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Places to See Spring Flowers in Chicago's Western Suburbs Spring is one of the most magical times to experience all that Chicago’s western suburbs have to offer. From vibrant tulips and fragrant daffodils to exotic blooms in a variety of colors and shapes, it's clear why people flock outdoors this time of year. 1. Morton Arboretum OVER 1,400 ACRES LISLE– Looking for a way to spend a lovely spring afternoon? Look no further than the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, where you can admire the colorful tulips, daffodils, and other flowers in bloom! Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and enjoy the fresh, fragrant air. With over 1,700 acres of stunning natural scenery, this is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. www.mortonarb.org 2. Klein Creek Farm ENJOY THIS HISTORIC FARM WEST SUBURBAN–Kline Creek Farm in West Chicago is the ideal destination for a peaceful and serene family outing. Take a stroll through its breathtaking gardens, which are adorned with elegant and vibrant wildflowers. A visit to this historic farm provides an opportunity to unplug from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature. As you explore the gardens, you'll be awestruck by the beauty of the scenery that surrounds you. www.dupageforest.org/places-to-go/centers/kline-creek-farm 3. Chicago Botanical Garden 1.2 MILLION TULIPS IN FULL BLOOM GLENCOE–Spring will be nothing short of amazing at the Chicago Botanical Garden! From April to June, visitors can experience a stunning display of over 1.2 million tulips in full bloom. Stroll through the garden and observe dozens of vibrant colors as you take in the breathtaking views. Along with the tulip show, there are plenty of other events happening during springtime at the Botanical Garden. Spend an afternoon taking part in yoga classes, outdoor cooking demonstrations, and guided tours of the grounds. www.chicagobotanic.org 4. O’Hara Woods Nature Preserve EXPLORE THE TRAILS ROMEOVILLE–Spend some time in the peaceful surroundings of O'Hara Woods Nature Preserve this spring! Located in Romeoville, Illinois, this wooded area is the perfect destination for a relaxing day outdoors. Explore the trails and take in sweeping views of lakeside meadows and winding creeks. 5. Flowers on Fargo PICTURE PERFECT FLOWERS ON DSIPLAY YORKVILLE–What a wonderful way to kick off this week, the gorgeous @flowersonfargo are in full bloom today! A perfect picture postcard moment right in the heart of our city located off Rt. 31 and Fargo. Every year this stunning display of spring tulips never gets old. 6. Kuiper’s Family Farm 500,000 TULIPS ON DISPLAY MAPLE PARK–Kuiper's Farm in Maple Park is the perfect place to experience a beautiful spring day and be surrounded by gorgeous tulips! Starting in April, the annual Midwest Tulip Fest at Kuiper's Farm will provide a stunning display of thousands of multicolored tulips. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature while taking pictures, making memories, and picnicing with friends. The festival will feature live music, food vendors, craft booths, wagon rides, and more fun activities to keep everyone entertained. www.kuipersfamilyfarm.com 7. Lilacia Park 1501 INDIANA AVE., SAINT CHARLES LOMBARD–Get ready for the Annual Lilac Time Festival at Lilacia Park in Lombard! Held in May, visitors to this annual event can enjoy a beautiful display of thousands of stunning lilacs. These magnificent flowers will provide an unforgettable backdrop as you explore the park and all it has to offer. The festival features live music and entertainment, delicious food trucks, craft vendors selling unique souvenirs, plenty of activities for kids and more. www.lombardlilactime.com

