This summer features the Cary Farmers Market in their new summer home in downtown Cary. While it's within walking distance from where it has been held, it's a great improvement.
July 3, 2024
It was a Windy City BMW kind of day at Crystal Lake BMW when they teamed up to for a Cars & Coffee car show. While they clouds were foreboding, the only rumbling was the engines.
May 2, 2024
Illinois Motors put on a super car show on Sunday with their 2nd annual Illinois Motors Cars & Coffee event. If you missed it, we've got some pics.
April 25, 2024
Like a Christmas tale straight out of a storybook or a holiday movie, Richmond served up small town holiday charm during Richmond's Cocoa Walk and the Richmond Christmas of Yesteryear events.
December 13, 2023
Our first attendance to the Village of Algonquin's Miracle On Main tree lighting event was about as perfect as it could get. Between the great weather, lots to see, festive crowd, and grabbing dinner without a reservation or a wait on a Saturday night, I'm not sure what more you
December 6, 2023
Come along as we journey to the McHenry Christmas Tree Lighting in Veteran's Memorial Park. It was a great afternoon and evening with pretty perfect weather!
November 21, 2023
Wonder Lake's Fall Fest was the place to be for all kinds of fun, from a trunk or treat to a huge bonfire! Take a peek!
November 2, 2023
A whole lot of fun was happening at Crystal Lake Plaza's annual Halloween Family Fun Event. Did you make it into any of the photos? Check and see!
November 1, 2023
Great day for a Halloween Walk in Fox River Grove with the Cary-Grove Chamber of Commerce. Check out the smiles and the great costumes.
October 31, 2023
Another successful Truck or Treat with the Crystal Lake Park District on a glorious, if not chilly, fall day at Main Beach.
October 30, 2023
Amazing weather this year made for a great day out in the country, taking in the fall colors on the Autumn Drive and Witches & Wizards of Woodstock.
October 26, 2023
What better way to spend a beautiful Sunday than strolling around the grounds at The Dole, enjoying a charity car show combined with the weekly Farmers Market+?
October 5, 2023
Downtown Crystal Lake Farmers Market wrapped up the 2023 season with amazing weather and lots of people enjoying the day. Can't ask for much more than that.
October 3, 2023
Perfect weather marked the 30th annual Johnny Appleseed Festival, and what may have been the one of the biggest ones yet.
October 3, 2023
Car shows don't always appear at all the usual places. Such was the case when we visited Melody Living for their Car Show to benefit the Alzheimer's Association.
September 27, 2023
There are car shows and then there are concours d'elegance. And we're fortunate enough to have an amazing concours just a short drive south. Come along and take a peek.
September 1, 2023
Did you make out to play on the big hill at the Nunda Township Road District's annual Touch-A-Truck? Hope so, but if not, we've captured some of the fun.
July 31, 2023
There's a new farmers market in town, Johnsburg specifically, so come along and have a look from my recent walk thru.
July 26, 2023
Head west with us as we venture out to Marengo to visit and tour the Marengo-Union Library District.
July 13, 2023
Hop on board as we head up to the Village of Hebron for their annual Independence Day Parade.
July 3, 2023
If you didn't make it out to this year's Cary Summer Celebration, we saved some photos for you. And if you were there, take a look...you might be in one of those photos.
July 1, 2023
Never underestimate the tenacity of children or the value of a penny. Come check out this unique library that was built, in part, with a million pennies and houses a 100-plus-year-old butterfly collection.
June 29, 2023
Buckle up because this Library Lovers Expedition visit is heading beyond our boundaries...county that is, but it will be an adventure you won't want to miss our exploration of the Wauconda Library.
June 9, 2023
What better way to enjoy a middle of the week evening than heading to Cary for Cary Cruise Nights! Take a peak at opening night, but don't worry if you didn't make it, there's plenty more to come.
June 8, 2023
Come along as we head to Stevens Park in Richmond for their annual Memorial Day Ceremony.
May 31, 2023
River East Public Library may be the smallest library in the county, but they also have a few things that no other library in the area has to offer.
May 4, 2023
As libraries evolve, they have taken on more services and offerings to meet the needs of patrons. One of the newest areas of expansion areas can be seen in Algonquin's Makerspace.
