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When exploring the city outside your Chicago apartment, it pays to keep your cool. Getting overheated isn’t fun, and it’s not that great for your overall comfort either. But you don’t have to stay indoors in air conditioning all day long. Getting outdoors in any temperature is great exercise and allows you to get your vitamin D from the sun. Here are some tips for staying cool in the outdoor summer heat so you can enjoy the great outdoors in Chicago.
1. Bathe With Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is a natural cooling agent. That’s why it’s a common ingredient in skin balms, chapsticks, and even breath mints. But did you know you can cool off for hours by bathing with peppermint oil? For this tip, use peppermint essential oil. As you’re running your bath, add several drops of peppermint essential oil to the running water. You’ll notice the cooling sensation right away, and it will linger and keep you cool for several hours, even when you're outside in the hot sun.
2. Stay Hydrated
As temperatures rise, your body sweats in order to maintain a constant internal temperature. This process creates a loss of fluids, which are important to replenish. Keep a stainless steel water bottle with you on Chicago outdoor excursions. The stainless steel material will ensure your water stays moderately cool, and the portability ensures you’ll be able to stay properly hydrated all day long.
3. Wear a Sun Hat
A cute straw hat will not only liven up your ensemble, but it will also help to shield you from the sun and keep you cool in the outdoor summer heat. Choose one with a wide brim that is sure to shade your face even in broad daylight. For better results on windy days, choose a straw hat with an optional chin strap.
When summer temperatures soar, these tips will help you keep your cool. Chicago is an amazing city to explore on foot, and your comfort will be increased with these simple tips. If you’re looking for a Chicago apartment home and would like to see what we have to offer in the way of floor plans, please contact us. We’d be happy to show you what we have available!
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Summer has finally arrived in the Windy City, drawing residents of our Chicago apartments to the majestic lakefront for a festival or a day at the beach. This season is fleeting, so our community members are taking full advantage of our sun deck and picnic area where they can cook their favorite cuisine over the coals while taking in views of the city skyline. Sound like a great way to spend a laid-back afternoon? Here are some ideas if you're not sure what to throw on the grill.
The Perfect Chicago Hot Dog
Hot dog stands are definitely a "thing" here during the summer months, as evidenced by the throngs of people queued up around them. But you don't have to wait in line for the perfect Chicago-style dog. Instead, you can make one at home with this tasty recipe.
Mouthwatering Burgers
This recipe goes beyond the traditional grilled burger. If you want to give your patties a little extra "kick," don't forget to include this one on the menu.
Italian Sausage Sandwiches
Bring home the taste of the fair with this Italian sausage sandwich recipe. Use spicy meat for extra flavor.
Summer Squash With Lemon Dressing
The Chicago area is home to some excellent farmers markets. If you're not sure what to do with all that fresh produce, try putting seasoned squash and zucchini on the grill for a nutritious side dish.
Chicken and Black Bean Nachos
Didn't think it was possible to make nachos on the grill? This flavor-filled recipe makes it easier than ever. Just wrap your favorite ingredients in foil and place them over the fire.
Barbecue Salmon, Asian-Style
Looking for a creative alternative to the typical barbecue sauce? This Asian barbecue salmon recipe might just become your go-to when you don't want to spend a lot of time on food prep.
The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods are home to a considerable selection of grocery stores, so you can stock your kitchen with everything you need to prepare your favorite meals. In addition to inviting outdoor spaces, our Chicago apartments are equipped with all the amenities you need to hone your culinary skills. Contact us today to see which floor plans are available.
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The lazy dog days of summer are here, but that doesn’t mean your pets should just lie around your apartment. Dogs and cats both need regular physical activity in order to keep them healthy. Even if you have a busy schedule this summer, there are still fun ways to fit in some exercise for your pets. Consider doing one or more of the following to make sure they stay active this season.
Explore the Neighborhood
Going for a brisk walk around the block or for a few blocks gives you and your dogs a great workout. Walking might seem like a mundane activity, but it provides dogs with a ton of stimulation. Your dogs can explore the area by sniffing around, while you can take in all of the sights and sounds of the neighborhood.
Play Fetch at the Park
Visit a local dog park, and bring a Frisbee or ball with you. Playing “fetch” is a simple activity that offers dogs a chance to run around with a purpose. Being at the park also gives dogs opportunities to meet other dogs and play with them, which provides them with even more physical activity.
Go for a Swim
The summer heat makes this a great way to stay active and cool at the same time. Bring your dogs to a dog-friendly beach, so they can paddle around in the water. You can also look for dog-friendly aquatic complexes that have pools for dogs to swim in. Just keep in mind that you should never force dogs to swim if they’re afraid of the water.
Get a Cat Tree and Toys
Indoor cats need physical activity in summer just as much as dogs and outdoor cats. Exercise prevents them from getting bored and keeps them in shape. Place a cat tree in your home for your cats to climb and perch on. These trees are available in different designs and sizes. You can also keep cats busy with traditional cat toys, such as a toy mouse, or newer puzzle toys that challenge their brain.
Our Chicago community is a pet-friendly one that welcomes dogs and cats. Please contact us for more information on our apartments in Chicago, Illinois.
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With the bright sunshine and warm days ahead, it's only natural to want to spruce up your home and make it look fresh and inviting for guests and residents alike. Here are a few ideas for how you can decorate your special place for the summer.
Summer Apartment Decorating Ideas
Add Pops of Color
Nothing says “summer” and “fresh” quite like clean, bright colors. Change out darker curtains for brighter ones. Find some bold pillows for the couch and bed and toss out the old ones. Put up some striking paintings or artwork to draw the eye upward. Grab some pretty tablecloths and napkins to make the place seem really nice.
Keep it Natural
Wicker is in. Buy some light wicker chairs and tables for your space. Find some natural nautical pieces such as a large conch shell or driftwood and add beach-themed decor to complement it. Or, try bamboo shades or rugs made of a natural fiber such as jute or even sisal. Buy a pretty straw basket and use it as a container for your items. Wooden plates and bowls are great for barbecues, mixed salads or holding those juicy berries you just bought at the local farmers market.
Add Flowers
Flowers, whether natural or in print, make a place really feel like home. Grow a pot of flowers on your windowsill or some fresh herbs for your kitchen. For even less maintenance, try planting some succulents and enjoy the different variety of shapes and colors that they come in. Or simply purchase fresh flowers from a shop or a local farmers market on a regular basis and enjoy their aroma and natural beauty. Try replacing your darker textiles with bright and cheery floral print textiles. Having flowers in your home can boost your mood and make a place seem more charming.
If you are looking for a really great place to call home, contact North Harbor Tower today. With grand views of the city and Lake Michigan that can be seen from our wraparound windows, we have some of the best apartments in Chicago. Add to that luxury amenities, excellent service, and a prime location, and you find yourself at a place called home. Stop by our office or give us a call to learn more about our apartment community!
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