2016/04/27/editors-note-may-2016
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iMOM WELCOME TO MAY! This month we are celebrating modern moms. Though I would say I am more old fashioned than I am modern, I do enjoy the conveniences of today’s technology, especially when it comes to being a mom. Like many, I admit I’m addicted to my iPhone. So much that I once actually ran around the house looking for it in a complete panic when I thought it was lost only to realize that I was talking on it. #TrueStory  From iPads and iPhones and all of the apps that come with them, I definitely have my iMom favorites. For my little ones (ages 2 & 5), I love the SesameGO  app by Sesame Street (now free) for all of its learning games and videos, and of course Netflix  for providing me 24-7 access to Sofia the First which comes in handy– especially during inevitable toddler melt down moments while standing in a long line at the grocery store. (Yes, I’m THAT mom!)   For my 12 year old who loves fashion, dance and all things girlie-girl, I love Pinterest . She has had so much fun browsing & creating boards–  from the latest styles to fun recipes, it’s opened up a whole new world for her! For her and her friends, their new fave is Musical.ly  making it easy & fun to create lip syncing videos and share them in social media. They’re having a blast with it!   For me, my new favorite app is Rent the Runway. I tried it for the first time when I needed a formal gown for the Casa Kane County Gala in March. I logged in, browsed my preferred styles using the filters, saw what each dress looks like on typical women (thanks to the user photo gallery) and in 30 minutes time– from the comfort of my couch– I found the perfect dress to rent (and jewelry to match). It was on my porch 3 days later packed perfectly in a garment bag. Not only was the dress gorgeous, but the experience was so much fun. I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!  The price was great and I will for sure be using this app again.  So, no matter what type of mom you may be – modern, old fashioned, or a little bit of both – we all can agree that technology sure makes our life easier one way or another. We hope you enjoy this issue and Happy Mother’s Day! Thanks for reading.  
 
 Lindy Kleivo 
 
 Publisher/Editor #FamilyTime

EDITOR'S NOTE | May 2016

iMOM WELCOME TO MAY! This month we are celebrating modern moms. Though I would say I am more old fashioned than I am modern, I do enjoy...

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iMOMS: TOTALLY TECH-READY These west suburban area iMoms are smart, sophisticated, and as tech-savvy as can be. Each has her own secret to staying on target when it comes to being up to date with the latest technology, social media, must-have apps and more. Whether they’re focusing on staying fit, organizing the kids’ schedules or building an e-business– whatever their goals may be, these iMoms are as efficient as ever and totally tech ready.  
 Jenn Schumaker Kill 
 
 Sugar Grove, Online Resale iMom 
 
 Jenn Schumaker Kill of Sugar Grove is an iMom that relies on different technologies to run her own business.  Just under 2 years ago, she started up an online Facebook resale business titled, Sugar Grove Illinois Sweet Deals to sell nice name brand clothing and items for busy moms and families.  “The transactions are transparent to both parties,” explains Jenn.  “However, I stamp my name on the quality of the items I sell, and the trust placed in me is ultimately what has fueled Sweet Deals to become such a unique concept in this crowded Facebook space.” Jenn lives with her husband, Paul, and her two busy children, Jack (10) and Madelyn (6).  As she runs to basketball, soccer, drama and mom errands, she relies on her smartphone to work from anywhere.  This connection allows her to reach her clients and customers in a timely manner. On their off-time, you will find the Kill Family having fun with their technology, like playing games and watching funny YouTube videos.  They also enjoy using Facebook and Instagram to stay connected to their family and friends near and far. However, family time is still important to them.  “On a Sunday night, after family dinner, you will often find us snuggled on the couch for movie night with popcorn and treats!” –Mindy Kyle  Linda Przybylski, Elmhurst 
 
