Chicago Anyone?

[shopaholic]

Chicago board was dead on wc..so I hope it won't be like that over here!

I've lived in Chicago my whole life, others might be envious (I always hear about people saying how they loooove Chicago) but at times I wish I was elsewhere. Currently its 88 degrees...going to be 100 tomorrow!!! :eek:

[Bubbas]

I'll join. I'm originally form the North Shore but now live in the South suburbs.

I can't wait for Thursday to get here so we can get some relief from this weather!!

[shopaholic]

Yes, they said a "cool" down was to come, but its only going to cool down to about 80.

I personally don't mind it (as long as I have AC)...rather have hot than 3 feet of snow. After a while though the AC does get suffocating, I just need fresh air!!

I wanted to go to the Taste this weekend for a bit so hopefully it will be pleasant.

[A-lo]

I'm in the Southwest suburbs. I grew up in Jersey but my DH grew up on the Northside. We moved here from Atlanta last year (we both moved there to work for CNN 6 years ago.) I love Chicago and I'm so happy to call it home. I'm lucky enough to work downtown so I get to experiance the city even though I'm a country girl. :)

[Bubbas]

I have an almost 8 month old so when it's this hot out, there's not much we can do outside.

Welcome A-lo

[Jackie&Tom]

Hi!
We recently moved to the far north suburbs, but I work downtown.
Definitely not enjoying the weather lately!! Maybe if I was in a pool instead of in my office - it would be a different story :)

[cakes]

Oh a pool sounds so nice right now!! I cant take much more of this weather. Our AC broke in our apartment on Sat and hopefully it'll be fixed today, just in time for the weather to cool down of course :rolleyes:

Anyways like celica I've lived here my whole life ~ far NW suburbs growing up and now semi-north suburbs.

[shopaholic]

Does anyone have any exciting plans for the 4th?

We are trying to find a place to go see fireworks (somewhere local). We are thinking Elmhurst might have a nice "display" but I am not quite sure. Anyone know?

[mom_to_zoe]

Sign me up! I've lived in Chicago for almost 3 years. At first, we rented an apartment in Lincoln Park, but for the past two years, we've lived in a little house in Bucktown. DH and I both work in the Loop and we have a 22 month old daughter

This weather has been AWFUL. Our nanny has taken DD to the pool every day this week. I think it is really supposed to be better on Friday, just in time for us to leave town for the long weekend. ;)

[ali_ohli]

Hi girls! We just moved to Chicago last October. We live on the far north side and absolutely love it!

I know I'm in the minority, but I'm LOVING this weather. After spending the past five years in San Francisco (where it's foggy and around 65 degrees from June through August), it's such a treat to have a real summer.

Question for you girls: I'm trying to find a night to go to the Taste, but nothing's working out. Is it a MUST do?

[cakes]

I personally could take it or leave it. I went two years ago and had an ok time. Personally the heat and the crouds and the price of the food dont make it worth it to me.

Just my opinion though someone else might tell you different.

[shopaholic]

Question for you girls: I'm trying to find a night to go to the Taste, but nothing's working out. Is it a MUST do?
If you have never been....go at least once.

If you like food, crowds and sweaty people bumping into you..its a real fun time!! LOL :)

Actually I might pop by there on Saturday. I haven't been in about a few years (I have only gone 2 times). The weather is going to let up this weekend so it shouldn't be too bad.

However, I really really do not suggest going for the fireworks. You may very well get in a fight with someone (I did) or trampeled. It is beyond insane.

[Bubbas]

I agree with celicacutie81 that you need to go at least once. I don't like to go anymore because it is SO SO crowded and with the weather this hot, it would be too uncomfortable for me.

You should go to see the fireworks, though I'm not sure what night they do it on anymore. It is always a great show!!

[Hello Kitty]

A Chicago (Lincoln Park) girl at heart, but I just booted myself out to middle-of-nowhere IL. I miss the city sooo, much! I go downtown 1x/week for work (2 hrs one way commute, eew) but it's just not the same as living there. Sniff, sniff.

We are going to the Taste on Saturday (maybe I'll see you there, Susan, LOL). We had a good time last year, surprisingly. Yeah, it's crowded and overpriced, but you can't beat it for the people watching.

RE: fireworks - friends of ours live in Bucktown, and their rooftop is the most amazing place to see fireworks - you see them from all around the city and suburbs, even Indiana!

I know Naperville has some really good ones - they are for their Ribfest - not sure when that is, though.

The ones off of Navy Pier get waaayy crowded (this year, it's Sunday, the 3rd). My brother is going, but they have friends with a boat, so they'll be out on the lake.

[shopaholic]

Regarding Fireworks
if you do go to see the fireworks at the taste, go early! Make sure you have time to set up your area and chairs/blanket/etc. Although, it probably doesn't make a difference because once dusk hits its a free for all. You have people stepping all over you & your stuff. You have been there since noon and you have some jackass that comes right before they start and sits in your lap.

If you could go out on a boat I think that would be very cool....or even a rooftop like Seb's Kitty said.

Here is the entertainment schedule for today on:

June 29: 5:30 p.m., The Gap Band, Morris Day and the Time
June 30: 5 p.m., Lynyrd Skynyrd, Creedence Clearwater Revisited
July 1: 5:30 p.m., Steve Winwood, Dr. John
July 2: 4:30 p.m., Santana, Los Lonely Boys, Salvador Santana Band
July 3: 7:30 p.m., Grant Park Symphony Orchestra Independence Eve Concert and Fireworks
July 4: 3 p.m., Moby, John Hiatt and the North Mississippi All-Stars

[ali_ohli]

We actually have a rooftop deck of our own, so I'm hoping we'll be able to see lots and lots of fireworks Sunday night!

[mom_to_zoe]

I've never been to the Taste myself. My DH assures me that the crowds of people gnawing on those giant turkey legs would wig me out.

On another note, has anyone been out to the outlet mall in Aurora? I went for the first time on Saturday -- my DH gave me the day off from child care -- and it was awesome! There were tons of great stores and the prices were amazing. I had so much fun. The traffic getting home was nightmarish, though. I-88 was a parking lot, so I took back roads from Aurora to Oak Brook, when I hopped on 290. Ouch!

[mpc863]

We're moving to Chicago from Los Angeles next month (hi Ali!). I lived in Chicago for 2 years after college (Lakeview and River West). I'll be at Kellogg so we are going to live in Evanston. I can't wait to move back!

[shopaholic]

I've never been to the Taste myself. My DH assures me that the crowds of people gnawing on those giant turkey legs would wig me out.

On another note, has anyone been out to the outlet mall in Aurora? I went for the first time on Saturday -- my DH gave me the day off from child care -- and it was awesome! There were tons of great stores and the prices were amazing. I had so much fun. The traffic getting home was nightmarish, though. I-88 was a parking lot, so I took back roads from Aurora to Oak Brook, when I hopped on 290. Ouch!
I haven't yet, but have been hinting to SO that I want to go. His sister lives in Naperville so I know where its at. Glad to hear it was good! I wasn't so thrilled with Gurnee Mills (but last time I was there was the year it first opened).

[cakes]

Oh did someone say new mall? I hadnt heard of that one.

I've got some friends out in Aurora that I havent talked to in awhile, maybe I should hit them up and do some shopping there sometime soon.

[shopaholic]

It might be called Chicago Prime Outlet?

[mom_to_zoe]

It's awesome. It's called Chicago Premium Outlets. Tey have your old standbys like Gap, J. Crew, Banana Republic, Nine West and Ann Taylor. But if you are a label whore like me, they also have some designer stores like Armani, Ferragamo, MaxMara, Theory, Elie Tahari (this one was the best!). I dropped so much coin there last weekend.

[citylove]

Yaaaayyyy! A new cyber-home and a new group of local gals!

I just moved to Chicago 2 weeks ago (or less?) from New York City. I on the northside - I think. Ravenswood, anyway. I really enjoy the neighborhood so far, and have been HELLA impressed with everyone I've met. I'm a midwesterner at heart (metro-Detroit bred) and coming off of two years in selfish, self-absorbed, abrupt, rude NY has left me shocked at the kindness of strangers!

I might have to check out that outlet soon - God willing I'll get an interview before long, and all my suits are still in NY :( since I forgot to pick up my dry cleaning and my girlfriend hasn't sent them yet. Doh!

I'm thinking (since I'm unemployed and all) that I'll head down to the taste tomorrow afternoon? Not sure yet. I'd like to go at less-crowded time. I went there once when SO was in college, and it was fun. Mmmm, frozen grapes!

I'll stop babbling, but I am subscribing!

BTW, hi Cakes! *waves*

[ali_ohli]

citylove welcome! My East Coast hubby was also surprised (and pleased) by how nice people here are. Ravenswood is a great neighborhood. Enjoy! :)

[cakes]

Hey citylove!! How was the move? I'm glad that you're liking it here so far.

[citylove]

How was the move?

Do you REALLY want to know? ;) Cuz it was awful! LOL. I was alone in NY for about 2-3 weeks while SO came out here and got things settled. Very bad idea! We were both working our butts off doing stuff that would have been easier to do together if we'd just been patient (moving, cleaning, last minute packing to fit all my stuff into no more than 5 bags to get on the plane :eek: ).

But, we are here and together. No jobs yet - I think we have to set a wager on who will get one first!
Oh yeah, and if anyone has connections in independent schools or in any democratic politician's office, hook me up!

Does anyone have any opinions on governor whats-his-name? I've heard mixed reviews. I understand if we don't want to make this a political thread, but I'm already fascinated by IL politics ...

[cakes]

Well if you'd asked about Republican offices I could help. Unfortunately my grandmother, parents, and most of my aunts/uncles are republicans and my grandma has mucho connections to that party. She just about passed out upon finding out that some of her grandchildren were <<gasp>> Democratic liberals and one libertarian :rolleyes: That's really cool that you get to volunteer there for a few days though. As for Blagovich (ok I know that's spelled way wrong, but I have no idea the real spelling :confused: ) I dont know, I dont really have a strong opinion either way on him.

Now 5 bags!!!! That's it. My I would NOT have been able to do that. I just moved and the amount of stuff that I had to move was rediculous. I am such a pack rat. Glad you made it in one piece though.

Good luck w/ the job, I'll keep an ear out for anything that might be of help to you.

[EJM]

Hi all -- another city girl here!

citylove: Have you tried any of the aldermans' offices? I'm not sure how all of that works, or if you have to live in a certain district to work there, but there are plenty of aldermen on the north side who have small offices outside of City Hall.

[daener]

Subscribing.

We moved to Chicago in January (from Phoenix, our last stop in our concerted effort to live in every major city in the U.S.) and love it! We live in Lakeview, although we'll be moving this summer as we're looking to buy a house and that certainly won't happen in this 'hood.

citylove - welcome! We also moved here without jobs and had that same bet. DH won - he was working within 3 weeks. Took me about 4 months, but my field is a bit more specialized than his (or so I say to console myself).

mom to zoe - I loved the Aurora outlet mall! All my favorite stores...including the Coach outlet. How do you like living in Bucktown? That is one of the areas to which we are considering moving.

I went to the Taste last weekend and don't feel like I would have missed anything had I not gone. Honestly, I didn't think it was such a big deal. I prefer some of the other neighborhood festivals and music fests that happen all over town during the summer.

Does anyone know where else in the City there will be fireworks this weekend, besides Navy Pier and Grant Park?

