Follow the Red Brick Roads... One of my favorite things about West Urbana IL are the old brick roads interspersed throughout the neighborhood. I love thinking about the variety of vehicles from horse and buggies to present-day automobiles that have traveled these paths over a span of more than 100 years. The brick roads to me are a lovely reminder of all the people who have come before us. Recently while checking Google Analytics on my website, I noticed that someone had searched for a map of the brick roads in West Urbana, and even though I didn't have such a map on my website, that person landed there. I'm quite glad they did because it gave me the great idea for this project and blog. After driving the streets of West Urbana in every direction, I created this map which shows the bric... 09/14/2011

I checked. Neither Little Red Riding Hood nor her grandmother is listed in the tax records as owning this house. Still, as I took this shot I half expected her to come skipping out the front door carrying her wicker basket and offer me a slice of Mother's homemade bread. Yummm. A walking tour of our West Urbana community is certain to reveal surprises and delights, even to a resident such as myself who's walked these sidewalks many times before. Today was no exception. This remarkable dwelling caught my eye and out came the camera. What makes this neighborhood special, perhaps even magical, is its rich history combined with the fervent dedication of its residents to preserve its unique qualities. Many of the homes in West Urbana are nearing or have gracefully surpassed a hundred years ... 05/08/2011

If You Live in West Urbana, You Might Consider Joining WUNA Take a little drive through West Urbana and it will be quite obvious that we don't have a neighborhood association that mandates how we keep our lawns. Some residents are quite creative with their lawns indeed, which is one of many reasons I enjoy living here. But you may not be aware that there actually is a West Urbana Neighborhood Association (WUNA), and it's quite active. Residents are not required to be members of the association, but there are some benefits of joining, the main one, in my opinion, being the easy and quick distribution of information. WUNA membership is only $5/year for residents and with membership, you can also join the WUNA email group. Through this group, individuals can post information on public happ... 09/23/2010

West Urbana Neighborhood Block Parties: Great Company & Great Food Tonight I'm off the hook for cooking dinner because we were very well fed at our neighborhood block this afternoon. Once or twice a year a bunch of neighbors around where we live in West Urbana block off the street to what little traffic we have, and meet outside for a little get-together. Everyone brings a dish to share, so there's plenty of good food and good conversation. A block party is a great way to meet neighbors who you haven't come face-to-face with yet, and it's also a fantastic way to share information and suggestions as neighbors need it. For instance, I've been thinking lately about making some improvements to my yard, and a neighbor recommended I be in touch with an enthusiastic landscaper who lives just d... 09/19/2010

Why I Love Historic East and West Urbana, Illinois East Urbana or West Urbana…I love both of these historic neighborhoods, and I’ll admit to having a biased opinion: I live there. When my husband and I bought our house, we honed in on this location for all the following reasons: Walking distance. Historic Urbana is walking distance to, well, just about everything! Walk to the university and everything that goes with it, walk to the local schools, walk to downtown Urbana, walk to the Farmer’s Market at Lincoln Square…I LOVE that we can go out to dinner, or to a concert and not need a car! Carle Park. It’s one of the most peaceful places on Earth, in my opinion, and the homes surrounding it have incredible views. My dog loves it, too, mostly for all the squirrels… Victory Park. This one’s... 06/23/2010

Homes in Historic West Urbana, Illinois- Glimpse of a Neighborhood The neighborhood of West Urbana has a distinct historic feel to it. Many of these homes were built in the early 1900s, making it one of the oldest neighborhoods in the community. Not only are the homes old, but most of them have been well cared for. And hundred-year-old trees line the streets, blanketing them throughout all seasons. (See below for more pictures.) West Urbana scores many points for location. The public elementary, middle, and high schools are all within walking distance of the homes in this neighborhood. Also within walking distance are the University of Illinois and downtown Urbana, providing the residents access to restaurants, libraries, shops, banks, the farmer’s market and more, all without needing a... 04/24/2010