Local mom Vana Chupp of Le Papier Studio doesn’t just know family heirlooms: She wrote the book. Called Silhouette Art, it shows you how to create cut-paper treasures.
For a memento that really leaps off the page, order one of her recycled-silver silhouette pendants. The custom pieces are laser cut with an endearing image of your child’s profile.
Though the pendants are smaller than a dime, the workmanship is so fine that even the tiniest physical traits are rendered (we were thrilled to see our preschooler’s cutesy cowlick). If there are two in your brood, Chupp can work up a pair of silhouettes facing each other. Simply snap and e-mail a photo of the child’s profile, then allow two to three weeks for the magic to happen.
Chupp also designs silhouette cuff bracelets and charms for those who prefer to wear their hearts on their sleeves.
Available online at lepapierstudio.com, pendants, $64, plus $10 per silhouette. Silhouette Art available online at chroniclebooks.com, $19.
HARVEST
Susanna Farms
What: Escape to the country for hayrides, a corn maze, face painting, crafts, and a bountiful pumpkin patch.
Why: Polish off the fun with Aunt Diane’s homemade chocolate chip cookies and hot apple cider.
When: Thru Oct. 31. Daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 24153 Townline Rd., b/t Rtes. 59 & 83, Lake Villa (847-838-0798). Admission is free.
FIRM
Helios Healthy Moms Program
What: Three regimes taught by Fletcher Pilates instructors help moms (hopeful, pregnant, and postpartum) condition and strengthen.
Why: Class size is limited to just four people.
When: You need that extra kick.
Where: Helios Center for Movement, 2258 W. Belmont Ave., at Oakley St. To register, call 773-248-0920. Ten sessions, $180; drop-in, $20.
PLAY
Nature’s LunchBox
What: Pretend to pick vegetables on a farm and shop for healthy foods at The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum’s newest permanent exhibit.
Why: The digital database of continually changing recipes to upload and have e-mailed to you.
When: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: 2430 N. Cannon Dr., at Fullerton Pkwy. (773-755-5100). Adults, $9; children 3-12, $6; under 3, free.
Photo: Courtesy of Le Papier Studio