[scout]

I'm not in the city, but I live in the burbs (ten minutes away from the outlet mall, actually!)

[Freckles]

New England girl at heart. Chicago transplant for almost 2 years. We spent our first year living in a 2 bed/2 bath APT on the 33rd floor on Michigan Avenue. We built a home in the western burbs---about 40 minutes West.
We are going to the city to go out on a boat for fireworks, but will also go to the Naperville fireworks. It's a great place to live, but I still miss home. :)

[shopaholic]

Wow, I am so excited to see this group growing!!! It always seems like there are a lot of people from Chicago / Chicagoland burbs, but noone ever posts in regional forums!

[mom_to_zoe]

daener, we really like Bucktown. We live kind of on the western edge, so our street is still in the process of becoming totally gentrified. But there are tons of young families and it is still relatively affordable. Before we had our baby, we used to walk to all the restaurants and shops on Damen. It's a fun area.

scout, I would be broke if I lived near that mall. Seriously.

citylove, welcome! Good luck with your job search.

[EJM]

mom to zoe: Is your neighborhood single family homes, condos or townhomes? We live in Lakeview and love it, but are expecting a baby and would love a back yard for our dog to run around in. Leaving the city right now doesn't make much sense for us with my DH's work and school schedule.

[mom_to_zoe]

EJM, it is really a mix. On our block alone, there are million dollar single family homes, brand new condos, townhouses, small single family homes, like ours, and dilapidated apartment buildings. No one I know, however, has a real yard that a dog could run around in. Our back is all deck and we have a postage-stamp sized front yard. There are some god dog parks however. If you really want more space, you might want to look north.

[EJM]

Thanks for your insight! Our dog is only 15 pounds so even postage size would be good for her. I'm really anxious to not be sharing walls anymore. Our current condo is 2 bedroom and enough room for us right now, but it might be a different story once the baby arrives. I think we'll be moving in the next 1-2 years and aren't sure if we are ready to make the jump to the burbs quite yet.

[mom_to_zoe]

EJM, I meant to add, congratulations on your pregnancy! I recommend to all new moms the Northside Parents Network, an all-volunteer organization for city families. They have new moms groups that often turn into playgroups as well as neighborhood clubs and other programs. It is $40 to join for a year. They are on the Web at www.northsideparents.org.

Are you going to deliver at Prentice? I can give you some tips on that too, when the time comes. ;)

[EJM]

mom to zoe: Thank you, I did join that group when we started our second trimester. I'm looking for PT daycare or nannyshare, and with the competition I needed to start reading recs early.

Yes, I'll be at Prentice and I'm sure lots of questions as we get closer. Although our crib just arrived at the furniture store so it is making this seem much closer :eek:

[k8lyn]

another chicago girl checking in! i went to college and law school at the U of C, met a guy who grew up on the north shore, had our wedding reception at the chicago historical society and don't ever foresee us leaving the chicagoland area.

we're in a townhouse in the west loop now, and love the area. i had a loft in the meatpacking district (may and fulton) in 1999 and just can't handle the congestion/parking situation in most chicago neighborhoods.

i'll be the dissenter and say that i LOVE the taste of chicago! i drag my husband every year. but, we always go right when it opens and are able to breeze through, eat ridiculous amounts of food, and get out of there before the real crowds show up. we were there last sunday and the amount of food i put away was both impressive and disgusting.

nice to see so many chicagoans!

[ali_ohli]

EJM You might check out my neighborhood, Andersonville. It's further north, so it's a little more mellow in terms of congestion and density, and it's treelined, charming and safe--lots of great restaurants and fun shops. There are several single-family homes for sale in our neighborhood right now, and they all have small yards--maybe not enough for your dog to get a true workout, but at least a little outdoor space. We adore living here.

[citylove]

I forgot to say THANKS for the welcomes, ali and mom to zoe :)

SO and I are hoping to buy a condo next year ... It feels like that dream is slipping away though. Realistically, it won't be til 07, but I'm very interested in hearing about affordable areas and stuff. We might go down to the Taste today ...

[FallingforPhil]

I live in the pseudo-SW suburbs. (we're talking waaaaaay sw) :D I can't say I particularly like living up here--DH and I are central IL transplants, and the traffic and congestion is a bit much for us. But, we're learning, and I forsee us being up here for the forseeable future.

Right now, I'm commuting into the city every morning for grad school. I've driven for 9 days. Today, I decided I'd had enough and bought a month-long metra pass. We'll see if I actually make it to class tomorrow. I'm nervous about using the shuttle, and more nervous about missing the shuttle and having to use the red line or something. (just ask Seb's Kitty--I am a wreck when it comes to public transportation--it's embarrasing! :o )

[Sevilla]

Does anyone have any opinions on governor whats-his-name? I've heard mixed reviews. I understand if we don't want to make this a political thread, but I'm already fascinated by IL politics ...
Oh IL politics are fascinating. Governor Rod B. kind of fades into the background compared to Mayor Daley though. And Daley is embroiled in a big time scandal right now. The funniest are his press conferences when he gets all mad and sputters saying things like "There is no graft in this city!" (um...we all know that there's bribes-that's what this whole hired truck scandal is about!) and "I'm not selling heroin--you selling heroin? There's no drugs here." (or something like that--they are hilarious quotes).

Now the last governor, George Ryan, was a real piece of work. The Chicago Tribune hated him and would print the most unflattering photos under the most damning headlines all the time, especially towards the end of his term when the corruption became so obvious and his cronies were going to jail.

[Marie]

Hi all! Just wanted to pop in and say hi...I live in the western 'burbs and have been a Chicago girl all my life. Wouldn't want to live anywhere else.

My husband knew the Gov in college and after ~ claims he's a weenie who they used to ditch so they didn't have to hang out with him. ;)

[heidi0622]

I'm another Chicago gal...I grew up in Naperville, went away for college, then moved back and lived in the city for 4 years after college. I loved the city life, I lived in apartments in Lakeview and Bucktown. My job though is in the NW suburbs and 4 years of the reverse commute got the best of me, so a few years ago we moved out to the NW suburbs. I love having a house (much more than I could afford in the city), but I really miss the excitement of living in the city, especially on these nice summer weekend. My husband and I still do try to get down there a lot on the weekends though.

I agree that IL politics are quite interesting. Daley press conferences are hysterical...my favorite quote of his was from the anthrax scares a few years ago...the el had shutdown one afternoon because of a "suspicious substance" which ended up being guacamole. The headline in the Sun-Times the next day was his quote "Guacamole is not dangerous people!"

[Hello Kitty]

Oh gosh - Daley is hysterical. When he was dealing with that city worker paycheck scandal, he said something along the lines of - "what, you want me to make sure all my workers are scrupulous?" No, Rich, that would be too much trouble, but couldja try?

Heidi - my DH went to HS in Naperville too :D

We are mourning our loss of the city now that it's summer. DH and I are glad that we bought (we certainly couldn't buy in LP) but we wish we would have stayed one more summer. I didn't realize just how hard it would be to get ourselves downtown, KWIM? By the time we get a sitter for the dog, etc...

How's the Ann Taylor outlet in aurora? We went to one in FL, and it was really great. FFP, maybe we should ditch the hubsters some weekend and go up there?

[indoflip]

Hello! Another Chicago gal here.. Born and raised :D I actually live out in the western burbs now and lovin' it. There was some talk about malls earlier. I don't know if anyone knows the location of the new IKEA, right off of Boughton on I-355? I live in that area. And across the street they are building yet another mall! It'll be similar to Oak Brook/Old Orchard, an upscale outdoor mall with 70 stores and 13 stand alone restaurants! :eek: I'm so excited! Not due to open til 2007 but I'm patient ;)

As for the Taste, I went a couple of days ago for a quick dinner and thats the end of it for me til next summer. I can't stand the crowds for the fireworks. For the 4th we usually go out on a friends boat to watch them (but not this year because I have to work *boo hoo*).

Hey Sebs' Kitty! I too am mourning the city summertime! DH used to have a place down there til we decided to move out here. I miss strolling up and down Michigan Ave and catching last minute shows in the Theatre District *sigh*

[EJM]

You girls are reminding me why I love living in the city :) , I'll have to remember that when I long for a lawn and not sharing walls. We'll be making the move in the next few years but sometimes it doesn't seem soon enough, especially when my neighbor likes to crank up his stereo.

[SwiftyOWB]

Another Northsider here. I am new to the city but I would love to know the things that we MUST do this weekend.
Have a good one.

[julietchicago]

Hi Girls...

I am an Illinois gal, born and raised, currently in the NW burbs...where I have always been! I don't get downtown too often, but when I do...it's a blast!

I have been to The Taste a couple of times. I think it's fun, but can be frustrating because there are sooo many people, and I hate crowds. And if some nasty mofo bumped into me while he was nawing on a turkey leg, we would have problems! LOL :D

My DH went to HS in Naperville as well.

Nice to see this thread!

[nancy drew]

we are in the city, near wrigley field in fact. :) ive always lived in the city, ever since i was born. i love it here.

we are probably doing taste on monday to see moby etc. at the very least we can walk around with dd while listening to some music and watching some people. maybe get some good food.

hey mom to zoe are there any childrens clothing stores out there at the outlet? im not in any shape to buy clothes for myself these days but the kiddos could always use some. also, what pool does your nanny go to? we need a pool to visit on those awful hot days where i feel like im going to burst.

swifty the musts for the 4th of july weekend tend to revolve around the 3rd of july fireworks or suburban fireworks. ribfest in naperville is a big hit. havent been there myself but sil used to live out there and went every year. 3rd of july fireworks are insane if you go to grant park. we used to stake out a restaurant on navy pier, sit there all night and wait for the show but they stopped letting people do that. if you dont mind crowds you can head downtown anyway and go to the lakefront (follow the crowds) and find a spot. just figure that by the time the 'works start you will have people sitting on your lap ;) ok maybe im exaggerating.

[Reenie]

Hi! We are in the southwest suburbs, but moving into the city soon. I teach for CPS, so we have to live in the city, and I don't really like lying, so... :) I moved here six years ago exactly on July 6.

[citylove]

Reenie - I must now hound you about your job!

I just moved here, and tried and tried the independent schools with no luck.

What do you teach? I'm trying to formulate a sample syllabus and probably one unit plan for 9th or 10th grade literature.

Do you know of anyone getting hired without certification completely processed? I'm certified in NYS and my IL certification is pending. Do you think I have a chance?

Sorry to hound, but I am at such a loss, almost to the point of panic. I sure appreciate it!

Oh, and congrats on your new home! How very exciting!

[Reenie]

citylove- Welcome to Chicago! Thanks for the congratulations.

I teach English in one of the public high schools. Last year, I taught three sections of regular survey lit (9th grade), one section of honors survey lit, and one section of creative writing for ESL students. This fall, however, I'll have four sections of regular survey lit and one section of regular world lit (12th grade).

I'm not sure if I understand your question about the independent schools...are you referring to charter schools, etc., or are you talking about applying to different public schools without actually applying to the entire system?

I will admit that for English and history teachers, it is very competitive here (I think, though, that that's pretty much the same where ever you go), but it's do-able. Some schools are much more competitive than others. Do you have a preference? Also, are you certified to teach ESL and/or do you speak another language?

