Have you caught Olympic fever? I've been watching with my third grader and very much enjoying it. It's always more interesting when you have a local athlete to cheer on, like Evan Lysacek from Naperville.
We've also been watching speed skater Nancy Swider-Peltz Jr., who is coached by her mother, 4-time Olympian Nancy Swider-Peltz Sr., one of the coaches of the Park Ridge Speedskating Club (how cool that these kids can be coached by, and skate with, an Olympian!). Nancy skated 9th in the Women's 3000m and will be skating next in the Women's Team Pursuit on February 26th. Go Nancy! Speed skating is great fun and open to kids as young as 4. Check out your local club.
Read on to find out what you can do this week when you're not watching the Olympics.
Monday - Friday, February 22 - 26
Free EventsChicago and Suburbs
It’s a long list! Kidwinks’ members can sort this list by distance from their homes!
Free Admission Days
Chicago and Suburbs, ILFree general admission at Chicago area museums and other institutions. Click then scroll down.
Open Play
Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Click then scroll down for a list of open play times at area indoor play places.
Putting Edge Fun Center
Hoffman Estates, IL
Additional locations in Lincolnshire and Norridge.
More Activities for Kids Chicago and suburbs, IL
Click to find tons of activities for children and families: bowling, indoor play areas, museums, sledding hills, ice rinks, indoor swimming…..
More Weekday Family Friendly Events Chicago and suburbs, IL
Find preschool fairs, free movies, story times, children’s theater and much more.
Saturday, February 27
Cinderella Children's Tea Palmer House Hilton Chicago, IL
Family Fun @ Your Library: Untuned Unplugged Game Day - Skokie Library Skokie, IL
Festival of the Sugar Maples McHenry County Conservation District Marengo, IL
This event is held both Saturday and Sunday.
The Mozart Experience - Chicago Symphony Orchestra Chicago, IL
Free Weekend Events
Chicago and suburbs, IL
Find FREE, family-friendly events this weekend.
More Fun Things To Do With Kids on Saturday
Chicago and suburbs, IL
Live theater, family programs, story times, etc.
Sunday, February 28
Owl Secrets - Harold Tyrell Trailside Museum River Forest, IL
Jeanie B! and the Jelly Beans Chicago, IL
The 101 Dalmatians Musical - Cadillac Palace Theatre Chicago, IL
Beauty & The Beast - College of DuPage Glen Ellyn, IL
Skunk Cabbage Walk - River Trail Nature Center Northbrook, IL
More Kids Activities and Events on Sunday Chicago and suburbs, IL
Children’s theater, nature center programs, family activities at museums and Navy Pier, etc.
Dining Out?
Check our Kids Eat Free Calendar first.
Click on any day to get a list of restaurants offering kids meals deals on that day. Some restaurants also offer special entertainment for kids on certain nights, and you'll find those listed too. Don't forget: Members can sort this list to see what's nearest to them!
Save!
Party Time Palace
Home Comfort Heating & Cooling
Pop In Play - Pump It Up Chicago
Merry Music Makers
TechStuff Video transfer, computer & handheld game repair, etc.
Park Ridge Speed Skating Club
A Sterling Design Photographic ArtistsMemories Wow!
New to kidwinks!
Chicago Treehouse - Ongoing Activity
Taste of Trinity - Service
Graziano's - RestaurantThe Bubblegum Bowtique - Shopping
Find What's Near You!
Whether you're clicking through our Kids Eat Free Calendar or Events Calendar, or browsing categories along the left of our pages, remember to use the distance sort to find the places closest to you. You need to be a kidwinks member (it's free) and logged in. Then whenever you have a list of search results displayed, you can click on the Distance link at the top of the list to sort the results by distance from your house.
Help Us Grow!
Here are two ways you can help kidwinks grow:
Tell businesses you found them on kidwinks. Tell them in person when you visit, or use our handy form letter to email them.
Join us on Facebook.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Monday, February 1, 2010
eNewsletter - Chicago Kids Activities Feb. 1 - 7
Forecasted snow flurries this week. If we have to have winter, we might as well have snow to go with it so the kids can play outside! Whether you're looking for indoor or outdoor fun for the kids, we've got you covered on kidwinks! Here are some ideas for the upcoming week.
