. Whether you’re looking for time-saving kitchen tools, comfy closet staples, or genius kid-friendly finds, I’ve rounded up a handful of items that I truly love (and actually use).
This is my current FAVORITE thing! It makes takes chopping veggies from annoying to satisfying! It makes dinner prep so much faster and is perfect for making this delicious soup.
I accidentally found this when I was buying pesto and FELL in LOVE! It’s full of flavor with a little spicy Kick! YUM! Eat with with pasta, fresh bread, or by the spoonful.
With four boys and endless meals in the kitchen, our countertops get messy – fast! This is the best spray for cleaning our countertops. It smells fresh and doesn’t leave streaks.
With four boys who love to play ball in the house, this ball is amazing. It’s a hard, heavy but QUIET basketball! Much less annoying. They loved it so much we now have TWO.
People often ask me which of my three books is my favorite—and honestly, that’s a tough one! It feels a bit like choosing a favorite child. 😅
My first book will always be special because… well, it was the first!
My second book holds a special place in my heart because it shares a real-life moment of teamwork and bravery from my own kids.
But this third one? I think it might just be my favorite. It’s based on another true story—this one full of laughs, surprises, and just plain fun.
Do you have yours yet? If so, I’d love for you to click here to leave a review. Don’t have it yet – please get a copy for a school, hospital, or child in your life!
Let’s face it—life is expensive. Between groceries, gas, and that “quick” Target run that somehow cost over $100, spending money on entertainment isn’t always in the budget. But good news! The Twin Cities are packed with amazing things to do that won’t cost you a dime.
From scenic parks to quirky museums, and even places where you can pretend to be cultured for free, here’s your ultimate guide to having fun in and around Minneapolis and St. Paul!
In the summer, enjoy free live music and movies at the Lake Harriet Bandshell in Minneapolis. The area around the lake is also great for walking, biking, and picnicking.
Walk, bike, or paddle around Minneapolis’ Chain of Lakes, including Lake Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and Lake of the Isles. There are beaches, playgrounds, and plenty of spots to relax.
Visit this outdoor art park next to the Walker Art Center. It’s home to the famous “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture and offers plenty of space to explore and enjoy.
Walk or bike along the Mississippi Riverfront in downtown Minneapolis or St. Paul. The Stone Arch Bridge, Mill Ruins Park, and the St. Anthony Falls area are particularly scenic.
Fort Snelling State Park: Located near the airport, this park offers trails, picnic spots, and historic sites. It’s free to enter by foot or bike, though there’s a fee for vehicles.
The history center provides free admission one afternoon each week. With interactive exhibits and engaging activities for the whole family, I HIGHLY recommend a visit.
Explore a wide range of libraries throughout the Twin Cities. The Stillwater library is big with a large playarea and patio looking over downtown. Many libraries have free classes, tutoring and experiences for all ages!
There are a variety of free pickleball and tennis courts, baseball fields, batting cages, soccer fields and basketball courts around the Twin Cities.
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14. Explore a Nature Center
Richardson Nature Center – The visitor center houses interactive exhibits, live critters, and expert naturalists. 8737 East Bush Lake Rd. Bloomington, 753-694-7676, threeriversparks.org
Woodlake Nature Center – The visitor center is full of interactive displays featuring more live creatures! Wood Lake Nature Center, 6710 Lake Shore Drive, Richfield Drive, 612-861-9365, richfieldmn.gov
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What did I miss? Please leave a comment with free things to do in the Twin Cities! I’d love to know, and so would my readers.
When I first suggested a trip to the Museum of Illusions at Mall of America, my teens weren’t exactly thrilled. “A museum?” They weren’t convinced. But the second we stepped inside, everything changed.
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From the moment we walked in, they were completely hooked—calling me over to check things out, snapping photos, and constantly saying, “Whoa! Cool! Mom, look at this!” This isn’t your typical museum where you quietly observe from a distance—it’s an interactive, hands-on funhouse of mind-bending illusions that will have you questioning reality.
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Walk on walls …
…. shrink and grow,
….defy gravity,
… and question reality in mind-tricking rooms.
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Every corner is a new surprise, and trust me—you’ll want (and need) your camera!
✅ Perfect for all ages ✅ Great for families, friends, or date nights ✅ Absolutely worth the visit!
If you’re looking for something different and seriously FUN at MOA, add the Museum of Illusions to your list. Even the skeptics (like my teens) will leave amazed!
📍 Located at Mall of America
Teachers:
As a special thank you for their dedication and hard work, Museum of Illusions at Mall of America is offering teachers free admission during Teacher Appreciation Week and the remainder of the year with a valid school ID. Educators who visit during Teacher Appreciation Week will automatically be entered into a raffle to win a free class field trip to the Museum of Illusions Mall of America.
Ted and I feel incredibly fortunate to have friends who call Marco Island home and welcomed us for a visit. As the ultimate hosts, they introduced us to the best local dining spots, must-see attractions, and hidden gems. Now, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned so you can experience the beauty and charm of Marco Island for yourself.