Don't panic, especially if you are applying to CPS. Many schools still don't have numbers for this fall :eek: , so they don't even know what areas in which hiring is needed. Lots of schools interview from the end of July all the way through to the first few weeks of school! In addition, if you are applying to a CPS school, I would suggest rather than putting in your info to the ENTIRE system, finding out who needs you that you would want, then going to the school. At many schools, you can give your resume to the secretary and request to speak to the principal. Just tell her/him that you are so interested in the position that you wanted to come and introduce yourself and have a look around the school and neighborhood. Many principals like that. I noticed that you have only been here a couple weeks, so please excuse me if you already have visited this site, but this could really help you if you haven't been yet... CPS Human Resources Teaching Job Openings (http://www.cps-humanresources.org/Hronline/logon/ProspEmpLogon.asp)

Regarding the certification, I don't know anything about New York's certification; is there anything that you have to DO to get it, or you're just waiting for the paperwork? If you have to take the three tests (basic skills, subject area, and assessment for professional teaching), I would sign up to take them ASAP. When you get an interview, bring your testing appointment confirmation and explain your situation. No one should have any trouble with understanding that logic. If you are simply waiting on ISBE, then don't sweat anything; administrators can access the information online to see that you have applied for reciprocal certification and are simply waiting for ISBE to do their part.

Sorry if this is fragmented. I hope that I answered your questions; if you come up with something else, I'd be happy to help answer your question.

[citylove]

Reenie - your response was such a relief to read! Thank you so much. I sent you a pm to avoid taking up further space here :)

[Dasha]

Another Chicago gal here. I grew up in Wilmette, went to college and graduate school on the East Coast, worked in Washington, DC for HUD during the Clinton administration and then moved back to Chicago in 1996.

When I was single I lived in Lincoln Park and loved he excitement of the area. I enjoyed all that city life had to offer. Now we live in Evanston, which combines the best of city and suburban living-nice downtown area with lots of shopping, parks, open spaces, beaches, a huge diversity of housing from multi million dollar houses to area that are waiting to be gentrified. Now that we've lived there for a while, I can't imagine living anyplace else.

[nancy drew]

citylove former teacher here... you might try the charter schools too, when i was teaching there they had looser requirements about certification. they were trying to "up" their standards and hire only teachers with certs but they can hire those without. good luck, it can be incredibly difficult finding a job teaching in the city. took me almost 8 years and i still didnt love where i was working. you also might consider applying as a kadre sub, which is a permanent substitute teacher. you would be assigned to one school and basically fill in when any other teacher is out. you would be guaranteed work every day and if someone went on extended leave you would be called into that room for the whole time. its an excellent foot in the door. also, some schools "lend out" their kadres, so you might ahve the opportunity to work in and network in different schools. i think for kadre you just need a sub certificate, which can take a while to get so you might go down to the office and apply asap. then you would send out letters to individual schools and ask to be considered for teaching positions and kadre positions. even if you dont get a kadre position right away, if you have a sub certificate you can apply to sub at lots of schools and then when techers leave or go on extended leave you will already have a foot in the door, so to speak.

[littlecindy]

we're in naperville. i was a city girl back in minnesota until we moved to chicagoland! :( circumstances beyond our control....

[shopaholic]

UGH, I went to the Taste this past Saturday 2nd......what a waste of time. HORRIBLE. I guess I forgot how bad the crowds can be. It seemed every ignorant person in the Chicago-land area was at the Taste this Saturday :(

Needless to say, for $14 we got 2 sandwiches and a bottled water!!!!!!!!!

[cakes]

I was there too. Even though I really had no desire to go my mom wanted to go so bad becuase she's never been. It really wasnt too bad early on, but by the time the afternoon rolled around. OMG!!! I almost thought I was going to have a panic attack when we got caught in one croud that wasnt moving anywhere. I'm totally claustophobic and that just got to me. I freaked out and managed to push myself out of there. Some guy behind me was cheering me on for getting us out of there.

Oh and the crouds at the concert. Some guy next to us flipped out because someone else stepped on the edge of their blanket. I seriously though that it was going to come to a physical fight. :rolleyes:

That was not really an experience I want to do again anytime soon.

[shopaholic]

I was there too. Even though I really had no desire to go my mom wanted to go so bad becuase she's never been. It really wasnt too bad early on, but by the time the afternoon rolled around. OMG!!! I almost thought I was going to have a panic attack when we got caught in one croud that wasnt moving anywhere. I'm totally claustophobic and that just got to me. I freaked out and managed to push myself out of there. Some guy behind me was cheering me on for getting us out of there.

Oh and the crouds at the concert. Some guy next to us flipped out because someone else stepped on the edge of their blanket. I seriously though that it was going to come to a physical fight. :rolleyes:

That was not really an experience I want to do again anytime soon.Hopefully I won't get flamed, but no one needs to bring a child to the Taste. That and wagons and wheel chairs.

Physical fights.....going to the taste is the only time I have actually had the urge to get in a physical fight.

[mom_to_zoe]

nancy_drew, there are some kids' clothing stores at the Aurora outlets. There was Carter's, Little Me, Gap and some fancy schmancy ones likes Jacadi and Petit Bateau. There was also at least one maternity store. ;) But, I think there are kids' clothing outlets closer. Like the Carter's outlet at North and Clybourn and the Gap outlet on Milwaukee. I also like The Second Child, the consignment store on Armitage for kids' clothes -- and I think they have maternity as well. It's not as good for toddler clothes, since toddlers are harder on their clothes than babies -- but they have great baby stuff.

My nanny takes Zoe to the pool at Holstein Park, which is close to our house. There's a big pool and a kiddie pool. It's great!

[lee60657]

Subscribing! I currently live in Lakeview, but before that I lived in Lincoln Park and the Gold Coast. I LOVE the city. Things are bit different going out wise now that we have DD, but there are a ton of great things to do with kids in the city too.

I have to second the Northside Parents Org...great! Another really nice one is New City Moms...they do luncheons with a topic and speaker almost every Tuesday. Its $30 (usually, at least that's what it was the last few times I went) and you get a decent lunch. Something to look into.

I also love Second Child..you can get some decent deals there. I am definitely going to have to check out that outlet mall in the near future.

Question re: swimming at the park...do you have to join the park district by paying a fee or do you just pay as you go? I would love to have a pool to bring DD too. How is the one you go to? Is it kept fairly nice? Thanks for the info.

[pickle]

Subscribing! I currently live in Lakeview, but before that I lived in Lincoln Park and the Gold Coast. I LOVE the city.

I could have written this myself! My DH has lived in the city his whole life, so I think we're here for good. Thinking about moving in the next year or so, though, maybe to Roscoe Village or Andersonville? It's still under discussion.

I'm impressed with those of you who braved the Taste over the weekend. I work on Jackson, so my department went for lunch during the week. And that was enough of the crowds for me.

I love the Aurora outlet mall. My brother lives near there...lots of temptation!

[ali_ohli]

hi Pickle. :)

Move to Andersonville!!!! :D

[Melne11]

I am not from the city. I grew up in central Illinois. My dad grew up in the Northwest Suburbs. He took us to the city quite a bit, and I still go when I get a chance. I was just lurking, but thought I should say something.

That said, what celicacutie81 said kind of bothered me. (sorry you might get flamed)
Hopefully I won't get flamed, but no one needs to bring a child to the Taste. That and wagons and wheel chairs.

Dad took my sisters and I to the Taste when I was little. We were 8 to 10. I don't know if you were talking babies in strollers, or all children, but I had such a great time there. I thought it was kid friendly, and I have such fond memories of the Taste, and the city in general. Little babies probably shouldn't be there, just because of the heat, but as for older children it's a fun day. And you have a problem with wheelchairs ?! So people who can't get around themselves shouldn't go to the Taste? That is ridiculous! I'm sorry, but I don't see your logic there. How is it that wheelchairs are such an inconvenience to you that they should just stay home??

[shopaholic]

That said, what celicacutie81 said kind of bothered me. (sorry you might get flamed)

Dad took my sisters and I to the Taste when I was little. We were 8 to 10. I don't know if you were talking babies in strollers, or all children, but I had such a great time there. I thought it was kid friendly, and I have such fond memories of the Taste, and the city in general. Little babies probably shouldn't be there, just because of the heat, but as for older children it's a fun day. And you have a problem with wheelchairs ?! So people who can't get around themselves shouldn't go to the Taste? That is ridiculous! I'm sorry, but I don't see your logic there. How is it that wheelchairs are such an inconvenience to you that they should just stay home??

I guess I should of clarified because I knew someone would jump up my ass for the comment. :rolleyes:

It seemed like there were tons of people there who were in wheelchairs that didn't seem like they should be (to the visible eye). It was almost like a "Great America" thing...where one in the group gets a wheel chair to get to the front of the line. Maybe it was ignorant of me to say, and I apologize, I don't know their health but it just seemed that everyone I saw in a WC didn't need to be.

And no, I don't feel an infant should be at the Taste. It was about 100 this weekend. I can see maybe a toddler but whatever....just my opinion. The Taste is not a friendly environment on the weekends to bring your red flyer (is that what its called) wagon to tote the little one and all their toys. Maybe that should be a clue to not bring them...or perhaps go during the week when there aren't many crowds.

[Georgiana]

And no, I don't feel an infant should be at the Taste. It was about 100 this weekend. I can see maybe a toddler but whatever....just my opinion. The Taste is not a friendly environment on the weekends to bring your red flyer (is that what its called) wagon to tote the little one and all their toys. Maybe that should be a clue to not bring them...or perhaps go during the week when there aren't many crowds.

I agree 100% I don't think that The Taste is a kid friendly place to take kids. Not only it's hot, but combined with the stoves and grills it can be dangerously hot for kids. In addition, some days you can have over a million people out there. I simply would not want my child to be amongst that mess.

I 'm from South Bend living in Elkhart - about an hour and a half from Chicago and I used to go there all the time. Chicago is such a cool place! I also did all of my partying there at the clubs as well. From the concert line up, It look like I missed out on a good time this year!

When is the Puerto Rican Pride Festival starting? That is so much fun!

[nancy drew]

mom to zoe thanks for the info on the pool and the stores. im thinking about checking out the pool very soon. i tried looking it up on the park district website but there isnt much info there. is it open all day or are there certain times when you can go? is it more of a bring your own pool toys thing (the kiddie pool) or is it like a sprayground type setup? sorry to hound you, the website doesnt even acknowledge that there is a pool there so its not too helpful :rolleyes: and ive been dying to take her swimming somewhere other than the little inflatable pool on our deck.

[Melne11]

I guess I should of clarified because I knew someone would jump up my ass for the comment.


Thanks for the clarification. I didn't mean to jump anyone's ass, but at the time, i was really bugged by your statement. Like anywhere, people need to have common sense when taking their children anywhere. I agree with you on that sense. As for the wheelchair thing, a lot of people use wheelchairs that probably don't need them, you are right. I see people walk in the store I work at, and take a wheelchair to shop, just cause they are too lazy to shop by walking. That is annoying, I'll admit, and I wasn't thinking of them when I wrote. I apologize, too, if I came off as a witch. I didn't mean to.

-Melanie

[shopaholic]

Thanks for the clarification. I didn't mean to jump anyone's ass, but at the time, i was really bugged by your statement. Like anywhere, people need to have common sense when taking their children anywhere. I agree with you on that sense. As for the wheelchair thing, a lot of people use wheelchairs that probably don't need them, you are right. I see people walk in the store I work at, and take a wheelchair to shop, just cause they are too lazy to shop by walking. That is annoying, I'll admit, and I wasn't thinking of them when I wrote. I apologize, too, if I came off as a witch. I didn't mean to.

