There’s something that we have been very excited to share here at 365Barrington.com. Barrington writer Renee Blue has joined us to cover stories and produce features about people, places and events in Barrington.
Renee and I first crossed paths a few years ago because we have friends in common and our children are close in age. From the first time we met, I quickly noticed that there is something uniquely engaging about her and I recently put my finger on it. When you talk with Renee, you can sense she is really listening and it’s always in a way that puts you at ease. It’s a gift and one of the many skills that manifest in Renee’s writing.
To get to know Renee a little better since hers will be the voice of features to come at 365Barrington.com, we asked her to share answers to a few questions. She let us in on her background, what brought her to Barrington and how she most likes to spend time with her family…
What brought you to Barrington and what do you most enjoy about calling Barrington home?
I took the circuitous route to Barrington, via Texas, New Hampshire, Minnesota, Ohio…the list goes on. My husband, Matt, and his family moved to Barrington when he was in second grade. We met in Chicago, and lived in the city for five years. When we found out we were expecting our first son, we thought a move to the ‘burbs was in order. After looking at many others, we decided that Barrington was our suburb of choice. We love being close to family, the Village, and nature — but still an easy drive from Chicago. After moving around a lot, it’s great to have such a sense of place.
What are your favorite things to do or places to go in the Barrington area?
I love being out and about in Barrington, most often with Matt and our boys Griffin (7) and Quinn (5) in tow. You can find us biking, running, and hiking on local trails – I love the riding center trails off of Bateman road, and Cuba Marsh is beautiful in every season. We love dining around town, too; La Mesa, Egg Harbor, and Francesca’s are faves. And it’s always fun to see a movie at the Catlow.
What do you like to do in your free time? Do you have any hobbies?
My two boys are my most fun and time-consuming hobby right now. You can often find me cheering them on at a soccer or baseball field, or leading a Cub Scout den. I occasionally motivate to train for half marathons or sprint triathlons. I’m in a great book club, love to cook and garden, and thrive on time spent with my amazing friends.
If you could have lunch with one person in Barrington, who would it be?
That’s a tough one! Barrington has so many amazing residents: Sam Oliver, David Nelson, and Bob and Anne Lee all come to mind. I can’t choose just one. I know they each have so much wisdom to impart, and valuable perspectives on Barrington and life in general.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember. (Okay, I’ll admit there was a poetry contest in third grade that may have truly ignited the flame). My love of reading preceded my love of writing. Words and language have always inspired me, and writing has been central to nearly every job I’ve had. I feel so fortunate to be able to say that.
What do you enjoy most about writing and, specifically, covering Barrington stories?
I really value people’s stories; to be trusted to share them with the community is such an honor. Barrington is home to an incredibly active, civic-minded population; the energy our town’s residents pour into their activities—whether a community organization, a business, a personal endeavor, or a charitable cause—is so inspiring. If I help their stories reach and inspire others, I’m gratified.
STAY TUNED! You will be hearing much more from Renee Blue. She has many of her own personal insights to share about life as a writer and mom in Barrington.
CLICK HERE to find Renee’s contributions to-date at 365Barrington.com.