Monday - Friday, February 1 - 5
| The Morton Arboretum Lisle, IL Many fun activities for children, even during the winter months. | Chicago and Suburbs, IL Free general admission at Chicago area museums and other institutions. Click then scroll down. |
| Indoor Playground - Community Pavilion Oak Lawn, IL | Nickel City Arcade Northbrook, IL |
| More Activities for Kids Chicago and suburbs, IL Click to find tons of activities for children and families: bowling, indoor play areas, museums, sledding hills, ice rinks, indoor swimming….. | Find preschool fairs, free movies, story times, children’s theater, festivals and much more. |
Saturday, February 6
| Family Fun Days at Navy Pier Chicago, IL | |
| Winter Wonderland Celebration Geneva, IL | Father & Son Folding and Flying Paper Airplanes Arlington Heights, IL |
| Chicago and suburbs, IL Find out what’s going on near you! |
Sunday, February 7
| Be My Valentine Family Event Chicago, IL | Magic Sky at Triton College River Grove, IL |
| Free Admission to Chicago Children's Museum Chicago, IL | |
| Moscow Circus- Paramount Theatre Aurora, IL | More Kids Activities and Events on Sunday Chicago and suburbs, IL |
Dining Out?
 | Check our Kids Eat Free Calendar first. Click on any day to get a list of restaurants offering kids meals deals on that day. Some restaurants also offer special entertainment for kids on certain nights, and you'll find those listed too. |
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Chicago Kids Activities Jan. 11 - 17
We had an excellent suggestion from one of our members that we share with everyone a few statistics about kidwinks. So here goes! Kidwinks was launched in March 2008, and since then we've grown to over 5,200 members. We have almost 2,000 businesses, and over 6,300 listings. A "listing" in kidwinks lingo means any event, activity, kids eat free special, etc. that you can find on kidwinks. The reason there are more listings than businesses is because one business can have multiple listings. Thanks for the idea, CindyP71! We'll keep you all updated on these numbers as we grow.
Need a little help keeping your New Year's resolution? Missy Vacala of Vital Fitness Chicago is here to help with a little advice. If you have a fitness, weight loss, or health question for Missy post it on our blog.
Keep taking the lbs. off with:Slim Right. Indulge in a delicious vanilla or chocolate shake as you satisfy your appetite with this unique blend of whey andsoy proteins. AmeriSciences Slim Right is a great-tasting proteindrink that promotes lean muscle mass to help achieveyour weight goals*Our 2nd blog question: Missy, I'm always trying to cut out carbs and just eat healthy overall. When I'm reading labels, I'm focus on the carbs on the label but I saw a show on Oprah where Dr Oz ...click to read more & Missy's answer.
Coming Up!
Language Stars Chicago and Suburbs, IL
January 19-25, 2010 is Language Stars Open House Week! Attend a trial class and receive a Border’s Gift Card and a Language Stars Around The World music CD! Currently enrolled families not eligible.
Monday - Friday, January 11 – January 15
Free Admission to Museums Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Click then scroll down to see a list of free or discounted admissions to Chicago area museums this week.
Attend a Storytime
Chicago and Suburbs, ILClick then scroll down to see the list of storytimes.
Open Play Times
Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Check out some of the open play times at gyms, jump centers and more. Click, then scroll down for the list.
Visit a Nature Center
Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Most nature centers are free and there are some fantastic ones listed here.
More Activities for Kids Chicago and suburbs, IL
Click to find tons of activities for children and families: bowling, indoor play areas, museums, sledding hills, ice rinks, indoor swimming…..
More Family Friendly Events Chicago and suburbs, IL
Find open play times, movies for moms and much more.
Saturday, January 16
Unity Wreath Make-and-Take:The Learning Tree Chicago, IL
Bison Feeding Elgin Public Museum Elgin, IL
Family Fun Bartlett, IL
Up and At'em Animal Chores - Spring Valley Schaumburg, IL
Preschool Fair For Parents Des Plaines, IL
More Fun Things To Do With Kids on Saturday
Chicago and suburbs, IL
Find out what’s going on near you!
Sunday, January 17
Cool Kids Nature Hikes lisle, IL
Viva! Italian Festival Carol Stream, IL
Children's Activities at Spertus Chicago, IL
Dodgeball Sundays Glen Ellyn, IL
Old Town School of Folk Music Kids' Concerts Chicago, IL
More Kids Activities and Events on Sunday Chicago and suburbs, IL
Dining Out?
Check our Kids Eat Free Calendar first.
Click on any day to get a list of restaurants offering kids meals deals on that day. Some restaurants also offer special entertainment for kids on certain nights, and you'll find those listed too.