-Melanie
No worries. Looking back I do realize that my comment could have been taken the wrong way (and came off very rude) and I should of clarified myself better. :D

[Melne11]

Glad we're cool.

-mel

[citylove]

Okay, Chicago-area ladies, I have a somewhat unusual inquiry.

My SO is a photojournalist. He is working on getting freelance work for now, but we hope that a staff position is in his near future. He has known for a while now that he needs to get a long-term story going, but hasn't been very pro-active about it. Now, it seems, is the time for him to get going on this story.
It seems to me that he is after a "human interest" story - something about a person or a very small group that is interesting/fascinating/shocking/touching to the general public. He has mentioned things like homeless shelters, gangs, or even a disabled person who does something that seems extraordinary. Good ideas could come from churches, community groups, sports teams, day cares, nursing homes ... even a family that has a bunch of foster kids. Stuff like that.
If anyone here knows anyone that you think might make a good longer term "human interest" story or a place (see above) that might be open to a photographer's eye, please let me know! Since we just moved here, he doesn't have a great amount of contacts - so anything helps. Thanks a bunch!

[EJM]

There are a number of things in Chicago. The Tribune has been running a long term piece on the tearing down of Cabrini-Green and displacement of its residents, but I'm sure there is always another angle there.

Also, there is a shelter/housing facility called Deborah's Place. I know they now run a store with items made by residents. I believe all of their resident information is confidential so he'd have to contact the office staff first.

Lastly, there is a night mission that parks a van at Belmont/Halsted a few nights if not all week long (post 10pm ish). I cannot remember their name (Night Ministries maybe), but I'm sure there would be lots of interesting stories there or even the organization itself.

[citylove]

EJM - Thank you so much! Those are all very helpful. I told SO about them, and he researched a bit last night. I really appreciate the leads!

[EJM]

You're welcome! I hope he finds something.

Ladies -- I can use a little help myself! Does anyone use a home daycare north of the city (Lakeview/LP/Lincoln Square etc) they would care to recommend? I'm not having much luck with the list I got from Action for Children and am on the waiting list for one of the only centers in the city that takes infants part-time. Unfortunately they don't anticipate any openings there until next summer and I need Januaryish.

[SwiftyOWB]

Hope you girls have a great weekend!! I think we are going to try and hit the beach. We have no excuse it is across the street from our house!! All the best, Kelly

P.S DANA!! How is the house search going? Hope all is well at the new job!!

[mom_to_zoe]

nancy_drew, I don't remember the exact hours for the Holstein Park pool. (And it is actually a pool, not just a sprinker. They do have those in a bunch oof other parks.) It's open the usual times, but sometimes there are classes, so you might want to call. Definitely bring your own toys!

[whirlingwords]

Hello all! I'm in Chicago as well... My neighborhood is in an identity crisis... One bar says Roscoe Village, One says Wrigleyville, and the liquor store claims Lakeview... but DH and I are thinking of moving downtown in the fall. Having lived here less than a year, I'm looking forward to reading this thread and learning about great/interesting things to do in the city and burbs!

[citylove]

Nancy Drew - Thank you so much for your insight about subbing. I'm really starting to get worried. I'm realizing how difficult this is going to be. Thanks again for the info - very helpful!

[Marie]

So what are some of everyone's fave restaurants in the 'burbs and the city? I think we're going to have a date night at the end of the month and we're trying to decide if we want to go somewhere we love or try something new.

One of my fave Italian places in the city is La Boca della Verita. Good food, good service, comfy and casual.

Suburbs...love 10 West in Naperville. Tuscany in Oakbrook.

Any others?

[mom_to_zoe]

Restaurants in the city:

Crofton on Wells (our all-time favorite special occasion place)
Thyme (amazing patio!)
Green Zebra
Charlie's on Leavitt
North Pond
Spring
socca
Japonais
Blackbird
NoMI (but the chef left)

We're going to Blue Water Grill on Saturday night with some friends. Reviews have been mixed but we have $50 gift card, so how bad can it be? I'm also dying to try Osteria Via Stato.

[EJM]

We have been trying to save our money so we haven't been out to any new places lately, but some of our old favorites:

Mon Ami Gabi (even though it's a "chain" of sorts)
Spring
Tru (hands down the best meal and service I had in my life)
West Town Tavern -- former owners of Zinfandel
Sushi Wabi

More casual:
Platiyo
Duke of Perth for fish/chips
Yen's

ETA: Has anyone been to Monsoon? I've heard good and bad, but we have a really good coupon and I'm wondering if it is worth it.

[Marie]

If you liked Tru you must try Alinea.

We've been wanting to try Green Zebra but have heard so many conflicting reviews. Have you been there several times?

[pickle]

Oooh, I love North Pond! We've had some really good meals there.

Some of our favorites in the city:
Mirai Sushi
Deleece
Mia Francesca
The Half Shell (it's a total dive, but fantastic crab legs!)
Vinci
Japonais

mom_to_zoe- we just ate a Blue Water Grill a few weeks ago and liked it pretty well. I don't know if you like raw oysters, but they had some that were phenomenal!

Is anyone else addicted to watching that show on Channel 11 called "Check, Please!"? It features three restaurants from around the city/burbs, and we've discovered some really good places after watching it. One favorite--Noon al Kebab, really good Persian food.

[shopaholic]

Is anyone else addicted to watching that show on Channel 11 called "Check, Please!"? It features three restaurants from around the city/burbs, and we've discovered some really good places after watching it. One favorite--Noon al Kebab, really good Persian food.

I am not addicted to it, but I do watch it often enough :D

I seem to just always flip channels and run into it!


Now I feel a tad stupid because I have lived in Chicago my whole life and I really don't eat downtown.

One of my fav. places to eat downtown though is Heaven on Seven (off Michigan).

Other than that, all my favs. are out in the burbs.

[Walton]

Hi! Another Chicago transplant here. I moved to Chicago from Iowa 3 years ago, and I absolutely love it here. My husband and I live in the East Village - not far from the Green Zebra, mom_to_zoe . I work downtown, so I have a great commute, and DH is a student who works part-time from home. I'm not sure how many more years we'll be here - I'm nervous about having a family in the city, so I'm interested to hear what you moms think about having kids here. I worry about the expense of it!

Some of our favorite restaurants include Mas, Usagi Ya, and El Tinajon. We love to eat, so I'm definitely going to check out some of your recommendations!

[lee60657]

Joining in on the restaurant banter....there are so many great restaurants, I love many of those already mentioned...Spring, Mia Francesca (I also really like Francesca's on Taylor and they take reservations where Mia does not), Thyme, Platiyo. I am also an avid watcher of Check, Please! ..it is a great resource for restaurants.

A few good ones that have not been mentioned...Rose Angelis, Merlo, Opera, Capital Grille, Coast (sushi) and I really like Orange and Joey's Brickhouse for brunch.

Mom to Zoe, what do you think of Socca? We live right by there and have been wanting to try it out...is it kid friendly or better to get a sitter?

[cakes]

Now I feel a tad stupid because I have lived in Chicago my whole life and I really don't eat downtown.

You're not the only one. Other than going to Parthenon in Greek Town on a yearly basis for my dad's b-day and one date at a fanastic Italian resturant I cant remember the name of, I haven't really ever eaten downtown. I'd love to go to places like this. Must get a BF who is willing to take me out on real dates into the city :D

[EJM]

We live right by there and have been wanting to try it out...is it kid friendly or better to get a sitter?

lee: We must be neighbors, I can practically spit on socca. When I ate there, about 3-4 weeks after it opened it was so loud no one would have noticed a screaming child. There were a few basics on the menu for a child's taste, but if you need a highchair the tables were so close together you couldn't fit one any place. Oh, Mia Francesca did start taking reservations a while back, unless they changed their policy again.

Mom to Zoe: Did you have good service there? Our waiter was kind of a smarty pants from the second we sat down, efficient but I could have done without the attitude. You couldn't tell but I was 12 weeks pregnant at the time and asked for a Sprite to which he replied that they only serve it to children. Um, ok :rolleyes:

[nancy drew]

lee: We must be neighbors, I can practically spit on socca.

we all must be neighbors then, im about 3 blocks from socca. havent been there yet though.

[lee60657]

How funny is that...we all live so close! I am going to try out Socca then. Hopefully the service is decent. EJM....if you need any baby clothes store recommendations I have tons!!! I am basically a shopaholic when it comes to DD....I am so excited to start her fall wardrobe :)

More baby talk....has anyone tried that Sing and Play (I think that is what it is called) on Halsted...I want to start DD in a class and I am looking into several places....Sing and Play, Gymboree and Bubbles Academy..any thoughts on those.

EJM...thanks for heads up on Mia's taking reservations. I have not been in so long b/c the wait was always so long. I will have to try there again soon.

Anymore restaurant recs for the area? I thought of one more...Grand Central has a decent menu and you can sit outside if it is nice...we have brought DD there a couple of times to sit outside. They also have pretty nice looking brunch ..haven't tried it though.

[ali_ohli]

We're up in Andersonville and adore the restaurants around here--it's our favorite part about the neighborhood. La Tache (French) and La Donna (Italian) are cute, romantic bistros. M Henry is the most fabulous brunch/lunch place (and where I will go if I'm ever chosen for Check, Please!). Hopleaf is a European-style pub with a mile-long beer list and yummy French pub food (e.g., moules and frites).

Outside of the 'hood, we love Tank in Lincoln Square (sushi) and Kitsch'n on Roscoe in Roscoe Village.

Of the uber-pricey spots, we've been to Tompolobampo, Everest and Spiaggia and loved all three.

[Dasha]

We live in Evanston and love Va Penseiro, Stained Glass Wine Bar, Noyes Street Cafe, among others. Downtown we really we really enjoy Crofton on Wells, Thyme, Marche, Italian Village. Cafe BabaReeba. I'm sure there are many other restaurants we enjoy that I'm omitting now.

[nancy drew]

More baby talk....has anyone tried that Sing and Play (I think that is what it is called) on Halsted...I want to start DD in a class and I am looking into several places....Sing and Play, Gymboree and Bubbles Academy..any thoughts on those.

we have been doing gymboree classes since dd was about 5 months old. i love it. it seems a bit expensive at first, but with enrollment you get to attend any open gym times at any gymboree in the city, which means that you have access to their facilities 5 days a week. they have certain open gym times, and you can just show up and play. believe me, in the dark days of winter it is awesome to go let your toddler run wild. plus if you miss a class for whatever reason you can make it up, and you can make up classes in the gym section or the music section. we have so many makeups right now that we are going twice a week, once to music and once to gym play. its great!

in the fall there are also classes at sheil park. ill warn you that they dont clean their toys but once a session, so thats kinda nasty, but its only $30 for a 10 or 12 week (cant remember) session and you can meet all kinds of moms from the area. fall enrollment begins online on august 8, i think. i believe their program starts at 6 months. as the kids get older the dirtiness of the toys and equipment is less of an issue, so its nice to continue with the classes and stay with the same group of mommies. its also a great way to find out about other fun kid stuff in the city.

