Deanna Bennett

Sometimes the best kind of escape is disappearing into a story so completely that the real world fades for a while. These are the books — and audiobooks — that swept me away, obsessed me, and kept me thinking long after the final chapter, each with its own perfect level of spice.

These are the things that truly got me through pregnancy and postpartum — from comfortable maternity essentials to the little lifesavers that made recovery and new motherhood easier.

As a first time mom, I was overwhelmed by all the options available and all the opinions. This is a list of products I actually used and really love.

Skin care products that I am constantly repurchasing because they make my skin feel and look amazing.

If you are like me, you absolutely need a snack while you drink. This is a list of my favorite breweries, food trucks, and restaurants in Chicago.

Story time is our favorite part of the day. I love watching my little one explore each page and try to turn them all by himself. There’s nothing better than snuggling up together with a good book.

If you’re looking for toy recommendations that kids truly enjoy, these are the toys my little one can’t get enough of right now — the favorites that stay in constant rotation and actually hold their attention.