WIN!
Stay tuned to your inbox! We’ll be announcing a new contest within the next 24 hours!
Save!
Merry Music Makers
TechStuff
Park Ridge Speed Skating Club
A Sterling DesignMemories Wow!
Need a little help keeping your New Year's resolution? Missy Vacala of Vital Fitness Chicago is here to help with a little advice. If you have a fitness, weight loss, or health question for Missy post it on our blog.
Keep taking the lbs. off with:Slim Right. Indulge in a delicious vanilla or chocolate shake as you satisfy your appetite with this unique blend of whey andsoy proteins. AmeriSciences Slim Right is a great-tasting proteindrink that promotes lean muscle mass to help achieveyour weight goals*Our 2nd blog question: Missy, I'm always trying to cut out carbs and just eat healthy overall. When I'm reading labels, I'm focus on the carbs on the label but I saw a show on Oprah where Dr Oz ...click to read more & Missy's answer.
Coming Up!
Language Stars Chicago and Suburbs, IL
January 19-25, 2010 is Language Stars Open House Week! Attend a trial class and receive a Border’s Gift Card and a Language Stars Around The World music CD! Currently enrolled families not eligible.
Monday - Friday, January 11 – January 15
Free Admission to Museums Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Click then scroll down to see a list of free or discounted admissions to Chicago area museums this week.
Attend a Storytime
Chicago and Suburbs, ILClick then scroll down to see the list of storytimes.
Open Play Times
Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Check out some of the open play times at gyms, jump centers and more. Click, then scroll down for the list.
Visit a Nature Center
Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Most nature centers are free and there are some fantastic ones listed here.
More Activities for Kids Chicago and suburbs, IL
Click to find tons of activities for children and families: bowling, indoor play areas, museums, sledding hills, ice rinks, indoor swimming…..
More Family Friendly Events Chicago and suburbs, IL
Find open play times, movies for moms and much more.
Saturday, January 16
Unity Wreath Make-and-Take:The Learning Tree Chicago, IL
Bison Feeding Elgin Public Museum Elgin, IL
Family Fun Bartlett, IL
Up and At'em Animal Chores - Spring Valley Schaumburg, IL
Preschool Fair For Parents Des Plaines, IL
More Fun Things To Do With Kids on Saturday
Chicago and suburbs, IL
Find out what’s going on near you!
Sunday, January 17
Cool Kids Nature Hikes lisle, IL
Viva! Italian Festival Carol Stream, IL
Children's Activities at Spertus Chicago, IL
Dodgeball Sundays Glen Ellyn, IL
Old Town School of Folk Music Kids' Concerts Chicago, IL
More Kids Activities and Events on Sunday Chicago and suburbs, IL
Dining Out?
Check our Kids Eat Free Calendar first.
Click on any day to get a list of restaurants offering kids meals deals on that day. Some restaurants also offer special entertainment for kids on certain nights, and you'll find those listed too.
WIN!
Stay tuned to your inbox! We’ll be announcing a new contest within the next 24 hours!
Save!
Merry Music Makers
TechStuff
Park Ridge Speed Skating Club
A Sterling DesignMemories Wow!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Missy Vital Fitness Question #2
Q: Hi Missy, I'm always trying to cut out carbs and just eat healthy overall. When I'm reading labels, I focus on the carbs on the label but I saw a show on Oprah where Dr Oz said to watch sugars also, your items should have less that 6 grams of sugar. So take for example shopping for cereal was hard. I found Kashi whole grain puffs which has 70 calories, total carbs 15g , dietary fiber 1 and Sugars 0. I thought it was good but do you think it has too many carbs for a low carb diet?
2nd question about milk: 2% or fat free, skim milk or soymilk ??? I was using 2 % and now switch to soymilk. Is one better than the other ?
Gloria
A: Hi Gloria! Those are alll awesome questions. Dr. Oz is great. No doubt. If you get a chance, go on Amazon and buy his book "You On A Diet" used. It's got a lot of really good information in it.(Personally, I don't care for the style it is written in, but good info none-the-less). Buying any processed cereals is difficult when you are watching your sugar/carb intake. The Kashi IS a good one...but my opinion is that you go old school with the old fashioned type of oats, spelt or cream-of-wheat. This way you can add your own sugar. Agave nectar is the best (lowest in sugar, tastes great). Or 1/2 tsp (or less) of regular sugar (or brown), or some raisins or dried berries. If you don't have the time to make a single serving every morning, make a 5 servings for each day of the week and re-heat it in the morning. Remember that the carbohydrate amount in one serving of processed cereal is way more than one serving of oats or the like.