 iMom GoFundMe 
 
 She’s a tech savvy grandma that has learned how to navigate websites through her place of work; but, has become the queen of social media out of the pure desire to help her granddaughter.  “I started my GoFundMe page July 2015 after Audrey's genetic test results detected a mutation in the MT-ND6 gene and a diagnosis of Leigh's disease a mitochondrial disorder,” Linda shares.  “The GofundMe account was the best way to reach out to friends, family and neighbors who expressed interest in supporting her by allowing online donations.”  Linda, a 29 year resident of Elmhurst, didn't have a Facebook account prior to GoFundMe; but it was a requirement to establish the page, along with a minimum of 10 friends for the account to be publicly displayed.  “I soon found out it wasn't hard to collect friends on Facebook, and in no time we were public,” she says.  “I quickly learned to use their online support team whenever I had questions.” $8565 has been raised to date covering medicines, equipment, and travel that is not approved by insurance.  Linda is also involved with fundraising for the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation and is team captain for Audrey's Crusaders in the Chicago Walkathon held last summer in Hinsdale.  -Kristen Kucharski 
 Meg Stromberg, Aurora 
 
 iMom International 
 
 Although she has lived the Naperville area for the past 18 years, Meg is an iMom International as she took her passion for travel and culture to create an International Exchange program for French and Spanish students.  Share America allows students to experience the American way of life by living with an American family in the west suburbs for as short as three weeks or as long as several months, through 12 different programs. Thankful for modern day technology, Meg uses the Share-America.org website to educate families, complete applications, and post photos; as well as sites like www.terralingua.com/sejours_2016/a to communicate easily with coordinators overseas.  Apps like WhatsApp and Viper help students communicate with each other without using cell phone data plans.  “When I first began coordinating, I didn’t own a computer,” Meg says.  “I sent things through the U.S. Mail and made many phone calls that can now so easily be accomplished via emails and attachments.” Technology like Facetime also allows Meg to connect with her sons and former students. “Talking on the phone is one thing; but, to see a face, an expression, a smile, or to blow a kiss is priceless.”  -Kristen Kucharski 
 Donna Román, Chicago/Geneva 
 
 iMom Teacher 
 
 Prior to moving to Chicago 1 ½ years ago to work within the Chicago Public School system, Donna and her husband raised their two children in Geneva for the past 20 years.  While teaching 5th grade at Mill Creek School in Geneva, Donna discovered her passion for technology integration in the classroom. Now working in a technology leadership position, Donna is making decisions regarding technology not only within Chicago Public Schools, but also has a voice on a national level.  “My favorite online tool for the classroom is Kidblog for classroom writing.  Students can share their work within the same school or around the world,” Donna says.  She also loves the free opportunities Google Apps for Education offers; but, it was her participation in an online global collaboration project called A Week in the Life, that changed the way she taught forever.  “It was a pilot project with schools in India, China, the Czech Republic, New York, Dubai, and Mill Creek School in Geneva,” Donna says.  “We worked collaboratively to compare our lives using online tools. “When you are in a classroom of students while they are working with kids around the world, they are just human beings working together, and are comfortable navigating culture, language and differences.”  -Kristen Kucharski  Michelle Crowe, Hinsdale 
 
 Online Publishing iMom Michelle Crowe partly grew up in Hinsdale, so when she arrived back with her family in 2010 after moving to multiple cities across the country, it felt nice to be back home.  A professional writer by trade, Michelle once wrote for the Chicago Tribune and the Houston Chronicle before moving to San Francisco to write editorial for Banana Republic.  Currently, she has found her niche as a founding partner and style editor of the online publication, Classic Chicago Magazine.  “It’s been really exciting to be a part of a start-up,” says Michelle.  “I love writing in my own style again.” Classic Chicago is published digitally, and Michelle also runs their Facebook account, shares Twitter duties, and writes a blog, so for this iMom, current technology is vital for running her business.  She finds it just as essential while running her family.  Her son, Jeffrey (8) is involved in multiple sports while she juggles church, charity and PTO activities.  She really depends on iCal to run her family calendar, keep track of games, meetings and other commitments. Michelle is also thrilled that fun technology like YouTube can help her share snippets of past favorite shows with her son.  “We can look them up and laugh together,” she explains.  “Jeffrey likes shooting videos now, and would love to have his own YouTube channel.” -Mindy Kyle 
 Sue Becker, Downers Grove 
 
