Historical fiction is a time machine, transporting us to another period and place, bringing history to life through storytelling. The best historical fiction novels are well researched and imaginative, with characters who beckon to us, drawing us into their experiences and circumstances. They open our eyes, challenge our minds and offer us new perspective. In The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek, we travel deep into the Appalachian Mountains. It’s 1936. The Great Depression is ravaging the count

In my house, taco night never fails to create a happy little buzz in the air. It’s a family favorite and a meal that I know everyone will eat without complaint. I am not allowed to mess with the family tacos; it’s ground beef, flour tortillas, shredded lettuce and shredded cheddar, with other toppings on the side for me and the more food-adventurous children. My children do not appreciate creativity in the kitchen, which is why it’s so fun for me to hit up places that turn the humble taco into a

What does the latest research say about co-sleeping, nutrition education for preschoolers and sibling relationships? Here’s what we found:

Red Door Woodfired Grill is my kind of place. It’s locally owned, stylish, fun, with a unique spin on contemporary American cuisine. Each of the three locations–Overland Park, Leawood, and Brookside–caters to their neighborhood, so they all have a unique vibe designed to make guests feel at home. It’s upscale enough to make you feel cool, but not so much that you can’t come as you are.

The Westside Local opened in 2009, one of the first restaurants to bring the farm-to-table concept to Kansas City. Since then, they’ve been serving the eclectic Westside neighborhood and beyond, gaining an equally eclectic and loyal following. Owner Brandon Strick turned an unassuming storefront in a humble neighborhood into a charming destination eatery. Exposed brick, wood floors and local art create an intimate and authentic KC vibe, where somehow suits and ties sit comfortably next to eyebr

Every once in a while, I eat at a place so comfortable and welcoming that I don’t want to leave. EJ’s Urban Eatery is one of those places, which is one reason it’s been recognized as one of the hottest destination lunch spots in Kansas City. Great food, atmosphere and company define this year-old West Bottoms establishment.

What does the latest research say about introducing solid foods to infants, improving your memory and the risks of energy drinks for teens? Take a look:

One remembers a really beautiful meal. The occasion, the company, the wine. Perhaps even the music and the clinking sound of the fork on the porcelain plate. But especially the food. One remembers the flavors and textures and feelings of such a meal. Grand Street owners Kristi and Rick Ghilardi believe that; they want their restaurant to be remembered, and thus the details are important to them. Corporate Chef Aaron Wells-Morgan and Executive Chef Mitchell Allen create menus as if they want eac

I can still feel the deep ache in my body after so many hours of high altitude climbing. I also remember being able to see the Keyhole (a rock formation you must pass through before pushing for the summit) in the distance. I kept my eyes on it as adrenaline and willpower propelled me upward. I remember the exhilaration I felt when I finally climbed through it. On the other side, the view was like nothing I could have imagined. It felt like the entire world was at my feet, and that now I could do anything. I remember being overwhelmed by emotion as I stood looking out at the most incredible panorama I had ever seen.

I want to tell you a story. A young woman walked into a church. Her 23 year old body formed a cradle around a growing baby, and she was alone. Week after week, she exchanged polite handshakes with people during the obligatory greeting time before the service, but she always sat alone.

For much of last year, I was preparing for my destination wedding. Even though it was small, the planning process was rather overwhelming. There were so many decisions to make, and, like most brides, I wanted them all to be perfect. Perfection. It’s an ideal that Relish Catering & Merriment, a division of the KC Hopps company, strives for whether they’re catering a wedding, a corporate event or a private home party. They understand the importance of executing seamless, memorable events so that

What does the latest research say about listening, placenta capsules and the benefits of holding your babies? Take a look: If your children aren’t listening to you, try speaking into their right ear. New findings suggest that children both process and retain information better, especially when there is a lot of background noise and interruptions, from their right side. "The more we know about listening in demanding environments, and listening effort in general, the better diagnostic tools, aud

Award-winning YaYa’s Euro Bistro is one of many of restaurants participating in Restaurant Week this month. From January 12 through 21, you can enjoy fixed price lunch and dinner menus...

What does the latest research say about economic factors on parenting strategy, the effect of screen time on sleep patterns and infectious diseases in organized sports? Take a look:

When I recently visited Ted’s Café Escondido for the very first time, I felt like I’d stumbled onto a delicious secret, hidden in plain sight at 135th and Metcalf. When...

Whether you’re a wine lover, wine curious or a beer drinker, Louie’s Wine Dive and Kitchen has something for you. Yes, they do wine here, but that’s not all. Above...

I love a restaurant with a good story, and Big Whiskey’s in Lee’s Summit was built on one. As the story goes, it all started with a gentleman now memorialized...

“It’s about discovery,” said Jake Johnston, managing partner of Seasons 52 on the Country Club Plaza, when I asked about the concept of his restaurant. “We want our guests to...

Life should be celebrated, should it not? The big moments and the small ones all deserve to be marked by the gathering of family and friends to raise a glass...

Cleaver and Cork enjoys prime real estate in the Power & Light District near 13th and Walnut, just a stone’s throw away from the KC Live! Stage.