Friend,

There’s nothing like seeing America through the eyes of a child!

This month, Darren and I packed up a 36-foot camper, loaded four of our grandkids, and hit the road for an unforgettable journey to Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and plenty of memorable stops along the way. We explored historic landmarks, walked through museums, and talked about the founding of this great nation.

Watching them experience our country’s history with such wonder reminded us just how blessed we are. We treasure these opportunities while they're still young enough to want to make memories with us (and while we're still young enough to keep up with them 😆).

At the end of the day, there’s no greater investment than time spent with family. These are the moments that matter most and the memories we'll cherish for years to come.

Blessings,

Cindy Bailey

I opened our energy bill this morning and thought to myself: Why does it cost so much to keep the lights on and the a/c running?

Working families, seniors on fixed incomes, and small businesses are feeling the pinch, yet J.B. Pritzker hands out tax incentives and subsidies to data centers that place enormous demand on our electric grid.

It’s not fair, and it doesn't make sense.

Darren believes Illinois needs an energy policy that puts families first. He’ll work to end new taxpayer giveaways to Big Tech, make data centers pay for the strain they put on our grid, and help lower electric bills for hardworking Illinois families.

After a long journey with chemotherapy, a 19-year-old Illinoisan is going viral. 

Aly Well recently completed her final treatment, so her family and friends gathered to ring bells and fly balloons to celebrate her courage and perseverance.

Springfield Clinic Cancer Center doesn’t hold the bell-ringing ceremonies you commonly see out of respect for patients who may not have the opportunity to reach that milestone. But with special permission, Aly’s loved ones were able to create a beautiful moment to remind her that she was never alone in her fight.

Aly’s story is a powerful reminder that hope shines brightest in the hardest moments! We pray for health and blessings as she begins this next chapter.

For sweet elegance and a treat that never disappoints, Naperville’s Le Chocolat du Bouchard is always a good idea. 

This beautiful shop on Washington Street is the perfect spot to pick up a special gift for a hostess or someone you care about, and you can’t leave without treating yourself! From gourmet pastries and croissants to macarons, you really can’t go wrong. What a gem! 

We love discovering new places like these as we continue on the campaign trail each week. There’s no place like Illinois.

“The Lord Himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade.” 

Psalm 121:5

God so often turns stressful days into beautiful reminders that he is always present—even in unexpected moments! Whether it’s a flat tire or a delayed flight, the Lord is with you every single day and He has a plan. Jesus, we thank you for your faithfulness every mile of the journey.

Summer break is a time for fun, family, and making memories. I always welcome the slower pace! But I know it’s also a great opportunity to help children sharpen their skills. Even a few minutes of reading each day can make a big difference when they return to the classroom! 

These are a few of my favorites for reading aloud as a family with the grandkids:

Charlotte’s Web

The Chronicles of Narnia

Magic Tree House 

Here’s to a school year built on firm foundations and eyes fixed on Jesus! 🙏

P.S. Did you try my recipe from last month? Let me know by replying to this email!!

Copyright © 2026 Bailey for Illinois, All rights reserved.

You are receiving this email because you support Bailey for Illinois.