Quicksand

Like my feet are stuck in mud, I am left standing (dare I say struggling?) in an unfamiliar place where life has me bewildered. Do I struggle and sink deeper into the murky quicksand or do I stay calm, look around and ask for help?

My view of the world has been challenged by life's uncertainty and I am forced to bend and twist what I had always thought was an open mind. To reshape my interpretations and listen to the directions as I move toward a safe place.

My Debut in Mindful Metropolis

Check out my article on page 30 in the July issue of Mindful Metropolis where I profile Veria Spa - Lincoln Park's new center for Ayurvedic wellness!

Womancraft Creates Beauty

Womancraft Tour

A couple months ago I was honored to speak at the Annual Luncheon for Womancraft at Green Home Chicago. The organization drew me in with their genuine enthusiasm and I have been impressed each step of the way. Each person associated with the group wears their heart on their sleeve in such a warm way. Their honesty for the mission so moving.

Click on the album above to learn how Womancraft creates such gorgeous art and connect with the Heartland Alliance, their partner in providing work and life skills to disadvantaged individuals.

So think twice before your next order for invitations or stationery. Your order will not only demonstrate your support for a local, non-profit social organization, but your belief in creating beauty from what was once thought to be finished. It's not just about the paper, but the lives of every artisan created and person touched by this project.

Many thanks to Womancraft for allowing me (and my sons) to tour their facility and share their story.

Beliefs into Action

Last Friday Jack surprised me when he told me he was wearing his dress to the symphony in the park. No, I wasn't shocked that he wanted to wear his dress. I paused when he told me because he has never worn it out in public before.

This was a big change for him... and for us.

After he told me, I looked in the mirror a little longer than usual while brushing my teeth wondering what would happen when Jack wears a dress out in the world. Will people laugh? Will he notice? Will he feel good about his decision by the time we get back home or will he wish he had worn shorts like his brother?

I found myself just staring at my face searching for answers. Foaming toothpaste running down the corners of my mouth like I was a rabid dog. What happens next?

As I slowly wiped my mouth, I thought time to walk the talk. I have always supported Jack wearing what he wanted and now it was time to put my beliefs into action and support him as he navigates outside the security of our front door and into the world.

Who knows what the future holds? All I know is that I am proud of my son no matter what. And I love him so fiercely that it consumes me when I think of his vulnerability in this world where love and fear wage war.

In the end I believe our actions speak louder than words so no matter what happens I will be beside him, loving him and supporting him. I will be right there telling him that it is natural to be and express who you are - ALWAYS.

With a deep breath I walked out of my bathroom and gathered my things for a lovely evening outdoors with my family. And as we walked along the park holding hands and having a good time in the new summer heat I'm not sure if we got funny looks or if people laughed. It sounds strange, but in the end I didn't notice anyone else.

Smart City Living with Sergio & Banks Real Estate

Venturing into the new green condos at 1709 N. Rockwell and 1711 N. Rockwell made me want to move! Recently Melissa Govedarica, a National Association of Realtors Green Designated agent with Sergio and Banks, toured me though the chic duplex up and down in both buildings and I left scheming as to how I could buy one ASAP. Now this is smart city living!

Crisp, clean curb appeal with enormous modern windows, these homes look absolutely stunning at an affordable price. The duplex up is under $520K and the the duplex down is under $440K. It just looks like twice that much inside!

While walking the exterior I appreciated the focus on planting indigenous species and utilizing permeated piping to direct storm water drainage from the sewer toward the plant material. Huge bonus that they opted for reusing water instead of adding an irrigation system.

As we walked in Melissa explained that the Energy Star Rating was carefully monitored throughout the construction process and they have secured a 3 Star Rated City of Chicago Green Home Approval by making environmentally friendly choices during the majority of the construction process. What does majority mean? Even though mostly eco friendly, locally produced, sustainable products were chosen, some luxury features outside the green design spectrum were used in specific areas to enhance the overall profile.

Double (environmentally friendly) insulation serves as an energy savings feature as well as the insulation for the foundation and walls of the foundation. I loved that the lumber for the floors is certified sustainable and sourced locally (within 500 miles). As I looked at these green options built right in I thought of how hard it must be to renovate when embracing a green lifestyle. So many choices and so much research!

