much that you’ll want to book a shopping party for your favorite gal pals that includes Karaoke, a party favor bag, a props trunk and more. www.kiekatecouture.com 
 
 WATCH FOR A NEW 7 SPECTACULAR LIST IN EVERY ISSUE OF GLANCER MAGAZINE – SUBSCRIBE TODAY! #7SpectacularList

7 SPECTACULAR LIST | April 2016

7 SPECTACULAR ON-TREND PLACES FOR MOM THIS SPRING Moms love to be on trend, as hard as it may be at times! With juggling crazy car pool...

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NOT ALL BULLIES YELL AND THROW THINGS: HOW TO SURVIVE A SUBTLE WORKPLACE BULLY 
 
 Glory Borgeson, Wheaton Before embarking on this literary journey, the author became concerned about the targets of workplace bullying and what people experience - enormous amounts of stress, many types of medical conditions, subtle humiliations at work, fear of losing their job or actually losing their job, and more. She wanted to create a tool in the form of a book that helps them decide what to do to get the bullying to stop, how to navigate their decision processes, how to lower their stress level, and how to know when it's best to find a new job. The book was published in 2015 and is the 7th book for Glory. 
 
 This book defines workplace bullying from the standpoint of the target. Subtle bullying is so covert that targets will wonder why they're experiencing stress symptoms such as chest pain, headaches, loss of sleep, loss of concentration, and other symptoms. 
 
 “My hope is that the book helps people stop the workplace bullying in their lives so that they can get back their dignity, self respect, career, and good health,” said Glory. Available at www.amazon.com 
 
 She recently published her first fiction book, "Mocked", under the pen name Liv Parker. She also has two online courses on Udemy.com - one course teaches how to make money from your videos on YouTube; the other is for people in their 20s on how to be smarter about their job search to win the job over heir peers. 
 THE “I HAVE...” SERIES 
 
 Colleen LeMaire, Oswego Colleen LeMaire grew up in St. Charles and lives in Oswego with her husband and stepdaughter. Her first book published in 2014, she has since published another with a third in the process. 
 
 “I started this series because I needed it. As my stepdaughter has grown up, she has asked some tough questions. Unfortunately, many adults don’t always have the best answers, and their emotions get the best of them,” said the author, who feels very strongly about shielding children from discussions meant for adults. 
 
 “Wanting to help my stepdaughter thrive, I searched high and low for a children’s book that would help her understand the grown-up topic of divorce but on a kid-friendly level.  I saw a mountain of resources for adults experiencing divorce, but I saw very little for the kids,” said the author. 
 
 She wants her readers to know that it’s okay to not always know the right words to say. Let these pages do the talking, and spark healthy conversations in your family. Available at www.amazon.com/author/colleenlemaire 
 
 I Have A Stepdad is currently in process, and from there will come I Have Two Moms, I Have Two Dads, I Have A Guardian Angel, I Have A Sibling With Special Needs, I Have A Sibling In Heaven, I Have A Transgender Parent, and more!  TOGETHER IN THE DREAM: THE UNIQUE CAREERS OF A HUSBAND & WIFE IN THE EARLY DECADES OF WALT DISNEY WORLD 
 
 Suzanne & R.J. Ogren, Naperville This is the first published work together for these local authors. Suzanne has a story in "Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Gift of Christmas (published 2010). R.J. has illustrated two books: "Willard the Wizard" (now in the Smithsonian archives), and "George C. Marshall: Soldier and Statesman" (published by the George C. Marshall Foundation). 
 
 Their passion for this unique project comes from their love of all things Disney, a combined goal of working for the Disney organization, and their desire to have their unique stories shared. 
 
 The book includes humorous and touching stories of both backstage and onstage magic of Walt Disney World in the 70s, 80s and 90s. It encompasses R.J.’s work as a Audio-Animatronic management artist, painting all the attraction figures, and Suzanne's work, starting on monorails, then to Characters, and eventually to Entertainment Management. Available through www.themeparkpress.com, Amazon, and Kindle. Also available at Anderson's Bookshop in Naperville. 
 
