elkhart lake in autumn

mall weddings, like totally

historic urbana

The Historic Lincoln Hotel in Urbana, IL. Built in 1924 by the local architect, Joseph W. Royer, where the original funding for the hotel came from stock subscription of Urbana's prominent citizens.

billy goat gruff?

At first glance it looks like the petting zoo had to place this poor 'ole goat in the stocks in order to get him to play nicely with the kids. Then, I realized, after watching for a while, that this wise billy goat jenga'd his way into this spot to get in prime position for feed from dirty little hands.

grave danger

Camping in Door County, a mysterious grave marker was found on one of the sites. It seemed to come alive at night, as it would snag the foot of those that attempt to trespass. Or, you could just chalk it up to some crafty kids and a lack of coordination.

colors of fall

vote early, not but not often or late.

Did you know that 34 states allow people to vote in person before the election day? Majority of them have a don't ask, don't tell attitude towards early voters. Only 3 states & DC want a reason.

Here in Illinois, they didn't ask me anything and I didn't tell them anything. To find early voting locations in Illinois, click here.

colin knows how to pick 'em

Pumpkin picking is an art. Colin walks us through the steps to finding the great pumpkin.








First, check the dirt. Good soil is the first indicator of a good crop.

Next, inspect the pumpkin.


Finally, call in the laborers to carry your bounty home for you.

soldier field

oliver plays with fire

Last weekend, Oliver discovered one of the reasons people take a trip to Wisconsin - firecrackers.













We gathered at the water's edge of a beautiful, serene lake that was surrounded by the fall colors. The serene moment lasted only a moment. It changed as the inventory of fireworks was laid out on the pier. Then the moment was lost. Bottle rockets streaked through the air and skipped on water.

Congratulations to Lauren and Jimmy

lauren, jimmy and aunt toni's cake

We headed up to Wisconsin to see Lauren and Jimmy tie the knot. The weather threatened with rain early in the weekend, but was shooed away by the bonfire after the rehearsal dinner. Apparently fire and water don't mix. The elements aside, we had a fabulous weekend filled with family, friends and food.

For more pictures of the wedding and rehearsal dinner click here.

Doug & Andrea's Announcement

We headed over the Nacional 27 to celebrate the recent marriage of Doug and Andrea. When I think of Doug and Andrea, I think of food and wine. It seemed only natural that there trays of delectable apps and mixologist-inspired drinks samba-ing around the party for all to enjoy. My favorite was the blueberry infused cocktail.

traditional registry gifts

brandy's

A fast food place that is the home of the gyros, salad on a pita and a parking lot full of cops. must be good. It was.

chicago botanic gardens