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Today we’re chatting a little bit about some winter weather car care tips. One of the most important parts of your vehicle is the brakes! It’s imperative during inclement weather that you’re able to stop on a dime, and in conjunction with all-season or winter tires, you’ll need to make sure your vehicle has a tip-top shape brake system. We’ll be “braking” it down (see what we did there?) into easy to digest sections such as different terms for parts in the vehicle’s brakes, as well as signs to look out for that the brakes need a checkup. On most vehicles, you’ll need a regular brake service between 25,000 to 65,000 during which your mechanic will replace the brake pads; rotors will need replacing 30,000 to 70,000 miles. These numbers may vary depending on driving style, road and terrain conditions, and weather. more Let’s take a look (and a listen) at some of the signs that you need a repair on your brakes! First, you should do a very thorough visual inspection of the brakes. Check between the spokes of the wheel for the rotors, they should be free and clear of rust or extreme wear such as deep scoring or grooves. If the brake pads appear to have any buildup, or they look visibly thin, around less than ¼” thickness, they will need replacing asap.  Most modern vehicles also have an indicator mark in the center of the brake pad.  On some newer vehicles, you may also see a brake warning indicator light; note that this is the same light that is engaged when your e-brake or parking brake is in use, so if you see this illuminated and that is not engaged, call your trusty local service center. As for audible signs that things are getting a little rough, you may notice squeaking or squealing noises. This indicates that your brakes are at the very end of their life, as the squealing is caused by excessively worn brake pads. (Sometimes loud screeching noises may indicate that your rotors need replacing due to excessive braking, which you can spot by checking for the appearance of a dark ring on your rotors.) If you hear a grinding sound when applying pressure to the brakes, they’ll need a service ASAP!  This grinding sound is generally due to a metal indicator that’s engineered to make a very loud sound to alert you that the brakes are on their last legs. While driving, you may also begin to notice some physical sensations on the road that indicate it’s time for a brake check.  Properly working brakes should allow the vehicle to roll smoothly to a stop. Any sort of vibrations while stopping, shaking of the vehicle, or vibrations in the steering wheel can all indicate the brake pads and rotors are worn or damaged.  If you are stepping on the brakes and notice that you have to push the pedal all the way to the floor to engage the brakes, this may be an issue with the hydraulics.  Likewise you may notice the opposite, as the vehicle is stopping a little too short or jerking forward as you stop, which indicates that the brake fluid needs replenishing or the rotors need replacing due to uneven wear. If you notice a puddle in your driveway under the car  that has a yellow or brownish tint to it, sort of like a thin motor oil consistency, that indicates a leak in your brake fluid. This may be followed by a spongey or soft feeling when depressing the brake pedal.  The car may also occasionally pull to one side when pressing the brakes.  Additionally a spongy or soft brake pedal may indicate an issue with the master cylinder, which also may be followed by the brakes pushing to the floor but not returning back up. Parts of Your Vehicle’s Braking System When you’re bringing your vehicle in for service, you may hear some of these terms used by your mechanic and technicians. We hope that this will better equip you to be able to navigate the conversation and better comprehend the process of the repairs. Brake booster A vacuum-based device that amplifies the foot pressure applied to power brakes. Brake booster bellcrank pivot The linkage pivot points behind some brake boosters. Brake drying A system that dries the brake pads through light friction just before a full stop is initiated, by using the ABS pump to bring the brake pads close to the rotors without significantly engaging them. Brake fluid The fluid used in the hydraulic brake system. Brake lines, hoses & connections Tubes and their connections that carry brake fluid between the various components in a vehicles brake system. Brake linings High-friction, heat-resistant material that is attached to the brake shoes in a rear drum brake system. Brake master cylinder A device that stores brake fluid and hydraulically forces it through the brake lines to the brakes when the brake pedal is depressed. Brake pads High-friction material attached to a metal backing plate. Brake pedal A device used to control a vehicles brakes. Brake pedal spring A spring attached to the pedal assembly that provides some resistance during pedal depression and also assists in returning the pedal to an upright position. Braking assist A system that monitors the swiftness of a driver's brake pedal application and applies additional braking force if it determines that a panic stop is occurring. Check out these helpful videos for more demonstrations on your vehicle’s brake system:

January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, and we’ll be highlighting fantastic places to enjoy winter sports in the Midwest region.  Today, we’re traveling over to Minnesota to explore a wide range of ski slopes, terrain parks, and more.  Whether you’re a beginning snowbunny or you’re an avid enthusiast looking to test their chops with new challenges, you’ll find a wide range of things to enjoy. Plus, there’s lots of family friendly activities and destinations on our list, so it’s perfect for traveling with kids (and even pets) in tow! more Afton Alps in Hastings covers 300 acres of mountain terrain and snow covered hills. The Bubly Tubing Park offers some lowkey tubing fun for those who don’t want to ski or snowboard. New to winter sports? Sign up for skiing or snowboarding lessons at any experience level, then hone your skills and practice til you’re confident over at the Meadows Maze Adventure Zone, fun for all ages!  Once you’re ready to go, you can check out the East terrain park with beginner boxes to rails and a jump, or the West terrain park for intermediate and advanced riders!  If you’d rather do some local sightseeing in the area during the day, there’s an option to sign up for nightskiing starting at 3PM onwards so you can enjoy a jampacked day. If you’re just dipping your toes into the snow, as they say, you can stop by the afton alps ski shop for rentals and retail to get all the gear you’ll ever need!  Looking for a bite to eat? Stop by the Afton House Inn Fine Dining, Current Restaurant, or Swirl My Wine. Andes Tower Hills in Kensington is located in the center of farm country, offering picturesque views of snowy hilltops and glistening evergreen trees.  With affordable prices for ski and snowboarding passes and equipment rentals, it’s a fantastic family friendly entry on our list!  There are 16 downhill runs: 4 beginner runs, 4 intermediate runs, 7 difficult runs, and 1 expert level only run.  Plus, there’s a terrain park for snowboarding and tubing fun!  Interested in exploring more of the area? Try the cross country skiing and skating trails over 800 sprawling acres of park lands, with equipment available for rental with your trail tickets. Buena Vista Village and Ski Area in Bemidji is a winter sports wonderland with 16 runs, 6 lifts, 2 terrain parks, and snowboarding, as well as cross country trails!  Skiing and snowboarding lessons are available for booking on Saturdays and Sundays; reservations are required.  Snowtubing is available with 2 hour passes per person, which must be purchased in advance. While you’re in the area, we recommend checking out the historic Lumberjack Hall of Fame including a working sawmill, old-fashioned logging sleighs, a historic school house and church, and more!  There’s also a fantastic three-story chalet with two fireplaces and a cafe for delicious food and beverages you’ll need to refuel. Enjoy a fun afternoon in the sun on the ice by trying your hand at ice fishing, whether for catch-and-release sport or to enjoy a fresh fish dinner. Plus there’s a full calendar of local winter special events such as turkey bowling, pond hockey, polar plunge challenges, and more! Chester Bowl in Duluth holds an immense amount of excitement in a small package, within its 119 acres you’ll find 5 different trails, a terrain park, and varying levels of difficulty in slope for all experiences.  Want to try something different this year? Challenge yourself to learning how to Snowskate, with 12 snowskates available for rental with an introduction included by the experienced staffers.  New to winter sports entirely? Sign up for the small group lessons on select weekend dates in December, January, and February. There are also special race days on Sundays in February for those who are Level 3 Ski/Snowboard/Snowskate lesson approved!  Register the Saturday prior to each race and you can join in the Chester Bowl Alpine Race Series and win an award at the end of your run. Elm Creek Winter Recreation Area in Maple Grove features a lit snowtubing trail, beginner level downhill skiing and snowboarding hills, and miles and miles of cross-country ski trails, and plenty of snowy entertainment like snowshoeing as well. Head on over to the Three River’s SnowSports Academy to sign up for private or semi-private lessons for all ages and abilities.  Traveling with pups in tow? Head over to the Elm Creek Dog Off-Leash Area to enjoy 29-acres of fenced off land to roam, play, explore, and run free; there’s also an area for smaller and frail dogs so they can safely enjoy the great outdoors, too.  For those who seek more adrenaline with their canine companions, we bet you’ll be delighted to find there are designated Skijoring and Dog Sledding trails to enjoy some sports together More Great Areas to explore: Buck Hill in Burnsville Giants Ridge in Biwabik Hyland Hills Ski Area in Bloomington Lutsen Mountains in Lutsen Mount Kato Ski Area in Mankato Mt. Itasca Winter Sports Center in Coleraine Powder Ridge Winter Recreation Area in Kimball Spirit Mountain in Duluth Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls Welch Village Ski and Snowboard Area in Welch

Welcome to a brand, shiny new 2025!  We hope your holidays were great fun and brought you lots of joy and happiness. Now that the New Year is officially here, we bet you’re just itching to try lots of fun new things and explore new pastimes.  And if your New Year's Resolutions include spending more quality time with your favorite people, you’re in luck! Our latest Community Calendar is jampacked with many interesting and exciting events, workshops, classes, and more.  We’re sure that you’ll find something to start the new year off on the right foot! more On January 3rd, the Waukegan Park District is hosting Holiday Adventures: Winter Olympics from 7AM to 6PM at the Belvidere Recreation Center in Waukegan. Come on out with your kids and enjoy a full day of sports, games, and crafting. It’s a BYO lunch/water bottle event. Wrap up the holiday season with a memorable Meet and Greet with a Royal Princess!  The Wauconda Park District is hosting  a special meet and greet event on January 4th at the local Community Center!  You’ll learn to curtsy, twirl, sing, and dance along with a special lunch of snacks fit for royalty! Frosty Fest is back for another year of fun!  On Saturday January 4th, head over to Viking Park in Gurnee for the official annual Frosty Fest outdoor winter wonderland event f eaturing sleigh rides, games, crafts, skating, and a hot cocoa bar with bonfire smores! The Winter Wedding Expo at Parkway Banquets in Ingleside is running from 12PM to 3PM on Sunday, January 5th so you can kickstart your year of wedding planning right away!  It’s free to attend, and there will be plenty of food tastings, decor demonstrations, dresses, vendors, and a chance to win $200 cash prize. On Monday January  6th from 7AM to 6PM at the Belvidere Recreation Center, enjoy another fun Holiday Adventures workshop with a “Science Lab” theme!  Kids will enjoy hands-on experiments and activities. Please bring a lunch and water bottle with you! On Sunday January 12th at the Volo Bog State Natural Area in Ingleside, enjoy the Winterfest event (donation of $10 suggested) from 1PM to 4PM! You’ll get to see the local photography contest winners featuring midwest plants, animals and landscapes.  There will also be snow sculptures and prizes, 45 minute sets of live music, winter nature crafts, bog tours, cross country skiing, snowhoeing, and winter hiking! Spend the evening with Emmy Award-Winning documentary filmmaker Nik Heftman and award-winning spoken word poet Caleb Rainey and take in a special screening of the documentary film “The Negro Artist” and Q+A Session. Hosted at the Gorton Center in Lake Forest from Friday January 17th at 7PM to 9PM. Don’t miss out on the fun just because you’re participating in Dry January – Let Tonality Brewing Company in Mundelein show you how to make the most delicious mocktails at their fun, interactive class on January 12th from 5PM to 7PM. On January 17th starting at 8PM enjoy the Ten Year eXtravaganza event with K-Town Burlesque at the Rhode Center in Kenosha. Get ready for glamor, glitter, and non-stop entertainment with plenty of humor and cheekiness. January 18th at the Village of Antioch Senior Center, enjoy a Winter Wine Walk from 12 to 4PM. Your admission will include samples of 50+ wines available, a souvenir bag and wine glass, and a bonus bottle.  21+ event, adult only. Admission is $45 pre registration. Make all your followers on BookTok Jealous by RSVPing to the Onyx Storm Midnight Release Party at About Time Bookstore in Libertyville on January 21st! Snag the hottest book of the season and mingle with fellow Basgiath War College fans starting at 10:30, and then get in line at midnight to receive your new release book! Tickets are required to attend! The Dunn Museum in Libertyville welcomes you to get inspired at the Art for Everyone: Bob Ross Exhibit running through January 20th 2025. The exhibit houses 75 original works detailing his process and philosophy for creativity! Stick to your health and wellness goals by joining the online Coffee Chat with Holistic Women’s Health Wellness Coach Jess M on January 21st from 1:30PM to 2:30PM EST. If you’re working on your winter home projects list, then you don’t want to miss out on the Interior Design Do’s and Don’ts Lecture at the Lake Forest Public Library. Happening on Wednesday January 22nd from 7PM on. Zoom register and enjoy! the event from the comfort of your own home to learn how to design and stay within your budget Get a taste of summer with a tropical pool swim sesh a t Goldfish Swim School in Mundelein for the Snowflakes and Snow Cones event on January 26th from 5PM to 7PM. Attendees will create their own snowflake and snack on a snowcone after a splash in the tropical pool.

It’s time to bid farewell to 2024, and while we’ve really enjoyed a full year of excitement at Classic Auto Group, we’re fully ready to ring in the new one and see what’s to come!  On today’s blog, we’re highlighting some wonderful local area celebrations in Lake County nearby for you and your favorite people to ring in 2025 together!  You’ll find family friendly events for New Year’s Eve as well as some adults only events for a kid-free night.  Got an event to recommend to us? Leave us a comment on our social media to share your shindig!  Let’s celebrate in style together. more Reservations are limited for the spectacular New Year’s Eve dinner at Perry’s Steakhouse and Grill in Vernon Hills at the Hawthorn Mall. Reserve your spot now for a stunning new year’s special menu from 4PM to close featuring delicious entrees like char grilled salmon, A-5 Wagyu Steak, Alaskan King Crab Legs, Tempura Fried Lobster Tail, and more. December 31st a t 2PM and 10:30PM at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire for a rockin way to roll into the New Year with the award winning Nat Zegree and The Oh Boys! Performing an evening of pop rock and powerhouse ballads from your favorite artists. Enjoy a family friendly shindig and a late afternoon treat with the kiddos at the New Year’s Eve Family Party in Vernon Hills at the Vernon Hills Park District Sullivan Community Center from 4PM to 6:30PM! Get a jumpstart on the festivities with the Noon Year’s eve event and countdown at Station 51 Bar and Grill with family friendly food specials, festive drinks, and goodie bags for the kiddos.  It’s all going down in Antioch from 10AM to 1PM. From 3PM to 6PM, head over to the Just for Fun Roller Rink in Mundelein!  This family friendly New Year’s Eve Family Skate Party promises a fun-filled afternoon with skating, fun music, family friendly games and prizes, and excitement for all.  Admission is $15 per person with optional $4 skate rental.  There’s even a special countdown and balloon drop starting at 5PM. Attend a Boozy Dessert Making workshop at the Joyful Gourmet in Libertyville from 1PM to 3PM. Go step-by-step through a gourmet recipe with expert pastry Chef Liz. Reservations are required so don’t miss out! Get your best boots out and dance your way over to the Sundance Saloon in Mindelein for a New Year’s Eve Country Dance.  The bar and grill is open starting at 7PM for dinner and drinks, and DJ Dan starts shortly after with live music all night long. Oaken Bistro and Bar in Lake Forest is now open and is running a bold New Year’s Eve menu for lunch and dinner. Enjoy a special dish option of fennel risotto with lobster carpaccio, fennel foam, and edible flowers! Served from 2PM to 11:55PM. On December 31st from 12PM to 5PM CST, head over to Whirly Ball in Vernon Hills for a family friendly special event, $30 kids/$40 adults, filled with lunch buffet, endless Whirly  Ball, LaserTag and lots of pop-up games!  Ticket windows are from 12-2PM and 3-5PM. The Pivot Room Buffet lunch includes delicious fun foods like pizza, mini quesadillas, mac and cheese bites, and lots of cookies!  Drinks are included for fountain options, cash bar optional. On December 31st from 8PM on, get ready to ring in the New Year in style at Feather Glass Wine Bar and Eatery in Vernon Hills. Enjoy delicious foods, Bollywood Fusion DJ, dancing all night long, and the gourmet New Year’s Eve party event of the year! Kids are welcome as well for $50 per child, Adults GenAd includes 2 drinks and admission for $65, and VIP includes 4 drinks and VIP seating for $80. There’s no charge for kids under 5! On December 31st from 5PM to 6:30PM, Peacock Camp is hosting a Kids New Year’s Eve Party in Lake Villa! This family event includes fun and games and a special countdown to a balloon drop, wrapping up in time to get the kids in bed for an early night’s rest. December 31st, enjoy a New Years Eve event with Live Music, handcrafted cocktails, and small bites to ring in the new year at this Country Western themed party. Wear your best country western themed outfits and enjoy a $20 cover all night.

Winter is coming, and in some places it’s already here!  Did you know that more than 90% of vehicle accidents and issues occurring during winter months are considered preventable? Today, we’re helping you maintain your vehicle in tip-top shape so you can avoid preventable damage.  Along with defensive and calm driving habits, we suggest you make a call to our experienced service technicians and inquire about a winter car care appointment!  It's important to bring your car in periodically for regular oil changes and fluid top-offs, and request that our expert mechanics inspect your vehicle for the following: more Check those Brakes - Stopping short in wet, icy, slippery conditions can mean the difference between life and death or catastrophic damage to your vehicle and others.  Check your front and rear brakes, emergency brake, and brake light system. Have a trusted technician inspect your brakes, rotors, and wheels for damage such as rust, salt buildup, or regular wear and tear.  Have any damaged or worn items replaced ASAP to ensure you can stop safely on a dime if necessary!  Do not skimp on this checkpoint. A  good solid set of brakes and quality rotors can be the difference between a safe stop and total decimation of your vehicle and serious injuries. Test the Battery - Check your car battery.  Colder months mean we’re more apt to leave our car running to “warm it up” so we don’t face a frosty morning commute, but this also means a higher potential for draining the battery through accidental means.  Cold weather can put additional stress on your battery, and can cause it to lose around 20-30% of its charge when the weather hits 32 degrees.  If a vehicle is going into or coming out of storage, the battery should definitely be checked and replaced as they do lose charge while sitting. Service the vehicle Heating System - If you’ve not done so already, have your AC/heating system serviced and refreshed.  It’s important to maintain properly working ventilation systems and heating for safe winter driving.  Ensure that your defrosters and vents are in working order so you can clear inclement weather off your windows, mirrors, and windshields while driving!  Proper visibility is essential. Triple Check Overall Tire Quality and Tread Depth - Be sure that you have adequate tread depth, no signs of extreme wear, and have properly inflated your tires to pressure.  Check your tire pressure regi;ar;y and make sure the PSI matches the manufacturer requirements (can be located in your manual or on a label on the side door pockets or frame.)  Look for signs of wear and tear such as bulges and bubbles, cracks or small tears, or significant tread wear leaving bald spots. Your tire pressure can drop significantly with every 10 degree change in temperatures, so it’s important to keep an eye on this regularly.  This coupled with proper winter or all-season tires can increase your safety when stopping short or hitting a patch of road with wintry conditions. Always maintain your fuel tank -  Being prepared for every possible outcome as best that you can includes maintaining proper fuel levels in your vehicle.  Be sure to fuel up with recommended gasoline quality according to guidelines for your vehicle (check the owner’s manual.)  In addition, ensure that your tank is at least half full at all times; this will prevent fuel lines from freezing, causing dangerous breaks in the line or leaking, as well as ensuring you can maintain a safe, warm vehicle should you become stranded until help arrives. Prepare for Emergencies - Make sure you have a winter emergency kit stocked up and ready to go. In a bin, box, or duffel bag we recommend keeping the following on hand in your trunk or backseat: thermal blankets and fleece blankets, a clean set of warm clothes, extra winter hats & gloves, kitty litter and/or small container of rock salt, a small portable or foldable snow shovel, flares, hand-crank LED flashlight or LED lantern, hand warmer packets, jumper cables, a fully stocked first aid kit, an ice scraper and snow brush, and a tow rope. These can all help you should your vehicle become stuck in any ice or encounter any other inclement weather related accident.

It’s World Snowboarding Day!  We’ll be spending the next few months highlighting some incredible winter weather destinations for prime snowboarding and skiing, but today we’re celebrating with a focus on essential gear and cargo products. We’ll also be focusing on prepping your gear for the road.  Make sure you don’t miss a thing with our handy packing list, and follow our tried and true methods for efficiently packing just about any vehicle for a secure ride. more How to Efficiently Pack for a Winter Sports Road Trip Prepping Your Gear Before Departure: Make sure to pack each person’s gear in their own personal and labeled duffel bag, and ensure that your snowboarding/skiing gear is not packed in the same bag as your daily clothes and toiletries. Choose a bag that’s large enough to hold the following items: boots, helmet, goggles, gloves, snow pants/suit, sunglasses, jacket, sunscreen, protective lip balm, an extra set of gloves/scarf/hat, thermal underwear, moisture wicking insulated waterproof midweight layering items Remember to pack a First Aid Kit and spare sunscreen Bring along some cases of bottled water, electrolyte beverages, shelf-stable protein heavy snacks Make sure you have your lift tickets, admission passes, parking passes, and other information readily accessible both physically and electronically Charge your personal electronic devices and consider packing a lightweight portable battery charger for daily use on the slopes as well as on the road Tips on Packing Up The Car to Travel with Snowboarding Gear: Have some tarps, waterproof blankets, or other protective barriers to keep your vehicle’s interior dry and free of slush, snow, and debris when you pack your snowboarding or skiing gear into the car. Keep a snowbrush on hand to dust off your boots, gear, and other accessories before you pack them into your vehicle. Packing a stack of absorbent towels on hand for melted snow and ice, and drying off any gear you’re changing out of. Garbage bags or other waterproof totes and plastic bins can keep your wet clothes or wet towels off of vehicle upholstery. Store your skis or snowboard on a roof rack on top of your vehicle or a hitch-mounted ski rack. Alternatively, a cargo box can be a great way to transport your skis or snowboarding gear, and will keep them free of muck, grime, salt, and road spray unlike a roof rack. Bring along a physical paper map of the local terrain, snowboarding slopes, and mountain that you’ll be visiting for the day; it’s a good idea to keep one on your person and one in your gear pack in case of emergencies When you load your car, add coolers and the heaviest bags as a base layer and lessen the chances of your luggage shifting during the drive; pack smaller and lighter items on top, and leave zippers and pouches facing the inner cabin so they’re accessible in a pinch for passengers. Be sure to take a photo of the packing layout for your return trip, so you can make sure to fit in all your gear on the way back! Place personal items such as purses and backpacks in the backseat floor space; your phone chargers, lift passes and admission tickets, and parking passes should all be stowed in these items. Great Gear for Transporting Your Wintersports Equipment: Thule Tram: Vertical Rack Storage This convenient option transforms your typical bike rack into a ski and snowboard rack for your personal vehicle. The Thule Force XT L Roof Box With 450 liters of cargo capacity, and 6 feet 3 inches in length, this roof rack is great for group outings!  It can hold 5 to 7 pairs of skis, and 3 to 5 snowboards, depending on their size.  It’s also designed for everyday use, making it easy for all-season travel. The BougeRV 28” Ski and Snowboard Roof Rack This rack is quipped with an Anti-Theft Lock device. The sliding rudder bar allows you to easily stow or remove items, while holding them securely while in transit.  Additionally, customers report they’re easy to install and use and have very little noise from wind while driving. The Thule SnowPack Ski/Snowboard Rack, Large This rack can hold 6 pair of skis or 4 snowboards, and weighs about 14lbs.  It’s got added roof clearance for skis with tall bindings, and is easy to open and close with an oversized push button. The Pelican BX85 Cargo Case, Large Saddle Case This is a great cargo accessory choice for storing your clothing, gear, and even camping supplies like food. Currently on a seasonal discount sale at the time of publication!

