We’re soooo close to officially diving in to our long-awaited Minnesota summer season complete with sun rays, cool shades, outdoor games, lush hiking trails, extended daylight, bonfire nightlife, family fun, BFF adventures, lounge-chair olympics, poolside sippers, picnic fare, s’mores, and most of all … more time to make those MN memories!
As we wrap-up 2018 and bundle those precious memories together with a bow, we’re sharing some of the meaningful moments that really set the year apart. Were there high hills and speed bumps? (A metaphor my husband Eric and son Evan like to use.) Yes. Without a doubt. But, do we close the year on a high note with a whole lot of gratitude? Indeed. Continue reading “2018 Highlights”
While it doesn’t quite seem possible, Minnesota’s summertime countdown is on…just a few days remain as we hold fast to what’s been a glorious season—thank you kindly, Mother Nature ♥ There’s added gratitude in the air as we share a guest post from the one and only Living Nimbly blog. The talented writer, photographer, good-vibe sharer, creative spirit, curious adventurer and downright amazing person behind the blog is Jack Fitzpatrick. There’s a parallel path of the heart happening here… I cherish my friendship with Jack as much as Minnesota summers! With further ado, please sit back and enjoy highlights of a June 2018 Lutsen trip that Jack and his wonderful partner Melissa took, making the most of their time together and graciously sharing with us. Thank you, Jack & Melissa! xo
Continue reading “Overcast Skies Can’t Dampen a Lutsen Trip”
As the cage elevator doors opened, we emerged from our compact time capsule stepping into the hazy, humid August daylight. In three short minutes, our group of curious adventurers were safely transported a half-mile from the depths of one of Minnesota’s most well-known iron ore mines back to the earth’s surface. Have you toured the historic Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park? If so, you completely understand the mine’s global economic significance, the legacy that remains in the hearts and hands of thousands who built the state’s mining industry, and how these dedicated miners put Minnesota on the map…
Continue reading “Soudan Mine: A Celebrated Chapter of Minnesota History”
Reciting the iconic name of the North Shore’s superior, paved pathway might spark a smile. That’s because Gitchi-Gami Trail is super fun to say – and even more fun to ride! Your turn… say ‘Gitchi-Gami’ aloud a couple times, and then puff your chest up just a bit, Minnesota friends. Continue reading “Biking Gitchi-Gami: Lutsen –> Tofte”
Taking the back roads through Northern Minnesota presents explorers with a beautiful escape. This is especially true if you’re lucky enough to claim the back seat, keeping both eyes peeled to scout wildflowers, sky-scapes and other captivating photographic moments…
Even our BFFs—best furry friends—need a vacation, right? Those trusted canine companions work overtime, too. If you’re searching for a Lutsen-area vacation spot that is dog-friendly, here’s a hint…look no further than our pro-pup condo 142C at Caribou Highlands. In fact, the resort boasts 29 units – from condos to town homes to lodge rooms – that warmly open their doors to doggies. Continue reading “Dog-Friendly Stay: Sit. Nap. Explore. Relax. Repeat.”
Sparks of romance. Have you experienced them lately, perhaps while holding hands with your plus-one? Keeping up with life’s quick pace can zap those energy reserves in a snap, making it a challenge to keep those sparks bright! It’s so important, though, to set aside intentional time … a date night, a day trip or even a weekend to rekindle your affection and reflect on the beauty of two. Heck, even just having an uninterrupted conversation is a win! Our guest blogger, Courtney from the beautiful Mama Bear Life is a golden soul, and I’m ever-grateful for our friendship. Courtney and her hub planned a memorable North Shore getaway earlier this spring. Here’s a snapshot of their sweet time together. Thank you, Courtney & Steve!
These wild and remote lands that stretch wide open across Northern Minnesota’s tip of the Arrowhead fill our hearts. Beauty shines and evolves from season to season…a vast gift to take in, appreciating and trying to comprehend the depth of what all this beloved and sacred spanse of Superior shoreline and forest has meant to many, for many generations through centuries of time.
Cruising I-35 north toward the Superior Shore, Duluth welcomes travelers like a great aunt…never a cordial handshake, always a collossal hug. There’s the anticipation of the view that awaits around the Thompson Hill bend…a spectacular vista of Lake Superior, spotting the city’s iconic Aerial Lift Bridge in miniature, eyes searching quickly for ships in and near the harbor and zipping along feeling darn pleased to be almost 150 miles closer to vacation! Making tracks toward the heart of the city, we’re typically in need of a quick stretch and a refuel for both the car, the kids and grownups alike. On my last trip to Lutsen, my midway pit stop discovery…Dunn Brothers in Duluth—what a super spot!
Continue reading “Warm, Woodsy & Welcoming: Duluth’s Detour-Worthy Coffee Shop”
Superior adventures await year round in Lutsen, MN! 