Incredible Kid: Ben Lehwald of ABC Family’s “Becoming Us”

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Ben Lehwald of Evanston is the 17-year-old star of ABC Family’s “Becoming Us.”

The unscripted docu-series chronicles Lehwald’s life as his parents not only divorce, but his father,Charlie, transitions to a woman, Carly.

Lehwald and his mother, Suzy Crawford, came up with the idea for the show to open eyes and some doors for kids with transgender parents. “If this shows helps one teenager,” Lehwald says, “then hopefully he’ll help someone else.”

Though the show was filmed over the course of three month last fall, the family changes began unfolding four years ago, when Lehwald was in eighth grade. The news didn’t come as a total surprise to Lehwald, who says his dad had started painting his nails and shaving his legs in the months prior. While the news came at a difficult time—Lehwald had been dealing with bullying in school for reasons unrelated to Carly—he says his friends and peers have been accepting, which helps. He also learned to lean on art as an emotional outlet.

If Lehwald was feeling abandoned, he would photograph an abandoned lot. If he was mad, he would edit a photo to show his anger. His Instagram account, @abstractive—which features pictures taken around Evanston, Chicago and on his travels—boasts thousands of followers.

“I want kids to be OK with feeling how they feel,” Lehwald says. While he is accepting of Carly’s transition and is happy that she can be the person she wants to be, he stresses the importance of kids coming to terms with their emotions. “If you’re upset with something your parent is doing, tell them,” he says. “Just do it in a polite way. If you don’t talk about your problems the situation won’t improve.”

More than anything, Lehwald hopes to spread a message of love and acceptance: Do what you want to do. Be what you want to be. Feel what you want to feel. “We’re all just trying to figure out who we are.”

“Becoming Us” Premiers on ABC Family June 8 at 8 p.m. CT.

Sensory Solutions and Support

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Published on Make It Better- June 2015

 

“Vibrating oral-facial massager” was the search term Ellen Sternweiler typed into her computer. Mother to three children with developmental differences, Sternweiler was desperately seeking a solution to her middle son’s severe sensory-seeking behavior. She didn’t know what the product was called, she just knew that he needed deep sensory input into his jaw. After three hours of sifting through a barrage of unwanted products, she had an epiphany. She decided to open The Sensory Kids Store.

“Being a parent to special needs kids is hard enough,” Sternweiler says. “Finding what you need for them should be easy.”

The Sensory Kids Store opened in 2011 inside Bellybum Boutique, Sternweiler’s now-shuttered Lincoln Square green parenting store. It was the first brick and mortar storefront offering sensory and developmental toys, therapeutic aids and clothing in a mainstream, inclusive setting. Sternweiler utilized her background in graphic design to make in-store and online shopping for items like weighted vests feel akin to picking out a pair of jeans. She wanted it clean, not clinical; bright, not boring. The response was astounding. People came from all over to see, touch and feel in person.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in six children in the United States, ages 3-17, have one or more developmental difference. “Every child can benefit from a healthy sensory diet,” Sternweiler says. “Some just need more than others.” The Sensory Kids Store offers products that keep the senses in balance, so kids can regulate themselves and enhance their focus.

After living in Chicago for 24 years, the Sternweilers decided to move, to better meet the special education needs of their children. In 2014, they purposefully landed in Wilmette and could not be happier. “District 39 is fantastic,” says Sternweiler. “The special education support at Romona and Highcrest is unparalleled.” She speaks highly of Wilmette’s recreational sports community and inclusion at Northfield’s Temple Jeremiah.

“One of the biggest challenges as a mom in business is creating balance,” says Sternweiler. Relocated to Wilmette, The Sensory Kids Store now sells products online and through one-on-one product consulting to parents, schools, community groups and clinics.

Megan Kennedy, Skokie mother of two, says Sternweiler is one of the most helpful resources her family has encountered on their special-needs journey. “The opportunity to speak with Ellen personally is one of the most beneficial things we’ve been able to take advantage of.”

Sternweiler is a well-known sensory product expert. “My job is to curate, to make sure I have the best few items at a good value,” Sternweiler says. Sensorykidstore.com is organized into categories like seeing, hearing, talking and touching. Parents don’t need to learn a whole new language of terminology to shop. They just need to know what their child is seeking; then the choices can be easily drilled down from there.

Parents receiving a troubling diagnosis for their child are overwhelmed, confused and frustrated. Sternweiler helps filter data and provide support, as both a parent and a product specialist. “If your kid loves to be tickled but hates to be compressed, I’d suggest brushing,” explains Sternweiler.

Weighted and compression vests, seamless sensitivity socks and chew jewelry are some of her top sellers. Products like the Joki Swing or Big Red Top offer aesthetically pleasing and fun ways for kids to get the peace and quiet or gentle motion they crave.

Melinda Brooks, Chicago mom of two, highly recommends sensorykidstore.com’s streamlined selection. “It’s great for grandparents and gifts,” says Brooks. Her family’s favorite is Riverstones, an obstacle course that’s great for balancing, constructing, and rearranging patterns.

Sternweiler is also one of the main organizers of the Neighborhood Parents Network Developmental Differences Resource Fair and co-host of a monthly parent support group. Checktheir website for details. A North Shore parent support group is in the works.

“After years in graphic design, I needed to do something that was meaningful, and give back to the community,” Sternweiler says. “What could be better than helping support, educate and make life easier for my fellow parents struggling with the challenges of raising children with developmental differences. This is incredibly fulfilling.”

The Best Amusement Parks for Your Little One

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Published in Chicago Parent Going Places- Summer 2015

 

It’s summer—get your hands in the air! These four local amusement parks are sure to get rise out of everyone. We’ve got the 411 so you can enjoy all the fun.

 

Pirates’ Cove

901 Leicester Road, Elk Grove Village

(847) 439-2683

elkgroveparks.org

$11, $9 resident; free adults

Best for: the littlest thrill seekers

Pirates and preschoolers alike will love this small-scale theme park targeted to kids 1-9. If they’re ready to ride solo, peewee pirates can give the 1950s kiddie carousel a whirl or splash around in the mini paddle boats. Kids can tackle the giant Pirate Plunge slide or Safari Express train on their own or go with a bigger pirate pal.

New this summer, the Soarin’ Schooners flying boat attraction is sure to take off. Kids can captain their own ship or let parents fly. Get physical on the 20-foot rock wall or the Castle of Camelot playground, plus slide down the smoke-breathing dragon and enjoy entertainment at the Fun Stage.

Buccaneer Bites is available for pizza and ice cream, or you can bring your own lunch and picnic on the 18th Century Pirate Ship. Gym shoes and socks are recommended.

Visit Fridays for special events, like Superhero or Outer Space Day. Weeklong summer camp is available for kids ages 3-9. Very Important Pirate (VIP) passes make saving a snap.

 

Donley’s Wild West Town

8512 S. Union Road, Union

(815) 923-9000

wildwesttown.com

$17, free kids under 2

Best for: cowboy enthusiasts

Little buckaroos unite! Union, Ill., isn’t just for Day Out with Thomas. This Old West theme park is sure to delight cowboys and cowgirls ages 12 and under.

Spend your day immersing yourself in the ways of the Wild West. Shoot ‘em up at the pop gun gallery or take aim at the archery range. Giddy up on a pony or go down the river on an adventure canoe ride. And if your dogs start barking, take a seat for one of the three Wild West shows offered daily.

The options are many: ride the Runaway Mine Cars roller coaster, C.P. Huntington Train or 1951 vintage carousel; pan for gold or try your hand at cowboy roping; peruse cool cowboy memorabilia at the Wild West Museum.

And when you’re worn out from all the rootin’ and tootin’, wrangle the gang for grub at the Snack Shop, where pizza, hot dogs and pulled pork sandwiches are offered. Or you can always “tailgate” in the parking lot. Season passes are available.

 

Santa’s Village AZOOsment Park

601 Dundee Ave., East Dundee

(847) 426-6751

santasvillagedundee.com

$22.75, free kids 2 and under

Best for: animal encounters and summer Santa visits

This half-zoo, half-amusement park attraction is geared to kids 2-12. Parents and grandparents will love the nostalgia of the 56-year-old park, while kids will enjoy the North Pole-themed fun.

This year’s new additions include an elevation drop tower ride, Tri-Nado swirling ride, Wacky Worm kiddie coaster and trackless train.

You can interact with more than 250 animals, including reindeer, of course. Soar high into the skies in the Balloon Race ride, or grab a hose and put out a fire in SVFD Engine #3. And take a few minutes to see Santa’s summer home (with 100% less snow)—and maybe even squeeze in a visit with the Big Guy himself.

With plenty of rides geared towards those under 54 inches, this is a park has countless opportunities for little ones while older kids will have fun, too. Food and snacks are offered, but your own food is welcome.

 

Six Flags Great America

1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee

(847) 249-1776

sixflags.com/greatamerica

$66.99, $46.99 under 48 inches, free kids 2 and under

Best for: a full day of fun for the whole family

With more than 80 rides, slides and attractions spread across 100 acres, this is the theme park to take teens and tiny adventure seekers alike. Plan to make it a full day to get the most thrills for your bills.

Start early and hit your can’t-miss rides first. Get your heart pounding with 14 coasters, including Goliath, the tallest, steepest and fastest wooden roller coaster in the world. For those over 42 inches, the Demon gets rave reviews for a child’s first big ride.

Three children’s themed areas feature more than 30 rides for the little ones. The Red Baron Airplanes, Lady Bugs and other classics have been restored in celebration of the park’s 40th season.

If it’s hot, you’ll want to bring a bathing suit and $7 extra each to enjoy the 20-acre Hurricane Harbor.

Make sure to wear comfy shoes (no flip-flops) and pack a sweatshirt to beat nighttime chills. No outside food is allowed, but savvy families recommend eating in the parking lot. Discounts are available online.

 

The New Chicago Playgrounds We Love

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Published in Chicago Parent Going Places- Spring 2015 magazine

What’s old is new again! Many Chicago-area parks have undergone dramatic renovations in the past year—and we’re not just talking about that shiny new ice ribbon in the heart of downtown. These four great parks bring a fresh look to playtime. And the best news is that they should be ready for full exploration this spring.

Maggie Daley Park

337 E. Randolph St., Chicago

(312) 742-3918

chicagoparkdistrict.com

This $60 million park-for-all-seasons embraces the warmer weather with roller skating in the Skating Ribbon. The 40-foot climbing structures in the center of the ribbon will be the city’s first rock climbing park. Both experienced and novice climbers can take hold with instruction and supervision from park staff.

If you’ve wondered what those upside down trees are, wander the Alice in Wonderland-inspired Enchanted Forest. Play tea party or discover the Kaleidoscope mirror maze.

The three-acre Play Garden is wonderfully whimsical. Even really big kids have been known to holler “this is awesome!” as they embark.The playground can accommodate up to 600 kids. Each section is labeled for age. Most equipment is geared toward ages 5-12.

The Sea’s metal play ship is irresistible, with nets and ladders. The Slide Crater is a climbing and sliding bonanza with spiral, wide and rail slides. March along the tower suspension bridge or play tag on the Wave Lawn.

Even the swings are unique—some are nests! The Lagoon, featuring three animal figures, and The Harbor, home to wood boats and a boardwalk, are the best options for kids 2-5.

Without a doubt, this park honors the former first lady of Chicago’s legacy of helping children.

Harvard Early Learning Playscape

Naper Settlement

523 S. Weber St., Naperville

(630) 420-6010

napersettlement.org

In April, the new 10,000-square-foot, award-winning playscape at Naper Settlement opens for the warm months. Kids 2-7 will love making a deal at the trading post, playing on the fort-themed structure and exploring Illinois’ natural history with hands-on activities. Climb and slide into new adventures.

“Children and parents who participate in the playscape are embracing our vision of ‘Live History and Inspire Our Future,’” says Sally Pentecost, chair of the Naperville Heritage Society.

Opportunities for physical, social and imaginative play abound within the 12-acre Naperville Settlement museum campus. Starting May 1, Naperville’s only splash pad will run on days when temperatures are over 70 degrees. The splash pad admission is included with museum entry.

“We hope kids will develop a love of history that stays with them forever,” says Rena Tamayo-Calabrese, Naper Settlement president and CEO.