Today is National Alabama Day, and we thought we’d celebrate by highlighting some spectacular places to visit on your next road trip. We’ll be stopping off in Birmingham, Alabama  a bright shining star in this southern state, a hotbed of museums, arts, culture, science, and of course, American History.  The city has an incredibly vibrant arts scene, with beautiful museums full of handcrafted artwork and sculptures, as well as hosting the Sidewalk Film Festival and Magic City Art Connection events. It’s also the home of legendary music artists such as Nat King Cole, Wayne Perkins, and more; stop by the infamous Iron City music venue and celebrate musical history while catching show from the latest and greatest in recording artists.  There’s also no shortage of culinary delights, with some of the hottest new restaurants a nd trending cuisine, you’ll find everything from southern staples like soul food to barbecue to New American and Chinese and Thai. So hop on in your new car from Classic Auto Group and let’s hit the road to fun and adventure with today’s road trip guide! more A Primer of Places to See and Visit While in Birmingham Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum can easily be an all day affair for the motorsports enthusiast!  The facility houses more than 1,000 vintage and modern motorcycles and race cars for your viewing pleasure, part of the personal collection of race driver and industrialist George Barber. It also houses the Barber Advanced Design Center, an 11,000 square foot hub dedicated to creativity, innovation, and design.  While you’re there, you should also pay a visit to the 880 acre multi-purpose racing facility on the same grounds, The Barber Motorsports Park; check the calendar to catch a special event or track day for maximum excitement. Vulcan Park and Museum offers a special look into Birmingham’s history and its roots in the iron and steel industry.  The park is marked by a 56-foot cast iron statue featuring the Roman god of fire and forge, Vulcan. The statue is the largest of its kind in the nation, and made an appearance at the 1904 World’s Fair. McWane Science Center is located in downtown Birmingham and focuses on research and archives, with plenty of hands-on exhibits to put you front and center with incredible inventions and discoveries.  If you’re traveling with the family, this is the perfect venue to stop at, as the museum has an all-ages policy, because you’re never too young to ignite the spark of passion for Science and Technology!  Explore the aquariums and touch tanks, get up close and personal with a Tesla Coil, jump into the Bubble Room with larger than life bubblemaking, and more than 15 other incredible interactive exhibits with science in action. And that’s not all there is to offer – a specialized selection of exhibits and guest presentations are also in rotation throughout the year. Plus, there’s a 250 seat dome IMAX theatre, for larger than life experiences with prehistoric creatures, climate and weather presentations, historic concert experiences, and even limited engagements like Disney’s Mufasa. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Site is like nothing else you’ve ever seen when it comes to historic landmarks. This incredible historic site chronicles the iron and steel industry in Birmingham as you tour its 15 acre campus.  Sign up for one of the immersive guided tours and get an in-depth look at this unique structure and industrial facility.  Learn more about the stories of the people who worked here and operated it for an impressive 90 year run.  Now, this historic landmark is not only a piece of our past but also our present - it’s home to a wide array of live concert performances, cultural celebrations, and special events, so make sure you’ve got your eye on the calendar to catch one of these events. Birmingham Botanical Gardens has been a fixture in the city since 1962, and has grown to be a local favorite destination for all ages.  The facility aims to reconnect visitors with the beautiful intricacies of our environment biology, gardens and humans connection to the natural world. The grounds have 26 distinct gardens, installations, and displays for you to walk through and observe, each with their own unique characteristics and curated plant and flower gardens.  If you’d like to learn more about things in a hands-on way, you can sign up for one of the amazing workshops, classes, and lectures hosted by the garden; each of these programs allows you to explore your creative side, discover how to care for plants in your home gardens, learn more about native plants, and more.  There’s even a specialty library on site offering gardening resources for both adults and children. It’s a must-see destination, and best of all it’s open year-round so you can experience it during each seasonal change. Birmingham Zoo fosters a thriving relationship between humans and animals through its passionate conservation efforts and educational programming and ever evolving exhibits.  You’ll have the opportunity to observe creatures such as lions, giraffes, orangutans, elephants, bears, zebras, large cats, and more.  This not-for-profit organization is working tirelessly to preserve our environment and ensure the safety and conservation of endangered and dwindling wildlife species.  The Birmingham Zoo is now one of the nation’s leading voices in care and conservation of the majestic elephant, proudly setting the bar high for breeding and care of elephants here in the US. The zoo also offers numerous sensory and disability friendly areas, making it a fully accessible trip for everyone in your family. If you’d like to meet some incredible wildlife up close, you’ll have the opportunity to attend several different demonstrations and feeding sessions that allow you to help and view animals first hand.  As for exhibits, there’s a multitude to choose from: Reptiles, Birds/Aviary, Primates/South America, Trails of Africa, Predators, and more.  It’s an extensive facility with state of the art exhibits and habitats, and definitely tops our list of places to see when we’re in the area. Birmingham Museum of Art was founded in 1951, and now has more than 29,000 curated pieces on view at any given time in its 180,000 square foot facility, plus numerous traveling and limited time exhibits throughout the year.  The museum pays special focus to various cultures including Asian, European, American, African, Pre-Columbian, and Native American decorative and fine arts.  Admission to this venue is free for all to attend, but donations are welcomed. In addition to an immeasurably diverse permanent collection of artifacts and art, you’ll have the opportunity to view limited time exhibitions, which include “Hayward Oubre: Structural Integrity” running through early February 2025; “Determined to Be: The Sculpture of John Rhoden” running through April 2025; Illuminated Threats: Contemporary and Traditional Rugs” running through April 2025; the upcoming “Silver & Ceremony from Southern Asia 1830-1930” opening in June of 2025. And make sure you stop by the stunning outdoor sculpture garden while you’re there! Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a comprehensive modern museum aimed at preserving the history of the civil rights movement in America, specifically the 1963 Birmingham Campaign and the historic chronicles of the movement in the 1950s and 1960s.  Through photographs, displays, and documents, this cultural and educational research center offers an intimate look into the significance of the Civil Rights Movement. Your visit will begin with a short film educating you on the history of Birmingham post-Civil War through to the 1920s, then you’ll move on to the curated galleries: the Barriers Gallery, Confrontation Gallery, Movement Gallery, Processional Gallery, Milestones Gallery, Office of the Mayor, Human Rights Gallery, Resource Gallery, and Odessa Woolfolk Gallery; each of these stations chronicles a unique perspective and component to the history of the movement.  The institute aims to preserve the history and legacy of Birmingham, be host to both archival and financial resources, create programs that promote cultural awareness, and to champion the importance of civil and human rights. It’s an integral part of the significance of the city, and a must-view for visitors of all ages.

