Support local artists this holiday season Autumn Phoenix Designs Danielle Carlson Wire-wrapped jewelry and stained glass decor. Website: www.theautumnphoenix.com. email: autumnphoenix2@gmail.com. Chavenelle Studio Metal Works Gail Chavenelle Metal sculpture. Website: www.chavenellestudio.com. email: gail@chavenellestudio.com. Shop: Outside the Lines Gallery, 1101 Main St. or 101 S. Main St., Galena, Ill.   Lauren’s Custom Gifts Lauren McKay Themed and...

Is it the holiday season already? The thought of 2021 coming to an end is somewhat unrealistic. Last year seemed never-ending, and this year went way too fast. Planning for 2022, what goes through your mind? What mental checklists are you preparing to end this year and move to the next? This column is intended...

It’s not even the busiest time of year for travel yet, and 2021 already has been chaotic, even for the most seasoned travelers. And so, as you book 2021 holiday travel, don’t overlook the best type of plan you can make: A backup plan. Here are some ways to build one: Be flexible and pack...

NEW YORK — There was a time when Naomi Peña could seemingly do it all: Work a full-time job and raise four children on her own. But when the viral pandemic struck early last year, her personal challenges began to mount and she faced an aching decision: Her children or her job? She chose her...

When I graduated from high school, I remember receiving two gifts: Cash and a beautifully wrapped box. I received this same wrapped gift at my wedding reception and my kids’ baby showers. What was inside this mysterious present? Blank thank you notes. The giver (my mom) even included names and addresses of people who gave...