[Reenie]

A little late, but I love Pegasus in Greektown, and for cafe, I double-love Artopolis! The owner, Steve, is so friendly and always gives me a little chewy almond cookie! :)

[lee60657]

Nancy, thanks for the info on Gymboree! DD is not quite 5 months, so I will check it out soon. I really want to get her in something, esp for the winter when it is too cold to get out. I work 3 days a week, but it looks like Gymboree has a great schedule with lots of different days and times. Thanks for the info on Scheill park too...I'll have to look into that. I have been to several New City Moms luncheons which have been nice, but I have not really met a nice group of moms yet. Also, I just noticed your avatar...congrats on your pregnancy. I can't wait to have another, but I am nervous about them being too close in age.

[JAK]

Subscribing - I'm in Chicagoland as well. I was born & raised in the Western burbs and now I live in the far south-west burbs.
Just wanted to say "hello!" to everyone.

[mom_to_zoe]

Put me down as another "Check, Please!" fan. I TiVo it every week.

lee60657, I second everything Nancy said about Gymboree. DD has been going since she was 12 weeks old. Open Gym in the winter is a lifesaver! I also like the Chicago Park District classes for how cheap they are. Wiggleworms at Old Town School of Folk Music is a fun class too, especially for babies who aren't mobile yet.

I kind of lost track of all the restaurant chat. I agree with whoever said Socca was way too loud, but we loved our food there. DH and I loved Green Zebra and felt totally satisfied, but we have friends who hated it, so who knows?

EJM, I'm not sure which restaurant you were asking me about. Was it Socca. Because we had really nice service there. I know what you mean about not being able to order a drink at restaurants when you are pregnant. I felt the need to explain to everyone why I wasn't drinking until it became obvious! I didn't want them to think I was cheap. LOL.

Here are some of our favorite family-friendly spots for the moms out there: Mitchell's diner on Clybourn, John's Place, Wishbone, Uncle Julio's, Goose Island Brewery, Tilli's.

[lee60657]

Mom to Zoe, thanks for the info! I actually just went to the Old Town website and checked out the Wiggleworms class..it sounds pretty good. I am also still looking into to Gymboree...I need to find all of the locations so I can figure out which one is best and then look at the schedule. Have you tried out Bubbles Academy? That is one more that I am checking out, but I really have not found anyone who has any experience with that one...maybe that is a sign!

More restaurants....I know someone brought up Osteria Via Stato...I have not been there, but DH has. He enjoyed it, but did say that it is really a place to go with a big group, not just 2-4 people. He also mentioned that it was pretty pricey and that it had a decent wine list. Hope this helps. As for more casual places, we also like Uncle Julios, you can't beat basic Mexican, Jack's on Southport is good, so is Mystic Celt.

[lee60657]

Bump! :)

[shopaholic]

Question:

Has anyone been downtown lately to shop since the tax increase?

[pickle]

Answer: Yep! ;)

I pretty much do all my shopping downtown. Why do you ask?

[shopaholic]

hm.. Typically I never do shopping dowtown. On occasion I will take the El and go to Michigan Ave. and do some shopping but I am not sure that I will want to due to the tax increase. Especially when all the stores downtown are right by my house too.

[lee60657]

I still shop downtown.....I am not excited about the sales tax increase, but it hasn't stopped me from shopping :rolleyes: On occasion I head out to Old Orchard too....but I work downtown and usually shop on my lunch hour. I like MI Ave b/c of all the flagship stores....they offer a much better selection than the non-flagship.

[shopaholic]

If I lived downtown or worked down there I am sure I would do more shopping, but usually I just go down about 2 times a year to browse/shop. I live near a nice mall that has all the stores that used to only be "exclusive" to Michigan ave. area.

[Marie]

If I lived downtown or worked down there I am sure I would do more shopping, but usually I just go down about 2 times a year to browse/shop. I live near a nice mall that has all the stores that used to only be "exclusive" to Michigan ave. area.

Exactly! With free parking even. :p

[pickle]

but I work downtown and usually shop on my lunch hour. I like MI Ave b/c of all the flagship stores....they offer a much better selection than the non-flagship.

Yup, me too. Although I do live far enough north that Old Orchard is probably just as close as downtown, I rarely go there. I'm usually shopping at lunch or on my way home from work, so it's worth it for the convenience.

When I used to work in Oak Brook, though, I was all about shopping in the 'burbs.

[shopaholic]

Its funny because now Woodfield has a French Connection store (before only location was at Water Tower) & an Urban Outfitters. Both are nice but at times it doesn't seem the "same". Before it was fun going downtown to those stores, or ones like it, just because you had a better chance of people in the burbs not having the same thing. Now that they are in the burbs EVERYONE will have the same item you once thought was semi-unique!

[lee60657]

I am a big Banana Republic fan and I have yet to go to a BR that has a selection even close to that of the Mi Ave store. The great thing about the Mi Ave BR is that it carries items that the other "regular" stores and online do not. That way you can shop there and still be a bit original (ie not have the same BR shirt everyone else does). I also like RL, LV, Coach, La Perla , Kate Spade, Lacoste, Sur La Table, Sugar Magnolia, and Anthropologie ...just to name a few :) Plus there is just something about shopping downtown....I really like it over mall shopping, but don't get me wrong...I can shop anywhere (this coming from someone who managed to buy an outfit for DD at the Lincoln Park Zoo gift store :p who knew they carried Zutano?!)

[mom_to_zoe]

I just hit Neimans' Last Call sale on Friday. It was awesome!

I live and work in the City, so going to the 'burbs to shop, with the exception of my Aurora outlet mall excursion, just makes no sense. And I also do most of my shopping during the week at "lunch" because I like to spend my weekends with my husband and daughter. So, I mostly stick with Field's for basics (lingerie, swimwear, cosmetics), Ann Taylor for work clothes and Neimans for fun splurges.

As for shopping for DD, I do a lot of it by internet since she isn't trying the clothes on anyway! Occasionally, I'll hit a brick-and-mortar Baby Gap or GYmboree, or the Second Child consignment shop on Armitage, but that's pretty much it.

[Hello Kitty]

Even after moving out to the not-even-burbs, I still do my clothes shopping downtown. It's just so easy to hit up some stores on an extra long lunch break or on the way home. Plus it's such a great stress buster!

[shopaholic]

well I work & live in the burbs..so maybe its a tad different for me :o

[Missy2U]

Hi y'all - just wanted to say "Good Morning". Grew up in Palos Park (SW Burbs), now live in Palatine (NW Burbs). It's nice to see some local folks!!

[nancy drew]

ok all you restaurant savvy ladies, i need some help. our anniversary is coming up and we usually go to gejas for fondue. i would be thrilled to go there again, since we skipped last year, but we have a coupon for the melting pot and we are thinking about trying it. has anyone been to both places? is there any comparison? melting pot seems to have more choices in their menu, and ive always wanted to try it, but gejas is soooooooo good.... i need to make reservations soon so any advice is awesome. thanks!!!

[lawgirl4]

hi!

newcomer to this thread...

we live in a south loop loft and have been here for 5 years. Prior to that we lived in Hyde Park (I was a student at the U of C) for 2 years... and prior to that I lived in NY since birth! DH grew up in a north shore suburb.

I am a die-hard east coaster and it's been hard for me to adjust to Chicago - yes, I've been here for 7 years! - but I think that's because of where we live. While I really like the south loop, and know it will be a great area to have little kids given the proximity to grant park and the museum campus, retail and restaurant options are just DEAD here. Yes, we have a handful of restaurants, but there is so much open, vacant, empty space down here and I just don't understand why! They are building high rise condos that sell out before they even break ground - there is definitely a huge customer base down here.

I guess it has to do with the "north side"/"south side" bias - which I personally don't ascribe to, being a non-native, but still... it would be nice to have more stuff within walking distance down here!! :)

[Marie]

I've been to the Melting Pot. Good wine list, food is good, the atmosphere is dark and you are kind of tucked back in your booth so there's lots of privacy. I'm sorry but I haven't been to the restaurant you mentioned so I really can't compare them for you.

[marchfamily]

Hey gals! NW-side girl here! Some of these names look familiar <waving>!

[whirlingwords]

Lawgirl, I know what you mean about the "south side" bias... I live in Roscoe Village, but DH and I are looking at apartments in the Loop so we can move downtown in September. We saw a TON of great lofts/apts/condos in the south loop, but have pretty much ruled it out because even though it's in the Loop, it seems so far away from "the city" - does that make sense. It's a nice area though adn I bet in a few years it is booming.

[lawgirl4]

whirlingwords - actually, it's funny, but I feel like the south loop (at least where we are - and we are in the northernmost part of the SL, not south of Roosevelt) is more in "the city" than other neighborhoods - but I guess I consider the area spanning the Loop and River North to be "the city" here...

I still don't understand why there isn't more independent retail in the SL though - the influx of residents into this area in just the past 2 years has been phenomenal, plus, Columbia College is down here too - who wouldn't consider a college student base a retailer's dream!?!?

Apparently they are building an enormous Whole Foods on the other side of the Roosevelt bridge (Roosevelt and Canal) - they are saying that the "roosevelt corridor" is poised to be the next "North Avenue" but I'll believe it when I see it! :rolleyes:

we'll probably be moving elsewhere in the city in about 5 years (by that time we will hopefully have 2 little kids) and ideally would love to find a 3 story greystone somewhere... :)

[FallingforPhil]

ANyone have any recs for good restaurants in the SW burbs? DH and I are planning a celebratory dinner and want to go someplace fairly nice and different.

[mpc863]

hi! dh and arrived in evanston on saturday. so far, i have not made it out of evanston. our anniversary is next week and we're thinking of gejas, glad to here that everyone likes it.

so great to see so many chicago ladies here!

[Missy2U]

ANyone have any recs for good restaurants in the SW burbs? DH and I are planning a celebratory dinner and want to go someplace fairly nice and different.

Here are three I can recommend:

Courtright's in Willow Springs
Tallgrass in Lockport
White Fence Farm in Romeoville (which I really miss now that I'm up north)

[shopaholic]

Is everyone enjoying this cold front that came through :)

[Missy2U]

Is everyone enjoying this cold front that came through :)

YES!!!! Can't seem to get out of bed in the morning - it's good sleeping weather. :)

[shopaholic]

I know this has been seen a million times...but its always fun:

You Know You're From Chicago When...
You say "Wanna go with?" when you mean "Do you want to come with me?"

You know what Kennedy, Dan Ryan, Eisenhower, Edens, and Bishop Ford, have in common and curse one of them daily.

You know what "the Hillside strangler is."

You can name three or four extra taxes nobody else pays.

You know the difference between Richard J Daley and Richard M Daley.

You can use two or three Daleyisms in context.

You can imitate the Mayor's whine.

You say Chicawgo and not Chicaago.

You think going to a Bears game in single digit temperatures with a wind off the lake (and freezing rain) is fun.

Da is a proper definite article.

You expect corruption in local politics.

You go to the Dells in the summer to get away from the other 20 thousand that followed you.

You've been caught speeding in Wisconsin because you had Illinois plates.

You guard your shoveled parking space with an old chair and unusable broom.

You know why they call it "the Windy City."

You know dead people who voted.

You understand the Democratic machine and don't fight against it.

You've never ever considered the idea of hiring non-union laborers.

You've never been to Springfield.

You know a good gyros joint.

You know what Giordanos, Lou Malnati's, and Gino's have in common.