 Organized iMom 
 
 As a child, Sue loved cleaning the house and keeping her room neat.  In high school and college, class notes were well-laid out and she used a calendar to plan assignments.  As she moved to the corporate world and began working at a Fortune 500 company, the managers held a ‘Clean Off Your Desk Day’. “I was puzzled.  I didn’t understand why this special day was necessary, since my desk was always clean,” Sue says.  That day, she discovered her true passion and proceeded to open her own business Piles to Smiles in 2000.  Although Sue has lived in Downers Grove for the past 28 years, she is able to help her clients anywhere in the world thanks to modern day technology.  “I use Skype or GoToMeeting and have also taught classes via WebEx,” Sue says.  She also loves sites like Evernote, Remember The Milk, and Trello to create and organize lists, notes, and reminders; as well as Outlook and Google calendar to access and share her calendar from anywhere.  Other hot sites are SugarSync to back up files and photos and Genius Scanlets to snap a picture of a document and convert it to a PDF. Mother of two grown boys, this Organized iMom has it all together!  -Kristen Kucharski  Ally Pancottine Naperville Do-It-All iMom 
 
 When Naperville resident Ally Pancottine was a child, she enjoyed taking things like clocks and radios apart and learning how they worked.  Any time new technology would come out, she was always first to find out what it was and how it worked. Her love for technology has never wavered as she uses her iPhone to organize her life and activities for her two children, Angelina (16) and Ferris (9).  She has used her intuitive sense of how technology can make a difference to assist many in the senior community.  “I enjoy helping my senior friends with technology,” Ally says.  “From understanding how it can help them, to setting up devices to be accessible and easier to use so they can manage their finances, play games, read, and most importantly, stay connected with family and friends.” Technology has also helped her manage her second home in northern Illinois with advances like Nest thermostats to control the heat and air via an app as well as ConnectSense outlets to control and monitor power usage.  Ally’s favorite device is Ring, a doorbell which creates home security by allowing video communication with the person at the door via your iPhone. iProducts have helped this iMom stay connected here, there, and everywhere! -Kristen Kucharski 
  #GlancerMagazine #LIfestyle #May2016 #KristenKucharski #MindyKyle #LocalWomen

COVER STORY | iMoms, May 2016

iMOMS: TOTALLY TECH-READY These west suburban area iMoms are smart, sophisticated, and as tech-savvy as can be. Each has her own secret...

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THE DOUCET FAMILY, OSWEGO 
 
 Tony and Michelle have lived in Oswego for the past 13 years with their teen twins, Abigail and Joshua (13).  They love being a part of the growing community and enjoy strolling around downtown and going to places like the Village Grind, Go Dog Go, the Farmer’s Market, and the local dog park in nearby Montgomery.  Although they love the outdoors and taking advantage of programs like OYTF football and cheerleading for their children, they also love the advances technology has made along the way to simplify their personal and work life.  “We also run a dog sitting service that is managed through a site called Dogvacay.com,” Michelle says.  “We love dogs and the website makes it super easy to manage the reservations, our calendar, and the money.  The app also lets us take quick pics of dogs in our home in action that we can easily send to the client while they are away.”  As a School Social Worker at Prairie Junior High in Alsip, Michelle also says she couldn't get her job done well without the use of technology, like Google Classroom and Skyward.  “Much of my communication is through email and Google calendar helps me set up meetings as well and keeps me organized,” she says.  “I also have an iPad with apps to help kids with social stories and can utilize Apple TV as well to show videos.”  As a family, the Doucet’s pride themselves on encouraging a sense of community in their home. “We enjoy having conversations with our kids and their friends,” Michelle says.  “We are proud of the fact that our kid's friends enjoy coming to our house because they know they will always feel welcomed by us.” -Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Mike Catuara 
  #FamilyTime

FABULOUS FAMILY | May 2016

THE DOUCET FAMILY, OSWEGO Tony and Michelle have lived in Oswego for the past 13 years with their teen twins, Abigail and Joshua (13). ...

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LOCAL 18 YEAR OLD SAVES A LIFE 
 
 Eighteen-year old Lucas Bennett of North Aurora is credited with saving the life of a resident at GreenFields of Geneva earlier this year.  The Waubonsie Community College student works as a dining room server for the senior living community. A resident in healthcare started choking on her food at dinner one evening, and the nursing assistant wasn’t able to dislodge it. 
 