Begin tangent: I know that eating oats vs. eating a processed cereal (low fat or other) is hard to do. Let's face it, the processed stuff just tastes better! However, we are doing our bodies a huge injustice by putting all those chemicals/additives in it. Not to mention, we, as an entire culture, have ruined our taste buds! We are so used to the over seasoned burgers and fries to the over sweetened cereals and snacks, that we don't appreciate the real flavors of grains and produce. We need to adjust our taste buds, and reprogram our minds to suit! End tangent.
Skim is probably your best option mostly because it is the lowest fat. However not much different when it comes to the sugar content. Use portion control with all dairy products. A lot of people drink soy milk because they are either lactose intolerant, they are hard core vegetarian, or they are going through menopause (the phyto-estrogens are used as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy). I drink it because it tastes good to me, has p.estrogens (no, I'm not going through "the change" yet) and because I don't eat dairy everyday. Remember that soy milk is only 2% calcium, to cow's milk 30%. I have to be sure to eat veggies high in calcium from day to day to make up for the dairy calcium I don't get. The sugar content in soy milk is usually low ( lower than milk). Be sure to read your ingredient label because most of the time the sugar source in sly milk is fake (aspartame, carageenan and/or others). Stay far away from fake sugar! I can not stress that enough!!!
I really hope this is helpful to you. If you have further questions on these topics or others, don't hesitate to post.
2nd question about milk: 2% or fat free, skim milk or soymilk ??? I was using 2 % and now switch to soymilk. Is one better than the other ?
Gloria
A: Hi Gloria! Those are alll awesome questions. Dr. Oz is great. No doubt. If you get a chance, go on Amazon and buy his book "You On A Diet" used. It's got a lot of really good information in it.(Personally, I don't care for the style it is written in, but good info none-the-less). Buying any processed cereals is difficult when you are watching your sugar/carb intake. The Kashi IS a good one...but my opinion is that you go old school with the old fashioned type of oats, spelt or cream-of-wheat. This way you can add your own sugar. Agave nectar is the best (lowest in sugar, tastes great). Or 1/2 tsp (or less) of regular sugar (or brown), or some raisins or dried berries. If you don't have the time to make a single serving every morning, make a 5 servings for each day of the week and re-heat it in the morning. Remember that the carbohydrate amount in one serving of processed cereal is way more than one serving of oats or the like.
Begin tangent: I know that eating oats vs. eating a processed cereal (low fat or other) is hard to do. Let's face it, the processed stuff just tastes better! However, we are doing our bodies a huge injustice by putting all those chemicals/additives in it. Not to mention, we, as an entire culture, have ruined our taste buds! We are so used to the over seasoned burgers and fries to the over sweetened cereals and snacks, that we don't appreciate the real flavors of grains and produce. We need to adjust our taste buds, and reprogram our minds to suit! End tangent.
Skim is probably your best option mostly because it is the lowest fat. However not much different when it comes to the sugar content. Use portion control with all dairy products. A lot of people drink soy milk because they are either lactose intolerant, they are hard core vegetarian, or they are going through menopause (the phyto-estrogens are used as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy). I drink it because it tastes good to me, has p.estrogens (no, I'm not going through "the change" yet) and because I don't eat dairy everyday. Remember that soy milk is only 2% calcium, to cow's milk 30%. I have to be sure to eat veggies high in calcium from day to day to make up for the dairy calcium I don't get. The sugar content in soy milk is usually low ( lower than milk). Be sure to read your ingredient label because most of the time the sugar source in sly milk is fake (aspartame, carageenan and/or others). Stay far away from fake sugar! I can not stress that enough!!!
I really hope this is helpful to you. If you have further questions on these topics or others, don't hesitate to post.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Chicago Area Family Fun January 4 - 10
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
I can't believe it's 2010! Are your resolutions still intact? I "sort of" broke mine as I tasted (two or three times) the pudding I was making for my daughters this afternoon. It was all in the name of quality control...REALLY!!
We'll be experimenting a bit with the format and timing of our eNewsletter this year, trying to make it as useful as we can to you. We've noticed that most of you seem to be most interested in what the weekend has to offer, so we're highlighting the weekends with individual activities, and giving some more general ideas for the weekdays. Let us know if you have any comments or suggestions.
