Other than the typical changes made to create their home like fresh paint and furniture, Dana learned that sometimes the simplest things might be missing when you close on a house. “I never noticed we didn’t have a silverware drawer when we moved in!” she says. At the time, there were only two oversized drawers for pots and pans—not exactly what you’d call a chef’s kitchen. Rather than totally rip out and re-do the existing setup, they opted to add a top-mounted drawer in one of the current cabinets, keeping any renovation work to nearly nonexistent.

          As for their neighborhood, it was a no-brainer. Boasting all the fabulous restaurants up and down Chicago Avenue, Ukranian Village offers good vibes and good friends, creating a tight-knit community that still feels like its own oasis in the city. On any given night, Dana and Lee’s spots for mediterranean, Mexican, sushi, or even pub food are just steps from their front door. Dana also loves Yoga, and tried out many  studios in the city through Class Pass. Some of her favorites are Zen Yoga Garage, Studio 3 and Core Power Yoga. Since Covid-19, Dana has been using the Peloton app and Obe Fitness to stream from home.

          For a couple with family in different suburbs, Dana says “We can walk to everything on Division Street, and then hop on the Eisenhower to go west for my family, or the Kennedy to go north for Lee’s. It’s perfect.” Sunny days, cozy nights, access to family and friends, and a spa experience to round out the night. We think that’s pretty perfect, too.