Rolling Trails and Mini Boulders at Hickory Grove Highlands in Cary, Illinois
Rolling trails, a smattering of small boulders and sweeping grassland views captivated us on an early winter hike at Hickory Grove Highlands in Cary, Illinois. With the golden winter sun just beginning to dip, we embarked on a hike on a December afternoon immediately greeted by a rolling trail.
History and Views at Grosse Point Lighthouse in Evanston, Illinois
A visit Grosse Point Lighthouse in Evanston treats us to tranquil and fantastic Lake Michigan views blended with a little bit of history. We walk the grounds of Grosse Point Lighthouse several times of year admiring the commanding and historic structure, unobstructed crystal views of the lake and the sing-song landscape of the dunes.
Winter is the time of year when I really hit the coffee shops. My weakness is a Mocha Latte. However, I have recently learned that I like Oatmeal Cookie Lattes and -- during the holidays -- I like Peppermint Mochas. I will certainly be exploring more coffee houses in the next few months. However, here are fourteen of my favorite Chicago suburban coffee houses. I like to pair my coffee house visits with a hike -- a latte treat is very much welcome after a hike particularly in winter. Or, I grab a cup to bring with me on a hike to help stay warm!
A Snowy Ramble at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve in St. Charles, Illinois
Our ramble through fresh, sugary snow at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve in St. Charles was the adventure winter dreams are made of! We immediately embraced the winter wonderland surrounding us from the powdery, glittery snow underfoot to the snow dusted trees. We celebrated a beautiful and tranquil day exploring LeRoy Oakes.
Enchanted by Nature's Snow Globe on a Winter Hike at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois
Hiking through the quiet stillness of a forest under a fresh blanket of snow welcomes a calmness to the soul. We began our new year embarking on such a hike, wandering on our favorite trail near Lake Marmo at The Morton Arboretum. On the hunt for a flare of green from evergreens, we knew the trail would take us through Hemlock Grove and treat us to other evergreens along the way.
Learn About Locally Founded The Mindful Pro and New Year New Vibration-2021 Virtual Live Streaming Sound Healing Event this January 2, 2021
Chicago area wellness leader, yoga instructor and friend Antoinette (Toni) Morales has recently launched a community called The Mindful Pro which offers wellness, mindfulness and holistic practices to clients both at home and in the workplace. Toni is a leader in the wellness field and uses her experience in the stressful corporate environment, personal journey and skills in wellness, mindfulness and exploring self-awareness to help others achieve calm, deeper learning and desired change. I met Toni a few years ago and she has such a gentle and accepting manner. Her inner fire inspires those that take her classes as she helps guide you along on change while moving towards a path of wellness whatever that looks like for you. With Mindful Pro, she has been able to provide a range of wellness experiences and include other fantastic wellness practitioners to spread opportunities for focusing on self care, mindfulness, healthy living and learning to the community. I happy to share a little about Mindful Pro as well as an upcoming New Year's event!
Hiking During Golden Hour on Lookout Mountain in Golden, Colorado
Our last evening in Colorado, we knew we needed to soak in the mountain scenery as the sun waned. We had just eaten dinner with a river view in Golden and opted to head up nearby Lookout Mountain. Located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, we quickly learned that Lookout Mountain lives up to its name providing perches with absolutely magnificent views.
River Rambling Along the Fox River at Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve in St. Charles, Illinois
Coursing through Northern Illinois, the Fox River charms nature lovers throughout the state with dazzling views from towns and preserves along the river. A few weeks ago, we marveled at the realization that despite visiting St. Charles so many times, we had somehow missed wandering through Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve. With the benefit of a balmy late fall day, we went in search of splendid river views and were certainly rewarded at Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve.
