Nine Schools Four States

Nine Schools, Four States, $425: My Bus O’Fun Experience

How do you visit nine schools across four states for $425? If you are a member of the Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling (IACAC), you sign up for the Bus O’Fun Tour. After years of trying to sync my schedule with the tour dates, I finally made it happen. Although I

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Planning a trip to San Pedro Belize

Planning a Trip to San Pedro, Belize

Are you planning your next trip to San Pedro, Belize? Let me share our experience at the Grand Caribe and how we explored Ambergris Caye by golf cart. Although I didn’t plan this trip, because Lynn took the lead for her 60th birthday, you can benefit from what we learned.

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Southwest Hotels

Years ago, I booked through Southwest Hotels and scored a good deal on Rapid Rewards points. Fast forward to 2026. I have another opportunity to book. Let’s examine my 3-night hotel reservation in Atlanta, Georgia. Should I book through Southwest Hotels or book directly with my preferred loyalty brand (Hilton)?

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Buy a timeshare package

Why Did I Buy a Timeshare Package

Would you buy a timeshare package from Hilton Grand Vacations? I did. In June 2025, while passing through the Palmer House in Chicago, I signed on the dotted line. To seal the deal, I paid an initial $299, with a remaining balance of $149 due once I selected my dates.

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Create a Travel Plan

Create a Travel Plan

Every December, I conduct a travel audit to help me create a travel plan for the following year. I review my expenses to see where I succeeded and where I can optimize for the future. By analyzing my 2025 wins and losses, I’ve built a roadmap for an incredible 2026.

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Park City, Utah During the Shoulder Season

I organized a trip to Park City, Utah, during the shoulder season to enjoy the beautiful mountain atmosphere. No snow in the forecast. I booked a stay at the Hilton Grand Vacations Club Sunrise Lodge. This wasn’t any vacation; it was a trip to celebrate three birthdays, including my own.

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My American Express Platinum Card

The annual fee is now $895, but here are eight ways I use my American Express Platinum card to receive a return on investment. Do you want to do the math with me to ensure the benefits are worth the fee? Oh, there are more ways to utilize the card.

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Open House Chicago

Volunteer for Open House Chicago

Are you interested in volunteering for Open House Chicago in 2026? The third weekend of October brings the annual Open House Chicago (OHC), a FREE event organized by the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC), offering behind-the-scenes access to some of the most amazing architecturally, culturally, and historically significant buildings in the city.

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Omaha in October

Omaha in October

You have to check out Omaha in October. Forget whatever you thought about Nebraska; Omaha is underrated. I snagged a low-fare flight, but honestly, I was trying to ensure I keep my A-List Preferred Status with Southwest. The last time I visited, I was there for AfroFest in September 2024.

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