DownshiftingPRO

2 weeks ago | downshiftingpro.com | Margarita Ibbott

Sharing is caring! Something very strange happened this week. The Chicago Sun-Times issued a public apology after an embarrassing AI-generated fiasco. In its Sunday edition, the paper published a summer reading list featuring 15 books, complete with titles, authors, and descriptions. The problem? Ten of those books don’t actually exist. Included on the list were “titles” supposedly written by well-known authors like Isabel Allende, Taylor Jenkins Reid, and Delia Owens.

3 weeks ago | downshiftingpro.com | Margarita Ibbott

Sharing is caring! It was the opening dance sequence—and the cover of the program—that threw me off. Elizabeth Bennet, headphones slung casually around her neck, slow-mo dancing to EDM (electronic dance music)? I balked. I’d expected a traditional production with empire-waist gowns and Regency-era restraint. I was mistaken. Pride and Prejudice, the final production of the 2024–25 season at London’s Grand Theatre, leans into contemporary flair and stylized choices.

1 month ago | downshiftingpro.com | Margarita Ibbott

Table of Contents Toggle Sharing is caring! Whenever I visit Chicago, a stop at the Art Institute of Chicago is at the top of my list. From iconic impressionist works to bold modernist sculpture, this world-class museum is bursting with pieces that are instantly recognizable—and others that surprise you with their quiet power. If you’re short on time or want to hit the highlights, I’ve rounded up 13 stunning artworks you shouldn’t miss.

1 month ago | downshiftingpro.com | Margarita Ibbott

Sharing is caring! From my first visit to Philadelphia in 2017, I became a huge fan of this vibrant city. Philly has so much to offer — history buffs, foodies, sports fans, and art lovers will all find something to love here. It’s easy to overlook the City of Brotherly Love in favor of New York City (two hours north) or Washington, D.C. (90 minutes south), but I encourage you to plan even a quick trip.

1 month ago | downshiftingpro.com | Margarita Ibbott

Table of Contents Toggle Sharing is caring! It’s hard to imagine, but the quiet lakefront where the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel now sits was once home to the Celoron Amusement Park—a lively summer destination that drew crowds for almost 70 years. Back in the day, people would arrive by trolley or steamship to ride the giant Phoenix Wheel, catch a baseball game, or fly down a toboggan slide straight into the lake.