Relaxing with UnWined Partner Maggie Iverson (center) and Village Trustee Lori Lyman (right) earlier this Fall.

Where does the time go? Here we are ready to ring in a new year, and I’m realizing that I have actually managed to keep a resolution that I made at the start of 2015–to create and maintain a blog. Like most of us, my resolutions usually last a month or two at most before old habits win out or will power wanes. But I have enjoyed the challenge of keeping up with the blog posts and I greatly appreciate all the feedback from my readers. So I’m asking all of you to help me keep the momentum going. One of my goals for the new year is to grow the number of blog subscribers, so if you like to keep informed by reading these occasional stories about life in Long Grove, please pass the word along to friends and neighbors. Clicking the envelope button at the top of the post allows you to email it to one of your contacts. Also, I have not run out of ideas yet for blog topics, but if you have something in mind that you would like to see me write about, suggestions are welcomed!

Downtown Long Grove has several cozy spots to toast the new year including the wine bar “UnWined” which opened this past summer. The fire pits and outdoor seating on Towner Green are not as easily enjoyed in January, but the indoor bar, fireplace and chocolate & cheese boards are a warm enticement on a cold winter’s night. I’m looking forward to checking out our newest restaurant, Village Pizza and BBQ, which opens in early January, and the addition of Finch’s Beer Tap Room later this year. Wherever you choose to celebrate, I hope that this next year brings you peace, happiness, and prosperity.

Cheers to 2016!