This minimalist bird is a gadget in disguise
Balmy weather instantly makes me fantasize about backyard parties. But after foraging through our garage, my excitement plummets. Those cute string lights I bought last year for 10 bucks? Oh...
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How to gracefully back out of a volunteer commitment
Q: You said you'd volunteer with an organization but quickly discovered that you don't agree with its values or it requires more of work than you expected. How do you...
How to gracefully turn down a family heirloom for your wedding
Q: Your mom's wedding dress. A ring that belonged to your partner's grandma. They're beautiful but not your style. How do you politely decline family heirlooms for your wedding? You...
Family fun at Lil’ Lit Park at Printers Row Lit Fest
No readers will be left behind at Printers Row Lit Fest. The two-day South Loop fest features a family zone, Lil' Lit Park, where kids and parents will be spoiled...
How to talk about bedbugs with a well-traveled house guest
Q: When well-traveled house guests visit, should you air your concerns about bedbugs? Is it OK to ask someone to leave his luggage outside his room? Traveling in the developing...
A stranger bursts into tears in public. How should you handle it?
Q: Someone you just met starts crying in a public space. What should you do? Smile and show warmth. Say something like, "I'm so sorry you're in pain. I hope...
5 ways to save your marriage — with little help from your spouse
Winifred M. Reilly wasn't unhappy in her marriage, but she wanted the constant squabbling between herself and her husband to stop. "I didn't want to spend this life being in...
How to hire movers
Hiring a moving company can literally take a load off your shoulders and ease the stress of changing homes. But choosing which team to entrust your prized possessions to is...
How to politely dismiss those ‘when are you having a baby’ questions
Q: How do you politely shut down a conversation when people ask "when are you having kids?" A knee-jerk reaction or an angry defensive response can erupt when we think...
How to outfit your patio or balcony
With the first hint of warm weather, people are eager to get out into their backyards, porches or balconies to enjoy a morning coffee or host a chic summer dinner....