It may not be the spring we had planned, the one we’ve been dreaming of ever since we packed away the holiday decorations. But here we are sheltering in our homes, enjoying our families and neighborhoods, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Great Lakes region. We may be feeling restless for a return to normal but we can always find ways to reconnect and renew.
Postcards from the Bungalow Belt
An old home tells a story. In the case of a classic Chicago-style bungalow, it’s a story of a great city growing and expanding to accommodate newly arrived immigrants in the early 20th century. A city with so much to offer; a strong work ethic, a welcoming atmosphere, and a chance to achieve a dream of owning a place in an expanding patchwork of city neighborhoods.
Motawi Tile Works
In shades of blue, green, amber and everything in between, uncommon artistry shows through in each product that Motawi Tileworks and founder Nawal Motawi creates. Once you’ve seen the striking designs you’ll recognize them immediately in artisan shops, public spaces, and elegant homes throughout North America, but particularly here in the upper Midwest. The distinctive style celebrates the region with scenes of nature and classic architectural elements. Meet the artist behind the creations:
The Great Migration
Beginning with the first warm breezes of April, the Great Lakes Region hosts a colorful assortment of short-term visitors. It’s simple geography that brings feathered visitors from faraway places during the spring and fall migration seasons. The Great Lakes are a natural attraction and global landmark for hundreds of varieties of migrating birds. Birds that have traveled long distances over water find a much-needed resting point at the southern tip of Lake Michigan as well as the admiration of Chicago’s bird enthusiasts.