Snake Surprise is now out in the world, and I am SO excited to finally share it with you!
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The Story
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This book is based on a true family adventure when my son finds a snake at the park and tries to sneak it home. What follows is a funny, unexpected adventure!
It’s silly. It’s suspenseful. And it’s the kind of story that gets told and retold for years, which is exactly why it’s now a book.
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A Huge Thank You to Brianna
This book would not be what it is without the incredible illustrations from Brianna. She took this story of a snake on the loose and brought every bit of the chaos and the charm to life on the page.
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Bring Snake Surprise Home
Snake Surprise is available on Amazon now and signed copies will be available in September!
If you’ve got a kid who loves animals, a good laugh, or a story that’s just a little bit wild, get this book!
Thank you for being here for this launch, and for every step of the journey that got us here. Here’s to Snake Surprise, and to many more read-aloud-again-and-again nights ahead.
If you have a teenage boy, you probably already know that getting them to read can feel like negotiating a peace treaty.
I’m not above a little strategic motivation. Around here, reading can earn you your favorite dinner, a little cold hard cash, or both. On the flip side, if you don’t touch a book, you won’t touch your phone. The investment will pay off in ways that last far longer than summer break.
Because once you find the right books, something shifts. Boys who “don’t like reading” suddenly can’t put a book down. The key is choosing stories that are fast-moving, real, and full of grit, courage, and purpose.
Here are some of our favorite, teen boy-approved reads:
Two bicycle mechanics from Ohio with no college degrees, no government funding, and no guarantee of success, changed the world forever. This is a story about failure, persistence, and the audacity to believe you can do what no one has ever done. This book is for the teen who wants to read about how an impossible dream can come true!
Boys in the Boat for Young ReadersBoys in the Boat
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Nine young men from America who went to the 1936 Berlin Olympics and stunned the world (including Adolf Hitler) by winning the gold medal in rowing. This is one of the most thrilling underdog stories ever told, and it’s all true. Brown focuses especially on Joe Rantz, a boy who grew up with almost nothing, and shows how teamwork, sacrifice, and sheer will can carry you further than talent alone. Your son won’t want to put this book down.
This short book may be the most quietly life-changing one on the list. It follows a young man named John who travels to Japan to become a samurai, and the wisdom his sensei teaches him isn’t about archery at all. He learns how to build a life worth living through daily discipline, humility, and process over outcome. In a world of instant everything, this book teaches boys something countercultural and essential: that greatness is built in the ordinary moments, one day at a time. Great for any boy involved in sports, the arts, or anything he wants to pursue with excellence.
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4. Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing
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In 1914, Ernest Shackleton and his crew set sail for Antarctica. Their ship became trapped and crushed by ice. What followed was nearly two years of survival against conditions so brutal it’s almost impossible to believe. Lansing reconstructs the story from diaries and interviews, and the result is one of the greatest survival narratives ever written. This book will make your son look at his own challenges differently. Whatever he’s going through, it’s not the Antarctic. And somehow, that’s incredibly motivating.
Brother Andrew was a young Dutch man who began smuggling Bibles behind the Iron Curtain in the 1950s, driving through communist checkpoints with nothing but his faith and a prayer. This memoir reads like a spy thriller, except it’s real, and the stakes were life and death. It’s a story of one person’s radical faith, courage under pressure, and conviction that some things are worth risking everything for. I recommend this book for any teen asking big questions about faith, purpose, and what it means to stand for something.
This one is a little different from the rest of the list. It’s a novel set in 1954 and follows eighteen-year-old Emmett Watson, freshly released from a work farm, who plans to drive west with his younger brother to start a new life. Instead, two uninvited companions hijack the trip and send everything sideways. Towles is a masterful storyteller, and this book is funny, surprising, and genuinely wise about brotherhood, justice, and what it means to forge your own path. A great choice for the boy who likes his stories with a little more grit and imagination.
If your son loves football, hand him this book first and don’t say another word. Michael Lewis tells the remarkable true story of Michael Oher, a homeless teenager from Memphis who was taken in by a family and became an NFL first-round draft pick – but it’s also a fascinating deep dive into how the game of football itself evolved, and why protecting a quarterback’s blind side became one of the most valuable skills in sports. Lewis makes you care about strategy, statistics, and a kid’s life all at once. For football lovers, this is the one that turns them into readers.
If you haven’t discovered the Heroes of History series by Janet and Geoff Benge, you’re in for a treat. These biographies are written in a narrative, story-driven style that makes history feel like a fast-paced fiction novel.