Just because the winter weather is here doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the great outdoors.  Hang up those hiking boots and swap them out for some snowshoes and skis!  On less than a tank of gas you’ll be on your way to winter wonderland bliss.  Feeling the crunch of the fresh snow under your feet, enjoying the brisk fresh air and that “it’s going to snow any moment now” scent on the breeze.  There’s nothing else quite like it!  Let’s check out these three amazing winter road trip destinations in Illinois. more Explore The Quad Cities Area in Winter. (Rock Island, Moline/East Moline in IL and Davenport, Bettendorf in IA) If you’re a big fan of freshly fallen snow with that crisp, crunchy feeling, you’ll love spending time in QC!  There’s plenty of outdoor activities to be found here; you can enjoy snowshoeing at places like Black HAwk State Historic Site, Sunderbruch Park, West Lake Park, Scott County Park, Loud Thunder Forest Preserve, and Credit Island Park; get your adrenaline pumping with some challenging Fat Tire Biking along 10 different mountain biking trails; winter hiking at places like Crow Creek Park, Hennepin Canal Parkway, Illiniwek Forest Preserve, Maquoketa Caves State Park, Black Hawk State Historic Site; Cross Country Skiing at places like Duck Creek Golf Course, Emeis Golf Course, Saukie Golf Course, Crow Creek Park, and Palmer Hills Golf Course; sledding for kids and the kid-at-heart at places like Camden Park, Duck Creek Park, Lincoln Park, Scott County Park, Middle Park and more. If you’re looking for more organized winter sports, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at Snowstar Extreme Sports with top of the line snowmaking capabilities, or ice skating at Frozen Landing Family Ice Rink. Now through December 31st, the Quad City Botanical Garden is also featuring their 250,000+ glowing lights displays for their Winter Lights seasonal event. From January 17th through the 19th, you simply must head down to Davenport for Icestravaganza hosted at the Freight House – more than 36,000 pounds of ice are transformed into hand-carved sculptures with colorful LED lights adorning the boardwalk, but if that’s not enough there will also be a drive through display on Beiderbecke Drive in LeClaire Park right nearby. There’s also plenty to see and do for entertainment indoors such as The Adler Theater in Davenport, the Musical Guild in Moline, and Circa 21 in Rock Island. Or sample some of the fine spirits and cocktails at places like Cru, Devon’s Complaint Dept, Mississippi River Distilling Company and Lounge, Revivalist Brew Lab, Tycoga Winery and The J Bar. Visit Historic Nauvoo in Wintertime. (Nauvoo, IL) With more than 40 different shops and retailers to peruse while you’re in town, you’ll find no shortage of perfect holiday gifts and unique souvenirs. But that’s not all this charming historic town has to offer!  There are also more than 40 historic homes and buildings to explore, including guided tours of places like The Pioneer Life exhibit at Cultural Hall, demonstrations of special trades at Main Street Trades, the historic Red Brick Store, and more. Even if you don’t ascribe to the same religion, we do still recommend checking out a tour or two of the historic downtown church and learning about the area’s rich history. There’s no shortage of fun and entertainment in this cozy historic town. Your family and friends will also enjoy seasonal carriage and sleigh rides through the snow with plenty of local lore and storytelling along the way!  Kids will love stopping by the Family Living Center for a Pioneer Crafts Demonstration or visiting the Pastimes Pavillion for pretend playtimes. Adults will love sampling the wines and crafted drinks at the oldest winery in Illinois, Baxter’s Vineyards. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, you can check out the Fireside BBQ, The Groovy Grandma, and the Hotel Nauvo Historic Inn and Restaurant. Plus, there are seasonal pageants and events that rotate throughout the year. Get back to nature at Starved Rock State Park. (LaSalle County, IL) This dog friendly stop on our list features 13 miles of trails and pristine wilderness nestled amidst glacial formed sandstone canyons.  There are more than 12 different magically captivating frozen waterfalls as well, some of which you can climb if the conditions permit (check guidelines at the park for ice climbing parameters and restrictions.)  You’ll also spot some unique migratory birds such as the majestic Bald Eagle, who prefer to stop here during mid to late winter season – catch the Eagle Watch Weekend event where they’re at their highest population, from January 25th through 26th. Every Saturday and Sunday this winter you can also take a special guided hike and explore the stunning canyons, frozen waterfalls, and do some bird watching together.  Book a Winter Wildlife Trolley Tour on Saturdays and Sundays and learn about park history as well as what wildlife to be on the lookout for. The Starved Rock Lodge also has multiple events as well as several delicious places to eat and enjoy fine entertainment; you can borrow a DVD from the Front Desk for a movie night in, explore the hiking trails from sunrise to sunset, enjoy the heated indoor pool and 2 saunas. Or you can opt to book one of the cozy cabins on site for a more cozy, intimate experience, and add some of the package deals to your stay to make it an event to remember. Venture out into the nearby towns and explore places like the August Hill Winery or Tangled Roots Brewery. Step into the past as you explore and tour the Hegeler Carus Mansion, Reddick Mansion, LaSalle County Historical Museum, and Weber House & Garden. Stop by the Cedar Creek Ranch for some horseback riding and goat yoga, too!

Today we’re exploring some lesser pursued winter sports activities, such as snowshoeing, winter hiking, skijoring, and nature walks!  Sure, skiing and snowboarding may provide you with plenty of thrills and all the chills, but there’s something so restful and rejuvenating about getting back to our roots in nature. We’ve gathered up 8 of the best locations in the area just a short drive away from Waukegan that would make perfect day trips or weekend and winter break getaways.  Check it out and let us know in the comments if you’ve got a favorite place to go snowshoeing or winter hiking! Your suggestions may just make it into a future update. more The Sarette Nature Center in Benton Harbor, MI welcomes visitors to its 1,000 acres of winter wonderland including forests, prairies, and frozen wetlands.  The terrain here is mostly flat and even, making it a fantastic place to jump into your snowshoeing hobby!  There are five designated snowshoeing trails in the area, rentals are optional, and there are public fire-pits available on the weekends. Join in the fun with the Winter Break Escape Challenge by printing out the checklist and following the prompts and questions on the sheet; those who complete the Trivia Challenge may even win a special prize. Indian Lake County Park in Cross Plains, WI has a beautiful 442 acre lake with a winding trail around it that leads to an incredible historic chapel from 1857.  If you’d like to go cross country skiing or snowshoeing, this is the place to be. If you’re looking for ski-joring, seek out trails marked pet friendly and ones that aren’t specifically groomed for x-country skiers. There’s also a designated pet-friendly exercise area on site next to the small boat launch on the west side of the lake. Interstate State Park in St. Croix Falls, WI area has plentiful multi-use trails to choose from. Please bear in mind that some areas may be off limits to your pet, so always check the signage and keep them on leash as directed by Wisconsin State Park rules.  The Winter Recreation Trails are open for snowshoeing, winter hiking, cross-country skiing, and pet friendly activities like walks, trail running, and skijoring; note that the Skyline Trail does prohibit pets when it’s been groomed. Justin Trails Resort in Sparta, WI has more than 200 acres of open areas and forests just rife with adventure opportunities.  You and your pup can enjoy camping on-site, or opt for a more cozy stay in a cabin, and accommodations can be made for up to 3 pets (for a small fee per night.)  This is a great location to enjoy skijoring or snowshoeing with your pet for some tandem snowy fun!  There are also plenty of options for snowshoeing trails and cross-country skiing as well, and for the kids (and kid at heart!) there are sledding hills and tubing hills, too. The Blackwell Forest Preserve is another wonderful area, especially if you’re just starting out with your skijoring and dog-in-tow snowshoeing pastime.  The trails are perfect for beginners and intermediate snowshoers, but if your dog hasn’t had enough physical activity you can make a stop at the off-leash dog area on site. For those seeking adrenaline and adventure, you’re also welcome to seek out the dog-sledding trails, too. The Morton Arboretum in Lisle offers 1,700 acres and boundless options for well-groomed hiking trails even in the winter months.  It’s a wonderful spot for a winter snowshoe walk, and you can even rent a pair if you’re new to the activity (rentals are on a first come/first serve basis so arrive early and reserve your timed ticket!)  On Saturday, December 21st you can sign up for the very enjoyable Winter Solstice Guided Hike and learn about local plants and wildlife during winter, learn to spot nature along the trails, and hear stories about the winter solstice. You can also explore the “Of the Earth” natural art exhibit that is currently on display through Spring 2025, or head over for an evening track through “Illumination: Tree Lights at the Aboroetum” through January 4th T he Waukegan Savanna is a wonderful spot year round, but this 774 acre park really shines in the winter as a ski-joring and dog sledding hot spot! You can bond with your dog over an exhilarating new canine sport like skijoring or canicross through the winter wonderland. And if they’re still bouncing around with energy, there’s an incredible 11-acre off-leash dog park that’s perfect for snowy weather fun like snowball fetch, snowy running, and frosty socials with fuzzy pals. The Red Oak Nature Center in Batavia offers 40 acres of wintertime fun such as snowshoeing ($5 bargain for snowshoe rentals!).  Each year the park also hosts “Frosty Fest” in January, where you can select from multiple self-guided trails featuring different snowman and winter themed stories, artwork, lights displays, and more. At the very end you’ll get to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and roast marshmallows over the campfire. You can register for tickets to Frosty Fest Online for $10 per person – don’t delay, it sells quickly!

Winter is finally here, and we’re ready to kick back, relax, and immerse ourselves in the season with our favourite people.  What better way to enjoy your holiday breaks and winter vacations than taking a trip to the finest Ski and Snowboarding Resorts in the Midwest!  Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, looking for something exhilarating or some good ol’ fashioned family friendly fun, these four fantastic winter destinations in Illinois and Wisconsin are sure to capture your attention.  Check it out! more Four Fabulous Family-Friendly Resorts in Wisconsin and Illinois for Winter Fun Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena, Illinois If you’re looking for family-friendly fun, this 220 acre park is a stellar option!  Skiers and winter sports enthusiasts of all skill levels are welcome here. There are lots of opportunities to enjoy professional instruction to learn the basics in skiing or snowboarding, so you won’t miss out on a thing.  There are 19 different ski-slopes to choose from, which means plenty of excitement and adrenaline for the seasoned skiing enthusiast. Elite snowboarders will rejoice to see the Farside Terrain Park offers more than 25 rails and different snow features to test your skills and tricks.  Don’t have your own gear? No problem! There is an available rental shop as well as the fantastic Mountainside Outfitters, host to all the hottest gear and brands. Feeling hungry? Stop by the wonderful restaurant called The Summit for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner for a diverse menu with locally sourced options. Ski Snowstar Winter Sports Park in Andalusia, Illinois There’s more family fun to be had in Illinois with a 28-acre terrain park, 15 ski lanes, and 11 snowtubing hills!  You can select group or individual lessons and can opt in for a package that includes equipment rentals as well; if you’ve got time to spare, there are also some fantastic Bunny & Kids camps to learn “boot camp” style, with a max of 30 students per class. There are also four very affordable eateries on site, allowing you to refuel between excursions so you can recharge: The Lodge, Peak’s Tavern, Fireside Lounge, Snack Shack.  The ski slopes offer 15 trails across 28 acres and a 790 foot summit for exhilarating downhill skiing and snowboarding. The snowboarding terrain offers numerous opportunities to test your abilities with tubes, wall rides, jumps and more! Cascade Mountain in Portage, Wisconsin This family owned and operated park (since 1977!) sprawls across 175 acres!  There’s a 900 foot long snow-tubing shoot, plus 48 trails for skiing and snowboarding. While this mountain does offer lessons, the slopes are best suited to the intermediate to advanced snowsports enthusiast, as many of the trails are quite challenging to navigate. For youth skiers with some experience, the mountain offers a Junior Racing program available to ages 6 through 18 where they can level up their skills.  However, beginners and the snowsports averse will rejoice to find they won’t get left behind in the powder – The brand new Polar Park area offers opportunities for sledding, snow angels, snowball fights, and other winter fun (and it’s the only area of the park where sledding is allowed!)  