 More books are on the horizon for each of the authors– some of them will be Disney themed. 
  #LiteraryLocals

LITERARY LOCALS | Glory Borgeson, Wheaton; Colleen LeMaire, Oswego; Suzanne & R.J. Ogren, Naperv

NOT ALL BULLIES YELL AND THROW THINGS: HOW TO SURVIVE A SUBTLE WORKPLACE BULLY Glory Borgeson, Wheaton Before embarking on this literary...

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DAWN WHEATLAND AND KRISTIN MORROW, ELMHURST – NO FRILLS RUN 
 
 Elmhurst moms, Dawn and Kristin, want their kids to grow up watching them help others in the community in hopes they will keep the tradition alive as they get older.   Putting words into action, these avid runners came up with the idea of organizing a race to benefit a family within their community who was experiencing a medical hardship or death; hence, the No Frills Race was founded in 2011.   Between the two moms, they have six kids, ranging in age from 2 to 12 years old.  With the help of their husbands, who do much of the parenting the month of the race, Dawn and Kristin are able to dedicate 30 hours a week to the event needs.  “The city of Elmhurst is also really wonderful to us,” Kristin says, “and the businesses in our community are SO GENEROUS, donating raffle baskets, silent auction items, money, food, etc.  I think people embrace the idea of supporting a family in our own community who needs love and support.”  With so many local families in need, choosing just one is difficult, so they recruited a very diverse nominating committee consisting of 7 people from all over our community.  This year’s race was in honor of Darryl May, an Elmhurst resident, ambitious athlete, community activist and family man who is battling bone marrow cancer.  Thanks to 310 runners at this year’s run, Darryl will receive $53,025.48! www.NoFrillsFunRun.org  –Kristen Kucharski  Know a West Suburban Hero Mom? 
 
 Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com #HeroMomstoKnow

HERO MOMS TO KNOW | April 2016

DAWN WHEATLAND AND KRISTIN MORROW, ELMHURST – NO FRILLS RUN Elmhurst moms, Dawn and Kristin, want their kids to grow up watching them...

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HOW TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF YOU! Highlighting how local area women can be the best version of themselves through everyday struggles that we face.  EVERYDAY STRUGGLE: My 5 siblings and I are planning a family reunion this summer to surprise our 65 year old parents. A few are flying in for it, others are driving, some live close by. The guest count should be around 50. The only things is that one sibling is refusing to come unless we all chip in to pay for her family’s airfare since she recently lost her job. They are very angry at us for planning this and we are all very torn. Is pitching in fair to everyone or should we continue to plan without?  –Mary C., Naperville  It’s never fun managing the emotions of others, let alone family.  I would look at the situation with kindness and compassion.  Understand that your sibling is most likely anxious, scared and possibly suffering from being out of work.  Reassure him/her that it is ok to miss family events, if it’s going to cause distress and angst rather than joy in their life.  As an adult, that is their decision to make.    Perhaps a loan is an option if you base that decision on how your parents would feel if one sibling is missing such a wonderful surprise.  EVERYDAY STRUGGLE: My heart is aching so badly right now for a mom I know in the neighborhood. Our girls play together on occasion and she is the sweetest woman. I'm sad because I recently saw her husband out downtown Chicago acting more-than-friendly with another woman we know in the community. I know it's not my business at all, but I would want to know if someone saw my husband snuggling up with someone other that me. Be brave enough to tell or mind my own business? -100% Anonymous  Most women say they want to know. Determine if you say something or not by the strength and loyalty of your friendship.  Every friendship is different, every marriage is different and every affair is different. There is no one answer to this question that will fit everyone, all the time. So if you do tell her, I'd start with the least amount of information you need to give. Being loyal to her doesn't mean telling her everything you know, it means telling her enough so that she can try it on and make her best decisions. It's usually best to tell her what you know with a little bit of doubt, allowing her to save face if she chooses denial. Don't force a long conversation or intervention, just move on. You can know she'll undoubtedly keep thinking about it.   Loyalty may mean protecting her from this news for now if you feel that's the best option. Loyalty can also mean helping her face her feelings, no matter how reactionary they are.  Either way, as a friend continue to love and support her through each phase of her life and help her find the best version of “her”.  Perhaps she will then see what is happening with her own eyes.   ABOUT THE WRITER  Joann Pierce is a wellness and fitness enthusiast who is living a lifestyle she never thought was possible. She’s been a stay-at-home Mom for 12 years and started in fitness years ago– from kickboxing to yoga. Continuing her journey in 2011, she completed her 200hr Yoga Certification at Prairie Yoga in Lisle. With over 1000 teaching hours, she completed her associate Life Coach Certification in 2013 and became a Beachbody Coach. Joann Pierce #phase40 Fitness, Empowering you is what we do. Beachbody Coach, Life Coach, RYT 200hr Yogi • www.phase40fitness.com FB: Joann Pierce 
 
 joannpierce@phase40fitness.com

EVERYDAY STRUGGLES | April 2016

HOW TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF YOU! Highlighting how local area women can be the best version of themselves through everyday struggles...

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April 2016 - PREPARED WITH PASSION 
 
 Since it opened in late July 2015, The Finery and Blacksmith Bar has been receiving rave reviews as a notable culinary institution.  This new, come as you are, fine dining restaurant in Saint Charles has built up such a reputation we decided to see what it was all about.  
 
 Characterized as refined New American flare with a global influence, The Finery & Blacksmith Bar does not disappoint. This unpretentious but polished restaurant is the result of Co-Owners/Chefs David and Juliette Reyes.  Both are classically trained in French cuisine with international credentials.  Juliette has worked in Chicago restaurants such at Spiaggia; whereas, David worked in France for a 2 star Michelin rated restaurant.  His Italian, Spanish and Mexican heritage along with both of their years of experience and passion for food combine to make a creative flavorful menu. 
 
 Upscale yet casual, the building was once home to the areas first blacksmith shop.  The exposed brick walls and wood beams give an intimate rustic mix, welcoming you to an exceptional dining experience. Beginning with prompt attentive service, under the eye of assistant manager John Chandler, the menu cumulates into something that only can be described by Chef Reyes, “I want to cook like I did with my family growing up.  Hand picking the food and preparing it with passion.” 
 
 Brunch is served from 11:00-3:00 Sunday and Saturday.  The creative menu is a selection of the finest ingredients locally sourced.  The combination of these bold flavors and exceptional ingredients gives this farm to table some flair. 
 
 The creative and delicious menu contains items such as: • Crème brulee French toast – with pear compote & topped with custard 
 
 • Biscuits and pork belly – homemade biscuit with melt-in-your-mouth thick crispy pork belly topped with a creamy gravy 
 
 • Egg and Tortilla Stack – layers of tortillas stacked with in-house smoked pork shoulder, avocado, and salsa Verde that Juliette shared with us is made by David’s mom, topped with an egg 
 
 • Potato Pancakes with squash - stack of potato pancakes served over diced squash sauce 
 
 • Banana Walnut French toast – thick toast topped with bananas & walnuts 
 
 • Tres leches Pancakes – pancakes topped with a coconut caramel sauce  Not only is the food exceptional, but so is the drink menu with artisan cocktails, eclectic wine selection, Midwestern brews, and amazing signature bloody mars. 
 
 From the ambiance, top notch service, decadent food, and amazing drinks, we were so thoroughly impressed we had to return the very next Sunday!  The Finery & Blacksmith Bar 
 
 305 W. Main St, Saint Charles 
 
 (630) 940-2380 • www.thefineryrestaurant.com 
 
 Co-Owners/Chefs: David & Juliette Reyes  ABOUT THE WRITERS  Stephanie & Tiffany (left) Schmoker are west suburban sisters who have always shared a love for dining out and they also enjoy cooking together. They came from a family of 7 and grew up on farm with fresh fruits, veggies and more. Watch for their review of a different west suburban restaurant in each issue of Glancer Magazine. 
  
