I would always suggest that people plan menus ahead of time, checking sales to make your weekly plan. This works well to stop overbuying and keeps store visits quick. But in this busy world there is often not enough time to plan before shopping. You can follow the 6-1 principle to make it easier and more efficient.

Choose six vegetables. You can pick a staple like potatoes, such as Yukon gold, which are versatile and can be used in many recipes. Broccoli and zucchini also work well in many dishes. Romaine hearts are great in salad and can also be used for wraps. Mini cucumbers are good for salads and snacking. Tomatoes can be used in many ways, like raw on sandwiches and salads or made into salsa or bruschetta. Fresh corn is also wonderful in salsa too or cooked in a savory corn chowder. 

Choose five fruits. Bananas are good for smoothies, breakfast and school lunches. Berries are also for smoothies and can also be great with ice cream or pound cake for dessert. Small tangerines work well for lunches and snacking. Mango is wonderful too, maybe in salsa, a smoothie, or cooked in syrup for topping. Apples can be eaten out of hand or quickly baked in a crumble. 

Choose four proteins. Now think beyond meat. Of course, get some chicken. Buy a whole bird and cut it yourself. If you haven’t done it before, check a video online. It is the best value, and you will get the most out of the chicken. Chicken backs and wings make great stock. You can make chicken fajitas with some of the vegetables you purchased earlier. Ground beef can be used in so many ways too. Pork tenderloin is relatively inexpensive and easy to prepare. Eggs aren’t only for breakfast. A quick omelet or focaccia is great for a light dinner or lunch. For vegetarians, tofu has many applications. It’s wonderful fried with a savory sauce. Don’t forget cheese! A few hard cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella. Add some cream cheese or ricotta to a baked pasta dish. 

Choose three starches. Tortillas are great for your fajitas or breakfast burritos. Rice for a side dish or a savory casserole. Pasta in all its various forms is so versatile. Spaghetti, noodles, and all other kinds of pasta can be used in so many ways. From simple buttered noodles to baked ziti, the possibilities are endless. Bread and rolls are always convenient to keep in the freezer. Bread thaws quickly for anything from sandwiches to grilled cheese or garlic bread. 

Choose two sauces or spreads. Spaghetti sauce has so many uses, too many to mention here. Use it to make a quick spaghetti meal or a baked pasta like lasagna or ziti. It can accompany meatballs for a hearty sub. Alfredo sauce makes a great main pasta dish with some cooked chicken. Various pesto types are wonderful on pasta or spread on toasted French bread. 

Choose one extra fun food your family really likes. Perhaps some tater tots, these are also great in casseroles. Maybe some frozen pizza for a quick weekday meal. There are many great frozen pizzas now in stores. You can let the kids choose something special for their lunches or perhaps a meal they can help cook!

Keeping the 6-1 rule in mind when shopping can help streamline shopping and get you out of there in record time. We also have the vast internet to help with any recipes. 

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

Not only will you still be seeing green around the city this weekend, but you’ll also be seeing an array of colors as we welcome in springtime and prepare for the upcoming Easter holiday!

Chicagoans will be wrapping up their St. Patrick’s Day celebration and kicking off the spring outdoor running season with the 43^rd annual Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle this Sunday at Grant Park (337 E. Randolph St.) in The Loop.  Thousands of green-clad participants will be partaking in an 8K Run through downtown Chicago, a Two-Mile Walk along the city’s lakefront, or a One-Mile Race through the Loop.  As usual, participants will get a festive shirt and knit hat, a bib number to display, a finisher’s medal, and a drink ticket for the post-race party.  This event is Chicago’s annual rite of spring and not to be missed!

Navy Pier will be hosting Global Connections: Holi this Saturday (1 p.m.-5 p.m.) in the Aon Grand Ballroom (840 E. Grand Ave.) in the Streeterville neighborhood.  This free event features live music, DJs, dance, and interactive educational programming as it celebrates Holi which is a Hindu festival of colors commemorating the return of spring.  Guests can also enjoy the festival’s iconic powder throwing outdoors in the Beer Garden.  Powder will be available for purchase while supplies last.  Plus, food and beverages are available for purchase throughout multiple locations at the event.  It’s a fun and colorful way to celebrate spring’s arrival!

With Easter right around the corner, certain Easter-related events will be taking place this weekend as well, such as the following:

This Sunday (11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.) Fifth Third Arena (1801 W. Jackson Blvd.) on the Near West Side will be hosting its annual hare-raising, family-friendly Bunny Bash.  This event includes an outdoor egg hunt, crafts, pictures with the Egg Hunt Bunny, a bounce house, and more.  Everyone will have an egg-citing fun filled day!

This Sunday (11 a.m.-2 p.m.) The Old Plank (2700 N. Milwaukee Ave.) in the Logan Square neighborhood will be hosting its Easter Bunny Brunch & Egg Decorating event.  For only $10 a ticket, kids will get a fun egg decorating activity as well as a kid’s meal for brunchin’ with the Easter Bunny.  Plus, there will be plenty of opportunities to take a picture or a selfie with the Easter Bunny so don’t forget to bring your iPhone or camera.  After all, your host wants to ensure that everyone has a good time because being with family is important to them!

Brookfield Zoo invites you to their newest Easter event Bunny Hop this Saturday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) at 8400 31^st Street in Brookfield.  Guests of all ages can participate in an all-day scavenger egg hunt throughout the zoo, attend educational spring activities, partake in the Bunny Hop dance party with a DJ, take memorable photo ops with the Bunny, and more.  In addition, special chats at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. will be held at the Hamill Family Play Zoo with the Zoo’s domestic rabbits – Houdini, Copper, and Cloudy.  You’ll have an egg-citing day as you celebrate spring at the Zoo!

For those of us who have fur babies, Horner Park (2741 W. Montrose Ave.) in the Albany Park neighborhood will be hosting a Dog Egg Hunt this Saturday (1 p.m.-3 p.m.).  This event features treat-filled eggs hidden across the lawn, a photo area, lick painting, a costume contest, giveaways, and more.  Plus, it’s a pawsome fundraising event!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

“Rose Mary is the culmination of everything I have done with my career. But more importantly, it’s the culmination of my personal journey thus far—a marriage of who I am, what I’ve learned, and the person I’ve built a life and a family with.”

-Chef/Owner Joe Flamm

Rose Mary’s whitewashed brick walls, honey-colored oak millwork, and pale stone surfaces, accented by red clay and deep, azure blue tilework belie its “boisterous” atmosphere.

But it’s all the better to consume the restaurant’s ‘Adriatic Drinking Food.’ Top Chef winner Joe Flamm’s (Spiaggia) debut restaurant pays tribute to the two women who taught him to be passionate about food…his grandmothers Mary and Mary Rose. 

Inspired by Flamm’s Italian heritage and the bold, bright flavors of Croatian cuisine, which includes the herb rosemary, which grows natively along the Italian and Croatian coastlines, I’m down for their seasonal menu of “rustic yet refined dishes” that reflect the utilitarian, yet celebratory spirit of traditional family-run, age-old taverns in Croatia known as konobas.

With so much inspiration in one West Loop spot, how’s the food? With a 4.6 rating on Google and other websites, you can’t go wrong with such menu items as ZUCCHINI FRITTERS, made with pesto aioli, parmigiano, and pine nuts. STRACCIATELLA is a tart mix of winter citrus, orange mostarda,  with lepinja (Balkan flat bread). ROASTED CAULIFLOWER has tonnato (an Italian condiment often made with tuna, anchovies, lemon juice, olive oil, and mayonnaise,) pickled golden raisin, and pine nut.

Croatian-Italian pastas include a BUCATINI, withlamb cotechino sausage, lentil ragu, and piave (Italian cow’s milk cheese).MEZZALUNA is made with duck ragu, parmesan, and basil. GEMELLI has pesto genovese, pecorino, and breadcrumbs. Risotto selections include SKRADIN, pairing a veal breast with  parmigiano, chicken thigh, and tomato. CRNI is a squid ink, lobster brodo, confit squid, and tarragon.

Other entrees include PORK RIBS PAMPANELLA with Calabrian chile agrodolce, walnuts, cabbage, and yogurt relish. DUCK has cider jus, brown butter apples, and fennel pollen. Hearty appetites will enjoy their 16 OZ LAMB SADDLE with roasted baby carrots, shallot vinaigrette, and pistachio.

Finally, when it’s warranted, we say “Make room for dessert!” CHOCOLATE & HONEY MAĐARICA pairs chocolate cream, honey mascarpone cream on a rum-soaked biscuit, crispy chocolate crunch and chocolate gelato. OLIVE OIL CAKE is festooned with candied oranges, whipped mascarpone, and basil. Or, choose from one of their unusual SORBETTA flavors, including ORANGE BUTTERMILK SHERBET, CHERRY LIME, or BLUEBERRY LEMON GINGER.

Recent Google reviews reflect the positive vibes:

“Great food and location. Great atmosphere and restaurant scene. If you like Croatian Italian inspired food, then this is your spot. The service was good along with all the dishes and deserts. Try the lamb saddle and Gnocchi, both were wonderful.”

“Amazing food and bar service on a shockingly busy Thursday at 5PM. I loved everything I ate, particularly the clams, zucchini fritters and olive oil cake. The vibes are fairly chill with the buzz coming from the open dining room floor plan and low music.”

Rose Mary is located at 932 W. Fulton Street. Open seven days a week, their hours are Sunday-Thursday, 4:30pm–10pm, and Friday and Saturday, 4:30pm-11pm. Reservations are highly recommended, and can be made by clicking here. 

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

As the winter season fades away, it’s time to welcome the freshness of spring into our homes with a thorough cleaning overhaul. Spring cleaning goes beyond just dusting and vacuuming – it’s a rejuvenating process that revitalizes our living spaces and sets the tone for the rest of the year. In this ultimate guide, we will delve into the strategies and techniques that will help you tackle every nook and cranny of your home like a pro. From decluttering and deep cleaning to organizing and maintaining a pristine environment, get ready to transform your living space into a sanctuary of cleanliness and order.

Spring cleaning – the time-honored tradition that’s like hitting the reset button on your living space. It’s the seasonal refresh that transforms your home from winter hibernation mode to a fresh, organized haven. If you’ve ever felt the urge to Marie Kondo your way to a cleaner, clutter-free existence, then you’re in the right place.

Understanding the Importance of Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning isn’t just about scrubbing floors and dusting shelves. It’s a ritual that symbolizes renewal and a fresh start. By decluttering, organizing, and deep-cleaning your home, you’re not just tidying up – you’re creating a space that nurtures your well-being and mental clarity.

The Benefits of a Clean and Organized Home

A clean and organized home isn’t just aesthetically pleasing – it can also reduce stress, improve productivity, and enhance overall happiness. From knowing where everything is to creating a welcoming environment for guests, the benefits of maintaining a tidy space are numerous and impactful.

Creating a Comprehensive Cleaning Plan

When it comes to conquering spring cleaning like a pro, a solid plan is key. By setting clear goals and priorities, as well as breaking down tasks room by room, you can tackle even the most daunting cleaning challenges with ease.

Setting Clear Goals and Priorities

Before diving into the deep clean, take a moment to assess what areas in your home need the most attention. Whether it’s tackling that junk drawer that’s been haunting you or giving your kitchen a top-to-bottom scrub, setting clear goals will help you stay focused and motivated.

Breaking Down Tasks Room by Room

Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to clean your entire house in one go. Instead, break down your cleaning tasks room by room. This approach allows you to focus on one area at a time, making the process more manageable and less intimidating.

Decluttering and Organizing Your Space

Ah, decluttering – the ultimate act of liberation from stuff you no longer need or love. From the KonMari method to clever storage solutions, getting rid of clutter and organizing your space can transform your home into a tranquil sanctuary.

The KonMari Method: Tidying Up for Success

Marie Kondo’s KonMari method has taken the world by storm for a reason – it works. By decluttering and organizing your belongings based on what sparks joy, you can create a clutter-free environment that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Storage Solutions and Organization Techniques

Storage solutions are your secret weapon in the battle against clutter. From utilizing bins and baskets to maximizing closet space, finding the right organization techniques can help you maintain a tidy home long after spring cleaning season is over.

Deep Cleaning Tips and Techniques

Now comes the fun part – deep cleaning. From tackling dust bunnies to scrubbing those hard-to-reach places, a top-to-bottom cleaning checklist and the right tools and supplies are essential for achieving a sparkling clean home.

Top-to-Bottom Cleaning Checklist

To ensure no spot goes untouched, start from the top of your home (like ceiling fans and light fixtures) and work your way down (hello baseboards and floors). This methodical approach will ensure a thorough clean that leaves no corner neglected.

Effective Cleaning Tools and Supplies

Stock up on essential cleaning tools and supplies like microfiber cloths, all-purpose cleaners, and a trusty vacuum cleaner. Having the right arsenal at your disposal will make the cleaning process more efficient and dare we say, enjoyable.

And there you have it – the ultimate guide to spring cleaning like a pro. Armed with these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to a cleaner, more organized home that sparks joy and invites positivity. So roll up your sleeves, put on your favorite playlist, and let the spring cleaning extravaganza begin!

Tackling Specific Areas: Kitchen, Bathroom, Bedrooms, etc.

Kitchen: Cleaning Appliances, Cabinets, and Countertops

When it comes to spring cleaning your kitchen, tackle those appliances, cabinets, and countertops like a pro. Wipe down your fridge, oven, and microwave, organize your cabinets, and give your countertops a good scrub.

Bathroom: Scrubbing Tiles, Grout, and Fixtures

Put on your cleaning gloves and get ready to tackle the bathroom. Scrub those tiles, grout, and fixtures until they sparkle. Don’t forget to clean the showerhead and sink faucets for a fresh and clean bathroom.

Bedrooms: Laundering Bedding, Dusting, and Vacuuming

In the bedrooms, focus on laundering bedding, dusting surfaces, and giving your carpets a good vacuum. Fresh sheets and a dust-free environment make for a cozy and clean sleeping space.

Maintaining a Clean and Organized Home Year-Round

Establishing Daily and Weekly Cleaning Routines

To keep your home sparkling year-round, establish daily and weekly cleaning routines. A little maintenance each day goes a long way in maintaining a clean and organized home.

Seasonal Maintenance Tasks for a Tidy Home

In addition to daily cleaning, don’t forget about seasonal maintenance tasks to keep your home in top shape. Schedule deep cleaning sessions and decluttering efforts to maintain a tidy living space.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions and Products

Benefits of Using Natural and Non-Toxic Cleaners

Embrace eco-friendly cleaning solutions for a greener home. Natural and non-toxic cleaners not only benefit the environment but also create a healthier living environment for you and your family.

DIY Cleaning Recipes for a Greener Home

Get creative with DIY cleaning recipes using everyday ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon. These homemade solutions are effective, budget-friendly, and reduce your carbon footprint.

Professional Tips and Tricks for a Pro-Level Clean

Time-Saving Strategies for Efficient Cleaning

Want to clean like a pro? Implement time-saving strategies such as using the right tools, organizing your cleaning tasks, and multitasking to clean efficiently without sacrificing quality.

Secrets from Professional Cleaners and Organizers

Learn the secrets of professional cleaners and organizers to elevate your cleaning game. From decluttering techniques to clever storage solutions, these tips will help you achieve a pro-level clean in your home.In conclusion, spring cleaning is more than just a chore – it’s a ritual that promotes a sense of renewal and well-being in your home. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can elevate your cleaning game and enjoy a space that is not only sparkling clean but also organized and inviting. Remember, a little effort now can make a big difference in the overall ambiance of your home for months to come. So roll up your sleeves, put on some music, and get ready to spring clean like a pro!

