Wednesday Weekend Windup: {Treasure Hunt, Origami, Forest Fun and Art}

Lots of weekend fun ahead celebrating summer and nature:

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Waterfalls of the Midwest

Nothing shows the beauty and power of nature quite like a waterfall. Fortunately, the Midwest a trove of stunning waterfalls awaiting exploration. Looking to add a glorious waterfall your next Midwest trip? Here are some favorites gathered from Midwest travel writers to choose from:

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Origami in the Garden Enchants at The Morton Arboretum

The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois treats visitors to a stunning new Origami in the Garden exhibit. The exhibit weaves incredible metal renditions of origami art into scenic natural surroundings. The event features 25 large scale metal sculptures based upon folded paper creations.

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May Degustabox Surprises

Wow! My May Degustabox was piled high with goodies! This one has been one of my favorites. Inside, I found:

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The Happ Inn: Family, Friends and Great Food

Last week, my husband and I explored a new to us dining option -- The Happ Inn Bar and Grill in Northfield, Illinois. The peppy exterior already lightened our mood even before entering the neighborhood eatery. The interior is casual and welcoming -- just the place where you will be comfortable relaxing for awhile with family or friends!

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Hiking Nachusa Grasslands in Illinois

Nachusa Grasslands near Franklin Grove, Illinois is one of the Nature Conservancy's most successful restoration stories. The conservation organization began its Nachusa journey with purchasing 130 acres of land to restore in August of 1986. Over the past 30+ years, Nachusa has expanded from 130 acres to over 4,000 acres. In addition, a herd of bison was welcomed to the prairie in 2014 returning the majestic beasts to the lands in Illinois where they once roamed.

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10 Things Not To Do When You Hike

When you are out hiking this season, here are some things not to forget:

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Wild Garden Social Kitchen Tour Comes to Chicago May 15-18

Wild Garden will be treating Chicago with a special food truck tour. I thought I would share in case you will be in the area next week or want to help them with their mission with likes. For four days next week, Wild Garden will be cooking up meals for those in need and lucky visitors as well. The number of meals they will be distributing will be gauged by Facebook likes. For every Facebook like the Wild Garden page received, a free meal will be distributed. So, a simple way to pay it forward! The event will feature area celebrities and Wild Garden's Mediterranean flavors. Lucky visitors will receive prizes and may even win free Wild Garden meals for a year!

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Wednesday Weekend Windup {Mother's Day, Plant Sales and More}

Plenty of events this weekend celebrating Moms and nature! Here are my picks:

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Treats at a New Jersey Staple: Jersey Freeze

If you are visiting New Jersey and are looking for a real New Jersey experience, I recommend stopping at my childhood favorite Jersey Freeze in Freehold. Jersey Freeze has been a local staple since 1952 and even stands as favorite of Bruce Springsteen who grew up in the area. Jersey Freeze is a fun small business for a visit!

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Chicago Botanic Garden in the Spring

Nature is dynamic and changes throughout the seasons -- sometimes subtly and sometimes dramatically. We love to visit Chicago Botanic Garden as often as possible to appreciate those changes. This time of year, the gardens seem to come alive at a quick pace. Blossoms. buds and emergent leaves paint beautiful pictures. Of course some sections of the gardens are just waking up......

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Wednesday Weekend Windup {Lilacs, Derby, Art & More}

    

  Lots of fun ahead for this weekend. The weather Sunday looks like it may be a bit better than Saturday, so plan accordingly! Here are my picks:    

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Mexican Street Food at Truco Taqueria and Margarita Bar

The beginning of May is particularly festive during Cinco de Mayo celebrations.This Cinco de Mayo, Truco Taqueria and Margarita Bar at Randhurst in Mount Prospect, IL will be feting its new menu with new meal options and drinks. DJ Marco Herrera will be in residence from 6PM-11PM spinning tunes. Such fun! Last week, my husband and I enjoyed pre-Cinco de Mayo cheer at Truco and enjoyed a casual atmosphere allowing us some much deserved time to unwind and enjoy Mexican street food.

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