  #GlancerMagazine #DiningCabaret #SavorySweetSisters #StephanieSchmoker #TiffanySchmoker #FeaturedBlog #April2016

SAVORY & SWEET SISTERS | The Finery Blacksmith & Bar

April 2016 - PREPARED WITH PASSION Since it opened in late July 2015, The Finery and Blacksmith Bar has been receiving rave reviews as a...

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April 2016 – CABIN FEVER? 
 
 Yes – it’s indeed that time of year when the weather makes planning outdoor activities difficult due to random April snow, torrential downpours, or insane wind speeds. The kids are climbing the walls - even perhaps hanging from the chandeliers, and Naperville Yard is saving the day with Open Play hours just in time!  I first visited Westmont Yard, which is owned by the same person, back in 2011 when my daughters were 9 and 10 years old; but, since Naperville Yard is geared toward toddlers to twelve year olds, I borrowed some friends to test out this brand new facility.   This is a brilliant place to burn some raw energy with their mega sports fields, five-level play tower, and multiple inflatables.  It’s like combining all the fun of Pump-It-Up with Players Indoor Sports and the very best McDonald’s playland structure in town – AND it’s all included in the $8/fee!  The facility is ginormous, so even if hundreds of children were there at one time, I am not sure you would feel cramped.  The kids were doing cartwheels, playing tag, picked up a great game of soccer with some other friends, and enjoyed just having the freedom to run in circles without having to worry about weather or muddy ground conditions.  The playing field is state of the art rubber infill turf that is comfortable to run on and provides cushion for falls.   The five-level playing tower has four slides and the kids seemed to really love the climbing ropes and nets toward the top of the structure, as well as the opportunity to play hide and seek in and out of the various hide-a-ways.  Underneath and surrounding the large structures are various toddler areas including a caterpillar tunnel and soft marshmallow climbers.  This vast 2800 square foot playroom is filled with slides, obstacle courses, jumpies, balls, soccer nets, climbers, swinging ropes and so much more!  There is simply no way to get bored.  Overview 
 
 Enjoy open play with your kids at Naperville Yard’s five-level play tower, toddler climbers, multiple inflatables, and generous turf field space for soccer or any other field activity.  Naperville Yard 
 
 1607 Legacy Circle, Naperville 
 
 (630) 245-1100 
 
 www.NapervilleYard.com  Hours: Hours: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday through Memorial Day Price $:  $8/child; Parents free  about the writer 
 
 Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State University in 1992 with an International Business Degree.  She is married and has two energetic daughters and her house is always full of children.  Kristen’s column titled, Mom's Little Black Book, is a monthly feature written for moms who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy. #GlancerMagazine #KidsTeens #MomsLittleBlackBook #KristenKucharski #FeaturedBlog #April2016 #MBBSportsRecreation

MOM'S LITTLE BLACK BOOK | April 2016

April 2016 – CABIN FEVER?
Yes – it’s indeed that time of year when the weather makes planning outdoor activities difficult due to random Apr

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ULTRA STYLISH???? HMMMMMM. – Mommy Couture. Pardon me while I have myself a good giggle over here. I may have once dreamed of being an ultra-stylish mom, but let’s face it, I wasn’t an ultra-stylish teenager or an ultra-stylish 20-something. I’m more the ‘I know what fits my body’ kinda girl, or a ‘oh look, the clearance rack at Target. Why yes, I’ll get a few long sweaters, are they still in?’ kinda mom.  That may be a little harsh, but it’s mostly true. But I’m also a girl who listens to her mom, and my mom always says “Shoes and accessories make the outfit.” She also says, “Your shoe size is the only thing that never changes.” Of course we all know that’s not true after a couple kiddos, but you get the gist.  Whether your daily outfit consists of yoga pants or jeans, skirts or leggings, shoes and accessories are where it’s at. Stop by Francesca’s (25 W. Jefferson Ave.) in downtown Naperville and you will not be disappointed. This is a go-to place for me to add a little sparkle and shine for a date night or a ladies lunch. After cute new earrings you can browse the store and find a cute pair of boots, short or tall, heels or flats.  While I may not be the most fashion forward, I do have some very stylish friends. I asked perhaps the most stylish ... that means she dresses for the day like I’d dress for a night on the town, then add one more necklace ... where she shops.  She swears by Ootra. This downtown Naperville boutique recently moved from Jefferson Avenue to 303 N. Center Street. Now a stylist boutique by appointment only, you get owner Debbie Jagel’s undivided attention and leave feeling like a million bucks.  If you’re looking for a more mainstream retail experience, head to Springbrook Prairie Pavilion. Here you can browse the shoe aisles of Nordstrom Rack and the ‘ol reliable DSW.  They never fail to disappoint.  Just remember to stay comfortable and stay true to you. And most importantly, remember to always listen to your mom. 
   ABOUT THE WRITER Katie Manker of Naperville is a wife, small business owner, sister, daughter and friend, but first and foremost she’s Mom to her red-headed mafia. You’ll find her driving the activities bus by day, and laughing and enjoying her family and friends by night. Katie’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Sgt. Tommys Kids. Learn more at www.sgttommyskids.org #ModernHousewives