April 27, 2023
The Huntley Library underwent a tremendous renovation over a year ago and what has come out on the other side is more than just a physical transformation.
April 12, 2023
Journey up, or down, Route 31 to the McHenry Public Library for a tour of the resources they have to offer as well as some unique programs.
April 6, 2023
Join me as we journey to the Johnsburg Public Library for a tour, a little Library Lovers Expedition scratch-and-win activity, and a chance to meet Sparky Butterscotch, a real character.
March 14, 2023
The Woodstock Public Library has some pretty amazing sights to see that might make you forget for a second that you are in a library.
March 13, 2023
The Cary Area Public Library continues to reshape what they offer to better suit their patrons. From the Seed Library to the Library of Things, they are about more than just books.
March 9, 2023
Just a stone's throw away from the Metra station, the Fox River Grove Memorial Library has something for all ages. Come along as I tour the library and learn about how they serve the Fox River Grove community.
March 8, 2023
Explore the Crystal Lake Public Library and learn about the origins of the popular Library Lovers Expedition, as well as discover materials, programs, and services you had no idea the library offered.
March 7, 2023
What's that up in the sky? Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Well, it might just be a ski jumper with the ski jump tower in the background...and yes, that actually is a plane in the background! Join us on this exciting adventure of ski jumping at the
February 16, 2023
Check out this special edition camera roll with photos from the first day of the 118th Norge Ski Club Winter Tournament.
February 12, 2023
While the new year is upon us and the holiday decorations have started to come down, enjoy this look at the Huntley Christmas lights in the Town Square.
January 10, 2023
While it's cold and wet outside, venture with us back to October when we took a walk around Veteran Acres Park to enjoy, what was then, the transitioning season.
December 14, 2022
Get your dose of Christmas spirit with these photos from downtown Crystal Lake for the Festival of Lights Parade, tree lighting, arrival of Santa, and a stroll down Christmas Tree Lane.
November 30, 2022
If you close your eyes, you can almost hear the roar of the engines as the cars worked their way around Meadowdale Raceway. Today though, you'll mostly hear some traffic from Hwy 31, the occasional sounds of mountain bikers, and nature. But you can still explore the old track.
November 9, 2022
Crystal Lake Plaza was once again home to a party of zombies, princesses, fighter pilots, an array of video game characters, and much more on Saturday as their annual trick-or-treating event returned.
November 1, 2022
Amazing weather, two weekends in a row for events at Main Beach in October?! I don't know what the odds are for that, but I do know that it was great to enjoy another fall day where a coat was optional. And these trick-or-treaters definitely enjoyed showing off their costumes!
October 31, 2022
Our trip to check out the Starline Factory 4th Friday event became as much an exploration of this historic structure that was transformed from former factory to a destination for art and events.
October 27, 2022
Explore the magic as Witches & Wizards of Woodstock returns once again to serve up magic, fantasy, and fun for all.
October 26, 2022
Crystal Lake Park District brought the Northwoods of Wisconsin to Main Beach for a day with lumberjacks, family fun, food trucks and a beer garden. Thanks to the unseasonably warm, weather, flannel shorts may have been preferred over flannel shirts. Needless to say, from the countless photos taken, no one
October 25, 2022
While I hope you make it out to enjoy the colors and sights of the changing season, here are some photos from around our neighborhood to serve as encouragement or at least consolation.
October 20, 2022
Hop on and enjoy the view! Another Autumn Drive has come and gone and winter is already beating on the door. If you didn't make it out, you'll have to wait till next year, but here are some photos to tide you over until then.
October 18, 2022
What do you get when you combine vintage classic cars with trick-or-treaters? Perhaps the wildest car show or most unique trunk or treat you've ever seen.
October 13, 2022
The 5th Annual Algonquin Harvest Market was as much an extension of summer as it was a transition into fall. Either way, it was a glorious day to walk Main Street in Algonquin, perusing the various vendors, enjoying a beverage or two, some great food, all while enjoying some wonderful
October 11, 2022
Johnny Appleseed made his appearance again in downtown Crystal Lake for the Johnny Appleseed Festival, and brought some amazing weather with him. Until next year, here are some photos to tide you over!
