Into the Night: A Magical Children's Book by Local Author Carrie Steinweg

**Disclosure: I did receive an electronic copy of Into the Night for the purpose of this review. No compensation was received and all opinions are 100% my own.

I have been very fortunate throughout my years as a blogger and social media connector to meet many truly talented people. I have been following Carrie Steinweg's blog Chicago Foodie Sisters for quite some time. I have always enjoyed her culinary adventures and the enthusiasm with which she exposes local restaurants. Carrie is certainly multitalented and is a published author. Awhile back, I reviewed Old 104 Rides Again which is lovingly written children's book using Old 104's unexpectedly valiant ride to teach lessons about fire safety, the important work of firemen and how we all can contribute to safety. The book was truly charming and I am so happy that Carrie has written a new children's book called Into the Night!

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Lemon Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Over the past couple of years, Lemon Chicken and Rice Soup has become one of our staple recipes. The soup is pretty easy to make and is quite flavorful. Ideal for a winter warm up!  My soup is adapted from Giada's Lemon Chicken Soup with Spaghetti. Simple and yummy:

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In the Forbidden City Giveaway Winner!!!!

Congratulations to Amy, our In the Forbidden City book winner! I will email Amy and she will have 48-hours to respond or her prize will be forfeited. Thank you to everyone that entered this fun Chinese New Year giveaway!

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Maple Sugaring Events in the Chicago Suburbs

Maple tapping image via LollyKnit on Flickr.

With the bitter, bitter cold, it is hard to believe that it is time for maple sugaring but it sure is! Freezing temperatures at night and *hopefully* warm temperatures during the day cause the sap to rise from a maple's roots making it ready for tapping! There really is no better topping for pancakes---or biscuits---or ice cream than sweet and natural maple syrup! So, let's take some time to celebrate maple syrup's sugary goodness!

While we traveled through New England and Quebec last year, we learned that Ben Franklin was a big advocate of expanding maple sugar production in the U.S. to decrease dependency on foreign sugar sources. I had no idea that this was even thought of but it totally makes sense! Maple sugaring events are such a great piece of Americana and fortunately for us there are plenty in the area! Here is a look at some we found:

February 28-March 1

Sap's Rising at River Trail Nature Center in Northbrook: Take a walk in the maple forest as winter is coming to an end and learn about the maple sugaring process. The event runs 1:30PM-2:30PM both days and is free.

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The Power of Forgiveness {Chicken Soup for the Soul}

**Disclosure: We received a copy of this book in order to bring you this review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% our own.

Recently, I read Chicken Soup for the Soul's The Power of Forgiveness. We all have times when we have to let go of something holding us back whether it is something we have done, something someone else has done or we have had some type of loss. Anecdotes about overcoming these types of setbacks can often be among the most inspiring stories read.

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New Year Dumplings for the Chinese New Year & In the Forbidden City Giveaway

**Disclosure: Thank you to the China Institute for providing us with a lovely book to give away. No compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

The Chinese New Year is right around the corner! Recently, we read and reviewed the gorgeous and informative In the Forbidden City which magically unfolds that history and mystery of China's Forbidden City using intricate illustrations. We are proud to announce that in the spirit of the Chinese New Year we are giving away one of these lovely volumes to a lucky reader! In addition, the China Institute has provided us with a scrumptious dumpling recipe that you can use to celebrate the Chinese New Year!

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L'Eiffel Bistrot and Crêperie {A Bit of France in the Chicago Suburbs}

**Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post. All opinions are 100% my own. The restaurant was candlelit during our visit so the pictures reflect that.

If you are looking for a taste of France in the suburbs, L'Eiffel Bistrot and Crêperie is the place to go! We have been frequenting L'Eiffel for a couple of years now for a variety of occasions--birthdays, anniversaries and even those days when you just can't figure out what to eat but you know you want something special.

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Master Lock Key Safe Winner!!!!

Thank you to everyone that entered our recent giveaway for a Master Lock Key Safe! Our winner is Alison H.! I will be emailing Alison to notify her of her prize. She has 48 hours to respond or the prize will be forfeited. We have another giveaway coming up shortly so keep posted! Congratulations, Alison!

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Celebrate Chinese New Year at Chicago Botanic Garden

**Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post. All opinions are 100% my own.

In addition to celebrating Valentine's Day, February is also time to celebrate the Chinese New Year! So many celebrations for such a short month! I know many of you are curious so if you have not already learned, this year is the Year of the Sheep! The Chicago Botanic Garden has a fun event coming up to help your family celebrate the Chinese New Year and experience a little bit of Chinese culture!

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Make 2015 Healthy: Introducing Gold Emblem Abound and Radiance Platinum at CVS

*Disclosure: I did receive complimentary products in order to bring you this review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

One challenge that I constantly face is finding portable yet healthy snacks to bring with us on trips. So, I was thrilled to learn about the new Gold Emblem Abound snacks at CVS. I love that the line includes healthy options. Plus, the snacks are found at CVS which has locations across the country. With so many locations, it will be easy to pick up these snacks while traveling!

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Free FroYo at Menchie's February 6, 2015

Looking for an excuse for a treat? Many Menchie's Frozen Yogurts across the country are giving out out free froyo on National Frozen Yogurt Day this Friday, February 6 4PM-8PM. During this time, each guest will receive free 6 oz of frozen yogurt. The Menchie's in Mount Prospect, Glenview, Bloomingdale, Schaumburg, Algonquin, Downer's Grove and Chicago are all participating. The Highland Park location did not post participation on their Facebook Page so you will need to check with them on availability. Other locations throughout the country are participating so check with your local Menchie's to verify participation. Enjoy!

**Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post. All opinions are 100% my own.

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Snow Painting {Snow Day Activity}

Whoa! Did we get some snow or did we get some snow? With so much snow, how could we not play in it? I have actually been waiting awhile to try some snow painting and my daughter and we finally got our chance today! Snow painting is really an easy way to get some fresh air while using creativity.

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Family Friendly Ideas for Valentine's Day in the Chicago Suburbs

Valentine's Day is right around the corner! Do you have plans with the family? Here are some family-friendly ideas right here in the Chicago suburbs to make the day special:

Cupid's Craft Corner--The Book Market in Glenview at 11AM. The Valentine's Day Event will include free crafts, snacks and fun. Register online. A LOVEly way to start the day! (EVENT IS FULL)

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