Aside from being painted in move-in ready tones, buyers will rest assured that the paint is green certified low VOC. None of the nasty toxins that accompany that awful paint smell of yesteryear. The sleek design is showcased by the color palette as well as the choice of fixtures. It feels like the designers were blessed with a perfect eye for detail. Like the natural light used so effectively throughout that not only cuts down on energy consumption (and expense) but makes the most of a chic open concept for urban living.

They've also taken care of all of the energy efficient high tech appliances and features like low flow faucets, dual flush toilets, central vacuum system, recycled glass and tiles, green membrane roof, low and formaldehyde free cabinets and a Carrier 92% energy efficient furnace making this home 27% energy efficient per Melissa. Looks like all the guesswork of green living is taken care of!

One of my favorite features if what I call the "urban waterfall" where the soaking tub fills from the ceiling. Another critical element of the planning was the second floor home theater. What a perfect way to get your media center out of your living room. The whole home is conveniently wired with iPod docking and has a Bond-worthy security system that will be the envy of your friends. You'll be able to see who has come in and out of this eco-palace at all times via your television.

Each home individual features like coconut tiled fireplaces, specialized designer lighting and rock star tiled bathrooms so you'll have to visit to see which vibe fits your personal style. Throw in the astonishing garage rooftop patio and the other balcony areas off the living room and bedroom and you have me sold!

To schedule your visit call the listing agent, Grace Sergio at 773-235-6100 and speak with their NAR Green Designated agents Melissa Govedarica and Sam Banks. Let me know which one you are taking and I'll arm wrestle you for it!

Photos courtesy of Sergio and Banks. Follow them http://www.twitter.com/sergioandbanks and become a Facebook Fan.

The Field Shares the Power of Water

Water Exhibit at the Field Museum June 2009

I could have spent all day at the Field Museum's new Water exhibit simply because the information about water conservation was positively compelling, but the way they presented the information in the 7,500 square foot space makes me want to go back to catch what I missed the first time. (And yes, I want to walk through the fog wall again!)

The term dynamic is used probably more than it should be but it is so apropos here. Let's face it, we have all been to our share of less than engaging exhibits where you stare into stiff models behind glass next to lengthy vanilla text - all while checking your watch. This is not one of those exhibits.

Picture a 3-D theater, a 7 foot globe with multimedia storytelling capabilities, a simulation of a river dam and interactive games that will engage every age in your group. It's like a little mini journey where you think you are just having a good time then you notice that are actually grasping concepts that once seemed foreign. Like what happens at the water purification plant we all see out there in Lake Michigan but we haven't had the foggiest idea what actually happened there- until now.

Did you know that Chicago has the world's largest conventional water purification plant? Luckily Chicago has amazing drinking water, but this is not the case for many places around the world and in our own backyard. John Drengenborg, Manager Global Consumer Affairs for Underwriters Laboratories, explained that UL actually tests water for cities and municipalities. And we thought that UL only checked toasters and appliances! No, Underwriters does so much more, including testing products marketing themselves as eco-friendly to certify their green claims are true. Yet another reason to feel safe when you see the UL label. It means that a third party is doing the research so we don't have to wonder.

Speaking of research, the exhibit is the perfect place to satisfy your inner science geek. I was amazed at the geological specimens, including a 3.8 billion year old Isua Schist (metamorphic rock) that relates the history of water when it fell in Australia in 1969. Or if the kids are into the whole diorama stage in school check out the recreation of Cambodia's Tonle Sap to study a diverse eco system.

Despite providing a clear message about water conservation, it is never preachy. Did you know that more than 1 BILLION people live without dependable access to safe drinking water? That people carry water jugs for miles to provide water for their families? This made a huge impact on me when I returned home and saw the way that we waste every moment. It's the water that just sat in front of me at dinner. It's the water running as I shaved my legs. It's the water left over in my teapot that needs to go in my plants rather than down the drain. These little changes in behavior can make a big difference.

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Many thanks to the Field Museum and Underwriters Laboratories for inviting me to the Media Preview and taking the time to chat with me about the timely nature of this exhibit in Chicago which open today Wednesday, June 17 through September 20, 2009 when it continues its international tour through South America, Asia and Australia.

Don't forget to join us every third Thursday of the month at 10am at Hartigan Beach at Loyola and every first Sunday of the month at 1pm at the 12th St Beach at Northerly Island for our beach cleanup series with Chicago Green Families. No need to bring anything except the desire to make a difference.

Growing Home With Green Visionaries

Last night it was that rare occasion when I felt like all the stars were in alignment.