October 4, 2022
Art on the Fox brought in artists and artisans from within McHenry County and beyond the state line. If you didn't make it, take a look at what you missed and you might even want to trakc down a few artists or artisans who catch your eye!
September 14, 2022
Closing out summer with a trip to the Lake in the Hills annual Summer Sunset Festival. We checked out the carnival on Sunday and fun times were had! If you didn't make it, check out our photos to see what you missed.
September 7, 2022
An amazing and immersive nature experience awaits you, and it may be closer than you think. Crystal Lake has a wonderful array of parks for recreation, but it's also home to Sterne's Woods & Fen, which is wonderful preservation area as well.
September 1, 2022
Crystal Lake Main Beach provided the backdrop to this year's Monarchs and Music, a fun and unique collaborative educational monarch butterfly fair and community concert.
August 18, 2022
It takes more than a little rain to keep us away. But you can enjoy these photos from the Open Air Farmers Market+ At The Dole from the comfort of your own home, regardless of the weather.
August 10, 2022
Got a train to catch? Head to Crystal Lake's downtown Metra station and you can catch more than just the train, with easy access to downtown Crystal Lake restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and more. Check out what makes the Metra "stations" unique in Crystal Lake.
July 28, 2022
Join us on our excursion to the Barrington Art Fair, where we took in a wide array of artistic talents, and captured some of the local flavor and natural art as well.
July 21, 2022
While you wait...take a walk around the Lakeside Festival. At least that's what I did ahead of Crystal Lake's annual Independence Day Parade, and here are some photos to prove it!
July 13, 2022
It was a near-perfect day for a parade. If you missed this year's Crystal Lake Independence Day Parade, then we've got over 100 photos that will show you some of what you missed, or relive what you experienced if you were there.
July 7, 2022
Celebrate the 4th and the summer kick-off with the Cary Park District's annual Summer Celebration with some music, food, and fireworks! Come along and feast your eyes on some photos from the event.
July 5, 2022
In need of a quick escape? Need to getaway from the stress, turmoil, and general chaos of everyday life? Come along as we jump the border and experience the Anderson Japanese Gardens.
June 30, 2022
Weekly car show fun without all of the hassle and expense! If you're itching for some candy apple red eye candy, then you'll want to check out this glimpse of what you might find at a Cary Cruise Night!
June 8, 2022
Sit back and stay awhile as you flip through over 100 photos from Huntley's Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony.
June 6, 2022
The Veterans Committee Network of Northern Illinois honors fallen Illinois service members each Memorial Day with their Field of the Fallen.
June 3, 2022
Wonderful weather prevailed for the Fox River Grove Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony, and we've got the photos to prove it. So if you didn't make it out, sit back and enjoy our little recap.
June 1, 2022
Cornish Park in Algonquin stands out with its clocktower, view of the dam on the Fox River, and wonderful greenspace and playground for the kids. That alone would be great, but it also benefits from being in the heart of old Algonquin within walking distance of two other parks and
May 26, 2022
Riverfront Park in Algonquin provides great views of the Fox River, as well as a well-landscaped green space for relaxing. While the trees were still a little bare in early spring, the flowers were happy to show their colors to make up for it.
May 18, 2022
Come along as we check out this historic park right off the downtown Algonquin area, just blocks from the Fox River.
May 5, 2022
What better way to spend a sunny, though windy and chilly, pre-Easter Saturday than with the hardest working bunny around! Enjoy some photos from the Village of Prairie Grove's annual Easter Egg Hunt.
April 20, 2022
If you like tacos and trains, have we got a train station for you! The McHenry Metra station can claim to have both, although, probably more tacos than trains.
April 14, 2022
Looking for something completely different? A day trip to the Shedd Aquarium may just be the ticket you're looking for. Come along and get a sneek peek of our recent journey outside the county with a day at the Shedd.
March 25, 2022
A wonderful return to art, The Dole, and life in general. Come along as we enjoy the return of art exhibits at The Dole with the "New Beginnings" show by Creative Arts Inc. students and instructors.
March 22, 2022
Grab your green and get your Irish on to celebrate St. Patrick's Day! And what better way to do it than by heading to the McHenry ShamRocks the Fox. If you didn't brave the cold, here are some photos of the parade and the river to tide you over till
March 13, 2022
Okay, campers, if you didn't make it out this morning to get first...paw prognostications from the great Woodstock Willie, then you're in luck, and a lot warmer! Sit back and enjoy...
