Northwest Quarterly Magazine (Northwest Chicagoland Edition)

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

10/21/2025

A screeching garage door isn’t just annoying — it could be a warning sign.

The lifespan of a garage door depends on how often you use it and how well you take care of it. “Most people open and close the garage door 15 to 20 times a week, but others use it that much in a day,” says Allen Holley, salesperson with A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair in Huntley. The most common

10/18/2025

Not all “used cars” are created equal.

We all know the stereotype of the used car salesman, but that’s not how it goes when you buy a certified pre-owned vehicle from a reputable dealer, says Kevin Keefe, president of Brilliance Honda in Crystal Lake and Brilliance Subaru in Elgin. “In our opinion, there’s a big difference between ...

10/16/2025

Hayrides, s’mores and the world’s tallest scarecrow — Pumpkin Weekends are back at Blackberry Farm.

Blackberry Farm welcomes fall each year with special events and its traditional Pumpkin Weekends. This year, kids and their families can meet superheroes, trick-or-treat, and attend haunted events. The Aurora farm is run by the Fox Valley Park District and is a living history museum where visitor

10/14/2025

At Heisler's Bootery in Crystal Lake, every shoe is measured, fitted and adjusted with century-old know-how — because comfort starts from the ground up.

It’s not always easy to find the perfect-fitting shoe. Sizes vary across brands, materials break in differently, and what feels fine at first can turn into a blister by day’s end. So, how do you make sure your foot gets the right support? It starts with a little insight from someone who knows ab...

10/11/2025

Fall comes alive in DeKalb County — here’s where to find your next adventure.

The fall season comes alive in DeKalb County, from adventures like apple orchard fun to the action-packed fields of Northern Illinois University. “We offer a wide array of things to do all year, but fall is our busiest time,” says Katherine McLaughlin, marketing director for the DeKalb County Co...