Start with George Washington: a man of humility, faith, and extraordinary perseverance who held a struggling nation together through impossible odds. Then try Daniel Boone, a frontier adventurer who embodied courage and self-reliance in the American wilderness, or Abraham Lincoln, a man of honesty and moral conviction who navigated America’s darkest hour with quiet strength. Benjamin Franklin captures the story of a scrappy, apprentice who became one of history’s greatest inventors, writers, and statesmen, proof that curiosity and hard work are a powerful combination. And don’t miss George Washington Carver, a man born into slavery who became one of America’s most brilliant scientists through faith, perseverance, and a refusal to let his circumstances define his ceiling. Round it out with Theodore Roosevelt, a sickly, asthmatic boy who became an amazing leader. And for the boy who loves exploration and or US History, Meriwether Lewis is a must – the fearless co-leader who helped map an uncharted continent and opened the American West.
Any one of these is a great starting point. Your sons might end up like me, wanting ro read the entire Heroes of History series.
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The Bribe Is Worth It
Whether it’s Culver’s or cash or staying up late to read one more chapter – don’t hesitate to incentivize. Reading is a habit, and habits need momentum. Once a teenage boy discovers that a book can genuinely thrill him, challenge him, and even change the way he sees himself, you won’t need the bribes anymore.
This summer, give him stories worth reading. The rewards will last a lifetime.
What book does your teenager love? Leave a comment!
We just got back from a Royal CaribbeanFreedom of the Seas cruise, and not only was it an incredible trip, but it was also such a special way to celebrate a senior year milestone.
Four mom + Four Sons = One Unforgettable Adventure
A week we’ll never forget. I’m so grateful for this time away with our senior boys – laughing until late, great conversations, exploring new places, and soaking in every last moment before the next big season of life.
From deck views and dinner memories to our snorkeling adventure, this trip was more than a vacation… it was a celebration of who these boys have become. Strong, kind, funny, and ready for what’s next.
So thankful for the friendships, the memories, and these incredible seniors we’re so proud of. Senior trip: success.
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Not only were core memories made, we picked up a bunch of helpful tips along the way – some practical, some surprising, and some we wish we knew ahead of time. If you’re heading on a cruise soon, here’s everything that made our trip smoother, more fun, and even more memorable.
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Getting On & Off the Ship
I was honestly nervous about how to get on and off the ship, but it was SO incredibly easy. They’ve made it smooth and very organized. Don’t stress about this part. When you get to the port, signs and people are there to direct you with where to drop your bags and board the ship.
I was also nervous about the fact that we booked a flight the SAME day as the cruise. Thankfully, our flight left on time and we went from the airport to our Uber to walking right onto the ship. You can avoid some stress by flying in early, but it CAN work to fly in the morning of the cruise.
Shampoo and conditioner – there was only ONE mystery liquid in the shower. I did NOT bring my own shampoo or conditioner so I used the mystery. My hair survived, so yours might too, but I wish I would have brought my own stuff.
Reusable shopping bag. I brought a reusable shopping bag that folds up into a tiny pouch. This was great for bringing things to the pool, and for excursions/beach days.
Plastic container + baggies for leftovers or open snacks.
Pack clothes in your carryon. The staff takes your bags right when you get dropped off at port and you won’t get them til night. Pack shorts, t-shirt, sandals and swimming gear in your carryon so you can enjoy the cruise from the moment you step on board.
Reusable Water Bottle – You can get water at meals, but water bottles are $1 each. Save yourself some $ by bringing your own bottle!
CASH – The cruise does charge extra money every day for tips for all staff, but you might want to bring more for those who are extra helpful! For example: Excursion crew members, bag attendants, your room attendant, and your waiter. Also, bring money if you eat at a restaurant OFF the island.
No iron in the room and no self-service laundry (you can pay for both). I recommend that you bring clothes that don’t require ironing.
There ARE drawers and a closet with hangers.
There IS a safe in the room.
Unpack when you arrive and slide suitcases under beds to save space in your room.
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Food & Drinks Tips
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Black coffee with cream and sugar – FREE in multiple spots.
Starbucks is available for purchase. Bonus: All food at Starbucks is NO charge.
Pizza place in the promenade is open LATE every night and serves three types of pizza and no charge. Pepperoni, cheese, and pizza of the day – all delicious. Gluten free and veggie upon request.
Dinners in the main dining room are amazing – no need to upgrade. Every dinner included steak, seafood, pasta, chicken and vegetarian options for no extra charge. The menu changes every night and you can order anything you’d like.
When you get onboard, go straight to Windjammer for a great lunch and lovely view. Then explore the ship.
Cococay beach day has food INCLUDED in several large lunch areas.
Water, coffee and juice included. Pop/soda extra.
Alcoholic drinks are about $14 each. HOWEVER, there is a DRINK OF THE DAY for $8.50 and margaritas are $6 from 4-6pm everyday.