MODERN HOUSEWIVES | Naperville Area, April 2016

ULTRA STYLISH???? HMMMMMM. – Mommy Couture. Pardon me while I have myself a good giggle over here. I may have once dreamed of being an...

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BIG PLANS FOR SUMMER –  I am a planner.  I admit it.  I have already squared away our summer with a strong line up of camps and events.  Enough to keep them busy, but enough pool and summer fun as well.  Here are some of my favorites from around town.  
 
 For the last three years, my kids have attended various week long camps and Lyman Woods.  My biggest fear has always been that a) it was too hot, b) too buggy, and c) see “a” and “b”.  Fear not campers, they stay so busy moving around that I have never received a complaint.  Bravo Lyman Woods.  They cannot wait to be 9 so they can attend the Beekeepers Camp.  Until then, they will have fun hitting the trails and making lots of discoveries.  Register through www.dgparks.com. 
 
 If your son or daughter plans on playing soccer in the Fall, I would try and kick start it (pun intended) with the 5 Star Soccer Camp at McCollum Park from August 1st – 5th.  Run by Coach Mike Wiggins, it has been a real treat seeing my kids make new friends and pick up skills along the way.  Coach Wiggins has been coaching soccer at Hinsdale Central for 22 years and prior to that coached the Downers Grove South Mustangs.  I highly recommend this camp not only due to the improvement that I have seen first-hand in players, but also the relationship he and his crew forge with the players and during the week.  Register at www.5starsoccer.com. 
 
 My daughter will be enrolling in Kindergarten next year and one of the traditions in my family is mandatory attendance at “Safety Town” in August.  This camp is run by The Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club, Downers Grove Park District, and Downers Grove Police Department.  It gives these children understandable tips and know-how to keep safe as they are being released into the “wild” of elementary schools.  Registration is through the Downers Grove Park District. 
 
 I recently heard about a “camp” for adults.  Needless to say, I am intrigued.  I have never been to “Camp No Counselors” (www.campnocounselors.com) - an all-inclusive sleepaway camp for grown-ups at The Wisconsin Dells – but it looks like they offer up a mean game of Capture the Flag, an open bar and gourmet meals.  Can somebody please check it out and let me know if it is too good to be true?  This is right up my alley!   ABOUT THE WRITER Anne Healy has lived in Downers Grove for the last eight years with her husband Tom and three children.  Beyond attempting to find the latest local fun spots for Glancer Magazine readers, you can find Anne coaching soccer, teaching Junior Achievement within District 58, or telling her three kids to “slow down”. Anne’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Hopes Front Door.  The organization helps countless individuals and their families in Downers Grove and neighboring communities by providing emergency assistance to those in need.  This summer, the organization sponsored a Backpack Drive for students in the area enabling hundreds of students to start this school year with supplies they need.  www.hopesfrontdoor.com. 
  #ModernHousewives

MODERN HOUSEWIVES | Downers Area, April 2016

BIG PLANS FOR SUMMER – I am a planner. I admit it. I have already squared away our summer with a strong line up of camps and events. ...

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