According to several sources, more than 200,000 people of Irish heritage live in Chicago (and I’m one of them!) In fact, according to the Third Coast Review, Chicago ranks second only to Boston in the number of Irish people living here. 

With St. Patrick’s Day coming up on Sunday, March 17, Chicagoans will be celebrating…if they haven’t started already! One place to celebrate Irish heritage year-round is located in a former school building in the Mayfair community. The Irish-American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox Avenue, celebrates Irish and Irish American culture through events, music, theater, literature, and language. They are also home to the Fifth Province Pub, The Mayfair Theatre, and unique meeting and event spaces.

The Irish in Chicago

According to the Encyclopedia of Chicago history, the Irish population grew from a few hundred residents in the 1830s, following the Potato Famine in Ireland (1845-50). Chicago emerged as the fourth largest Irish city in America by 1860. Unlike their counterparts in New York, Philadelphia, and Boston, however, Chicago’s Irish grew up with their city and exerted influence out of proportion to their numbers. Irish labor—first on the Illinois & Michigan Canal (1836–1848) and later on the lumber wharves, railroads, stockyards, and steel mills—contributed to Chicago’s phenomenal growth from frontier town to urban metropolis. As Chicago became even more ethnically and racially diverse, the Irish continued to be well represented at the highest levels of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese and city government, especially the police force, fire department, and public school system.

A Place to Celebrate Irish Heritage

The three-story brick building, once known as Mayfair School and Roosevelt High School-Mayfair, according to Classic Chicago Magazine, stood empty for several years in the 1980s before the Irish American Heritage Association bought it, finally securing a site for the organization. The association was founded in 1976, but it was not until 1986 that the center opened its doors in the Mayfair neighborhood, with a mission to “cultivate the cultural bonds of the Irish and Irish Americans to Ireland through gatherings and festivals and by promoting cultural programming such as music and theater, literature, and language.” At the time of the renovation, members and local volunteers worked hard to convert the rundown building into what it is today. The center, especially the foyer, boasts of orange and green traditional Celtic designs painted by volunteer Edward Cox, who also designed the murals that decorate the building.

Today, you can trace your genealogy at their library, listen to authentic Irish music and during Lent, bring the family out for their Irish American Heritage Center Fish Fries! All-you-can-eat meals include fried cod, French fries, coleslaw and peas. There are movies and coloring for the kids, and the Fifth Province Pub is open. Food is served between 6:30pm and 9:00pm, and live music begins at 8:00pm. Irish Dance Schools are performing every week. This week, March 15, the (world-famous) Trinity Academy of Irish Dance performs.

St. Patrick’s Weekend Festival

It’s the return of the Irish American Heritage Center St. Patrick’s Festival, Saturday March 16th from 1:00pm to 11:00pm!

On Saturday and Sunday, come to  IAHC for traditional and contemporary Irish music, dance, food and drink for purchase, children’s activities presented by Irish Community Services – including Wiggleworms performances, a day of Irish Dance Schools in the Mayfair Theatre, the Shannon Rovers, and an Arts and Craft Fair, with vendors selling Irish gifts. Visit the Library, Art Gallery and Museum for programming and exhibits and a used book sale. It’s everything you remember and more!

Tickets are $15 in advance for adults, $20 the day of the party, and children 12 and under are free. 

St. Patrick’s Day

The celebration continues on St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday, March 17th from 3:00pm to 11:00pm! Join IAHC for a day of music in the Fifth Province Pub, and children’s activities in the Erin Room. Doors open at 3:00pm. Admission is $10 for adults. Children 12 and under are free. Have a ticket for the Screaming Orphans at 7:00pm? Your admission is free. For more information, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago