Girls on the Run

Yesterday, I spent the morning in training to be an Assistant Coach for Girls on the Run. I am part of the Cincinnati group of over 400 coaches! 400!!! It was an amazing 6 hours.

Girls on the Run is a life-changing, experiential learning program for girls age eight to thirteen years old. The 12-week programs combine training for a 3.1 mile running event with self-esteem enhancing, uplifting workouts. The goals of the programs are to encourage positive emotional, social, mental, spiritual and physical development. Each week, participants learn important life skills while completing a physical activity. The program culminates in a non-competitive 5K race event which gives the girls a chance to shine and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment.

We learned the history, goals, structure, administrative parts of the program. We also did a few practice sessions. My group is meeting Monday and Wednesday at a YMCA close to my work. I will be coaching every Monday and on Wednesday as my schedule allows. I think the work GOTR is doing is invaluable and so needed by girls today. Life is getting harder and more complicated at an earlier age for girls.

Here is a great video, featuring Founder Molly Barker.

Cheerful Flowers

We are having a snowstorm here on Thursday. I actually like the snow when I don't have to drive in it. But, it is gray here still, so I thought some lovely pictures taken last Spring at the Chicago Botanic Garden would be cheerful.

This is probably my favorite picture - all the tulips in bloom. I keep thinking I need to have this developed into a bigger size and frame it.


I would love to see these flowers in a cluster in a pretty white vase.


The refreshing and pretty waterfall.


The Bell Tower on Evening Island. In the evenings during the summer they have concerts on Evening Island and also bring in bell ringers from all over the world to do a concert.

Keep thinking Happy Spring Thoughts!

Cheers to Art

As part of my 2011 Resolutions, I am trying some new hobbies. Last Friday, we went to Cheers to Art in Madeira. This store/studio is amazing. As you walk in, they have a cheerful reception desk with shelves of locally made jewelry, funky purses and a BAR. Yes, you can have a cocktail as you create your own work of art.

The space is clean and airy. They have tons of art on the wall. Each class paints the same picture with your own interpretation. They also have open studio time, where you can paint your own canvas. This wall shows a few of the options that are available.

This is me working on my masterpiece - of course it is pink and green. It is titled "Swirls"!


Once it dries, you can take it home and hang it up.

Vintage 338

One of my favorite places in Lincoln Park is Vintage 338. It is a wine bar that also serves an amazing brunch. I really like the building it is in and the decor inside is a little contemporary and a little retro.

I enjoyed a new take on a Croque Madame. It was delish!

The Wine Bar.

I love this chandelier. I like the luxury of the crystals, but the toned down look of the shades.