A Sweet Surprise for Ski Season

A Sweet Surprise for Ski Season

Cozy hot chocolate is a ski lover’s sippable staple. Between wintry runs along Minnesota’s Lutsen Mountains, a comforting cup — one you can hug close to defrost those numb thumbs and fingers — does wonders from nose to toes. Now, what if you condensed that sweet deliciousness into a tiny cookie, marshmallows included? We’ve got you covered, friends! Continue reading “A Sweet Surprise for Ski Season”

2018 Highlights

2018 Highlights

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”

Lutsen’s Maple Granola

Lutsen’s Maple Granola

Well, here’s a warm welcome to a new homemade granola recipe containing a secret Minnesota ingredient! This healthful, nutty, slightly sweet, oat-based blend offers hints of maple, honey and cinnamon with every spoonful. Share Lutsen’s Maple Granola and perhaps the adventurers around your table will be so thrilled with their breakfast, they’ll bring you flowers! ♥

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Overcast Skies Can’t Dampen a Lutsen Trip

Overcast Skies Can’t Dampen a Lutsen Trip

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

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Roadtrip to Finland…Minnesota

Roadtrip to Finland…Minnesota

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…

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Warm Up, Minnesota, to this Chicken Chili

Warm Up, Minnesota, to this Chicken Chili

Serve your hungry crew a bowl of beautiful, broth-y, home-cooked Minnesota Chicken Chili and you’ll warm their hearts first while their fingers and toes follow. This recipe tastes so darn good on a crisp fall or cool wintery day, especially after coming in from the breezy Lutsen Mountain slopes, hiking the Cascade River State Park trails, snowshoeing the SHT or riding snowmobile trails. It also doubles as a winning game-day pick fit for hungry fans. And, with Super Bowl LII headed for our home state, the timing is right!

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Warm, Woodsy & Welcoming: Duluth’s Detour-Worthy Coffee Shop

Warm, Woodsy & Welcoming: Duluth’s Detour-Worthy Coffee Shop

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!

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So Happy Together

So Happy Together

Taking time to escape—together. Sounds idyllic, but perhaps not realistic most days. A break from routine takes effort and commitment. Here’s what happens when you mindfully set aside a weekend with that special someone whom you adore and purposefully unwind with no kiddos, spotty cell service and a whole lot of North Shore options to explore. Thank you Heidi & Danny Geller for sharing your Lutsen adventure! Continue reading “So Happy Together”