The holidays are over but the pounds are still with us. Missy Vacala of Vital Fitness Chicago is here to help with a little advice. If you have a fitness, weight loss, or health question for Missy post it on our blog.
In the meantime you can start to take the pounds off with:AmeriSciences Slim. Safely and effectively suppress appetite and increase fat metabolism, while maximizing use of available vitamins and minerals to maintain balanced nutrition. Slim offers a natural alternative to pharmaceutical-based appetite suppressants. Use code KIDWINKS and get 10% off a single order, get 20% off when you become an Easy Ship customer. Discount is good for any and all AmeriSciences products.
Our first blog question: Hey Missy! I want to lose 30lbs!! I've decided to cut my carb intake rather than focusing on calories...click to read Missy's answer.
Monday - Friday, January 4 – January 8
Registration for Deerfield Park District Preschool Program Deerfield, IL Lottery Deadline for residents is Jan. 8th. Walk-in registration begins Jan. 18th.
Free Admission to Museum of Science and Industry in January Chicago, ILGeneral admission is free weekdays in January.
Free Admission to Chicago Park District Fitness Centers Chicago, IL
Chicagoans work out for free Jan. 2 – 10.
Plan Ahead – Make Theatre Reservations
Chicago and suburbs, IL
Foster a love of live theater in your children at an early age.
More Activities for Kids Chicago and suburbs, IL
Click to find tons of activities for children and families: bowling, indoor play areas, museums, sledding hills, ice rinks, indoor swimming…..
More Family Friendly Events Chicago and suburbs, IL
Find story times, open play times, free admission days and much more.
Saturday, January 9
2nd Saturday Family Storytime - Park Ridge Public Library Park Ridge, IL
Second Saturday Science Series Discovery Center Museum Rockford, IL
Tiny Great Performances - DuPage Children's Museum Naperville, IL
Kids Craft Mornings - Mitchell Museum of the American Indian Evanston, IL
The Nutcracker on Horseback-Noble Horse Theatre Chicago, IL
Last chance to see this unique performance.
More Fun Things To Do With Kids on Saturday
Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Find out what’s going on near you!
Sunday, January 10
The Last of the Dragons - Lifeline Theatre Chicago, IL
Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides at Danada Equestrian Center Wheaton, IL
Open Gym at MEGA South Barrington, IL
Volo Bog's Annual WinterFest Ingleside, IL
Second Sunday Special Program - Niles Public Library Niles, IL
More Kids Activities and Events on Sunday Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Dining Out?
Check our Kids Eat Free Calendar first.
Click on any day to get a list of restaurants offering kids meals deals on that day. Some restaurants also offer special entertainment for kids on certain nights, and you'll find those listed too.
Save!
Baja Fresh
Merry Music Makers
TechStuff
Park Ridge Speed Skating Club
A Sterling DesignMemories Wow!
Pump It Up Chicago
I can't believe it's 2010! Are your resolutions still intact? I "sort of" broke mine as I tasted (two or three times) the pudding I was making for my daughters this afternoon. It was all in the name of quality control...REALLY!!
We'll be experimenting a bit with the format and timing of our eNewsletter this year, trying to make it as useful as we can to you. We've noticed that most of you seem to be most interested in what the weekend has to offer, so we're highlighting the weekends with individual activities, and giving some more general ideas for the weekdays. Let us know if you have any comments or suggestions.
The holidays are over but the pounds are still with us. Missy Vacala of Vital Fitness Chicago is here to help with a little advice. If you have a fitness, weight loss, or health question for Missy post it on our blog.
In the meantime you can start to take the pounds off with:AmeriSciences Slim. Safely and effectively suppress appetite and increase fat metabolism, while maximizing use of available vitamins and minerals to maintain balanced nutrition. Slim offers a natural alternative to pharmaceutical-based appetite suppressants. Use code KIDWINKS and get 10% off a single order, get 20% off when you become an Easy Ship customer. Discount is good for any and all AmeriSciences products.
Our first blog question: Hey Missy! I want to lose 30lbs!! I've decided to cut my carb intake rather than focusing on calories...click to read Missy's answer.
Monday - Friday, January 4 – January 8
Registration for Deerfield Park District Preschool Program Deerfield, IL Lottery Deadline for residents is Jan. 8th. Walk-in registration begins Jan. 18th.
