Elfster.com

We love this idea.  Almost everyone is involved in at least one Secret Santa give-away each year. Whether it's for work or the family, it's almost inevitable!

Well this year, we've found a way to make the gift giving as easy as pie.  Elfster.com is the online Secret Santa mecca.  Just enter everyone's name and email address and click DRAW and the program RANDOMLY matches names.  With everyone being so busy these days, having an online version of SS is uber convenient!

Benefits of Elfster.com

1. You can post links to your 'wish list' so your Secret Santa has no trouble finding what you really want this year 

2. You can anonymously ask your gift recipient questions to help you buy

3. You can FB Connect. Meaning you can post to Elfster.com through Facebook and even use your Facebook profile picture as your Elfster.com photo.

4. Names are stored and can be used again next year - saves you the time and hassle of re-entering information

5. It's FREE!!

6. It's Green! No paper pieces being wasted to pull names :)  Every little bit helps.

Start your own Elfster community at Elfster.com today!

2010 Holiday Train - It's Magical

If you've never seen (or even heard of) Chicago's Holiday Train,

don't worry, you are not alone.

While it isn't really an 'event' per se, it is one more reason to love Chicago! For the past several year's now the city has decked out one 'floating' el train in twinkle lights, garland, and candy canes and calls it the Holiday Train.  And this year is no different.  What started a few days after Thanksgiving (as in all year's past), has become a lovely holiday tradition for us locals.  And while many have yet to see this spectacle in person, those who have had the pleasure have nothing but great things to say. The Holiday Train, running through December 22nd (CLICK HERE for the full schedule), is "...just magical" says one rider.  "Sure made this Grinch smile," says another! 

We have to agree. Nothing gets you in the Holiday spirit like Santa waving to the boarding passengers from his sleigh on an open-air flatcar that carries his reindeer and decorated holiday trees.  Sure brightened our day! Take your kids, take your grandmother, take yourself...just make sure you see the Holiday Train this year. You won't be disappointed!

Days to Christmas: 18



Happy Hanukkah

Happy Hanukkah!