Surrounded by heavy hitters (Pictured from Left to Right Front Row: Jim Banks- Belmont Bank, Grace Sergio- Sergio and Banks Real Estate, Michelle Quaranta- Colori, Shannon Downey- Pivotal Productions, Bianca Alexander- Conscious Living TV. Back Row L-R: Tim Winkler- Mindful Metropolis, Me, Andy Khatchatrian- Neuberger Berman, Tamara Wills- Allyu Spa and Michael Alexander- Conscious Living TV & Not Pictured but Still Adored: Jessa Brinkmeyer- Pivot Boutique, Melissa Graham- Monogramme Catering, JoAnn Blackman- Haymarket Center and Harry Rhodes & Orrin Williams - Growing Home), I felt the electricity of hope at the the 7th Annual Benefit for Growing Home.

Beyond the opportunity to dish with all of these talented green entrepreneurs (over amazing food & wine mind you), I cherished the chance to connect this Green Think Tank with Growing Home. Margaret Martinez, a graduate and speaker last night, courageously related her own experience leaving prison not knowing what to expect of her future and credited Growing Home for her healthy "new life" and financial independence today. Imagine the impact if we all focused on working with genuine visionaries. The heights we could reach!

As she spoke, I glanced at my guests around the Chicago Green Families table with gratitude and respect. You see, these aren't your power hungry social-climber types. They are hearts and minds working toward the greater good. I felt proud to be with such inspiring individuals.

I said it last night and it's true. I am a lifer for Growing Home. I'll always support their mission of community, hope and health to help another 150 graduates transform their lives through organic farming.

Photo courtesy of Shannon Downey.

Lincoln Park Zoo Goes Local, Organic & Sustainable

Zoo 2009

How delighted were we when we ventured into Lincoln Park Zoo's new cafe serving organic, sustainable and locally produced food! The Cafe at Wild Things is heaven sent with our favorite Bleeding Heart Bakery treats and variety of foods that we actually would eat. Gone are the days of packing big lunches and snacks a plenty. This healthy option puts my mind at ease.

Bob is so right- the times they are a changin'! Our last trip to Brookfield Zoo landed us in the organic food tent where we created an impromptu picnic. Now there menu was not as sophisticated as LPZ's (the fruit serving ended up a tiny plastic Dole fruit cup where the white chunks remain a mystery and the booby prize goes to the person who gets the gooey syrup-soaked cherry fragment), but it is a start.

Maybe if we use our voices we would see more healthy options at our favorite places? A day out doesn't have to include a greasy hamburger and fries, does it?

Possibility for Change

12th St Beach - June Cleanup

Today our group removed FIFTY POUNDS of garbage from the 12th St. Beach! As I walked this beautiful space picking up broken bottles, beer cans, clothing, charcoal, food wrappers, cigarettes and unmentionables I could not help but feel a little disappointed in my fellow man.

Rather than dwell on everything that seems wrong, I try to focus on the possibility for change. Perhaps our dedication could touch others in a positive way making them more likely to embrace their own responsibility.

It's like that commercial when one person smiles and each receiver goes on spread kindness to someone else. Call it doing the right thing, paying it forward or working toward the greater good, it all moves us toward a better place.

And They're Off!

While the moms were talking about the end of the school today, I could not contain my excitement. Instead of grabbing the handkerchief come Friday at 3:15pm, I will be jumping up and down for joy!

Call me Free Bird, but I embrace change. At times I even crave it to keep my mind alive with possibilities. Surprisingly the kids are no worse for wear as they've grown to roll with the punches amidst my structured spontaneity. Yes, I am lucky that I have two really cool kids.

This summer's ever-expanding agenda has a few key adventures:
* Camping
* Horseback riding
* Theater on the Lake
* Swimming & Music Lessons
* Cooking Classes

We're ready for the next fun thing! So throw out the worn out schedule schlepping kids back and forth to the Old Coast, I mean Gold Coast, and bring on the days of carefree summer adventures when we wake up (sans a time table) to choose our destiny. Will we explore a new state park that day? Head out to a secluded beach for a picnic and some baseball? Should we bring our canvases and paint the sunset from Millennium Park? No matter what is on the agenda that day... WE make our choices. Off to a new adventure!

Simple Truths

smiling faces kiss me gently
wrap arms around my neck
never have I felt such wholeness
this simple truth is clear

the wind blows lightly
as I watch them lead and follow
struggling with words and fists
hearts bursting full of love