You can even rent a ski-in/ski-out cabin for the day that comfortably seats and heats up to 8 people for a break with your very own firepit and personal storage, perfect for lunch breaks with pals. Granite Peak in Wausau, Wisconsin This park is situated at the second-highest point in the state of Wisconsin, and has been a winter family favorite since the 1930s!  The park covers more than 200 acres and offers 2 terrain parks, 1 learning park, 7 lifts, and infinite opportunities for fun in the snow. Choose from one of the 68 trails available to all different skill levels and find the perfect winter sports experience tailored just for you.  And you simply must try the absolutely impressive 10,000 square foot Sundance Chalet, a restaurant offering Live Music, an outdoor deck, two immense fireplaces, 16 Midwest craft beer options, specialty signature cocktails, and 6 fire pits.  Stop by the bar for a cocktail and appetizer, explore full menu service at Apres Ski, or grab a pizza and some pretzels at The Patio Pizza Shack. If that’s not enough excitement, you can swing on to the downtown area of Wausau and explore farm to table restaurants, local cafes, craft breweries, local shopping, and more. Other wonderful winter sports resorts of note in the Midwest: Perfect North Slopes in Lawrenceberg, Indiana Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville, Michigan Mount Bohemia Ski in Mohawk, Michigan Pine Mountain Ski Resort in Iron Mountain, Michigan

Whether you’re a fan of hot chocolate with marshmallows or you prefer it via Peppermint Mocha lattes, there’s no wrong way to celebrate hot cocoa day!   We’re celebrating with another great gift guide, and we’ve got to say – these have been a lot of fun to assemble for you this year!  Today’s gift guide is all about the best travel mugs on the market for commuters and travelers to keep your iced coffee as cold as the Arctic and your cocoa as hot as the fires of Mordor. You’ll also find a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and price points to match just about every gift giving budget from frugal to splurges. more The Commuter Cup by Corkcicle is cupholder friendly, has a non-slip bottom, swiveling spill resistant lid, is ceramic coated for insulation and protective barrier from the stainless steel interior, and keeps your drinks hot for 5 hours.  We also love that it comes available in a wide range of colors to suit everyone on your gifting list! This LL Bean Insulated XL Mug comes in 6 different colorways to match your rugged outdoor gear. We love the leak resistant press fit lid, and the fact that its easy to hold handle is elevated high enough for it to still fit in most vehicle cupholders. Plus, it conveniently keeps your drinks hot or cold for up to 7 hours. The Owala Coffee Tumbler is an all-year option that keeps cold beverages chilled for up to 24hrs and hot beverages insulated for up to 6hrs. It is cupholder friendly, has a stainless steel interior, leakproof slider lid and splash-resistant lid. It is readily available in multiple color options. The Zojirushi Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug comes in more than a dozen colors and three convenient size options (12oz, 16oz, 20oz). It comes with an impressive 5 year warranty on heat retention, and keeps your drinks warm up to 5 or 6 hours. It’s also quite affordable and accessible via Amazon. The BurnOut Temperature Regulating Mug comes in two colors and 16oz capacity, and was designed by Rocket Scientists (literally!)  This engineered mug perfectly cools your hot drinks down to a drinkable temperature and maintains that temperature.  It’s got a springloaded lock button so you can text in one hand and open your coffee in the other, talk about convenience! It’s a great mid-range price point option. The GO Heated Mug by SmrtMugg is a budget-friendly rechargeable heated coffee mug comes in 5 different colors, offers a magnetic charge cable, can hold about 13 ounces, and keeps your drink in the perfect temperature zone for up to 90 minutes. If you’re looking to splurge on yourself or a special someone, we think the Ember Travel Mug 2+ is going to be the perfect choice. You can set your preferred heat level, and the battery operated heating element will keep your drink perfectly warmed to your specifications. The Ember App even allows you to adjust and monitor your beverage and remotely adjust the temperature as you see fit. Constantly losing your mug at home or in the office? This mug has even got its own Apple Find My tracking capability, so you’ll always know where your beverage is! It can’t be microwaved and must be hand washed, but we think the convenient trade off of a perfect temp beverage all day every day is worthwhile.

Today’s gift guide is all about stocking stuffers and budget-friendly gifting, perfect for all you last minute shoppers who like to cut it close to shipping deadlines. We’ve got great pocket-friendly tools, humorous themed gifts, and all sorts of fun goodies. Check it out on today’s blog! more First up on this list is the Multi-Function Tool with 4-in-1 safety kit by Carever. Includes a screwdriver, window breaker, seatbelt cutter, airbag needle punch and tire gauge. Under $10 and currently listed to arrive before the Christmas deadline via Amazon Prime. The Bug Eraser from Stoner Car Care provides 10 erasable wipes for all automotive services with non-abrasive materials.  Just add a few ounces of water, squish to suds, and you’re good to go! Makes a great stocking stuffer and envelope gift with your road-trip or travel tickets! This combination autumn/winter beanie plus LED headlamp is perfect for all those folks who just can’t stay out of the garage no matter how cold it gets. Comes in your choice of colors and available single or a 2-pack for your gifting convenience. Currently listed to arrive before the Christmas Deadline via Amazon Prime for under $20. Available in 2 different colors/patterns and clocking in under $30, the ThxToms LED Flashlight Gloves are another great gift for the year-round car enthusiast. They’ll be able to work on their project cars no matter the weather or time of day, thanks to insulated gloves and integrated LED lighting. Set to arrive about 7 days before the Christmas Deadline per Amazon Prime and available for less than $30. This universal socket wrench tool and Magnetic Ratchet Screwdriver set is the perfect addition for the person who “has everything”. It’s a handy travel-friendly set that can be used at home, on the road, or even on track days! Available under $30 on Amazon Prime and expected to arrive before the Christmas deadline. Whether they’re for a Secret Santa or family stocking stuffers, these socks are a whimsical and goofy gift that’s sure to bring a smile to their face. Available for under $10 and expected to arrive before the Christmas deadline on Amazon, these “I don’t snore, I dream  I'm a race car” socks are just the thing! The ASTROAI pocket pressure gauge digitally reads your tire pressure on cars, trucks, bicycles and more. Comes with a backlit LED and digital screen and presta valve adaptor, and your choice of colors. Available on Amazon under $20. Grab a Car Wash Kit bundle featuring a microfiber mitt and wash rags along with fantastic car-safe soaps, rinses, waxes, and finishing sprays or specialty sets of car wipes: This one from Chemical Guys is under $50. This one from Armor All is under $60. This trio of cleaning wipes preserves and cleans both the interior and exterior and is available under $25. This one from NuFinish for under $30 with optional Polish + Scratch Remover set additional. Most set to arrive before the Christmas shipping deadlines. For the mechanic who can’t help themselves and has to hoard all those car parts “just in case”, we’ve got just the thing. This “Just One More Car Part” t-shirt is available for under $25 and expected to arrive via Amazon Prime before the Christmas shipping deadline. Comes in your choice of colors and sizes for all genders. This portable battery booster is a convenient, pocket sized portable jump start kit. It’s an indispensable part of any driver’s emergency car kit. Having this quick jumpstart tool can remove the headaches and hassles of a secondary vehicle to get you back on the road.  Not only can they recharge your vehicle battery, but they can also charge and power your mobile devices or tools as well, making them great for travel and commuting! Options like the NOCO Genius1 clock in under $50, and are expected to arrive via Amazon Prime ahead of the Christmas deadline.