Steeped Coffee: A Delicious and Eco-Friendly Travel Solution

Steeped Coffee: A Delicious and Eco-Friendly Travel Solution

**Disclosure: I did receive samples of Steeped Coffee in order to bring you this review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

Steeped Coffee roasted in California is packaged in single-serve packages and utilizes a special brewing method. Immediately, I was intrigued and thought that Steeped Coffee could provide an ideal travel solution when you are in a pinch for a good coffee on a trip. My readers may remember that I like to take my own tea on trips. So, I was pretty excited to learn about an easy way to bring my own coffee.

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Scaling Unique Rocky Terrain and Waterfalling at Jay Cooke State Park in Minnesota

Scaling Unique Rocky Terrain and Waterfalling at Jay Cooke State Park in Minnesota

Jay Cooke State Park on the St. Louis River in Carlton, Minnesota affords a unique landscape for hiking as adventurers navigate rock formations to enjoy fantastic views. The intriguing geology of the park consists of slate and greywacke  folded and fractured by earth movements and underground pressure. Red clay and silt overlaying the bedrock was laid down during the Ice Age. The distinctive rocky landscape will inspire exploration as nature enchants.

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Rambling Along the Stone Arch Bridge and Mill Ruins Park in Minneapolis

Rambling Along the Stone Arch Bridge and Mill Ruins Park in Minneapolis

Stone Arch Bridge and Mill Ruins Park in Minneapolis not only present an opportunity for ambling and enjoying views of the Mississippi River but also a peek into the history of the city, the importance of the river, the development of industry and how all of this wrapped in the heritage of the city today.

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Hiking to a Spectacular View at Grassy Lake Forest Preserve in Lake Barrington

Hiking to a Spectacular View at Grassy Lake Forest Preserve in Lake Barrington, IL

When I zeroed in on Grassy Lake Forest Preserve for our next hiking adventure, I did not expect to be treated to such a spectacular view! When we arrived at the forest preserve, we quickly noted that we would mounting a hill. Of course, our curiosity piqued and we embarked on the hike to and up the hill.

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The Lake County Community Foundation Dramatically Increases NonProfit Support Efforts During COVID Pandemic

The Lake County Community Foundation Dramatically Increases NonProfit Support Efforts During COVID Pandemic

Recently, I learned about The Lake County Community Foundation and its work connecting donors with more specific community needs. True to it's mission, The Lake County Community Foundation helps the most vulnerable in the community by providing civic leadership, inspiring philanthropy and partnering with grant recipients. The fund was created in 2003 by civic leaders concerned about helping the community meet its growing needs and creating a better future for area residents in need. The current health crisis has made assistance by organizations like The Lake County Community Foundation all that more vital. I wanted to learn a little more about The Lake County Community Foundation and how we can join the effort to help those in need. I have been so fortunate to connect with Emily Weber the Lake County Community Foundation Manager of Community Leadership & Investment for more information on the functions of The Lake County Community Foundations and how it is helping during the age of COVID:

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Savoring Iceland, Learning History, Exploring the Maker Spirit and Loving Goats at Haafell Goat Farm in West Iceland

Savoring Iceland, Learning History, Exploring the Maker Spirit and Loving Goats at Háafell Goat Farm in West Iceland

Háafell Goat Farm has many stories interwoven in the beautiful Icelandic countryside. Determination. Luck. Knowledge. Passion. Joy. Wellness. History. All of this and more can be found woven in the fabric of a visit to Háafell. Our visit to Háafell Goat Farm was one of our most memorable experiences in Iceland and we look forward to returning one day.