Let the Planning Begin The anticipation of a summer vacation can be as thrilling as the getaway itself. With summer 2024 fast approaching, it’s time to leave behind the mundane and set your sights on the extraordinary. Whether you're a travel enthusiast seeking adventure, a family coordinator planning a seamless trip, or a romantic looking for the perfect getaway, there’s a destination that’s just right for your travel dreams. This comprehensive guide is your one-stop resource for the hottest travel spots, tailored experiences, and essential tips to make this summer your most unforgettable yet. Destination 1: Euphoric Sanya, China Description: Known as the "Hawaii of the East," Sanya is a tropical paradise with a mix of rainforests, white sandy beaches, and clear turquoise waters. This is the ultimate destination for a rejuvenating beach vacation. Highlights: Yalong Bay: Sink your toes into the soft sand of one of the best beaches in China. Nanshan Temple and Guanyin Statue: Be awe-inspired by the 108-meter statue overlooking the South China Sea. Wuzhizhou Island: A snorkeler's dream, this untouched island is surrounded by breathtaking coral reefs. Activities: Rainforest Treks: Hike through the verdant forests of Binglang Valley for amazing views. Local Cuisines: Indulge in fresh seafood, and don't miss the local delicacy, Hainanese chicken rice. Sanya Phoenix International Airport: Yes, you read that right. Sanya's new airport boasts a luxurious 5-star resort feeling right on site. Destination 2: Lively Algarve, Portugal Description: Algarve is known for its stunning coastline and golden beaches. But there's more to this region than meets the eye; a rich culture and history abound in the charming towns and vibrant cities. Highlights: Praia da Marinha: Consistently ranked among the world's top beaches, its soaring cliffs and crystalline waters are picturesque postcard-perfect. Faro Old Town: Immerse yourself in the 18th-century charm of this city's historic center. Silves: A former Moorish capital, explore its impressive red sandstone castle and the Cathedral of Silves. Activities: Water Sports: From surfing to kayaking, the Algarve's rugged coastline is a water sports haven. Traditional Fado Music: Savor Portuguese culture through a night of Fado, the country's soulful traditional music. Cultural Festivals: Depending on the timing of your visit, you might encounter the Feira da Serra, a lively country fair featuring local crafts, gastronomy, and music. Destination 3: Exuberant Maldives, Indian Ocean Description: There's a reason why the Maldives consistently tops the list of dream destinations—its powder-soft beaches, year-round sunshine, and translucent waters are unparalleled. Highlights: Malé: Begin your exploration of the Maldives with a visit to its lively and colorful capital city. Baa Atoll: Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its unique biodiversity, it’s a diver's and snorkeler's paradise. Getting Married in Maldives: Every resort in the Maldives can help arrange a stunning wedding on the beach, creating memories to last a lifetime. Activities: Underwater Adventures: Snorkel with manta rays and visit Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO marine reserve renowned as a feeding ground for whale sharks. Private Island Dining: Many resorts offer a private dining experience on an uninhabited island under the stars. Sunset Cruise: A must for any Maldivian holiday, with the perfect end to the day as the sun dips below the horizon in a kaleidoscope of color. Targeted Recommendations for Different Audiences Tailoring your trip to your specific interests can elevate your vacation experience. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or in need of some rejuvenation, here's a detailed breakdown of what each type of traveler can expect. Travel Enthusiasts If you're in pursuit of exhilarating experiences, consider these action-packed destinations: Patagonia, Argentina: A haven for trekkers and climbers, the Patagonian region offers unparalleled adventure amid stunning natural scenery. Interlaken, Switzerland: The heart of the Swiss Alps, Interlaken is an adventure sports mecca with activities ranging from paragliding to canyoning. Cairns, Australia: The gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns invites you to explore the world's largest coral reef system with snorkeling, scuba, and skydiving, which gives you an aerial view of its wonders. Family Vacation Planners Selecting a destination that caters to various age groups is key when planning a family getaway: Orlando, Florida: Home to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and many more family-centric attractions, Orlando guarantees a fun-packed holiday for kids and adults alike. Costa Rica: A perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, Costa Rica offers wildlife encounters, zip-lining, and family-friendly beaches. Oahu, Hawaii: With everything from child-friendly hikes to the family-favorite Honolulu Zoo, Oahu is a perfect introduction to the Aloha spirit for kids. Women & Girlfriends For those looking for a getaway where they can unwind and feel secure, these destinations offer both tranquility and safety: Reykjavik, Iceland: A thriving urban scene against a backdrop of incredible natural wonders, Reykjavik is perfect for women travelers who want a mix of city life and outdoor adventures. Queenstown, New Zealand: An adventure lover's paradise by day and a vibrant town to dine and relax in by night, Queenstown offers spa retreats and wine tours for the ultimate ladies' trip. Montreal, Canada: Ideal for a cultural exploration, Montreal is a cosmopolitan city with European flair, famed for its festival spirit, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine. Couples and Romantics Couples seeking a romantic escape can find seclusion and beauty in these enchanting locales: Santorini, Greece: With its iconic sunsets, the charming white-washed villages and the renowned blue-domed churches, Santorini is a perfect setting for romance. Venice, Italy: Stroll hand in hand along the canals, share a kiss on the Bridge of Sighs, and enjoy a gondola ride under the moonlight in the City of Love. Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Relax in overwater bungalows, swim in crystal-clear lagoons, and savor candlelit dinners on the beach. Families For families, ensuring a wide range of activities to engage every member is vital. These destinations offer varied entertainment for the whole family: Maui, Hawaii: The "Magic Isle" is perfect for beach days, whale watching, and family-friendly hikes. London, England: Rich in history and culture, London is full of attractions for kids, from the London Zoo to the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Costa Blanca, Spain: With its excellent beaches and family-oriented attractions like Terra Mitica theme park, Benidorm is a popular choice for many families. Travel Tips and Suggestions Preparation is Key Start by creating a detailed checklist. Include everything from travel documents, medications, and attires for different weather conditions. Remember to pack light and prioritise essentials. Booking Your Trip Early Bird Deals: Take advantage of numerous offers with early bookings; from flight discounts to hotel vouchers. Flexible Dates and Destination Selection: Carve out cost benefits by being open to a variety of dates and destinations. Tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner could be your best friends. Making the Most of Your Stay Local Cuisine: Not only does dining like a local provide you with an unprecedented perspective of your destination, but it's also a delightful sensory experience. Off-Peak Tourism: Avoid peak times to explore the best that each place has to offer without the crowds. Look for unique and less congested activities that can give you an intimate experience with the local culture. Engage with Locals: Engaging with the people who call your destination home can provide valuable insights and create memorable experiences. Travel Safety and Cultural Sensitivity Health Precautions: Check on any health precautions or vaccinations you might need depending on your travel location. Cultural Etiquette: Do a little research on the cultural norms of the place you're visiting. Respect and courtesy go a long way in fostering positive interactions. Safety: Always be mindful of your belongings and personal safety. Utilize hotels' safety features and keep emergency contacts handy. Incorporate these travel tips and suggestions, and with a little bit of planning and a lot of enthusiasm, your summer 2024 will be the stuff of legends! It's time to take the leap and start planning the adventure of a lifetime. Summer 2024 is brimming with possibilities, and with this curated list of destinations and tips, you're well on your way to creating a travel experience that matches your aspirations. Venture forth into the unknown, bask under the sun, and make memories that will stand the test of time. In the spirit of sharing, encourage your friends and family to join in on the planning. Share this post with them and fuel the excitement for what's to come. The world is your oyster—now it's time to make your mark on it!