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A Brief History of Marco Island
Development began in the 1960s when the Deltona Corporation set out to transform Marco Island into an “affordable” resort destination, offering waterfront homes for as little as $15,700. While some of these original homes still stand today, their price tags have significantly increased, reflecting the island’s growing popularity and desirability.
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An example of the home you could own on Marco for $15,700.
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One of the most distinctive features of Marco Island is its intricate canal system, designed to maximize waterfront property. Today, over 80% of residential properties on the island have direct water access, making it a premier boating and fishing destination.
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Getting to Marco Island
Marco Island is located in Southwest Florida, just south of Naples. The closest airport is Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, about an hour’s drive away. You can rent a car or call our favorite driver, Marlon, to get to the island (786-612-1375).
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When to Visit
The best time to visit Marco Island is from November to April when temperatures are pleasant and the humidity is low. This is also peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Summer months offer fewer visitors and lower hotel rates, but come with higher heat and humidity.
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Top Things to Do
1. Relax on the Beach
Tigertail Beach – A must-visit for its natural beauty, tidal lagoon, and shelling opportunities.
South Marco Beach– A quieter, more relaxed beach with soft white sand and clear waters.
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2. Visit the Farmer’s Market
Marco Island hosts an amazing Farmer’s Market every Wednesday morning, November through April.
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3. Water Activities
Kayaking or Jet Skis – Rent equipment and explore the mangrove tunnels.
Fishing Charters – Join a local guide for deep-sea or backwater fishing.
Dolphin & Sunset Cruises – Enjoy a scenic boat ride and watch dolphins play in the water.
Marco Island is a hidden gem that blends relaxation with adventure. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches or exploring the local wildlife, you’ll find plenty of reasons to fall in love with this Gulf Coast treasure.
Well, it’s been a while since I’ve shared a family life update, and what better time to do it than now—while I’m camped out in bed with a cold, trying to avoid spreading my germs to the rest of the house. They say moms don’t get sick days, but today I’m calling in “semi-sick-but-still-managing-life-from-my-pillow” mode. So, with a little extra time and a lot of tissues, here’s what’s been going on in our corner of the world.
The Cowboys
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George won’t stop growing up on me and is a JUNIOR in high school. He’s also taking a college class, working part time, and playing rec basketball.
Clark is busy with 9th grade basketball and spending any extra time with friends (he hopes to get to know every single person in his high school).
Paul is in 7th grade and busy with two different basketball teams and travel soccer, any free moments are spent cheering on his friends at THEIR sporting events.
Luke is keeping busy with wrestling and hanging with new neighbor friends and old neighbor friends.
Boys Weekend
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Vikings GameMall of America
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Ted and the boys had an unforgettable weekend together—complete with football, food, and father-son bonding. As an early Christmas gift, Ted took them out for dinner, played games at the Mall of America, and treated them to a hotel stay. The highlight? Sunday’s Vikings football game, which was Paul and George’s first ever! They LOVED it!
Book Launch Party x 2
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Local PartyLakeville Party
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I’m so thankful to the neighbors and friends who came to our Turtle Trouble book launch parties! We had door prizes, a live reading, a hot chocolate bar, plus a visit from the illustrator. She created a custom coloring sheet, so we hosted a coloring contest for prizes too.
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Christmas Day Recap
On Christmas morning, the boys came downstairs to find just four presents under the tree—two of which were for Ted. Paul immediately asked if there were more gifts coming. I smiled and told him he’d find out soon.
After breakfast, I sent the boys on a scavenger hunt to find their gifts. Once all the presents were found, I had another game ready to decide who got to open the first one. We alternated between games and opening gifts, giving us more time to enjoy each other’s company.
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Christmas Scavenger Hunt
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Candy Cane GameReindeer Game
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While the boys weren’t thrilled about the games (or me taking videos), Ted gently reminded them that participating was a gift to me. And though they pretended not to enjoy it, I could tell they did.
Once the games and presents were over, we had lunch, enjoyed the new gifts, and capped the day with ice skating and sledding in the evening.
The rest of Christmas break was low-key, as the flu made its way through the family one by one.
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School Daze
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Lately, I’ve been making the rounds in schools, reading to kids and teaching every grade from K-12. It’s been a blast—though let me tell you, shifting gears from kindergarten chaos to middle school energy keeps me on my toes. Every day is a new adventure!
One highlight? When I was teaching at a middle school recently, I scored an exclusive invite to sit with the cool kids—the middle school boys—at lunch!
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Minneapolis Date
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Ted and I recently managed to escape for a much-needed date—because sometimes you’ve got to remind yourself that you are more than just your kids’ snack supplier and chauffeur. We explored the Minnesota Sculpture Garden, where we tried to interpret what the sculptures were supposed to be: Is it a deep metaphor or just a giant spoon?
We then walked across the bridge to Gai Noi and enjoyed some amazing curry. It was one of those perfect afternoons where we felt like grown-ups again.
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Wrigley’s Goes to Jail
Wrigley is doing great… aside from one minor run-in with the law.