Free Admission to Museum of Science and Industry in January Chicago, ILGeneral admission is free weekdays in January.
Free Admission to Chicago Park District Fitness Centers Chicago, IL
Chicagoans work out for free Jan. 2 – 10.
Plan Ahead – Make Theatre Reservations
Chicago and suburbs, IL
Foster a love of live theater in your children at an early age.
More Activities for Kids Chicago and suburbs, IL
Click to find tons of activities for children and families: bowling, indoor play areas, museums, sledding hills, ice rinks, indoor swimming…..
More Family Friendly Events Chicago and suburbs, IL
Find story times, open play times, free admission days and much more.
Saturday, January 9
2nd Saturday Family Storytime - Park Ridge Public Library Park Ridge, IL
Second Saturday Science Series Discovery Center Museum Rockford, IL
Tiny Great Performances - DuPage Children's Museum Naperville, IL
Kids Craft Mornings - Mitchell Museum of the American Indian Evanston, IL
The Nutcracker on Horseback-Noble Horse Theatre Chicago, IL
Last chance to see this unique performance.
More Fun Things To Do With Kids on Saturday
Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Find out what’s going on near you!
Sunday, January 10
The Last of the Dragons - Lifeline Theatre Chicago, IL
Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides at Danada Equestrian Center Wheaton, IL
Open Gym at MEGA South Barrington, IL
Volo Bog's Annual WinterFest Ingleside, IL
Second Sunday Special Program - Niles Public Library Niles, IL
More Kids Activities and Events on Sunday Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Dining Out?
Check our Kids Eat Free Calendar first.
Click on any day to get a list of restaurants offering kids meals deals on that day. Some restaurants also offer special entertainment for kids on certain nights, and you'll find those listed too.
Save!
Baja Fresh
Merry Music Makers
TechStuff
Park Ridge Speed Skating Club
A Sterling DesignMemories Wow!
Pump It Up Chicago
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Missy Vital Fitness 1st Question
Hey Missy! I want to lose 30lbs!! I've decided to cut my carb intake rather than focusing on calories (I'm taking in about 1200-1500 calories/day). Is that a smart move? What do you recommend? MICH.
Hi Mich, I think what you are doing is great! Cuddos! You have a goal that is definitely attainable! You are exercising and trying to change your eating habits, that is great. You are on the right track. I am glad you are not focusing on counting calories...if you want something to count, start counting the ingredients of the processed foods you buy (breads, pastas, prepared meals). Generally speaking, you should try keeping the ingredient list of the food products you buy, as low as possible (3-5 maybe). It's not easy to do, and there will be a lot of items you will decide not to buy, and that's good. Try to stay around the parameter of the grocery store when shopping. Produce, produce, produce, very, very, very important. Fish, chicken and lowfat dairy (try to stay away from cheese...it is so processed it clogs up the intestines and makes it hard to eliminate). Try to incorporate beans and lentils into your diet. They are truly a super food!! There are some really good soups in the healthy isles of your local grocery stores. Or you can buy them dry (less expensive and you get way more), soak, and make your own soups or stews. Got a crock pot?? As for cutting your carb intake, remember there are two kinds of carbs: simple (starches like bread, pasta, rice and potatoes) and complex (fruits and veggies). Cutting the PROCESSED starches is definitely a good idea! But don't cut things like potatoes, yams and squash. Just eat them in moderation. Load up on all the veggies and fruit you want. Seriously, you don't have to just have an apple for breakfast. Have two, maybe three if they are small, and then maybe a 1/2 hour later, after that has digested, have a handful of walnuts and a lowfat, no fake sugar added ( like splenda or carageenan) yogurt. All I know is food and fitness and would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have! In Health, Missy
Hi Mich, I think what you are doing is great! Cuddos! You have a goal that is definitely attainable! You are exercising and trying to change your eating habits, that is great. You are on the right track. I am glad you are not focusing on counting calories...if you want something to count, start counting the ingredients of the processed foods you buy (breads, pastas, prepared meals). Generally speaking, you should try keeping the ingredient list of the food products you buy, as low as possible (3-5 maybe). It's not easy to do, and there will be a lot of items you will decide not to buy, and that's good. Try to stay around the parameter of the grocery store when shopping. Produce, produce, produce, very, very, very important. Fish, chicken and lowfat dairy (try to stay away from cheese...it is so processed it clogs up the intestines and makes it hard to eliminate). Try to incorporate beans and lentils into your diet. They are truly a super food!! There are some really good soups in the healthy isles of your local grocery stores. Or you can buy them dry (less expensive and you get way more), soak, and make your own soups or stews. Got a crock pot?? As for cutting your carb intake, remember there are two kinds of carbs: simple (starches like bread, pasta, rice and potatoes) and complex (fruits and veggies). Cutting the PROCESSED starches is definitely a good idea! But don't cut things like potatoes, yams and squash. Just eat them in moderation. Load up on all the veggies and fruit you want. Seriously, you don't have to just have an apple for breakfast. Have two, maybe three if they are small, and then maybe a 1/2 hour later, after that has digested, have a handful of walnuts and a lowfat, no fake sugar added ( like splenda or carageenan) yogurt. All I know is food and fitness and would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have! In Health, Missy
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Family Fun things to do in Chicago and Suburbs
What a wonderful Thanksgiving! My twin sister arrived from Abu Dhabi just before dinner was served, and will be here to celebrate our birthday today - the first time in over 15 years we've been together on our birthday. Life is good! I hope you all had a great turkey day and weekend too.
Holiday events are in full swing, and many of those listed below (especially the weekend events) occur on multiple days, so make sure you click through to the Events Calendar if you're looking for something on a particular day - there's always much more going on than can be listed here. Another good idea is to click through the Ongoing Activities Section to find museums, nature centers, indoor play areas, bowling alleys and much more.
Tired of turkey and too busy to cook? Take the kids out to eat - but check our Kids Eat Free Calendar first, so you know where the deals are. Remember, members can sort all search results, including calendar results, by distance from their homes!
Love the holidays but hate the stress? Get one thing off your to-do-list and let the experts install your outdoor Christmas lighting! Light Up Your Holidays is a local woman-owned business that designs, installs, removes and stores holiday lights. Click through to her gallery of decorated homes to get ideas for your own house and call for your complimentary design consultation 773-398-7551. Get 23% off when you call by Dec. 4th.
Monday, November 30
Garfield Park Conservatory Holiday Traditions Flower Show Chicago, IL
Vernon Hills Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights Show Vernon Hills, IL
Festival of Lights Cosley Zoo Wheaton, IL
More Monday Kids Events and ActivitiesChicago and Suburbs, IL
Tuesday, December 1
Country Christmas & Dessert with Santa - The Grove Glenview, IL
Birthday Celebration and Toys for Tots Jump Schaumburg, IL
Free Admission 2009 - Adler Planetarium Chicago, IL
More Kids Events and Activities on Tuesday
Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Wednesday, December 2
Drop in Movie - Tinkerbell and the Lost Treasure Glenview, IL
Chicago Botanic Garden Wonderland Express Glencoe, IL
Make a Gingerbread House at American Girl Place Chicago, IL
More Kids Events and Activities on Wednesday Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Thursday, December 3
Clark Street SSA Holiday Tree Lighting Chicago, IL
Gingerbread House Decorating at McCormick Museum Wheaton, IL
Holiday Wreath Family Craft Prospect Heights Public Library Prospect Heights, IL
More Kids Events and Activities on Thursday Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Friday, December 4
A Festive Christmas Night Park Ridge, IL
Caroling and Bonfires - Westmont Park District Westmont, IL
Santa Arrives at Navy Pier Chicago, IL
Winter Celebration Deerfield, IL
Holiday Lights in Homewood Festival Homewood, IL
More Things To Do With Kids on FridayChicago and Suburbs, IL
There’s lots more to do – click through!
Saturday, December 5
Breakfast with Santa - Brookfield Zoo Brookfield, IL
Gingerbread Jubilee - Wagner Farm Glenview, IL
An Old Fashion Holiday Walk Wauconda, IL
And Time Runs On Chicago, IL
Candy Cane Hunt - Naperville Park District Naperville, IL
Polar Express - Blackberry Farm Aurora, IL
Happy Holiday Railway at Illinois Railway Museum Union, IL
More Fun Things To Do With Kids on Saturday
Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Oops! Click through and sort in reverse alpha order to get the entire list. For some reason, our site is only displaying events up to the letter “N” on this day!! Our web developers are on it, and this should be fixed soon.
Sunday, December 6
Free Admission to Chicago Children's Museum Chicago, IL
Christmas in the Valley - Schaumburg Park District Schaumburg, IL
Christmas Breakfast with Santa - Chicago Botanic Garden Glencoe, IL
Family Fun Sunday Hanukkah Arts Workshop Chicago, IL
Lake Wonderland Winter Festival Des Plaines, IL
More Fun for Kids on Sunday Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Save!
Merry Music Makers
TechStuff
Park Ridge Speed Skating Club
A Sterling DesignMemories Wow!
Pump It Up Chicago
HELP US GROW: Tell managers you found their business or event on kidwinks!
Did your bff forward this to you?? Sign yourself up to become a member of kidwinks.com. Make sure you check the box to join our mailing list so you can receive this newsletter!
Holiday events are in full swing, and many of those listed below (especially the weekend events) occur on multiple days, so make sure you click through to the Events Calendar if you're looking for something on a particular day - there's always much more going on than can be listed here. Another good idea is to click through the Ongoing Activities Section to find museums, nature centers, indoor play areas, bowling alleys and much more.
Tired of turkey and too busy to cook? Take the kids out to eat - but check our Kids Eat Free Calendar first, so you know where the deals are. Remember, members can sort all search results, including calendar results, by distance from their homes!
Love the holidays but hate the stress? Get one thing off your to-do-list and let the experts install your outdoor Christmas lighting! Light Up Your Holidays is a local woman-owned business that designs, installs, removes and stores holiday lights. Click through to her gallery of decorated homes to get ideas for your own house and call for your complimentary design consultation 773-398-7551. Get 23% off when you call by Dec. 4th.
Monday, November 30
Garfield Park Conservatory Holiday Traditions Flower Show Chicago, IL
Vernon Hills Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights Show Vernon Hills, IL
Festival of Lights Cosley Zoo Wheaton, IL
More Monday Kids Events and ActivitiesChicago and Suburbs, IL
Tuesday, December 1
Country Christmas & Dessert with Santa - The Grove Glenview, IL
Birthday Celebration and Toys for Tots Jump Schaumburg, IL
Free Admission 2009 - Adler Planetarium Chicago, IL
More Kids Events and Activities on Tuesday
Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Wednesday, December 2
Drop in Movie - Tinkerbell and the Lost Treasure Glenview, IL
Chicago Botanic Garden Wonderland Express Glencoe, IL
Make a Gingerbread House at American Girl Place Chicago, IL
More Kids Events and Activities on Wednesday Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Thursday, December 3
Clark Street SSA Holiday Tree Lighting Chicago, IL
Gingerbread House Decorating at McCormick Museum Wheaton, IL
Holiday Wreath Family Craft Prospect Heights Public Library Prospect Heights, IL
More Kids Events and Activities on Thursday Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Friday, December 4
A Festive Christmas Night Park Ridge, IL
Caroling and Bonfires - Westmont Park District Westmont, IL
Santa Arrives at Navy Pier Chicago, IL
Winter Celebration Deerfield, IL
Holiday Lights in Homewood Festival Homewood, IL
More Things To Do With Kids on FridayChicago and Suburbs, IL
There’s lots more to do – click through!
Saturday, December 5
Breakfast with Santa - Brookfield Zoo Brookfield, IL
Gingerbread Jubilee - Wagner Farm Glenview, IL
An Old Fashion Holiday Walk Wauconda, IL
And Time Runs On Chicago, IL
Candy Cane Hunt - Naperville Park District Naperville, IL
Polar Express - Blackberry Farm Aurora, IL
Happy Holiday Railway at Illinois Railway Museum Union, IL
More Fun Things To Do With Kids on Saturday
Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Oops! Click through and sort in reverse alpha order to get the entire list. For some reason, our site is only displaying events up to the letter “N” on this day!! Our web developers are on it, and this should be fixed soon.
Sunday, December 6
Free Admission to Chicago Children's Museum Chicago, IL
Christmas in the Valley - Schaumburg Park District Schaumburg, IL
Christmas Breakfast with Santa - Chicago Botanic Garden Glencoe, IL
Family Fun Sunday Hanukkah Arts Workshop Chicago, IL
Lake Wonderland Winter Festival Des Plaines, IL
More Fun for Kids on Sunday Chicago and Suburbs, IL
Save!
Merry Music Makers
TechStuff
Park Ridge Speed Skating Club
A Sterling DesignMemories Wow!
Pump It Up Chicago
HELP US GROW: Tell managers you found their business or event on kidwinks!
Did your bff forward this to you?? Sign yourself up to become a member of kidwinks.com. Make sure you check the box to join our mailing list so you can receive this newsletter!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)