You know when the last time the Cubs won a pennant.

You know exactly how many cars are "legally" allowed to turn left after the light turns red.

You don't know which ethnic "fest" to choose on any given Summer weekend.

Your idea of relaxing and getting away from it all is Ravinia (with 10,000 others who have the same idea).

You can recite many of "The Blues Brothers" lines and know where they filmed certain scenes.

You consider paying someone to watch your car at a sporting event as just another "city tax."

The "Living Room" is called the "front room"

You don't pronounce the "s" at the end of Illinois. You become irate at people who do

You measure distance in minutes (especially "from the city"). And you swear everything is pretty much 15 minutes away

You refer to anything South of I-80 as "Southern Illinois"

You refer to Lake Michigan as "The Lake"

You refer to Chicago as "The City"

"The Super Bowl" refers to one specific game in a series of 35 played in January of 1986

You have two favorite football teams: The Bears, and anyone who beats the Packers!

You buy "The Trib"

You think 35 degrees is great weather to wash your car!

You know what goes on a Chicago Style Hot Dog

You know what Chicago Style Pizza REALLY is

You understand what "lake-effect" means

You know the difference between Amtrak and Metra, and know which station they end up at. You have ridden the "L"

You can distinguish between the following area codes: 847,630,773,708, 312, & 815

You respond to the question "Where are you from" with a side" example:"WEST SIDE", "SOUTH SIDE" or "NORTHSIDE."

You know what the phone number is to Empire Carpet!

You wear gym shoes, not sneakers.

Your favorite melody to hum is "Bang,Bang,Bang-Skeet,Skeet,Skeet!!!!"

You faithfully attended Lil Louis parties at The Bismarck.

You GOT to have spaghetti at your barbecue.

You are STILL a Bulls fan........

You think kicking it outside of White Castles parking lot, (79th and Stony Island) is the "Freak Nik"

You go to Harold`s and order 4 pc wing, mild sauce, salt and pepper.

You have a picture of Harold Washington in your kitchen, living room, family room or basement.

You have ever waited in line at Home of the Hoagy on 111th for 30-45 minutes for a steak samich wit cheese

You have ever been to the Tiki Room lounge in Hyde Park

You have Y made a special trip downtown because you had a craving for Garrett's caramel and cheese popcorn.

What!!! We don`t get a Fifty? Oh yeah....

You drink at bars called "Bud on Tap" or "Milwaukee's Best" -- no names, just beer signs out front.

It's January and you see someone's kitchen chair in the street, and you know that if you're a responsible citizen and bring it back to the sidewalk you will be shot on sight

You live two miles from work and it takes you two hours to drive there

You don't flinch when you pay the fifth toll of your 45-minute car ride on the highway

When you read a big story in the paper about mob ties in the city government, your first reaction is "So, tell me something I don't know."

You know Lincoln Towing is Satan incarnate.

You've paid $105 for towing, $30 for more than one "street cleaning" ticket, $58 for a city vehicle sticker, and $70 for a license plate sticker -- and chalk it all up to "neighborhood taxes."

You pluralize grocery stores and retail chains: "I'm going to Jewels"; "I bought it at Targets"; "I couldn't find parking at Wal-Marts"

You've taken the Red Line past the point where all white people get off and all black people get on -- or vice versa.

You've cursed at a cyclist, pedestrian, or in-line skater on the lakefront path.

You know the significance of State and Madison.

You wonder if the fries will taste the same at Sammy Sosa's Restaurant.

You don't miss Planet Hollywood.

You're not ashamed of wearing a big fur Russian hat, or a headsock with one hole in it, in public from November through March.

You actually get these jokes and pass them on to other friends from Chicago.

[FallingforPhil]

Missy2U, thank for the recs! We're going on Sunday night, so we may check one of those out! :)

Looooving the cold front. It was beautiful downtown today.

[Reenie]

celicacutie81 LOVING the weather! :cool: It's so awesome right now. Thanks for posting that "Chicago" thing- it always gives me a laugh. So many of them, I'm laughing and nodding, but this one...

You know exactly how many cars are "legally" allowed to turn left after the light turns red.

is my pet peeve. What's your answer to this? Mine's three. It drives me NUTS. Sometimes, I even start to go and honk at the people who are going through MY light. :o Yeah, I'm a butthead.

[Marie]

You know what the phone number is to Empire Carpet!

30 years from now I won't remember what street I grew up on but will be able to sing the number on cue - because you can never say the number, you gotta sing it.

[Reenie]

30 years from now I won't remember what street I grew up on but will be able to sing the number on cue - because you can never say the number, you gotta sing it.

LOL, I went, huh? And then "588-2300- EMPIRE!" :D

[Missy2U]

30 years from now I won't remember what street I grew up on but will be able to sing the number on cue - because you can never say the number, you gotta sing it.

Now I know I'm dating myself, but can anyone tell me what company was "Hudson3-2700"? :D

[Bubbas]

Now I know I'm dating myself, but can anyone tell me what company was "Hudson3-2700"? :D

I don't remember the company but I can totally hear the voice "singing" the number.

[whirlingwords]

Any of you Chicago girls interested in planning a dinner get-together?

[citylove]

I'm interested in a get together! Still needing to meet people!

Sooooo ... what's the status of marrieds/not marrieds here?
I'm curious about venues and vendors from those of you who married in the city, but I'm not sure I'd want to clog up this thread. Hmmmm ... any problem solvers have any ideas?

[Reenie]

Count me in for a get-together!

[cakes]

I'd be interested.

[Hello Kitty]

I'd be interested in a GTG.

I didn't get married in the city, rather the burbs. I heard the Knot boards are really good for that :p ;)

Mabye open a thread in ATW for Chicago-specific questions? I'm sure if you did we'd be happy to help.

[citylove]

Thanks for the idea, Seb's Kitty - I may do that.

[shopaholic]

I'm interested in a get together! Still needing to meet people!

Sooooo ... what's the status of marrieds/not marrieds here?
I'm curious about venues and vendors from those of you who married in the city, but I'm not sure I'd want to clog up this thread. Hmmmm ... any problem solvers have any ideas?
I am non-married. Living w SO (dating for 5 years)...so possibly planning a wedding will be in my near future.

I would be up for a get-together, but more likely to join if it was in the burbs rather than in the "city".

[shopaholic]

Question..


Which outlet mall is better....Aurora (Chicago Prime Outlets is what its called, I think) or Gurnee Mills.

I have been to Gurnee Mills when it first opened many many years ago so I am sure somethings have changed a bit.

[mom_to_zoe]

Why not look online at the list of stores at each one and see which one has more stores that you like? The one in Aurora is called Chicago Premium Outlets, BTW, and don't forget about the one in Michigan City, IN.

The Aurora one had some of my favorite designers, Elie Tahari, Theory and Kate Spade, plus basics like J. Crew and Ann Taylor, so it was perfect for me. Just beware of the traffic on I-80!

[Hello Kitty]

We went to Aurora outlets today and weren't impressed. It seems there were a lot of 'factory stores' or 'company stores' - very few true outlets and no bargains to be had anywhere. The prices were comparable to what you'd find on sale at the regular mall.

I am neutral about gurnee mills - it's kind of icky, but there were at least a few more bargains, and more outlets than company stores.

[Freckles]

I really like the Aurora Outlets. I have found great deals at Coach and Ann Taylor. The Welcome Home store has cute house accessories for cheap.

Sooooo ... what's the status of marrieds/not marrieds here?

Married 2.5 years. :)
Wedding was in Vermont though, so no help in regards to IL locales.

[Reenie]

I'm interested in a get together! Still needing to meet people!

Sooooo ... what's the status of marrieds/not marrieds here?
I'm curious about venues and vendors from those of you who married in the city, but I'm not sure I'd want to clog up this thread. Hmmmm ... any problem solvers have any ideas?

Married, but the wedding was in St. Louis, so I'd be practically useless to you here. I agree that starting a thread in ATW forum would probably benefit you. :)

[MES in Chicago]

Hi all. I have been in Chicago for almost 8 years. I have always lived on the Northside, but last month we moved to Hyde Park. While I do miss everything (restaurants, delivery, shops, etc) I love our new place and our 2 new puppies!

I have been married 10 months and I did get married in Chicago, so ladies with any questions please let me know.

I would love to join a get together....

Melissa

[whirlingwords]

Married for 3 years, but we just moved here a year ago from the Southeast, so I wouldn't be much help with wedding planning here either.

What is everyone's preference for a get together? Lunch? Dinner? Downtown? 'Burbs?

Hope you're all having a great weekend!

p.s.: seb's kitty, are you the wc gal i met up with a few times? i seem to remember the username, but thought you lived in the city?? i was j's gal on wc.

[Hello Kitty]

Maybe! I did meet up with a WC-er last year a couple times, but we lost touch - I can't remember her username, only her IRL name, but don't want to post it. If it's you - PM me if you'd like to meet up for lunch or something someday.

I lived in Lincoln Park until March 05, where we moved out to central IL-ish. I still make the trek into the city once a week for work, but WFH the rest of the time.

I'm good meeting up wherever - because no matter where it is, it's going to be a drive. I would prefer a weekend to a weekday, though, JMO. Last time we had a GTG, we met for lunch on a Sunday in Schaumburg.

[Marie]

We've been married 2 1/2 years but we had our wedding and reception in the 'burbs.

I think a get together on a weekend would totally work no matter where it was. Weeknights would be much harder.

Edited to add: wasn't that impressed with the Prime Outlets in Aurora except for the Ann Taylor Loft and Casual Corner outlet for basics - you can always get cheap tshirts and stuff there. Otherwise I didn't think the prices or selection were anything fabulous. Haven't been to Gurnee Mills since it opened. Wasn't impressed and never went back. Sometimes Michigan City can be pretty good but honestly I think hitting TJMaxx and Nordstrom Rack is the best option.

[whirlingwords]

Seb'sKitty Well, I guess it is you! I remember envying that you work from home, and now I work from home as well! I'll PM you about lunch. Are you in the city often?


I'm pretty much open for a get together anytime. If it's not in the city, I'll need detailed directions :o Over a year here and I still am clueless about the suburbs!!

Over Labor Day weekend my husband and I are moving from Roscoe Village to Streeterville. It's going to be a big change, but we are excited about being right in the middle of everything. Our only problem is parking the car... We can't seem to find anything available near us... Anybody have any ideas? Thanks!

[Marie]

Question: any suggestions for cleaning people in the 'burbs?

Thanks!

[Missy2U]

Marie - Yes - I have a friend who has her own business. But what suburbs/area?

[Marie]

Missy, we're moving to Barrington - is that an area she covers or perhaps would she have any suggestions?

Thanks!

[Missy2U]

Absolutely. She lives in Palatine. Oh - Welcome to the area! :D I'll get back to you with the number - I have it at home.

[Marie]

Cool, maybe you can PM me when you get a chance.

Thanks!

[citylove]

Hey ladies,
I need to find a place to buy fabric, and being new to town I have no idea where to go! Are there any chains that might sell fabric, or does anyone know anywhere fom the loop area to the far north side? Thanks a whole bunch!

[shopaholic]

Joann Fabrics is great but I believe they are only in the burbs.

[lee60657]

There is a Joann Fabrics on Elston across the street from Target...it is in the shopping Center with the Cubs Food. It is the only fabric store that I know of in the city...but there could definitely be more. Good luck!

