We're all connected 24/7 to computers, tablets, phones and television. But there's more to life than being online – even for a digital media company! – so this week we're excited to show you ways to connect with family and friends, even when there's no signal. Steinhafels presents OnMilwaukee Unplugged Week, a celebration of all things analog. Sit back, log into these stories and then log into the real world.

Just kidding. Please do read this.

But we’re not kidding about Unplugged Week. Sometimes you need to turn off that the phone, computer, tablet or TV for a little while. It’s OK, and it’s healthy.

Let me explain:

Here at OnMilwaukee, the sales and editorial departments are two very distinct entities, but we’re not afraid to collaborate when it makes sense. And this was one of those times. In a sales meeting with Steinhafels last year, their marketing staff pitched us on the idea of a week dedicated to analog, unplugged content, and we liked it.

After all, we’re a digital media company and online magazine that relies on, in part, page views and ad impressions to drive revenue – but we’re all addicted to our smart phones and Netflix and social media, sometimes at the detriment to our friends and family. Logically, it makes sense for a furniture store, however, to push the concept of in-home entertainment. This week, we’re talking about that, but a whole lot more, too.

We’re all having some fun with it. For example, Lori Fredrich argues e-books will never replace paper cookbooks and Bobby Tanzilo talked to a vinyl-focused DJ.

So yeah, telling people to log off OnMilwaukee is a weird proposition. We get it. But taking a break from all that screen time is important, too.

Here’s my suggestion: read this week of custom unplugged content. Then next week, spend a little less time online and actually do some of the stuff we suggested.

We’ll be here when you get back.