Introducing Samadhi, A Yoga Studio -- Meet Vanessa and Dolly

Introducing Samadhi, A Yoga Studio -- Meet Vanessa  Podgorski  and Dolly Cipolla

During our Stay in Place time, businesses are having to be a bit innovative. Samadhi: A Yoga Studio located in Glenview is continuing to offer a wealth of yoga and centering experiencing during unusual times. Recently, I had the opportunity to interview studio owner Vanessa Podgorski and studio manager Dolly Cipolla.

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Coquelicot Gallery and Cafe Home to Artisan Finds and Light Bites in Palatine

Coquelicot Gallery and Cafe is a new addition to the Chicago suburbs supporting independent artisans and providing an elegant space where the public can enjoy coffee, tea, light bites and art. I must admit the first two things that drew me to Coquelicot Gallery was the allure of loose leaf tea and the ability to peruse art including locally made items. When you enter Coquelicot, you feel that you are in a refined yet welcoming space.

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Fresh Family Meals at Grill House in Northbrook

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

A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I explored what has immediately become a local favorite: the Grill House in Northbrook, Illinois. The setting is comfortable, inviting and very welcoming for families. The menu incorporates family favorites and Greek flavors. With such a diverse menu and relaxed surroundings, the Grill House is a perfect places for families to get together and enjoy a meal.

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Quick Stop at Brewpoint in Elmhurst, Illinois

A few weeks ago, we made a quick coffee stop in Elmhurst, IL and I am so glad that we did! We discovered the treasure that is Brewpoint!

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Community, Whimsy and Fun at Beat Street in Arlington Heights

Beat Street's cheerful letters and window of whimsy invites visitors to indulge their inner child regardless of age. One cannot walk into this toy store without feeling childlike wonderment. Last week, I visited Beat Street and talked a little with owner Jen Sanger. I am thrilled to share more of this local small business with you!

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All Chocolate Kitchen in Geneva, Illinois: Chocolate Heaven

We have found chocolate heaven at All Chocolate Kitchen! All Chocolate Kitchen located in Geneva, Illinois is the creation of renowned Pastry Chef Alain Roby. Chef Roby developed his culinary art in Paris and has won numerous accolades. He has been featured on numerous Food Network Shows, The Martha Stewart Show and The Learning Channel as well as many publications. Chef Roby even holds several Guinness Book of World Records titles including the longest candy cane.

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Arlington Cake Box Bakery in Arlington Heights, Illinois

Arlington Cake Box Bakery in Arlington Heights has long been one of our favorite places to pick up baked goods. If you are looking for an old school bakery, Arlington Cake Box Bakery is the place! Family run since 1949, the bakery has an incredible selection of baked goods. While many of us look for sweet temptations at bakeries, they also have a selection of breads and rolls. Truly, Cake box has one of the largest bakery selections I have every seen.

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Chocolatines: A Chocolate Discovery in Schaumburg

Hidden in an industrial area of Schaumburg is a chocolate secret: Chocolatines. Everyone needs a little chocolate spoiling from time to time and Chocolatines is a local place to do it. The spartan surroundings of Chocolatines gives way to a haven of chocolate luxury once you enter the shop.

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Tea Harbor in Vernon Hills Is a Tea Treasure Trove!

Tea is the perfect beverage for winter--warm on a chilly day while packing a nutritional punch. So exploring a local tea shop was a welcome diversion for a recent winter evening. Every time that we are in Vernon Hills, we never seem to have enough time to visit Tea Harbor. Finally, I found a free evening for what would be a fruitful excursion!

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The Rock House Glenview: Coffee, Grilled Cheese and Guitar Lessons!

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

As I listen to sleet pelt my window, the realization that winter here in Chicago can be tough and bleak is hitting. I am always searching for inspirations to leave the house to lift my spirits during the winter months. Yesterday, my family uncovered quite the hidden gem in Glenview and we are already eager to return! The Rock House provides a warm, unique atmosphere that is part coffee house and part rock-n-roll. Truly a place for a little bit of a warm up in winter!

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