Woodscreek Park

1420 Willow Tree, Crystal Lake

(815) 459-0680

crystallakeparks.org

Nearly 1,000 volunteers and $1 million helped expand and update one of south Crystal Lake’s most popular parks. Check out the new baggo and bocce courts, serve up some fun on the sand volleyball court and expanded tennis courts, or hook some bait on the additional fishing pier.

The new Crystal Castle playground offers climbing, sliding and swinging adventures. Parents will rejoice that children can be visible and easily supervised from all angles. Come Memorial Day, the dragon splash pad will be flowing for water fun.

Between the park district building with restrooms, a nature walking path and the additional parking spaces, you’re ensured a comfortable and enjoyable visit for the entire family.

Park 574

2540 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago

(312) 746-5560

chicagoparkdistrict.com

This state-of-the-art fitness playground sits on the former Rockwell Gardens Housing complex. It’s one of the 325 parks to benefit from Chicago Plays!, a program designed to ensure every Chicagoan is within a 10-minute walk of a park. Kids love the zip line, pommel horses and water feature. Adults can enjoy the fitness stations and 1/5-mile walking path. This colorful and innovative new park is evidence to why the Chicago Park District won a 2014 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Parks and Recreation. The mayor’s office says its goal is to create a safer, brighter and healthier future for every child in Chicago.

 

4 Tips to Successfully Build Your Child’s Special Needs Team

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Written for Chicago Parent- April 2015

Multi-disciplinary team collaboration is key

Kids with special needs need to be surrounded by a team — parents, therapists, teachers and caregivers – that collaborates and works together seamlessly to help master skills.

Four experts – Occupational Therapist Michaja Prendergast Johnson, Speech-Language Pathologist Abby Foltz Hottle, Clinical Psychologist Jeannie Gutierrez and Developmental Therapist Lorell Marin – provided tips at this year’s Neighborhood Parents Network Developmental Differences Resource Fair to help parents maximize the effectiveness of their child’s team.

  1. Be the ringleader. Parents are the glue that sticks everyone together. Send an email to the entire team or ask one member to initiate contact.
  2. Understand and expect that some professionals may charge for additional time.
  3. Gather all communication in one place, in a notebook or Google doc. Make sure all your questions get answered. Record additional recommendations, such as for toys or play groups.
  4. Ask for help if you are feeling overwhelmed or are having trouble understanding the discussion. Request additional support, such as IEP meeting attendance. It’s helpful to have someone to debrief with afterwards.

Working as a team not only helps with your child’s overall progress; but also ensures each individual session is more productive.

Therapeutic professionals are passionate about what they do. If you ask, they are often willing to help.

8 Indoor Water Parks You Have to Check Out

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Written for Chicago Parent Going Places- Spring 2015

It’s spring in Chicago—time to break out the swimming suits! It might not seem like the ideal season for wet-and-wild fun, but that doesn’t mean splishing and splashing is out of the question. These low-cost and local options—and did we mention indoor?—are just the ticket. My family of four checked them out to give you the inside scoop. Continue reading “8 Indoor Water Parks You Have to Check Out” →

Special Needs Tweens: How to Ease the Transition to Middle School

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Written for Chicago Special Parent- March 2015

The tween years are a time of increased independence, body changes, social pressures and additional responsibility, yet they are also a wonderful time for children to be industrious and show their true potential.

For tweens with special needs, middle school can be difficult, warns Ellen Sternweiler, owner of The Sensory Kids Store in Wilmette and mom to three children with developmental difficulties.

“But you’ve got this. You’ve made it this far. You’re going to make it,” she says.

Sternweiler assembled a panel of special needs parents and Educational Therapist Richard Bograd for the 2015 Neighborhood Parents Network Developmental Differences Resource Fair to discuss the changing demands of middle school.

Transitioning to middle school can be scary and confusing; but with your continued support, kids can more easily overcome this next big hurdle.

They offered these tips to set your child up for success:

1 Continue to communicate with teachers.

Even though parents are encouraged to be more hands-off in middle school, you know your child’s unique challenges.

2 Go after what your kid needs.

For example, if no reference materials are provided in class but your child needs them to succeed, ask for them.

3 Reassess your child’s IEP.

The therapeutic gap may have widened due to complex curriculum or increased demand for executive functioning skills.