 “She started doing the Heimlich maneuver but her arms were too short to get a firm grip. She asked me to step in, and I did,” Lucas recalled.  “I was shocked and scared.  It was surreal.  Afterwards, I went back into the kitchen and carried on with what I’d been doing.” 
 
 9-1-1 had been called, and when the Elburn Fire Department arrived on-site after Lucas had already helped the resident, one of the firemen came in and asked for his name.  “He told me I’d saved the resident’s life, and I was in disbelief,” Lucas recalled. 
 
 Lucas had learned the Heimlich maneuver in high school health class, and the steps came back to him. He said he told his parents and a couple of friends about what he’d done. 
 
 “They’re really proud which was nice,” he said.  Especially proud, is Lucas’s grandfather Bill Peterson who is a resident of GreenFields. “He’s been telling everyone. GreenFields had a meeting last week and honored me.  My grandfather and the Fire Department were there,” Lucas said. 
 
 He was also invited to the Elburn Fire Department’s banquet, at which he was recognized.  “I received an award for exemplary action. They said they were blown away that a citizen did what I did before they arrived.  They were grateful with the outcome,” said Lucas.  -Photo & Story Submitted  GreenFields is an exceptional LifeCare community offering an ideal location, a wonderful retirement lifestyle. GreenFields offers independent living, assisted living, memory support, rehabilitation and skilled nursing, with the most comprehensive plan available for long-term care if ever needed. For additional information, visit www.GreenFieldsOfGeneva.org. 
  #SuburbanTriumph #HealthWellness #CaringSharing

SUBURBAN TRIUMPH | May 2016

LOCAL 18 YEAR OLD SAVES A LIFE Eighteen-year old Lucas Bennett of North Aurora is credited with saving the life of a resident at...

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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: I recently lost 25 lbs and am so excited about it! The problem is that now I need a new spring & summer wardrobe. None of my favorite pieces fit anymore. Have any tips on keeping cute within a budget? - Carol L., Sugar Grove  Buying new clothes is an important emotional milestone in the weight-loss process. It makes you feel good about yourself to wear something that fits you well.  However, it doesn't have to be expensive,  treat yourself to a nice fitting outfit because you are worth it and deserve it! Don’t be tempted to rush into a pricey department store. To save at name-brand stores, sign up for their e-mail blasts to get coupons and take advantage of seasonal sales. Alternatively, spend some time browsing the racks at discount chains to get more bang for your buck! If you love to hunt for a good deal, second-hand stores or thrift shops are another excellent option. Lastly, try asking your family and friends if they have any gently-worn items they’d like to donate to your new wardrobe!  Another person’s trash is someone else’s treasure.....  EVERYDAY STRUGGLE: I love my job so much! I've been here for 12 years and when I think of leaving I start to feel sick, literally. I have the BEST boss, the BEST co-workers and the BEST location, BUT I am making less than what the average Customer Service Rep makes and it is because I accepted such a low salary when I started not knowing any better since I did not do my research. Now that I know, I am not sure what to do. Asking for such a large raise would be unheard of, but according to the average salary for this role, I know in my heart I am worth way more. Help!  -Bethany T., Lisle  Take some time to determine “WHY” you want to make changes in your income. Does it make you feel successful? Does it get you a beach vacation, pay down debt, etc.? Write down your needs now and for the future. Then picture what your future looks like to YOU?! Then inform your employer that you have been reviewing your finances and personal goals and are ready to make some changes. Present them an opportunity to meet those needs financially in your current department. If they cannot, perhaps its time to explore other positions. Perhaps they have another position at the same company in a different department that might interest you, which might help you along in your decision. Rest assured...regardless of the outcome, I suspect the personal relationships you have will remain. And remember that your desire to increase your income is about YOU, not your employer. Nothing will change if you don’t try! 
   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 #HealthWellness

EVERYDAY STRUGGLES | May 2016

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

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YOUR NEW SUMMER WINE 
 
 Albariño could very well be your new favorite summer wine! Albariño is a white wine grape typically grown in (but not limited to) Spain. Typical characteristics of the grape is its distinctive floral notes with summer fruits like apricot,  white peach, grapefruit, pineapple and some undertones of minerality. The wine is generally light and high in acidity with alcohol levels from 11.5% to 12.5%. It’s bright, zesty and crisp – perfect for summer! The price to value ratio is superb, typically around $15 or so a bottle. I have three excellent examples (slightly different in style) of Albariño from Rias Baixas, southwestern coast of Galicia, Spain. 
 
 La Cana, 2014: 
 
 This is a riper style of Albariño with aromas of lime zest, white peach and pear followed by flavors of citrus, unripen apples, and tropical fruits. The citrus and firm minerality lingers on long after you finish. 
 
 Xion, 2014: 
 
 This being more fuller-bodied,  I noted a bouquet of canned pineapple, honeydew melon and a palate of grapefruit and a mineral edge finishing off with some fresh citrus notes. 
 
 Morgadio, 2014: Unbelievably balanced with scents of crisp apples, minerals and floral notes. Upon tasting, I noted an explosion of flavors from apples, orange, mango, and melon. Although I really enjoyed all three this was my favorite! 
 
 Albariño, being super fresh and crisp pairs fantastically with oysters, shellfish and pan-fried white meats. People often ask me what’s my new favorite wine – Albariño is my summer jam without a doubt! Sláinte!  ABOUT THE WRITER Eric McMillan, The Chicago Wino, is your source for lighthearted reviews of wine. thechicagowino.com also features links to fun tools like wine/food pairing, ideal serving temperatures, and "must try" bottles!  Visit  thechicagowino.com  for a simple look at some complex flavors. "Like" Eric on Facebook–The Chicago Wino 
  #TheChicagoWino #DiningCabaret #GlancerMagazine #EricMcMillan #May2016 #FeaturedBlogger

THE CHICAGO WINO | May 2016

YOUR NEW SUMMER WINE Albariño could very well be your new favorite summer wine! Albariño is a white wine grape typically grown in (but...

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May 2016 – HANG GLIDE CHICAGO: MOM’S BUCKET LIST 
 
 For the past few years, I have put the Mom back in Mom’s Black Book for our May Mother’s Day issue.  I have used the opportunity to seize my own personal need for adventure, which usually involves thrilling and unusual activities on my bucket list; such as, swimming with the Dolphins at the Indianapolis Zoo or taking a road trip to see Mount Rushmore.   Having two girls that share my extreme gene, we hit the road and traveled south for a little over an hour to soar with the birds – quite literally – fly!  I have always wanted to try Hang Gliding, but living in the Midwest did not seem to offer many opportunities, until I discovered Hang Glide Chicago.  Better yet, there are no age restrictions, making this a kid friendly activity so long as your child is over 3’5” tall.  My Marissa, who has triumphantly; yet, hesitantly, tackled her fear of heights through many of our adventures thought she might pass on this activity since this would indeed push that anxiety to the nth degree.  After our brief safety instructional class, I stayed back in the hanger to take photos, as the kids went first.  I watched Tessa and her tandem instructor soar to great heights, while waving to us enthusiastically as the tug plane gained elevation and she confidently pulled the release to free fly back to earth.  Next, a friend of theirs took to the skies, and I held my breath wondering if Marissa would take her position for flight.  Within minutes, I watched her conquer her fears again and I could see her smile in the clouds!  Next up – mom!  My heart raced – I couldn’t believe I was finally doing this!  When I pulled the release to free fly, I felt on top of the world – probably because I truly was – I was flying – and it was quite possibly my most relaxing and peaceful ‘mom moment’ of the year.   Overview 
 
 Hang Glide Chicago™, established in 1998, is a local launch pad known for their fun, thrilling, adrenaline pumping, and most importantly, safe hang gliding operations.  Hang Glide Chicago 
 
 3234 N 700 East Road 
 
 Chebanse, IL 60922 
 
 (219) 746-1480 
 
 www.hangglidechicago.com  Hours:  Weekends; by appointment; sunrise to sunset; May until it gets too cold to fly Price $:  Prices vary depending on package selected 
    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 #May2016 #MBBOutdoorAdventures #MBBSportsRecreation

MOM'S LITTLE BLACK BOOK | May 2016

May 2016 – HANG GLIDE CHICAGO: MOM’S BUCKET LIST
For the past few years, I have put the Mom back in Mom’s Black Book for our May Mother’s Da

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May 2016 – MAKE YOUR CINCO DE MAYO A TODA MADRE! 
 
 A Toda Madre translates to ‘totally awesome’ and that is exactly what this Mexican bistro in downtown Glen Ellyn is.  While the Director of Operations, Rodrigo Cano was visiting Guadalajara, Mexico researching tequilas and tortillas, we stopped in.  Although he was gone we were in good hands with our knowledgeable server Marija, and the attentive manager Patrick.   We started with fresh and fun cocktails.  The muddled strawberries with lime, orange liquor and Exotico Blanco make the Fresno a favorite.  If you prefer a bit of heat try the Pepino, a combination of cucumber, lime, orange liquor, tajin, and habanero tequila that will definitely tantalize your taste buds.  Something unique to this side of the border is the Teporocho consisting of tepache, smoky mezcal, mint, aperol and pineapple.  Tepache is a fermented pineapple drink sold at the Mexican street stands and markets; served in a plastic bag with a straw.  The dining style is trendy, fresh Mexican street food made to share.  The menu is packed with scintillating flavor combinations.  The light Aguachile consists of fresh tuna, lime, onion, cucumber and salsa served with tortilla chips made in house.  Another favorite is the Rajas Con Chorizo with the melted Chihuahua cheese, roasted poblano stirps, house prepared chorizo, onions and crema fresca wrapped in a warm tortilla.   A Toda Madre offers seasonal specials such as the barbacoa tacos, slow braised short rib, cucumber relish, Chihuahua cheese, scallions, salsa verde cruda, topped with romaine.  Another special is the zarandeado, a grilled whole fish typically served along Mexico’s Pacific coast.  Our catch of the day was Yellowtail snapper with charred lemon, served with adobo-lime cabbage salad.  
 
 We are a bit biased since our Father, an avid fisherman, catches and perfectly prepares fish.  The Yellowtail Snapper definitely made an impression on us!   The sides are just as flavorful as each dish.  The Esquites is a great balance of sweet and spicy with sweet grilled corn, expazote-butter, lemon-aioli, queso cotija and spicy chile piquin.  White rice, poblano cubes, sour cream and Chihuahua cheese add a little punch to the arroz side.   So why not celebrate Cinco de Mayo this month with some fresh guacamole, tacos, margaritas and so much more at A Toda Madre!  A Toda Madre 
 
 499 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn 
 
 (630) 474.0969 – www.atmrestaurant.com 
 
 Director of Operations:  Rodrigo Cano 
 ABOUT THE WRITERS Stephanie (right) & 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 #May2016

SAVORY & SWEET SISTERS | A Toda Madre

May 2016 – MAKE YOUR CINCO DE MAYO A TODA MADRE! A Toda Madre translates to ‘totally awesome’ and that is exactly what this Mexican...

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THE MONTH OF MOTHERS WHEATON / GLEN ELLYN AREA –  Let’s celebrate moms by sharing our time & talents.  Babysit for the overworked mom or make a personal pillow case to show your love.  For my sister in law, I purchased a yard of Chicago Cubs fabric at Jo Ann Fabrics in Danada Square West, hand-sewed 2 sides (I’m old school without a sewing machine) & place a pillow inside – tada!  A homemade gift for minimal dollars.  My husband’s present the past 2 years has brought laughter.  Papyrus  in Wheaton Town Square features a vast selection of Mother’s Day Cards.  In 2014 Michael selected an adorable card with 3D embellishments of a terry cloth robe & fluffy slippers.  In 2015 he bought me exactly the same card.  My husband is consistent.  I love this trait of his & wonder what 2016 will bring.  If your husband is reading this column, here are smart ideas for him.  Charming Charlie has colorful purses & matching jewelry.   Franchesca’s has ring holders in cool designs.  How cool is an octopus shaped ring holder to display dozens of rings?  Both are in Wheaton Town Square & have jewelry & accessories at affordable prices. 
 
 For the tech-savvy mom, here are some goodies:  1)  Ace Hardware  in Wheaton sells lights ($7.99) in the shape of a light switch, batteries included.   Strong adhesive on the back sticks to walls in closets, garages or anywhere light is needed but outlets aren’t around.  We placed one in a closet & now the room is bathed in light whenever needed.  Their employees are knowledgeable, helpful & willing to take time with customers.  2) Visit Fitbit.com  to check out the Alta wristband for $129.00.  The slim stainless steel body has interchangeable bands, recognizes your exercise habits (walking, biking, dancing, elliptical, etc.) and tracks your progress.  To see Fitbits in person, visit Bed, Bath & Beyond.  Their models in store average $149 & track your wrist-based heart rate continuously.   Bring a 20% off coupon for greater savings.  3) For the travelling mom who needs to stay connected, visit  Awaytravel.com.  Their roller board luggage has hidden ports that allow 2 devices to be powered up simultaneously.  Plus, a built in rechargeable 10,000 mAh battery.  Luggage sells directly to the consumer to avoid retail mark-up.  And for adorable outfits to put inside your new luggage, visit Evereve.com.  With locations throughout the suburbs, you’ll love everything in store and online! Happy shopping. Happy spring.  ABOUT THE WRITER Kathy Ruggio lives in the Stonehedge neighborhood of Wheaton with husband Michael & 9 year old son Angelo.  She seeks Vitamin D via daily sun exposure, rare finds at local stores, shopping for Christmas year round & making unique jewelry for friends using Scrabble pieces.  Kathy’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Jolly Old Soles.    “Phyllis Parise founded this organization.  I see first-hand how she helps people locally and globally.  No one should be without shoes.  She sends them to the Philippines and right here to schools in Aurora. Learn more at www.jollyoldsoles.com  #ModernHousewives

MODERN HOUSEWIVES | Wheaton/GE, May 2016

THE MONTH OF MOTHERS WHEATON / GLEN ELLYN AREA – Let’s celebrate moms by sharing our time & talents. Babysit for the overworked mom or...

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MOTHER'S DAY PLANS DOWNERS GROVE AREA – Mother’s Day is this month.  Is it wrong that when my husband asks what I would like to do on this special day, my response is to have time to myself?   And not be a Mom for a few hours?  Being a Mom is a full time job, I think we all deserve a small break on our own holiday.  Right? If you would like a little something for yourself, or need to buy a gift for your own Mom or Mother-in-Law, hit up Style Studio at 1015 Curtiss Street.  They have a variety of different items at great price points ranging from Vera Bradley bags to Nora Fleming serving dishes – always a big hit with my Mother-in-Law.  Any gift is wrapped up neatly in a box or bag.  Voila.  You are done.   And you are welcome. It has finally arrived.  I had heard a Mexican restaurant was opening in downtown Downers Grove for the last year.  Low and behold, Mia’s Cantina has opened and just in time for Cinco de Mayo.  I have already been there a handful of times with both family and friends.  The margaritas – I like the La Perfecta – are fantastic and will taste even better as the weather shapes up and you can sit outside.  Be sure to get there early on a Friday or Saturday night.  Can be a tight squeeze, but worth the wait and a fun ambiance. The 16th Annual Calvacade of Planes is on June 4th and June 5th at Clow International Airport in Bolingbrook.  My husband always is on the hunt for fun things to do with the kids, and this is always a big hit.  Many types of aircraft can be found both flying and on the ground.  The event also includes skydiving shows, formation flying and helicopter demonstrations.  Finally, this year marks the 5th Annual Cupcake Classic.  It takes on a whole new meaning as those participating honor the fight and the life of Noah Van Houtan and support his sister Laine who continues her battle against Batten Disease.  Friends and Family of the Van Houtans, along with the support of the Downers Grove community, will band together on Sunday, May 22nd at 8am with a Kids One-Mile and 5K runs.  Information on both the Cupcake Classic and Laine’s fight against this disease with no cure can be found at www.noahshope.com. 
 
 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.  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 Grove, May 2016

MOTHER'S DAY PLANS DOWNERS GROVE AREA – Mother’s Day is this month. Is it wrong that when my husband asks what I would like to do on...

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