[EJM]

The Joann Fabric Lee suggested has a decent fabric selection. I haven't been there, but I was reading about a "higher" end fabric store in the River North area called By the Bolt (or something similar). I don't remember the exact location but remember it being near the old Wards building that is now going condo.

ETA: You might PM Nancy Drew, she sews baby carriers so I'm sure she knows the locations of a few fabric stores.

[heidi0622]

Haven't been around here in a while. I'd be interested in a GTG. I'm flexible to meet in the city or burbs, though I live in NW burbs.

I've been married 3 years and got married in Naperville, so I'd be willing to give suggestions on a suburban wedding.

[Hello Kitty]

I used to go to the JoAnns on Elston too. It was pretty decent. There is another store on Ashland (N of Damen) and I never went in b/c it didn't look all that great.

If you're looking for home decor fabrics, there's a great wholesaler a bit further north on elston:
Hallmark Textiles Inc
(773) 489-7707 2820 N Elston Ave
Chicago, IL
It's kind of weird. You go in to this little room, and you don't see anything, and then you ask to see the fabrics and they let you roam around - they have tons of stuff, and pretty good prices.

[Marie]

Hey Heidi,

I was married in Naperville too! We were married at the Naper Settlement Chapel with our reception at Meson Sabika.

:)

[Missy2U]

Marie - you have a message. :D

[citylove]

Thanks for the tips about fabric, ladies! I can't believe I forgot about JoAnns! I just need fabric for my bulletin boards at school, so I doubt I'll be going to the high end store!! Thanks a bunch, you helped a lot.

[cakes]

Hey girls! I have a favor to ask all of you.

Do any of you know anyone that works in the advertising/marketing area? My brother graduated in May with an advertising degree and marketing minor and he's still looking for a job. He's really working hard to find a job and all he's run into so far with his interviews are pyramid schemes :mad: So if any of you know anyone in this area who could possibly be hiring an entry level person let me know or if there's anywhere that I could point him to look would be greatly appreciated!!

Thanks!!!

[nancy drew]

a little late on the fabric discussion, but my $.02...

joanns on elston is moving, so they havent ordered anything new in months. they are trying to get rid of everything they have. that means HUGE sales but the selection is kind of weird. they are almost out of most solid colored fabric, for example, but they have a ton of fleece and print fabrics still (at least tehy did last weekend). the new store is supposed to open sept 23, btw, 2 doors down from the old store (where the great ace used to be).

hancock fabrics on ashland has a great selection of stuff, they have all their seasonal stuff out and have a decent amount of fabrics. the people who work there are a little slow which is really annoying on weekends when they get busy, but they have good stuff and good sales so its ok i guess.

ill have to check out the other places mentioned. right now i do most of my fabric shopping online but id love to save some $$ on shipping. :)

[Marie]

So is anyone still interested in a Chicago area lunch? We could do something on a weekend in the 'burbs...sounds like a few more people live in the 'burbs than downtown but I'm flexible.

I'd be happy to organize something for the end of September or sometime in October if people are still interested. I'm wondering if either the Woodfield area or the Oakbrook/Yorktown area would work? Both places have a lot of casual, fun restaurants.

:)

[Reenie]

So is anyone still interested in a Chicago area lunch? We could do something on a weekend in the 'burbs...sounds like a few more people live in the 'burbs than downtown but I'm flexible.

I'd be happy to organize something for the end of September or sometime in October if people are still interested. I'm wondering if either the Woodfield area or the Oakbrook/Yorktown area would work? Both places have a lot of casual, fun restaurants.

:)

Hey, Marie, you beat me to the punch! :p I'm completely interested, and Oakbrook/Yorktown area is my preference if you're taking votes. End of September or October sound fabulous. If you want help in any way, I don't know if you need help, but if you do, PM me, I'd be happy to help.

ETA: the city would work fine, too, I'm flexible.

[cakes]

I'm still in and oakbrook would be fine for me.

[shopaholic]

I would love to meet up for lunch one day (just as long as its on the weekend, because I work a full time job)

I live right near Oakbrook & by woodfield so that sounds great. I am not completely against going into the city, but its just not as convenient, for me at least.

That time sounds great too!

Hopefully I don't feel like too much of a nerd meeting everyone...after posting about how much of a loser I feel like.

This might be off topic...but does everyone know what everyone else looks like...so if a get together were to happen it wouldn't feel like meeting a stranger in an airport, if you kwim. I know what Steph looks like :)...and I think she knows what I look like ?

[MES in Chicago]

I'm in too and Oakbrook works best for me!

[cakes]

Good point Susan!! I do know what you look like (I think you posted like 1 or 2 pics before)

Are we all going to get nametags or something? Like "Hi, I'm Cakes (Steph)"?

[shopaholic]

I am going to throw some ideas (just from what I remember is in the areas...going to list everything) out there as far as restaurants:

Woodfield
Hooters...now I know everyone wants to go there...right?? :p
Magiano's
Cheesecake Factory
UNO Pizzeria
Houlihan's
Olive Garden

Oakbrook
Magiano's
Cheesecake Factory
WildFire
Stir Crazy


Yorktown
Weber Grill
P.F. Changs
Ruby Tuesday
TGI Friday
Famous Dave's
La Hacienda (Mexican)
Olive Garden
Red Lobster
Joe's Crabshack
Cheeseburger in Paradise
Champs
Some Brewery restaurant
Benihanna

These are all I can think of right now. Does anyone have any restrictions / disliikes as far as food? Me personally, I do not like seafood so would prefer if we didn't do a seafood thing :)

[Marie]

Dates: Ok, so somewhere near Oakbrook/Yorktown now the question is when...some ideas:

September 24/25
October 1/2
October 22/23

Do any of those dates work? I move October 7th so the 8/9 and 15/16 weekends would be really bad for me.

Restaurants: Oakbrook also has The Clubhouse and J. Alexander's behind the mall.

For Yorktown there's also Greek Islands behind the mall.

Pictures: I guess I could post a picture or PM it to everyone.

[shopaholic]

I am trying to sign up for a haunted ghost tour in Chicago...that is some weekend in October, I would have to check.

Also, I believe I am going to a Sox game Sept 25th but I would have to verify that as well.

[marchfamily]

There's a great restaurant in La Grange called - Palmer Place. I would highly recommend it. Low key, lot of beers, great sandwiches, outdoor seating.

[shopaholic]

^^ where is LaGrange? I know that is where that bank robbery just happened so I have been hearing about it, I just don't think I’ve ever been there.

[Marie]

LaGrange is roughly 15 min east of Oakbrook.

[shopaholic]

Really?? Maybe I have been there but didn't realize it?

[Marie]

Probably, the western 'burbs kinda run together. They just revitalized their downtown and made it cool with little shops and stuff.

[Reenie]

LaGrange is my neck of the woods (well, until we close today ;) ). It's awesome, and Palmer Place is fun- they have something like 50 beers on tap (maybe more).

[cakes]

The 24th is my mom's 50th b-day. Not sure if we have any family stuff going on during the day, but the night is out for sure.

I'll have to check. We may be doing stuff since my b-day is on the 28th :D

The other weekends should be ok though.

[shopaholic]

September:

9/9, 9/10, 9/11 -
9/16, 9/17, 9/18 - Marie out of town
9/23, 9/24, 9/25 - May be bad for Steph
9/30, 10/1, 10/2 - May be bad for Steph

October:
10/7, 10/8. 10/9 - Bad for Marie
10/14, 10/15, 10/16 - Bad for Marie
10/21, 10/22, 10/23
10/28, 10/29, 10/30

[Marie]

Not to be a PITA....I'm out of town 9/16 for hubby's 40th. I just have a lot going on right now between his birthday and moving.

[Reenie]

I'm free :D

[marchfamily]

Any recommendations for a good clothing consignment shop? City or burbs. Looking for maternity wear.

[mom_to_zoe]

The Second Child on Armitage in Lincoln Park is mostly for kids' clothes but they definitely carry maternity clothes and gear. There's also a maternity consignment shop in Evanston that's pretty good, but the name escapes me now. Hopefully someone else will know it.

[Missy2U]

Any recommendations for a good clothing consignment shop? City or burbs. Looking for maternity wear.

Which burbs? SW? W? NW? I can help you out with NW but the rest - eh, not so much. :)

[marchfamily]

I'm on the NW side - I work in the NW burbs.

[Missy2U]

There are a few real good ones in Palatine and the surrounding area:

Anne's Unique Boutique
16 S Bothwell (847) 991-1976
Palatine, IL 60067

Practically Perfect Resale
1815 W Central Rd (847) 577-0267
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
OR
50 Northwest Hwy (847) 627-5355
Des Plaines, IL 60016

Sparrow's Nest
275 E Northwest Hwy (847) 705-6852
Palatine, IL 60067

W I N G S Resale Store
756 E Northwest Hwy (847) 963-0861
Palatine, IL 60074

There's also a new one in Palatine at the corner of Smith and Northwest Highway - it benefits some doctor's group - I can't recall off the top of my head.

There's a fairly good one in Rolling Meadows at Euclid and Plum Grove Road next to the Subway - and there are a few on Northwest Highway in downtown Palatine.

Also - through my work we have a "ad" paper where I see maternity stuff advertised quite often - I'll check my next issue and keep you in mind, ok?

[marchfamily]

Missy2u - Thanks for all the recommendations. I've had little luck googling consignment stores. This is a great start.

***

Are there any fun exhibits right now? I saw that the Art Institute is doing one on Paris photographs. But, I really like the off the beaten path type of exhibits.

[pickle]

Hey marchfamily--

The Art Institute has a big Toulouse Lautrec exhibit right now (and I am completely sure that isn't how it is spelled...), although that's not really off the beaten path. Have you been to the MCA lately? I just was there for a Junior League event and there were a few unusual exhibits, from the little I could see.

[ali_ohli]

The Toulouse-Latrec exhibit is very cool!

[lee60657]

Just bumping this thread up! Also I wanted to post that Eatzi's is opening tomorrow. It is located in the Century Mall on Clark and looks fabulous! I live in the neighborhood and everyone is very excited for it to open. They have a website for anyone who is interested..... www.eatzis.com. I plan to check it out so I will come back and post about my experience.

[Jersl8y]

I am a Oak Park and River Forest girl lived in both suburbs I just moved to Oregon well a year ago. I miss the city though I really do, I miss my family and friends. I am getting married in Chicago well anyways just wanted to pop in and say hi.

[shopaholic]

Just thought I would bring up the topic of a lunch meet again. It seems it got put on the backburner.....is everyone/anyone still interested?

[cakes]

I'm deff still interested. At this point other than next Sat night my schedules open.

[whirlingwords]

I'd love to get together! I live downtown, so I may not be able to make it out to the 'burbs unless I can get there by PT or if someone wants to give a stranger a ride :) . Let me know the date/time/place and I will be there if I can.

Seb's Kitty - Let's do lunch - You have a PM :)

[Hello Kitty]

I'd still love to do a GTG.

Maybe we should just pick one of those days in October (22/23) since it's fairly far off and no one has said they can't make it yet?

A, depending on where the GTG is, you could take the Metra from the city and I'd pick you up... stranger :D I'll email you about lunch.

[artist]

Hello all! As many of you know, I am a Minnesotan. Wanted to let you all know I'll be in Chicago Nov. 7-10th for AmeriCorps/VISTA training! Not sure how much time I'll have, but maybe it would fun to get a bite to eat with some of you while I am there!