It all started when I let him outside. Normally, he never leaves our yard, but of course, this one time, he decided to explore—I should add that he wasn’t wearing his collar. Thankfully, a kind neighbor one street over, found our adventurous (and overly friendly) dog. Not knowing where he belonged, she kindly escorted him to the local police station.
Apparently, Wrigley’s charm didn’t stop with our family; he sweet-talked the officers into taking his mug shot and posting it online to see if anyone recognized him. When I got a text from our neighbor asking, “Is this Wrigley?” I ran to check outside. No Wrigley. I asked the boys—no one had seen him. Sure enough, the fugitive in question was our Wrigley… chilling at the police station.
The reunion was equal parts embarrassing and sweet. Wrigley wagged his tail and jumped up to give me a hug, and I gave him a lecture he clearly tuned out.
He’s home safe now, keeping my reading spot warm and probably dreaming about his next “adventure.”
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Turtle Trouble Book Love
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Thanks to each of you who have purchased a copy of Turtle Trouble! I appreciate the love and support. It’s not too late to get a copy for a school, hospital, library, or child in your life! Click here to buy one, or send me a message for signed copies.
If you have a copy of the book – would you please leave an Amazon review (by clicking here)! Every review helps promote the book! Thank you in advance.
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And that’s the latest from our little corner of the world—complete with kids, chaos, and one (now) law-abiding goldendoodle. Life is not always be picture-perfect, but it’s full of stories that keep us laughing, learning, and sometimes stopping by the police station.
Thanks for catching up with us! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to refill my tea, grab a book, and see if Wrigley left me any room in my reading spot.
Until next time—stay well, stay warm, and maybe keep an eye out for any furry escape artists!
Instilling a genuine love for learning in children is a gift that keeps on giving. As parents, the role you play in shaping your child’s educational journey is profound. By fostering an environment that encourages exploration and critical thinking, you can help your child develop a passion for knowledge that transcends the classroom. This involves not just providing resources, but also modeling a commitment to learning in your own life. The journey of education is not a sprint but a marathon, and your involvement can make all the difference in how your child perceives and values learning.
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Inspiring Lifelong Learning by Returning to School
To instill a love of learning in your children, one of the most effective methods is to lead by example. Choosing to further your education demonstrates that learning is a lifelong journey, fostering personal growth while opening doors to new career opportunities. For example, pursuing professional certifications in fields like IT, project management, or teaching can expand your skill set and make you more competitive in your industry. Enrolling in online courses or workshops to master a new language, learn coding, or explore creative fields like photography or graphic design can also enrich your personal and professional life. Whether you’re earning a master’s degree in nursing to enter advanced practice roles, obtaining financial planning credentials to better serve clients, or simply taking classes to develop a hobby into a side business, your dedication to continuous learning not only advances your career but also inspires your children. It shows them the value of perseverance, adaptability, and self-improvement.
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Creating a Study Space at Home
Creating a dedicated study area at home can boost your child’s enthusiasm for learning, even if space is limited. Consider setting up a small, defined area in a quiet corner of the living room, kitchen, or bedroom. Use portable tools like a lap desk, noise-canceling headphones, or a small caddy for supplies to keep the space organized and flexible. Positioning the area near a window for natural light can improve mood and reduce eye strain, making the space more inviting. With a little creativity, you can make any area work, showing your child that learning is always a priority.
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Encouraging Learning Through Play
Incorporating educational toys into your child’s playtime can significantly enhance their cognitive development while keeping learning fun and engaging. Toys such as puzzles, building blocks, or STEM kits encourage problem-solving and critical thinking by challenging children to find solutions and think creatively. These activities promote logical reasoning, spatial awareness, and strategic planning—skills that lay the foundation for future success. By blending play with learning, educational toys not only nurture curiosity and perseverance but also help children build confidence as they overcome challenges and explore new ideas.
Maintaining a nurturing home for your child is crucial in fostering their love for learning. By creating a calm home, you help them manage emotions and focus better, which reduces stress and enhances concentration. This approach supports a positive learning atmosphere and encourages personal growth by teaching self-regulation skills. Implementing a consistent daily routine within this space can further boost your child’s sense of security and understanding of expectations, leading to improved behavior and engagement.
To nurture your child’s innate curiosity, consider the power of asking open-ended questions. For example, instead of asking, “Did you like the book?” try asking, “What did you find most interesting about the story?” Or, instead of “Did you have fun at school today?” ask, “What was the most exciting or challenging part of your day?” These questions invite children to explore and articulate their thoughts freely. This enhances problem-solving skills and boosts confidence in expressing ideas. By engaging in such dialogues, you help your child become more open-minded, enabling them to view the world from different angles and continuously learn. Engaging in these thoughtful conversations strengthens your bond and creates opportunities for meaningful growth.
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Your efforts to cultivate a love of learning in your children can have a lasting impact on their lives. By embracing strategies that encourage curiosity and critical thinking, you lay the groundwork for a future filled with exploration and discovery. Whether through setting a personal example, creating conducive learning environments, or asking the right kinds of questions, your role is pivotal in shaping a lifelong learner. The journey of education is ongoing, and your involvement can inspire a passion for knowledge that endures.
