When we moved away from Schaumburg, my first wish was to take the library with us. The kids area was so much fun with my daughter. The reading area is a forest with toad stools, benches and a caterpillar to sit on.

Books, movies and cds are easy to find and reachable for even the shortest kids.

You can play with trains, computers, puzzles even a wood dollhouse.

For adults, swing by the cafe for a coffee or even lunch then head over to the fiction section to read by the roaring fireplace.

We greatly miss living so close to there.

Growing up in Des Plaines, it was a treat to go to the Choo Choo restaurant. Now we take the train from Crystal Lake into downtown Des Plaines with my 4 year old. It is a pretty small restaurant. You can get served by the train only if you sit at the counter and space is limited. Food and drinks are pretty pricey for just a burger, fries and milkshake. My daughter doesn't care if we have to sit in a booth as long as she can she the train. If you're in the area or just want something fun to do for lunch, stop by...at least once.

three simple words: chocolate covered strawberries. So good! Strawberry fest is a perfect summer outing to get great food and shop the small cute stores in Long Grove. Beat the crowds and go on a Friday afternoon. Don't leave without your strawberries!

Long Grove has the best strawberry and apple fests. Strawberry Fest is in the summer and Apple Fest is in October. To beat the crowds, head on a Friday. Enjoy great food, quaint shops and music playing. Kids will enjoy some of the small carnival type rides. Stop and get chocolate covered strawberries, apple dounuts and apple cider while you are there.

We travel to Atlanta every couple years to visit family and always make this a must see stop. My daughter loves just sitting next to the large wall watching all of the fish. The exhibits are fun and she loves the 3D show. Tickets are hard to come by during the summer and it does get crowded, but it is worth it.