The 13th Annual Love is Murder Conference for Mystery writers and readers will be held in Chicago at the Intercontinental Chicago O'Hare Hotel Friday, February 3 through Sunday, February 5. The conference offers author chats, opportunities to meet with publishers and/or agents, and writer's workshops. Entertainment in the evening includes a performance by Those Were The Days Radio Players.

Artistic license by Julie A. Hyzy — Ms Hyzy is the conference's Guest of Honor.

It's hard to find toys these days that don't make loud noises, flash lights, or are based around a television character. But GeekDad from Wired magazine highlights some classic (albeit unusual) toys in his blog post The 5 Best Toys of All Time. The best part? Most are readily available now, especially as we turn to spring weather. Read it for a laugh. Read it for inspiration. Then think of some other "classic toys" you can introduce to your kids.

Browse through the colorfully illustrated and informative Book of Games: Strategy, Tactics & History by Jack Botermans and try one of some 65 international games.  Mancala anyone?