4 Help your child thrive during unstructured times.

Coach them on breaking into lunchroom conversations. Aid them in developing social circles. Friends are a necessary respite from the stress of the day.

5 Talk about their changing bodies.

Kids will notice if they are early or late in development. Have explicit, open, honest conversations.

6 Maintain healthy eating and sleeping routines.

Your child is older, but facing many challenges. Keep a 9 p.m. bedtime.

7 Celebrate successes.

While it may be difficult to watch your child come in last, realize that he may have improved his performance or played his personal best.

8 Teach and encourage your child to text message friends.

Cellphones are a major mode of communication in middle school.

9 Limit screen time during the week.

On weekends, allow one hour as soon as kids wake up. They get what they want right away; parents get more sleep.

6 Funtastic Family Film Experiences

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Written for Chicago Parent magazine- March 2015

Watching a movie is fun, but on IMAX or 4-D you feel like part of the action. If you are spending your spring break right here in the Windy City, check out the shows our favorite spots offer to help you combine fun and learning this month.

 
MSI
The Museum of Science and Industry boasts Chicago’s only five-story Omnimax dome, wrap-around theater. “Journey to Space” launches there March 19. Hold on tight as you blast past the reaches of shuttles, satellites and space stations to the Red Planet.

“Flight of the Butterflies,” a stunning natural history epic about the migration of the monarch butterfly, ends March 18. Watch Dr. Fred Urquhart and his team of citizen scientists unravel the mystery of their secret winter hideaway in the mountains of Mexico.

“D-Day: Normandy 1944” will run through May 21. This captivating documentary, narrated by Tom Brokaw, guides you through the Battle of Normandy, the largest military operation ever undertaken. It pulls you in to explore history, military strategy, science, technology and human values. This 43-minute film is best for ages 8 and up.

Additional timed entry tickets are required for all MSI Omnimax movies.

 
Navy Pier
The IMAX Theatre runs G-rated films before noon on its six-story-tall, 85-foot-wide screen. Its new movie, “Pandas: The Journey Home 3D,” captures the efforts of the Chinese government to save the giant panda. This 40-minute National Geographic documentary captures for the first time the highly endangered species breeding and being prepared for release back into the wild. Witness the birth, nursery care and teaching of panda cubs by zoologists so dedicated that they wear panda suits disguised with panda scent. While the pandas are playful and adorable, watching this movie with young kids will conjure up questions on breeding and the dangers of the natural world.

 
Shedd Aquarium
“Ice Age Dawn of the Dinosaurs-The 4-D Experience” is a 15-minute version of the 2009 animated film featuring Manny, Ellie, Diego and Sid the Sloth. After Sid decides to raise three dinosaur babies as his own, a chase ensues. Loud, booming dinosaur steps are countered by silly water-spraying-in-your-face burps and regurgitations.

“Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure 4-D” is a shortened version of the National Geographic film. Marine reptiles in prehistoric seas slither in photo-realistic animation. I literally jumped aside as an ugly creature’s giant jaws jutted out to grasp me.

Shedd recommends the 4D Experience for kids 4 and up. Timed-entry tickets are required and can be purchased as a part of most premium packages.

 
Legoland
Legoland Discovery Center in Schaumburg offers 4-D movies that rotate throughout the day and are included with entry. Catch “Clutch Powers,” “Legends of Chima” or “Spellbreaker,” 15-minute Lego movies with effects like orange or skunk smells, snow and rain.

 
Field Museum
“Waking the T. Rex 3D: the Story of SUE” is a 23-minute biopic that reveals the life and discovery of Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex ever found. This high-drama science adventure is best for school-age kids. The 7-ton lizard king roars in your face, attacks prey and devours 100-pounds of flesh and bones in one gulp.

“Titans of the Ice Age 3-D” transports viewers 20,000 years back in time to the frozen era of giant sloths, wooly mammals and prehistoric humans. Discover the story of baby Lyuba, the best-preserved mammoth mummy in the world. The best part of this film, my tween cousin and I agreed, was how it connected the past to the present.

3-D movies require timed-entry tickets available with All-Access and Discovery Passes.

 
Adler Planetarium
“Destination Solar System” is an immersive tour of the solar system led by a live, trained actor in the most technologically enhanced domed theater ever created. My 5-year-old son and 7-year-old nephew raved about feeling like they were in a real rocket.

