Marlena Renner
Alton: A Food Tour to Savor
Dining out in Alton, IL just got easier, thanks to these recommendations!
It started as a simple question, “Where can you eat in Alton?” And as I started rattling off my list of favorite things...
Spina Bifida Awareness Month: Meet Katelyn
October is Spina Bifida Awareness month.
"Can I ask why you're in a wheelchair?"
It's a pretty simple question and one that I should have asked years ago.
I met Carrie Carpunky and her daughter Katelyn seven...
National Read a Book Day: It’s Not Just for Bedtime!
Happy National Read a Book Day! This is quite possibly one of my favorite unofficial holidays on the calendar. Full disclosure: almost every day is read-a-book day for me.
I do not know when my...
Omaha: One Last Road Trip This Summer
Looking for a road trip destination? Check out Omaha!
Another month, another conference for my husband, Andy. This time we found ourselves in Omaha, Nebraska. We hope you find our list of activities helpful if...
Exploring the Capitol of Lincolnland
Learn about Lincoln and have some family fun in Springfield, IL!
My husband Andy and I have a common theme on vacations: find Abraham Lincoln. From Independence Day fireworks at the Lincoln Memorial in D.C....
International Harry Potter Day: Our Wizarding World Weekend … At Home
May 2 is International Harry Potter Day!
Sometimes we have the best of plans, and then something happens. In this case, the plan was Harry Potter day at the library. The something that happened was...
Seven Ways to a Mother Earth Approved Bathroom
Have you ever noticed how much plastic is in your bathroom? From shampoo and conditioner bottles to soaps and face care products, plastic is everywhere! I have been changing what we buy and use,...
Take a Look, in a Book … Club
"How did you start your book club?”
When I started a book club 10 years ago, I never thought I would be asked that question. I also didn’t think we would still be gathering every...
My Corona Lessons
Almost two years ago, I was texting with my cousin (who is a doctor), asking her if this coronavirus thing was really worth canceling events. Looking back, I feel completely ridiculous even having asked...
Small Steps to a Sustainable Kitchen
How sustainable is YOUR kitchen?
For my resolution last year, I decided I would make a conscious effort to try and reduce some of our waste and plastics. My goal was to replace one thing...