Crystal Lake-native Kirsten Lynn Karlblom returned to the area with her husband, Steve, in 1999 after a stint in Lake Barrington. A Loras College graduate and former third-grade teacher, Karlblom stayed home to raise her four girls until she found her passion for Pilates. A Pilates instructor since 2005, Karlblom opened her own business Pilates Body by Kirsten in 2010. The studio, currently located in downtown Crystal Lake, also offers large group classes including Hot Yoga, Heated Stretch, Aerial, and more. Outside the studio, Karlblom serves on the board of Hope’s In, a Barrington-based nonprofit and attends the Presbyterian Church of Barrington.

Mantra? Happiness heals Best grooming tip? Kryolan Shimmering Event Foundation and highlighting the cheekbones Guilty pleasure? A good champagne paired with chocolates from Ethereal Confections in Woodstock, Illinois Favorite foods? Sushi Music you love? New country and religious music Best advice ever given to you? When I was pregnant with my first daughter, someone at my shower told me to have a date night once a week with my hubby. Keep “us” first and the kids fall in place. Best advice you ever given? Don’t be afraid of failing, learn from failures and own your mistakes Earliest memory? Dancing with my dad as he sang Italian opera When you wake up, you? I ask the Lord to grant me the strength and patience to help people to heal their bodies, mind, and spirit Before bed, you? Thank the Lord for another day and watch a series with my husband. Right now, we are finishing up Ozark What’s on your bookshelf? My kids’ photos and artwork they did growing up and the Bridgerton series You can’t live without? Healthy, organic foods Love to escape to? The Retreat Hotel in Iceland, Key West and Naples in Florida. Advice you would give to your younger self? What you put in your body affects your body as you age

WHEN IN THE COUNTRY

Your style is? Stylish workout clothes with cute shoes Can’t leave the house without? A water bottle, electrolytes, and a Sakara bar Transportation? White Jeep Wrangler—top off Driving music? Preferably none: peace and quiet if alone, or an uplifting podcast. Favorite so far is The Feel Good Effect Place to eat? Shakou—my must-have is Seven Spicy Ahi with black rice Shop? Anything local. Love to support small businesses Best thing about the country? Kind, loving people. Friends become your family in good times and bad Worst thing about the country? Maybe the weather The perfect day is? A late morning coffee and breakfast, hanging at the pool with our kids, and grilling out

WHEN IN TOWN

Your style is? Comfortable dresses and bold earrings Can’t leave the house without? A large bag filled with water, healthy snacks, layers of clothes, and lip gloss Transportation? Uber if I’m wearing heels or walking if I have flats Driving music? Ed Sheeran Place to eat? RL—ask for Sergio’s section Shop? Michigan Avenue Best thing about town? Cubs’ games and good food and drink after Worst thing about town? The traffic The perfect day is? Staying at a nice hotel, doing something fun outside, and having dinner at a new restaurant