Northwest Quarterly Magazine (Northwest Chicagoland Edition)

11/20/2025

Designing a showstopping Christmas tree starts long before the ornaments come out. Measure your space, choose the right lighting, and layer decor from the inside out for depth and flow.

Every house needs a good Christmas tree, so to really help it stand out, try using a few tricks from the designer’s playbook. First, be sure to measure the space where you’ll put it. Consider both height and width, says Laurie Kane, who owns Treetime Christmas Creations in Lake Barrington with h

11/18/2025

In Crystal Lake, Abednego Comfort Dog is helping Immanuel Lutheran Church and School bridge grief, anxiety and everyday stress — one quiet visit, classroom chapel and comforting nuzzle at a time.

Not all bridges are built from stone, steel or wood. Sometimes, they sport a golden coat and walk on all fours. At Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Crystal Lake, a 3-year-old golden retriever helps connect people in ways words often can’t. Abednego Comfort Dog offers calm and companionship

11/13/2025

Across Chicagoland, local theaters are decking the stage with festive favorites old and new.

The beauty and excitement of the holiday season are on full display at our region’s performing arts centers. In every corner of Chicagoland, you’ll find traditional and modern productions that are sure to get you in a festive mood. “The holiday season is our busiest time of the year,” says M...

11/11/2025

Kids’ feet can grow up to five sizes in their first year. At Heisler's Bootery in Crystal Lake, careful fitting and 3-D scans help keep little feet on the right path.

Finding the right pair of shoes for your little one can feel impossible, especially when they seem to outgrow their footwear overnight. To simplify the process, start with shoes that promote long-term foot health. “Kids’ feet can grow up to five sizes within the first 12 months,” says Jody Hei...

11/08/2025

Your garage door works harder than you think. Keep it running smoothly with an annual check-up — and avoid the surprise of a door that won’t open when you need it most.

Your garage door is one of the most used pieces of equipment in your home, but it’s also one of the easiest to neglect. It’s time to start paying closer attention, says Allen Holley, salesperson with A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair in Huntley. “No one uses the front door anymore,” he adds. “Ev...

11/06/2025

The best toys don’t just entertain — they teach. At Marvin's Toy Store in Crystal Lake, co-owner Kate McConville says the right plaything should match a child’s stage of growth, sparking patience, creativity and curiosity with every use.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when choosing a gift for a child, especially when the toy store has so many possibilities. To narrow your options, start with toys that spark fun, and you’ll find something that has lasting value. “The first thing to consider is what’s age-appropriate for your c...

11/04/2025

When it comes to flooring, experience makes all the difference.

For four generations, the Schroeder family at Kenny’s Floor Coverings in Johnsburg has helped homeowners find the perfect blend of style, quality and value — all built on honesty and trust.

https://smartlivingchicagoland.northwestquarterly.com/2024/11/19/when-buying-floors-trust-the-local-experts/

10/31/2025

From all of us at Northwest Quarterly, here’s to a Halloween filled with glowing pumpkins, crisp air, and cozy moments shared with family and friends. Wishing you a safe and spirited night! 👻✨

10/30/2025

Choosing the right post-acute rehab facility can make all the difference in recovery.

When a loved one leaves the hospital after an illness, they’ll often stay at a skilled nursing facility before heading home. Though there are many options in the Chicago area, not all of them are right for your loved one. How can you tell you’re making the right choice? It starts with asking the

10/27/2025

Research shows that families who share meals together enjoy stronger social and emotional well-being. This egg-inspired recipe from the American Heart Association offers a simple, healthy way to start the day right.

Research shows that families who enjoy frequent meals together have better social and emotional well-being, according to the American Heart Association. With the right dishes, you can make every bite as delicious as it is nourishing – and versatile ingredients like eggs make mealtime easy. This e

10/25/2025

Most of us will face back pain at some point in our lives. The best prevention? Keep moving.

The vast majority of us will suffer from back pain at some point in our lives, whether it’s a muscle strain or a serious, chronic condition that requires surgery. There are many sources for back pain, including disc problems, injuries, arthritis, genetics, lifestyle and medical conditions, says D

10/23/2025

From arches to octagons, there’s a window treatment for every shape.

Joshua Kierzyk has seen windows of all shapes and sizes, and he’s found a solution for each. Arch windows, circles, octagons, even triangles – each one will accommodate a window treatment. You just need the right solution. As an installer and sales associate for Sunburst Shutters of Chicago, one