Of Mice and Moments Sure, Valentine’s Day is more about romance of the couples variety — and it’s on a Tuesday, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use the excuse of a candy-filled holiday to take a mini-vacation. Am I right? Personally, I’m a fan of the family theme park outing. Disneyland and Walt Disney World (dinner at Victoria and Albert’s, anyone?) always have something up their, um, glove(?) for Valentine’s Day, which means fun for the whole family. What? Disney is totally romantic. If theme parks aren’t your thing how about a cabin stay in one of our many state and national parks? It may be brisk out, but a few hours of hiking or mountain biking will warm up the family in no time. Of course, there is always the option of getting a babysitter and, hopefully, a reservation at some restaurant with a special holiday menu (see, pricy) and being one more sucker in a suit — don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong w...[more »]

Madera Canyon, Arizona Madera Canyon is a lovely little tucked-away spot in southern Arizona. My husband and I discovered it one weekend while we were whiling away the day in the Tucson area. We followed a winding road that crossed over low desert, then started to climb until we suddenly found ourselves among tall trees and greenery. Madera Canyon and Madera Creek traverse four different “life zones” which supports a variety of flora and fauna in a relatively small area. The area is considered to be the third-best birding destination in the United States – ornithology enthusiasts will be able to sight over 256 documented species of birds, including 15 different kinds of hummingbirds and 36 species of wood warblers. Patrons of the canyon’s parks and trails will frequently come across small herds of deer and flocks of wild turkeys – even black bears, mountain lions and bobcats have been spotted on occasion. A Mexican Jay spotted in Madera Canyon. Madera...[more »]

Leopold Restaurant New Year’s Eve celebrations don’t have to be crowded, raucous affairs. If you prefer a more sophisticated experience, head to Chicago for an alternative New Year’s Eve party at Leopold restaurant. You won’t have to worry about jostlinghoards or out of control drunks whileenjoying an elegant Belgian meal and a striking art exhibit all in one space. Chooseeither a three-course meal at the first seating at 5-7PM or a second seating with four courses at 9-11PM. The menu features Belgian delicacies such as heart of rib eye tartare, beet salad,house madepierogi, roasted sturgeon and apple currant cobbler. The second seating includes a champagne toast as well as oysters and foie gras to start the new year off with flair. After dinner, browse the work of emerging Chicago artistChristopherMeerdo. Leopold features two bodies of the artist’s work, “Billboard Groves,” which focuses on Midwestern nightscapes a...[more »]