The amount of orphan socks and disappearing puzzle pieces in your home makes you suspect a black hole.
Instead of taking a loss, call Ducks in Order home organizing. Owner Catherine Brinks has been meticulously putting things in their place since her childhood as an obsessive Barbie doll organizer.
With her new biz, she doesn’t just help with cleanup; she develops ways for busy families to maintain long-term order, from labeling books on kids’ shelfs to buying space-saving baby items (changing tables that double as dressers). Her real knack? Creating efficient play spaces by working with parent and child to group toys by category in bins with pictures taped to them.
Consults can be done on-site or via e-mailed photos and webcam — which is anything but a time suck.
Ducks in Order (312-380-5128 or ducksinorder.net). Free half-hour initial consultation. Cost is $50 per hour with a minimum of four hours.
SHOP
LittleMissMatched
What: The brand known for adorably uncoordinated socks, pajamas, and bedding has opened its only Midwest store in Water Tower Place.
Why: It’s stripe, polka dot, and argyle heaven.
When: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 835 N. Michigan Ave., at Pearson St. (312-915-0676).
SEEK
Randolph Street Market Festival
What: Along with dabbling in arts and crafts, kids navigate aisles of vintage finds with the help of antique-looking treasure maps.
Why: Pillage your way to collectible stamps, teddy bears, and nostalgic board games.
When: Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Also June 19 & 20, July 24 & 25, Aug. 28 & 29, Sept. 25 & 26.)
Where: 1340 W. Washington St., b/t Ada St. & Ogden Ave. (312-666-1200). Tickets, $8 in advance online at chicagoantiquemarket.com; $10 at the door; kids 12 & under, free.
FOLLOW
The Wizard of Oz
What: As Dorothy’s adventures play out on the big screen, Chicago Symphony Orchestra provides lilting accompaniment.
Why: It’s where tornadoes meet crescendos.
When: Fri., 8 p.m.
Where: Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., at Adams St. Tickets ($33-$124) at 312-294-3000 or online at cso.org.
Photo: Angela Swan / Courtesy of Ducks in Order