[lee60657]

Sorry to interrupt the gtg posts, but I wanted to drop back in and report on my trip(s) to Eatzi's. For anyone interested, it is a great place to pick up food when you are in a rush or don't feel like cooking. Plus they have a great selection of cheeses, etc that you can pick up for a nice appetizer. They have breads and pastries, etc as well. They also have quite a few wines. It is located on Clark just past Diversey in the Century Mall. Check it out if you have time!

Ok....back to the gtg!

[Marie]

I think October 22/23 would be perfect! Did we decide where? I think we were talking about the Oakbrook area?

[shopaholic]

That sounds perfect for me...I don't think I have anything scheduled then! :)



Off Topic..but what is going on with Marshall Fields? I have been catching blurbs on tv but haven't really paid attention (doing too many things at once). Are they selling out to Macy's?? :(

[Marie]

Don't even get me started on the Marshall Field's fiasco. :mad:

Target Corp. sold Field's to Federated stores (which also owns Macy's) about a year ago I believe. First they said they would NOT change the name, at least not in Chicago. Now they've announced that nope, they are going to change the name to Macy's by next fall. Even at the State Street location. I'm pissed.

[EJM]

Marshall Field's had already been purchased by Federated Dept stores (who owns Macy's). It had been rumored for a while the name would be changing, but I also heard they might leave the State street location as the only Marshall Field's. Yesterday Federated announced for sure that all stores will now become Macy's.

The Red Eye had a funny article on it this morning, one consumer research group likened the change to the "brilliant" introduction of New Coke in the 80's.

[Marie]

What I don't get is something like 90% of those surveyed said the name change would affect their shopping habits - yet they are still doing it. I don't get it.

[lee60657]

I, too, am upset with Field's name change. Esp with regards to the State Street store. I would like to know if they plan to make changes to the store's interior, etc. and what they plan to do re: merchandise they carry. Are they going to significantly change the brands they carry? I will be upset if they scale it down brand wise. I really LOVE the great mix of brands that they carry at the State Street location. I LOVE the upscale items they carry, but also like that you can get more reasonably priced lines as well. I don't have alot of experience shopping at Macy's, but the few times I have shopped there, I have not been impressed.

When is the name changing supposed to start? My parents live in MI and the MF's there has not changed yet. Just curious.

[Hello Kitty]

That stinks! I think for a lot of us, it'll be the "I still call it Comiskey" thing again. I hope they don't change the format of their store... I think they did a great job when they remodeled it in the more European format.

Anyway, I realized yesterday that I'm out for a GTG on the 22nd :rolleyes: I've got a work event, which I completely forgot about.

So what works better for everyone, the Saturday or Sunday?

[ali_ohli]

Here's what I want to know: What will happen to Frango mints???? :confused:

[shopaholic]

I thought I saw a blurb saying they wanted to bring the Frango mint back to Chicago (is it made elsewhere??).

Anyways...I am not impressed with Macy's. I went to the one at Mall of America several years ago and it wasn't that great. It reminded me of a step below Carson's (BTW, I love Carson's) and a step higher than JC Penney (nothing against Penney's either).

[Marie]

I thought I saw a blurb saying they wanted to bring the Frango mint back to Chicago (is it made elsewhere??).

Anyways...I am not impressed with Macy's. I went to the one at Mall of America several years ago and it wasn't that great. It reminded me of a step below Carson's (BTW, I love Carson's) and a step higher than JC Penney (nothing against Penney's either).

Yep, I think as a way of softening the blow of the name change they are dangling the "bring Frango production back to State St" angle. They moved production elsewhere what...2 years ago?

And the only Macy's I've been to was at the Mall of America. It sucked. I agree with your description completely.

[pickle]

ITA with you, lee60657. I haven't been real impressed by any of the Macy's I've been in. Even the flagship in NYC. And the State Street store is so lovely now. I would hate to see that change.

I heard that the new name would be effective in 2006?

[ali_ohli]

ITA - I used to live in San Francisco, and even the huge Union Square Macy's there is pretty lame. I LOVE the State St. store and will be so sad to see it go!

[mom_to_zoe]

ITA with you all. I feel like Macy's is definitely a lower-scale chain that Field's I adore the State Street store -- it's only a few blocks from my office -- and I really hope they keep the high-end brands that they carry. I think it is a shame.

[shopaholic]

glad I am not the only one who thinks Macy's is just average.

[Marie]

Ok so....get together at the Walnut Room??? :p

[MES in Chicago]

Hey ladies-

I haven't posted in a while, but I am still in for lunch. Have we picked a date and place yet? I looked through all the posts and it seems it is still up in the air...or I just didn't catch it.

Also off topic, I left my job on Tuesday as my boss and I decided that it wasn't a great fit for me. I am an accountant, CPA and have 8 years experience. Do any of you know of any openings? Thanks in advance.

Melissa

[EJM]

Melissa -- are you looking for private or public accounting? You can PM me if you want, I "may" know of a few leads. For what it is worth, I know there are tons of open accounting positions right now. We have been trying to hire someone with a couple years of experience and the resume flow has been so slow and not very impressive.

[mom_to_zoe]

Speaking of the State Street Field's, I just wanted to let everyone know that there are having a special boutique on the third floor right now highlighting Chicago designers. I am going to check it out at lunch to try to find a birthday present for my fashionista sister-in-law who lives in NYC.

[shopaholic]

^^ oh, I heard of that special boutique a couple years ago...isn't it a traveling thing?

I would love to check it out.

[mom_to_zoe]

I think, in this case, it is part of Mayor Daley's Chicago Fashion Week, a week-long event to highlight Chicago fashion as part of putting the city on the map as a fashion capital. There are quite a number of events around town.

Here's a link:

http://egov.cityofchicago.org/city/webportal/portalEntityHomeAction.do?entityName=Fashion+Focus +Chicago&entityNameEnumValue=159

[cakes]

Hey all. I just wanted to let you all know that this weekend the winery that my aunt works at in Roselle is having their annual Oktoberfest for anyone that lives in the area. It's always a good time and I'll be there Sat night. Let me know if anyone wants any information.

[shopaholic]

^^ steph..can you post the info. I am always looking for "fair" type things to go to.

I think the weather is going to be crappy this weekend though :(

[cakes]

Here's the info from their website...

Lynfred's Annual Pig Roast & Oktoberfest

September 24 & 25, 2005

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

From 3 to 9 pm on Saturday and Noon to 7 pm on Sunday. There will be live Oom-pah bands, barrel races, German sing-a-longs, grape stomping and grape spitting contests. Lynfred will also be serving up brats, roasted pig, German pork roast dinners, sweet corn, streudel, Fred's chili and a range of Lynfred wines, including the popular Oktoberfest wine. Call (630) 529-WINE for details and directions. Details subject to change.

Lynfred Winery Oktoberfest (http://www.lynfredwinery.com/Oktoberfest%20Information.pdf)

Lynfred Winery (http://www.lynfredwinery.com)

[Marie]

So is lunch on Sunday, October 23rd good for everyone? If so I'd be happy to offer some restaurant suggestions.

:D

[MES in Chicago]

If it is October 23rd I will have to pass as that is my one year anniversary! Plus we have puppy training class Sunday afternoons at 1pm. I could do Saturday the 22nd...

[Marie]

Oh no...someone earlier said they couldn't do it the 22nd. :(

What about Friday night the 21st?

Or perhaps we could look into November?

[shopaholic]

Going off on a sidetrack.

I was watching 190north last night...has anyone been here before?

http://www.cookiedoughcreations.com/

[Hello Kitty]

The 21st would work if we did it a little later (say 7 b/c I need time to drive) - but I definitely don't want to be the reason we can't meet - so if everyone can still do it on the 22nd, that's cool. We could go for November - maybe before Thxgvg and everyone disappears for the holidays...

Nov 5/6
Nov 12/13
Nov 19/20

I went to cookie dough creations once - in Naperville, right? It was okay. My GF loved the edible cookie dough, though. Gosh, I haven't been in that area in forever!

[Marie]

Nov 6 - 12/13 - 19/20 would all work for me.

Nov 5th we're having our housewarming party.

[Hello Kitty]

Blatantly hijacking... What happened to 94.7? It's gone! :(

[shopaholic]

what was 94.7?? Was that the other station like Q101?

I am still pissed that 92.7 & 5 (energy) is gone.

[Bubbas]

I just did a search and found that 94.7 is now "Chicago's True Oldies Station".

I'll have to check it out because I've really missed 104.3

[Hello Kitty]

94.7 was like Q101, except a lot harder - more 'new metal' type of stuff. I just wonder - that genre is completely missing, and who will pick up new music? Q101 recently changed their format to older stuff, with new stuff mixed in.

92.5 was awesome when it was all techno all the time. Ahh, reminds me of college :D I listen to www.di.fm when I'm by my PC, and it's fun.

I remember when ROCK 103.5 had it's last hours - my brother and I got a little teary-eyed.

I think a satellite radio is a good investment for the car, now. :(

[shopaholic]

wow...I was just listening to 94.7 (I have it on my preset but really never pay attention) the other day. When did this change happen?

I think I should get satellite as well.....all the radio stations suck butt.

[Missy2U]

When did this change happen?

I read it in the Sun Times this morning.

[shopaholic]

Just wanted to come by and say GO WHITE SOX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[heidi0622]

Just wanted to let anyone moms or moms-to-be from the Chicago area know that Land of Nod is having a warehouse sale in Naperville this Saturday. Here is the link with more detail: http://www.landofnod.com/warehousesale/

I have no idea what the selection will be like, but I thought it sounded good enough to at least check out!

[shopaholic]

anyone going to watch the game this afternoon?

[Marie]

I'll probably regret asking this but....what game?

[lee60657]

That's ok Marie. You must not be a baseball fan. The White Sox-Red Sox game is this afternoon. First game in the playoffs.

[shopaholic]

I'll probably regret asking this but....what game?
you must be under a rock?? LOL, J.K.

Only reason I say is because even if you aren't a baseball fan, its all they have been talking about on every news station :)

[cakes]

Wow that was a blow out last night!!!

Ok now I know this isnt a major questions, but does anyone know when One Tree Hill is going to be shown since it's being preempted by the playoffs tonight? I cant find it anywhere on the schedule.

[jjsgal98]

One tree hill is on @ 9, I just went to watch it on Tivo and flipped out! I am so excited to watch it:D

[shopaholic]

anyone else nervous for tonight's game? I am not nervous becuase of who we are playing, but just nervous in general.

[marchfamily]

Does anyone go to Mario Tricoci? Not my favorite, but I have a gift certificate there. Do you know what hair care product lines they carry (aveda, etc)?

[shopaholic]

I've been there 1 time because I also had a gc. Typically I would not spend $50 for a haircut. I really don't know what line of hair care products they carry.

[MES in Chicago]

Just wondering if we have formally put together a get together? I know there was some date thrown out and then I never saw anything finalized. Just wondering.

[shopaholic]

I don't think so. I think a lot of people got caught up in the playoffs? lol

[Marie]

A great use of a g.c. to Mario is a mani/pedicure.

So...did anyone here score tickets? We had about 5 people online trying but none of us got through.

[shopaholic]

I was able to select tickets but when you went to purchase it timed out. I really wasn't planning on buying any but still wanted to see if it would work.