“One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Big Adventure” aims to give kids 4-6 an introduction to astronomy. Big Bird, Elmo and their friend from China, Hu Hu Zhu, take little ones on a tour of the night sky.

Tickets are required. Shows run about 30 minutes each.

Time Out for Better Time In

Posted on by Cortney Fries

My story, Time Out for Better Time In, will appear in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Time to Thrive.

 

This collection of true stories about making and taking the time to create balance and increase joy will be available May 5, 2015. I am thrilled my story was selected from thousands to be included in the book. It is a delight to be a Chicken Soup for the Soul author and part of an organization that inspires so many. To learn more or to pre-order, click here.

No Kid Talk: 4 Ways to Have an Adults-Only Valentine’s Day

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Written for Chicago Parent magazine- February 2014

 

Busy parents need to follow three simple (or not-so-simple, depending on how you look at it) rules when it comes to recreating the magic of those early days when they fell in love, says April Masini, relationship expert, author and founder of AskApril.com:

1. Don’t talk shop. Leave all talk of the kids behind when you get together time. Just speak of each other.

2. Preen. It may feel cheesy and unnecessary, but it’s not. Buy a fun outfit. Do your hair.

3. Make plans in advance. Show you care by putting some thought into what your partner would like.

Here are four out-of-the-box ideas to help get you following Masini’s advice.

 Lobster Gram dinner

1. Enjoy an unforgettable meal at home

Lobster Gram

(800) 548-3562

Live lobsters, shrimp, steaks, appetizers, desserts and more can be delivered right to your door for an awesome evening in. Flown in fresh from Maine, they arrive with all the fixings so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

My husband and I feasted on the delicious Lobster Gram. Just like at our favorite steakhouses, the filets were thick and juicy. Even Restaurant Impossible Chef Robert Irvine would approve of the crab cakes. And for just heating and eating, the clam chowder and chocolate lava cake were exceptional.

Order online for home delivery or pick up at Lobster Gram’s Chicago warehouse for up to 65 percent off catalog prices, 4664 N. Lowell Ave, Chicago, (773) 777-4123.

After dinner, order in a movie for snuggling or plan a relaxing tub soak together.

 Pools

2. See your spouse a whole new way

King Spa & Sauna

809 Civic Center Drive, Niles

If you find you are parents in need of peaceful quality time, the Korean-inspired King Spa is the spot. With nine saunas, a movie theater with recliners, and casual but delicious food, it’s a great place to reconnect.

You’ll immediately feel transported to an exotic destination because guests enjoy the luxurious male-only and female-only pools in the nude. Either skip it and move into the main unisex area or embrace a new level of comfort with your body.

Massages, scrubs, facials and foot rubs are offered. The acupressure massage, Seasoned Salad with Nuts, and fresh mango smoothies are my favorites. Unusual options, like infrared baths and patbingsu shaved ice dessert, allow for adventurous experiences.

Open around the clock, no appointments are required. Matt and Alena Ford, who enjoy regular date nights at King Spa, say it is a healthy place to relax and discuss anything (just not the kids).

 securedownload-2

3. Get your engines revving

Gotham Dream Cars

(877) 246-8426

Nothing is sexier than seeing my husband’s adrenaline pumping behind the wheel of a yellow Lamborghini. Make the fantasy of driving an exotic sports car a reality with Gotham Dream Cars.

In the warmer months, Gotham brings their Dream Car Sprints to Chicago. Specially designed autocross courses allow you to hit the gas, twist, turn and feel the thrill of driving amazing machines.

Use discount code “Chicago Parent” to lower the price from $250 to $125 and prepare to get your hearts racing (and keep them racing long after the car’s engine is cold).

 Serenity sleigh ride

4. Seek out some serenity

Serenity Springs

S5888 U.S. 35, LaPorte, Ind.

(219) 861-0000

If you can secure a sleepover for the kids, Serenity Springs is the perfect adults-only getaway. A 90-minute drive from Chicago, this romantic retreat is situated on 85 privately owned wooded acres. Horse-drawn carriages whisk you to your cozy cabin with fireplaces and sunken whirlpool tubs for two. What you do there is up to you. Just remember rule #1.