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Meet Local Painter and Eco-Artist Lisa Marie Riedl

Meet Local Painter and Eco-Artist Lisa Marie Riedl

Recently, I collaborated with local artist Lisa Riedl on a project of inspiration during the time of COVID crafting art prompts to spark creativity in all of us. Lisa is an incredible painter and eco-artist. She has so much enthusiasm and passion about her craft that just bubbles over. Her art is absolutely amazing! I have been so impressed by her art and the fervor with which she shares her art that I wanted to introduce her to you. Enjoy this delightful interview with Lisa Riedl and be sure to peruse her art at L M Riedl Art:

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Critters and COVID Whimsical Yard Scenes: Western Suburban Artist Kathy Steere Shares Playfulness and Hope

Critters and COVID: A Western Suburban Artist Kathy Steere Adds Whimsy and Hope

Recently, I learned about Kathy Steere, a local fabric and mixed media artist, who has been spreading joy and hope in her West suburban neighborhood with whimsical ever-changing yard scenes. Initially when the shut down began, she started to sew masks and offered them free to the community. Soon after, she learned about a scavenger hunt idea in her area and was drawn to the concept of creating an ever-changing scene. I have been totally inspired by how Kathy has spread positivity, joy and community during this difficult time through her scenes and masks. I am so happy to share Kathy's story with you and we both hope this offers you some light during these times. Kathy wrote a beautiful piece about her playful critter scenes.  Learn a little more from the artist herself and don't forget to check out Kathy Steere's art and the prompt she has left for us:

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Interview with A Safe Place and Increased Protections and Services for Those Affected By Domestic Violence

Interview with A Safe Place and Increased Protections and Services for Those Affected By Domestic Violence

A Safe Place is Lake County's largest domestic violence nonprofit and provides vital services and resources to those suffering from domestic violence. Do to the stay-in-place orders required to combat COVID-19, A Safe Place has seen a dramatic rise in clients needing emergency services. With these orders, victims of domestic violence are forced to shelter with abusers. So, this is a very critical time to share resources and help organizations like A Safe Place if you can. I recently interviewed Damaris Lorta A Safe Place's Chief Development Officer. 

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Spectacular Views, History and Birding at Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve

Spectacular Views, History and Birding at Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve Northern Illinois

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve melds history and nature. Perched along Lake Michigan, the Northern Illinois forest preserve once was a U.S. Army Post from 1887-1993. You will easily note the history of the area by observing the architecture. Signs throughout the preserve detail the history at different points. You can also walk along the parade ground and take some moments of solitude, respect and gratitude at the Fort Sheridan cemetery.

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Chicago North Shore Restaurants - What's Cookin'? An Interview with Co-Creator Alisa Bay

A Community of Support for Local Restaurants Blooms with Chicago North Shore Restaurants - What's Cookin'? Created by Alisa Bay and Mary Manning 

While times have been challenging, engaging and supportive community efforts have been springing up helping navigate these unusual waters. Alisa Bay and Marcy Manning recently created the Facebook Group Chicago North Shore Restaurants - What's Cookin' ? and the group has really taken off to become a positive spot where we all can share our favorite local restaurants and enjoy a little comradery. Recently, I interviewed Alisa for a little background on how this engaging group got started. Learn a little more about Chicago North Shore Restaurants - What's Cookin'? and why you should check it out:

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How to Be a Steward of Hiking Trails

How to Be a Steward of Hiking Trails

With so many of us savoring the charms of nature and enjoying hikes, I thought it would be useful to come up with ways that we can become better stewards of the trails. Here are some ways that we can all be stewards of our trails:

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Fusion of Interesting Food and Intriguing Art at Coquelicot Gallery and Cafe in Palatine: An Interview with Owner Nana Takahashi

Fusion of Interesting Food and Intriguing Art at Coquelicot Gallery and Cafe in Palatine: An Interview with Owner Nana Takahashi

From the moment I walked into Coquelicot, I was in love. The balanced blend of art positioned into a magical treasure trove with an adjacent refined cafe welcomes visitors to a truly special adventure. Coquelicot adds a little bit of fancy yet a spot for relaxation here in the Chicago suburbs. Once you meet the co-owners, Nana Takahashi and her mother, you will also realize that while inviting a little fancy into your life Coquelicot also feels like community. Nana and her mother are the sweetest and lovingly create a destination for visitors to get away from it all and even feel pampered. Coquelicot Gallery and Cafe is one of my favorite suburban treats so, I am happy to introduce owner Nana Takahashi to you for a little interview:

**Coquelicot is currently open for curbside and online ordering during stay-in-place. Take a peek at Coquelicot Gallery and Cafe for more information.

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