Strange Closets

“Frances and I were talking about you earlier this evening,” wrote James in his response to my email.  “Are you a mind reader?”

Speaking of mugshots, the noir collectables seem to be having their moment in the sun, which is always so pleasing after spending time in the slammer.  I’ll never forget that glorious summer day we had the big prison riot; I was so close to reaching the laundry bin that would lead me to freedom when [...]

Ladies and Gentlemen!  Welcome to the Greatest Show on Earth!!!!  Have you noticed all the circus stuff popping up?  This particular trend is very personal for me as it reminds me of my years as a carny con man-kid.  While many kids who grew up in my hometown imagined running away to join the circus, [...]

Dave and Laura are a funny, sexy and interesting couple living their dream after gut rehabbing an stately old brick home in Wilmette.  You may recognize top-notch Interior Designer Laura from the piece I wrote about her most excellent garage a few months ago (I used to drive by that garage sometimes, but I quit [...]

During these long long long Chicago winters it’s important to keep one’s skin well hydrated lest it become itchy, scratchy. I’m a recent but enthusiastic convert, so when my I could see the bottom of my nearly empty handy tub of body butter I stopped in at Bath and Body Works and bought this vanilla [...]

Moving on, Marco Polo is one of the most fantastic shops I’ve ever visited, and owners Brian and Alan deserve much credit. The use of color makes me so happy. If you enjoyed this post, please enter your email address to receive a free daily update about any new posts. This email will not be [...]

This is getting more and more strange (the sound of Christmas carols playing in an (endless) loop in my head was just replaced by the Halloween piano theme. Rich and Noelle’s Christmas Story (Top) A Christmas Story house (courtesy this website) If you enjoyed this post, please enter your email address to receive a free [...]