Feb 10, 2012 11:03 - By: Whit Honea

My son and I (pictured — not the guys in white) spent a recent weekend in San Francisco, and it was fantastic.
We rode on the cable cars, hung out with friends, and spent some quality time with the good people at 20th Century Fox (who supplied the trip) and Lucasfilm. That’s right, we visited Skywalker Ranch and the Presidio location (right by the Walt Disney Family Museum!). We’re talking Star Wars, people (The Phantom Menace mostly)!
My son ranks it as the best weekend ever. Who am I to disagree?
This post is part of the Uptake Friday Family Fun series.
Photo by Araya Quanah Diaz, courtesy of 20th Century Fox
Jan 31, 2012 18:29 - By: Whit Honea

This Sunday, February 5, is Super Bowl Sunday. It’s like a holiday. The big game will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana at the Lucas Oil Stadium, which is a fantastic piece of kinetic architecture (that means it has moving parts).
Indianapolis is second only to Washington, D.C. in the number of monuments within the city, and it also features two natural waterways that run through it. Basically, it’s a pretty town.
The New York Giants will be playing the New England Patriots. Despite the Patriots playing in the same division as the Indianapolis Colts (AFC) I’m guessing that Giants’ quarterback Eli Manning, being brother to the Colts’ Peyton Manning, will garner the cheers of the hometown fans.
Remember, get to the stadium early for a good parking spot, and better yet, more time to tailgate (be responsible!).
If you’re looking for a good place for lunch and a beer check out Basey’s Downtown Grill and Spirits or Tavern on South, both are walking distance from the Lucas Oil Stadium. Also walking distance are some nice, affordable, and probably booked hotels, Comfort Suites City Centre and Holiday Inn Express.
Directions to Lucas Oil Stadium
Have a good time!
Photo: Triple Tri via Flickr
Jan 31, 2012 15:31 - By: Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

Jellyfish
Although their bodies are composed of 95 percent water, jellyfish remain some of the most fascinating and diverse sea creatures. They also prose real creative challenges for researchers, which is why the elaborate exhibit, “Jellies” at the Shedd Aquarium through May 28, provides such a rare glimpse into the world of these see-through sea animals. Read More »
Jan 30, 2012 17:21 - By: Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

Trattoria Roma
If you’re ever visited a big city and got herded into the nearest tourist trap when you found yourself hungry, you know that these are never the places that locals inhabit. Whether it’s an “authentic” version of the local cuisine or a gimmicky landmark filled with overpriced dishes, you recognize when a place is a genuine hangout or not. From now until February 4, you’ll get the chance to discover real Chicago eateries during Chicago Originals Restaurant week. Read More »