The moon isn’t full right now, and Mercury is not in retrograde, but this has still been . . . a week. In the spirit of the list of self-care suggestions my colleagues came up with on Tuesday, here are some moments of Chicago-flavored happiness for you to take in this weekend, followed by some event listings. I’m concentrating this week on the life-changing properties of listening to music and saying hello to cute animals, and I invite you to join me on my pretend planet.

  • Lincoln Park Zoo is open by ticketed reservation . . .
  • . . . and while you’re waiting for your turn to visit, check out the Zoo’s Instagram for quality moments like this video of a bettong getting a snack.
  • Here’s some cats and dogs available for adoption from PAWS.
  • And more from the City of Chicago’s Animal Care and Control facility.
  • And a sweet moment from one of the Shedd Aquarium’s sea otters.

Events and exhibitions: