Marlena Renner
National Read a Book Day: It’s Not Just for Bedtime!
Happy National Read a Book Day! This is quite possibly one of my favorite unofficial holidays on the calendar. Full disclosure: almost every day is read-a-book day for me.
I do not know when my...
Exploring the Capitol of Lincolnland
Learn about Lincoln and have some family fun in Springfield, IL!
My husband Andy and I have a common theme on vacations: find Abraham Lincoln. From Independence Day fireworks at the Lincoln Memorial in D.C....
International Harry Potter Day: Our Wizarding World Weekend … At Home
May 2 is International Harry Potter Day!
Sometimes we have the best of plans, and then something happens. In this case, the plan was Harry Potter day at the library. The something that happened was...
Seven Ways to a Mother Earth Approved Bathroom
Have you ever noticed how much plastic is in your bathroom? From shampoo and conditioner bottles to soaps and face care products, plastic is everywhere! I have been changing what we buy and use,...
Take a Look, in a Book … Club
"How did you start your book club?”
When I started a book club 10 years ago, I never thought I would be asked that question. I also didn’t think we would still be gathering every...
My Corona Lessons
Almost two years ago, I was texting with my cousin (who is a doctor), asking her if this coronavirus thing was really worth canceling events. Looking back, I feel completely ridiculous even having asked...
Small Steps to a Sustainable Kitchen
How sustainable is YOUR kitchen?
For my resolution last year, I decided I would make a conscious effort to try and reduce some of our waste and plastics. My goal was to replace one thing...
My Shop Small Holiday Guide
This year, my mission was to do most of my holiday shopping through small businesses – and I have largely been able to stick to that mission.
Here are a few of my favorite local...
Don’t Be Afraid to Tackle Turkey Day
After a few years of spending more time in a vehicle than time with families at Thanksgiving, Andy and I decided to take the plunge and host.
It made sense. We were the halfway point...
A Riverbend Haunted Fall List
I am not originally from Alton, but it has become my home over the last 13 years. And thinking back on it, this is a great place for my family and me. We love...