Enjoy Downtown Downers Grove All Season Long DOWNERS GROVE–The variety of small businesses, amazing owners, and community support make downtown Downers Grove the destination it is today. The community looks forward to welcoming Vintage Charm this spring and Eleven 26 & Entourage in the coming months! Through the month of April, you can partake in the Flower Scavenger Hunt! Don't forget to get your ticket to the event of the season– the Shop, Sip & Stroll Wine Walk happening May 1. This event sells out so do not hesitate! www.downtowndg.org

Summer’s Coming and Naperville Park District Is Ready! NAPERVILLE–Get ready to make a splash this summer at Centennial Beach and purchase 2024 season memberships at a pre-season discount through May 27. Memberships are a great way to enjoy flexibility and multiple visits to Naperville’s unique and historic swimming facility all summer long! Individual, family, and evenings/weekends memberships are available. Purchase yours today online or at one of three Naperville Park District facilities. www.napervilleparks.org/centennialbeach

ADVENTURE IN OSWEGO Celebrate Earth Day! April 20 • 9am-1pm Celebrate Earth Day in Oswegoland at Prairie Point Community Park on Saturday, April 20 from 9am-1pm! Enjoy the FREE Earth Day Kite Fly and shop the Spring Market. Bring your own kite to fly or kick back and watch the pros. There will be professional demonstrations and stunts using giant kites. It’s fun for all ages! Then visit with some of your favorite Oswego Country Market vendors who will be on-site for a special Spring Market. www.playoswegoland.org

