It’s a cliche to say that we Americans love our cars. But just because something is a cliche doesn’t mean it isn’t 100 percent true. We do love our cars! Why, though? Well, cars mean freedom for a lot of us. What’s better than grabbing your keys and jumping behind the wheel to take off on the spur of the moment--on a road trip to a famous location, to visit an old friend, or just to pick up some late-night munchies? To a lot of Americans, our cars reflect our personalities. And why not? Most of us spend an awful lot of time behind the wheel. Why not take the time to figure out exactly what kind of vehicle both meets our needs and tells the world, “Hey, world, here I am!” What do different types of cars say about their owners? Pickup truck drivers tend to be hardworking and no-nonsense. People drive hybrids both to save money on gas and because they care about the environment. Drivers of sports cars like to feel powerful and attractive. Do you kno ... read more

Remember when you were a kid and a big midweek snowstorm roared in? Did you get super excited and hope so hard that schools would close so you’d get a snow day? What was more fun than that: an unexpected day off to stay inside, watch cartoons, and drink hot chocolate? Snowball fights and building snow forts with your friends? What could be better than freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall?  Then you grew up... and suddenly “snow days” weren’t your fondest wish anymore. Instead, even in the winter snow, sleet, hail, and ice, you still have to get to work, run errands, drive the kids where they need to go...and winter weather isn’t so fun anymore.  What are some specific hazards to driving in winter, and what precautions can you take to keep you and your family safe on the roads? Well, we are glad you asked! About 25 percent of car accidents have weather as a factor. Extreme winter weather creates hazards on the road: snow, ice, sleet, poor v ... read more

It’s hard to believe it’s November already. Are you and your car both ready for the cold weather? It’s not just a matter of staying warm inside your car as you drive through the snow or navigate icy roads. You need to make sure that your car can handle the chilly and sometimes slippery or visibility-limited conditions. There are a few things you can do every Autumn to keep you and your family safe on the roads in Winter. Keep an emergency winter supply box in your car. Last month’s post enumerated everything that should be included in a well-stocked emergency car kit, so please refer to that post for the full list. Important winter-specific items should include an ice scraper and a small shovel; a carpet remnant, kitty litter, or sand for traction; blankets, gloves, and changes of warm clothes for you and your passengers; and some high-energy snacks like nuts, chocolate, and beef jerky. Other items that are important to have with you year-round include a flash ... read more

When you’re driving around the roads of Evanston and Glenview, you’ve got a lot on your mind--running errands, getting to and from work, picking up the kids, taking your family out for the day or the night...the list can seem endless. You don’t always immediately think about whether or not your emergency car kit is complete and ready for the unexpected. Of course, nobody can be ready for every possible unexpected roadside issue (zombie apocalypse, anyone?), but there are some items it’s just a good idea to have with you in your car, including: Tire-changing supplies, including a spare tire, lug wrench, and tire jack Tire sealant to stop a tire leak until you can get to a service station More and more vehicles come without spare tires, so carry a can of Fix-a-Flat because it’s the quickest and cheapest way to fix a flat tire. Jumper cables Gas can Flashlight (check the batteries frequently--every couple of months, if possible) Other crucial roadside ... read more

  Did your family take road trips when you were a kid? Do you remember how you tried to deal with the boredom of a long, hot car ride with your brother always putting his foot on your side and your sister yelling “Mom, he keeps looking at me!” Did your mom or dad glare at you in the rearview mirror and growl “Be quiet or I’m turning this car around and taking us home!” Ah, the good old days, right? Well, now those of us who are parents can be happy that finally we get to be in charge of the car trips, plan the itinerary, pack the games and snacks, and even occasionally get to be the ones yelling at the kids to SHUT UP! Actually, we’re joking. We love to take long car rides with our kids! There are a lot more ways to entertain children now than back in the day. Spending time as a family on a long car trip can actually be a bonding experience and a way to create fun memories. If you’re planning a long road trip with the kids any time soon ... read more

Chicago, IL Of course, there’s always something to see and do in Chicago. That goes without saying. But if you want to play tourist, drive the short distance to Chicago and treat yourself to a weekend getaway. Here are a few places to consider visiting in Chicago: The Chicago Mural in Logan Square The National Hellenic Museum in Greektown Some of the ethnic restaurants Paseo Boricua in the Humboldt Park neighborhood or Little Vietnam near Broadway in Uptown Watch comedy improvisation from The Second City at Chicago Mainstage   Geneva, IL With its boutique shops, fabulous cuisine, lovely weather, and plenty of activities, Geneva is a terrific place to drive. You can meet with friends, visit the Fabyan Windmill, or take a long bike ride along the Fox River Trail.   Milwaukee, WI If you like beer, you need to go here. The people are friendly and there are plenty of family-friendly activities. Top picks are the Harley-Davidson Museum, Discovery World, and the Milw ... read more