This past week started off strong. Monday we were super productive and made a couple batches of spaghetti sauce and tomato soup. Then Tuesday we had a couple little friends over in the morning and then decided to seize the day and head to Loyola Beach/Park. Jer and I had attended Shakespeare In The Parks at Loyola Park earlier in the month and I knew it was a place I'd have to bring the kids. If you live in Chicagoland, this is by far the most family friendly beach we've found - not crowded, close/cheap parking, and a playground with shade just on the other side of the boardwalk.