February 2, 2022
Like a step back in time, enjoy the simple and classic holiday lighting of Veteran's Memorial Park. Just add snow!
December 29, 2021
Get in the holiday spirit with a stroll through downtown Crystal Lake, with a walk down Christmas Tree Lane to Peppermint Park, get in some last minute shopping, and meet up with the jolly man in the red suit.
December 15, 2021
The Crystal Lake Park District's Luminaria Walk is truly a wonderful way to experience Veteran Acres Park. It's also a great way to transition into the holiday season.
December 10, 2021
It was wet, but it was merry and very worth standing out in the cold. If you weren't able to make it out for the Merry Cary Holiday Parade & Festival, click along to see what you missed.
December 7, 2021
Be sure to save a little time in your hectic schedule for a stroll around the Woodstock Historic Square this holiday season to take in the festive light display.
December 2, 2021
Autumn seemed to rush by this year. While many leaves had turned and even started falling by early November, I was fortunate enough to capture some while I visited the Rush Creek Conservation Area. Come along for the ride!
November 18, 2021
Whatever you think you know about the Crystal Lake Park District, there is most likely so much more that you are missing. Come along and let's see if we can uncover a few new things.
November 15, 2021
Take a trip to the end of the line...Metra UP-NW end that is. Here's a little peek at the Harvard Metra station and downtown Harvard, Illinois.
November 9, 2021
We had fun checking out some of the Halloween decorations and some Trick-or-Treating in Marengo.
November 2, 2021
Come along as we walk around a parking lot. While it was an ordinary parking lot, it was not an everyday experience. Take a peek at some cool and classic cars that recently met up in Crystal Lake.
October 28, 2021
Main Beach park was a buzz with all sorts of goblins, ghouls, and superheroes at this year's Crystal Lake Park District's Truck or Treat.
October 25, 2021
If you missed this year's Annual Autumn Drive, come along and enjoy a photo tour of just a little bit of what you missed.
October 19, 2021
Downtown Crystal Lake always knows how to signal the return of fall with the annual Johnny Appleseed Festival; this year celebrating 28 years! If you missed it, we've got a taste for you here!
September 28, 2021
From a dairy farm to a gravel pit, The Hollows now lives on as a conservation area and recreation site. This amazing little gem may just be the quick getaway that you've been looking for.
September 16, 2021
Pleasant Valley Conservation Area is a truly amazing environmental experience. Over 2,000 acres of natural habitat, including rare plant and endangered animal species. Enjoy a true hidden getaway with hiking trails, various landscapes, cross country skiing, and more.
August 26, 2021
We all, from time to time, need a little getaway to unplug and recharge, not just the batteries, but the soul. Ironically, these kinds of trips are often closer than we think.
August 17, 2021
Wonder down a little alleyway and you'll get a surprise. The Woodstock Mural and Sculpture Garden, featuring the Woodstock on Film and on the Stage Mural is a true work of art that highlights Woodstock's role in film and stage.
August 10, 2021
What better way to spend a Tuesday morning, especially during National Farmers Market Week, than visiting with vendors at the Woodstock Summer Farmer's Market around the historic square!
August 3, 2021
If you are going to spend a Sunday strolling through a parking lot, Motor Werks' Cars & Coffee is a great way to do it. Care to take a stroll?
July 13, 2021
Join us on an extra special journey as we launch a new magazine section and I share a few of my favorites. Cross over the McHenry County line as we road trip to Des Moines...art, Tasty Tacos, and Twin Bings!
July 8, 2021
The Crystal Lake Public Library is reopened after COVID restrictions are lowered and their repair project nears completion. Join me as a take stroll around, both inside and out, to checkout what's new!
June 29, 2021
Take a walk with us as we tour the Downtown Crystal Lake Farmers Market for the first time this summer. And of course, this wouldn't be complete without a stroll down North Williams Street.
June 14, 2021
Nothing could have prepared me for this trip to Veteran Acres Park and my journey around the pond. What was meant to be our first photolog ended up with about an equal amount of text as I share information on the tree removal around the pond at Veteran Acres Park.
June 3, 2021