Gratitude For Grandparents: What You Need to Do Before it’s Too Late

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Written for Chicago Parent magazine- September 2014

 

“I want to thank you for always being there for me, listening without judging and supporting me through more than you ever had to,” I read to my grandma. “You changed my life with the time and energy you invested in me.”

Our arms were wrapped around each other and tears were in our eyes. I was reading her a gratitude letter, detailing exactly why I was thankful for the precious gift she has been in my life. While I have told Gram that I love her and have given her countless sentimental cards, I wanted her to know exactly what she had done to make such a huge impact on me.

Continue reading “Gratitude For Grandparents: What You Need to Do Before it’s Too Late” →

How Sybaris Saved My Marriage

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Written for Chicago Parent magazine- February 2014

 

At the check-in of the Sybaris romantic pool suites, I stood in my long black coat. Underneath were yoga pants with fresh baby spit-up.

“My husband will be meeting me here,” I said, trying to sound cool and confident, although this was never something in our 15-year relationship I had imagined doing.

We had courted over long walks, Sunday morning snuggles and quarterly travel plans. But in the “The Diaper Dark Ages,” with a toddler and baby, our exchanges had become a carnival of the Blame Game and the Guilt-o-Whirl. Continue reading “How Sybaris Saved My Marriage” →

My Son Got Punched In the Face Because of Me

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Written for Chicago Parent magazine- April 2014

 

“Aiden punched me in the cheek,” my 4-year-old son declared, after returning home from preschool.

“What happened?” I asked, dropping down to listen. Like the news on TV, he only shared the dramatic parts of the day. “Did he really punch you?”

His little blue eyes were wide in disbelief. “He did. He punched me right in the face.”

After a quick inspection of his still-chubby cheeks, I asked, “Why?”

“I was playing and I tried to get past him. He didn’t like it so he just punched me!” Continue reading “My Son Got Punched In the Face Because of Me” →

Camping in a Real Tree House in Southern Illinois

Posted on by Cortney Fries

Written for Chicago Parent Going Places magazine- Summer 2014

 

Ever watched “Treehouse Masters” on Animal Planet and been envious? I have, so I was thrilled to discover a family-friendly treehouse resort near the gorgeous Shawnee National Forest.

My clan of four recently stayed at Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins in southeastern Illinois. It was a fabulous “glamping” experience, where we got to enjoy the great outdoors without having to rough it. What parent doesn’t love more fun with less preparation?

Enthusiastic and hospitable owners Marty and Elizabeth Canfarelli, previously from the Joliet area, currently offer two fully equipped treehouses and two log cabins.  Continue reading “Camping in a Real Tree House in Southern Illinois” →