CHOP, COOK, CHOW GENEVA–I am incredibly busy, but I love to entertain. I love to host game nights and parties whenever possible, but it seems that I never have time to cook anything fancy anymore, so I called upon Lori Smerz, a St. Charles resident, mother, and former high school Family Consumer Science teacher for help!  As the owner of The Party Kitchen in Geneva, honing the empathy to truly relate to time thwarted meal prepping, she taught our crew some tricks of the trade. On a regular day, she is a substitute teacher; however, she provides customized parties, classes, lessons, camps, and after school enrichment activities otherwise with her free time!  She totally gets busy! Laughter filled the air and aprons were donned as the group eagerly gathered around the well-equipped kitchen island, ready to dive into the culinary creations ahead. Under the guidance of our seasoned chef, we embarked on a journey of culinary discovery, learning the art of cheating to homemade quality! First up on the menu were the calzones, mixing a variety of delightful fusions of savory and earthy flavors to create ham and spinach; as well as meatball calzones.  Using ready-made dough and meatballs, combined with fresh parmesan, spinach, basil, and a variety of spices, we learned the art of folding and glazing to golden perfection.  The end result looked like a restaurant made, high quality, beautiful pocket of yumminess. No meal is complete without the perfect accompaniment of a freshly put together salad with all the right colors of vegetables, and the added bonus of the most delicious homemade dressing.  With a vibrant array of fresh herbs and spices at our disposal, we eagerly experimented with fancy cuts and designs and flavor combinations, creating a tangy vinaigrette that perfectly complemented the richness of the calzones. Finally, it was time to indulge in a sweet treat with a twist – tiramisu dip.  We whipped together mascarpone cheese, cocoa, coffee and served it with delicate ladyfingers.  This classic Italian dessert was ready in minutes and tasted divine! As the evening drew to a close, we gathered around the island and savored each bite and reminisced at the satisfaction of mastering our new simple techniques to a great meal! Overview The Party Kitchen 415 Stevens Street Geneva, IL 60134 www.thepartykitchen.net Hours:  See Website for Schedule Price $:  Starting at $25/Class ABOUT THE WRITER Kristen Kucharski’s days are never dull, her kids are never bored! Over the years #MomsLittleBlackBook has explored hundreds of kid friendly things to do in our surrounding community and on the road. As her girls have grown and gone away to college, she continues to enjoy unique activities, excursions, day trips, weekend get-a-aways, and road trips while rediscovering my own passion for adventure with friends, girls nights outs, and date nights. In her words: “Life is a journey–might as well have fun along the way. Go, fly, roam, travel, voyage, explore, discover

ENJOY THIS UNIQUE EVENT ALONG CHICAGO’S RIVERWALK Beginning in May & Running Specific Dates All Summer Long CHICAGO–Come out and enjoy the chill vibes of Island Party Hut located on the scenic Chicago Riverwalk. Tickets include bottomless margaritas from 7pm-9pm, chips & salsa, scenic views and fun atmosphere. By Awesome Event Chicago. tinyurl.com/bottmargaritas tinyurl.com/riverbar

COMMON GOOD COCKTAIL HOUSE IS READY FOR SPRING GLEN ELLYN–This upscale cocktail bar makes modern, classic, cocktails loved by all who visit. Featured is the Bubblin’ Dublin made with Strawberry Jalapeño Rose Gin, Basil, Mint, Thyme, Clarified Lime, Rosé Prosecco- YUM! The patio-pounding flavors here are achieved by infusing strawberries and jalapeños through pressure and heat into a beautiful Wild Rose Gin from Glendalough. Try one today! www.commongoodcocktailhouse.com

Boutique Owner, Stylist and Volunteer As a young girl, Kathryn was very creative and would draw pictures of girls in cute outfits in grade school. She went on to graduate from UWM and immediately became the first designer to develop the Oshkosh B’Gosh brand.  She worked for fashion design companies for the next 24 years until finally opening her own boutique, Flourish in 2018, a multi-generational, affordable and adorable, fun women’s boutique filled with clothing, accessories and gifts.  Having volunteered at SAYV Animal Organization over the years, she also donates a portion of her proceeds to many animal rescues. Her personal style is comfortable and casual with a touch of uniqueness to celebrate her creative and carefree spirit by adding pops of color or textures like open knits, linen, faux fur, or embellished cowboy boots. Kathryn loves the dressy jumpsuits, midi floral dresses, crochet knit tops and knit dresses that are hot for Spring 2024. Woven button-down menswear styled suit vests are back with matching pleated, tailored pants or pleated shorts. She says bows are trending this season - in every way possible, in every shape, color or size to wear as a hair accessory or to tie in the back of a dress or top, on straw hats or flat shoes or knit into jacquard designs on lightweight sweaters. “Rosettes are also being used in the same way as appliqués on apparel or jewelry,” Kathryn adds.  “Layering of embellished sheer fabrics, a little white dress or an Oxford white button-down shirt, classic, preppy styles with a twist, as well as exaggerated puffed sleeves, and Maryjane style elegant ballet slippers.” Kathryn is all about community and loves to dine out, especially at Livia and Preservation, enjoying live music in the summer.  Additionally, she is a very proud member of Life Church in St. Charles. -Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Mike Catuara

Jeans a Cute Top Shop www.jeansandacutetop.com 161 S 1st St, St Charles, IL 60174 (630) 444-0999 123 W. Wesley Street, Wheaton, IL 60187 (630) 690-5287 facebook Instagram TWO BEAUTIFUL LOCATIONS WITH THE LATEST TRENDS WHEATON & ST. CHARLES–Jill Card opened Jeans and a Cute Top after years of working in retail and corporate sales jobs, wearing boring suits, uncomfortable pantyhose, and predictable white dress shirts. The name was inspired by her first date with her husband when she asked, “What should I wear?” and her husband replied: “Jeans and a cute top.” When Jill was getting ready for that first date, she didn’t have a great pair of jeans or a cute top in her closet and had to borrow an outfit from her sister, a flight attendant with a much more fun wardrobe. As she got older, Jill couldn’t find any great jeans for women in their 30s and 40s. Stores catered to teenagers or grandmas. The unflattering ‘Mom’ jeans filled in that age gap. Now, in Jill’s closet, you’ll find about 40 pairs of jeans. She has 8-10 pairs in regular rotation. Her go-to, favorite pair is the Gia from Liverpool—the denim is super soft and keeps its shape. Jeans and a Cute Top is the solution for women who don’t want to look ridiculous trying to dress like their daughters but also refuse to settle for shapeless loungewear. Jill hand selects every item in the store, going to trade shows looking for style over trend, and finding affordable, beautiful clothes that work for all women, not just size 0 models. You will find Jill working the floor of one of her shops every day—she is committed to changing the world for women one great fitting pair of jeans at a time. Photos by Ruta Drulia VIEW SHOP GALLERY

Rachel May on Her Love for Fashion & the Latest Spring Trends NAPERVILLE–Fashion has always been a way for Rachel to express herself.  Growing up with four sisters, clothes were her way to differentiating herself from her sisters.  As social media grew, creating Pinterest fashion boards became one of her favorite pastimes which inspired the opening of her brick-and-mortar storefront, Boutique Poppy in Naperville, in 2023. “I have definitely gone through phases of different styles but there’s always been a consistent trend of elevated basics and staples in my closet; so as different styles and trends emerge, I just add a piece here and there,” Rachel says.  “I knew that that is what I wanted my store to be about. We have great basics and high-quality denim, but we also have some trends filtered throughout the store that perfectly spice your wardrobe for any season, such as bows this season!” As Spring turns to Summer, she anticipates seeing red everywhere and her personal favorite way to incorporate color trends, like red, is through accessories like shoes, purses, and jewelry. “It’s a great way to add that color into your look and get more wear with a trend, without needing to purchase multiple clothing pieces that you might only wear a few times,” Rachel adds.  “It can really elevate any outfit and it can be so stylized and personal, layering and mixing metals, stacking multiple rings on a finger, or combining a gold chain with a silver pendant.  There really is no wrong way to play with jewelry!” Launching weekly new arrivals, monthly events, and more pop ups, are ways Rachel includes and engages with the community.  She also loves supporting other local businesses in the Downtown Naperville community through partnership events with Lena Rose Holistic Spa, Baesthetic, Face Foundrie, The Bar Above, as well as many local artisan jewelry and ceramics. -Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Ruta Drulia

ALL SEASON LONG Plan a Perfect Night Out Filled with Fun, Friendship, Creativity & More! NAPERVILLE–Spring is here! Plan a GNO. Pinot’s Palette is the best night out in Naperville! It’s a fun-filled, party atmosphere where you and your friends can talk, laugh, paint and sip. This unique spot is perfect for date night and family fun, too! You don't need any art experience – their talented local artists will guide you step-by-step through the night painting. Follow their instructions or go rogue and end up with a one-of-a-kind masterpiece! They also offer Mosaic Classes, Chunky Knit Blankets, Take Home Painting Kits, Virtual Live Streaming, In Studio and Virtual Private Parties! • Aprons and supplies provided • Snacks are welcome • Real wine glasses – no paper or plastic • There’s always rockin’ music Pinot's Palette Naperville 175 W. Jackson Avenue Downtown Naperville www.pinotspalette.com/naperville