Hi! I came from living in various neighborhoods in the city for eight years and then met a stupid boy, fell in love, bought a house here in Des Plaines and got married. The biggest thing I'm not a fan of, is you can't walk to anything and everything. I wish our downtown was more like Arlington Heights or Park Ridge. You can walk, buy some tchotchkes, get a nice meal, dessert, entertainment and more. I still have a ton of friends that live in the city, and have been going there a lot lately to do stand up, so being able to take the Metra into downtown or to the blue line helps immensely. I only drive into the city if that's the only way to get to my destination, on time. Taking the Metra has always been a breeze for me. Let me tell you, having a yard is great! Our neighbors have been so nice and welcoming since we bought our house. The trails and what not are really nice to bike. Busse woods in in Schaumburg. They have places to fish, as well. Everything you need is a short car ride away. Woodfield Mall and Streets of Woodfield is in Schaumburg. I wish our town had a farmer's market. The library is GREAT! It even has a balcony for nice days. They are restoring The Des Plaines Theater, where they are supposed to do concerts and what not. They're also moving this speakeasy type bar I've wanted to visit in Evanston, to inside the theater. I think that will be great for this town and a wonderful addition. It's nice that whatever our town seems to lack, you can get to, in a neighboring town, with a short car ride or Uber. I'm a step mom and a nanny. I can say this, the moms in the area seem a lot more easy going, where in the city, there was just this I don't know what to call it, judgey judgerton vibe? People here seem to be very helpful and give recommendations when needed. It will take some getting used to at first, but the first couple times your kid gets to run around the yard and/or makes friends on your block, you should be happy with your choice. Please let us know if you need anything else. Welcome, I think you'll like it here.