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Best Spot on the Ship
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Find the helicopter pad for amazing views and great photo opportunities. It was one of our favorite hidden gems.
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Entertainment Tip
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The shows were absolutely FANTASTIC. The family comedy show had every person in our group laughing for the ENTIRE show. Thank you PETE. We also loved the fabulous “Broadway” shows, as well as the game shows.
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Excursion Highlight
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If you’re going to Cozumel, I highly recommend snorkeling. It was one of the highlights of our trip – amazing fish I’ve never seen, every color of the rainbow. An unforgettable experience for all of us.
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Gym Lovers
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The gym is amazing – no extra charge, full of equipment and everything you need for a great workout. Pack work out clothes.
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One Last Smart Tip
Book your Uber the night before you leave the ship. Everyone is trying to get transportation to the airport at the same time on the morning you leave.
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Cruises are such a fun vacation, and I honestly can’t wait to do it again. I hope these cruise tips help you feel more prepared and relaxed before you step on your ship!
Shopping for teens at Easter can be tricky. They may have outgrown toys and Easter egg hunts, but they still love the fun of an Easter basket. The key? Think practical, meaningful, and just-for-fun items they’ll actually use.
Here are some Easter basket fillers perfect for teenagers:
As we fill baskets with fun surprises and useful gifts, let’s not forget why we celebrate Easter. It’s more than baskets, candy, and spring – it’s the celebration of Jesus conquering death. Because of Easter morning, we have joy that lasts far beyond Easter weekend.
Let’s point our teenagers to what matters most and give thanks for our RISEN Savior. He is the greatest gift of all.
If you’re looking for a getaway filled with adventure, gorgeous views, and plenty of small-town charm, Minnesota’s North Shore is the perfect spot. Our family spent a few days exploring from just south of Duluth up to Grand Marais, and here are some highlights and recommendations from our trip.
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First Stop: Jay Cooke State Park
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Before even reaching the North Shore, make time for Jay Cooke State Park, just south of Duluth. The swinging suspension bridge over the St. Louis River is an adventure in itself, and the trails through the woods give you a taste of rugged Minnesota beauty right away. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and kick off the trip. There’s a parking lot and a welcome center with bathrooms, picnic tables, and a small museum (free!). Just steps outside the welcome center you will find the bridge, with hikes of varying levels across the bridge.
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Duluth: Gateway to the North Shore
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Once in Duluth, grab some lunch and take your food down by the Aerial Lift Bridge to watch ships move through the canal. If you have extra time, stop at the Lake Superior Maritime Museum for kid-friendly exhibits about shipping and the Great Lakes. (It’s free!)
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Hiking & Exploring Along the Shore
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Highway 61 is full of can’t-miss spots. A few of our top recommendations:
Tettegouche State Park – Towering cliffs and gorgeous lake views.
Superior Hiking Trail – Stretch your legs on one of the many short sections for unbeatable overlooks.
Bring water shoes! The rocks are sharp on bare feet.
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Grand Marais: Small Town Charm
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Free Lighthouse museumFinding trails in the woods is like a treasure hunt
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In Grand Marais: wander around town, walk to the lighthouse and through the forested peninsula. It’s the perfect little town to slow down, shop, and enjoy the lakeside scenery.
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Lutsen: Adventure in the Hills
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Ted and his dadNightly s’mores! YUM!The boys could skip rocks for hours
We love visiting in every season. In winter, we rent a cozy ski-in/ski-out cabin tucked in the woods. For our first summer getaway, we loved our stay at Bluefin Bay, right on the edge of Lake Superior. Waking up to breathtaking sunrises and ending the day with s’mores by the fire was unforgettable.
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Split Rock State Park: A Grand Finale
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On our way home, we wrapped things up at Split Rock State Park. We skipped endless rocks along the beach, tossed a football around (even roping in a few passersby), and waded through the icy Lake Superior water to a small island just offshore. Slippery, cold, and a little daring – but completely unforgettable. We watched a deer make this trek last winter:
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And of course, don’t miss the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse. Built after a massive 1905 storm sank nearly 30 ships, the lighthouse was retired in 1969 but still open for tours, and even lights up once a year in memory of the Edmund Fitzgerald.
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Why We Love the North Shore
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From the swinging bridge at Jay Cooke, to the Superior Trail in Grand Marais, to skipping rocks at Split Rock, the North Shore is packed with family-friendly adventures. Whether you’re into history, hiking, or just soaking in lake views, it’s the kind of trip that keeps you coming back again and again.
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Fun Fact:
Fun fact: Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, over 31,000 square miles (about the size of South Carolina).
Soon after moving to Minnesota, I learned that the State Fair is a “MUST DO!” Minnesotans are crazy about their fair and look forward to it all year. They call it the “The Great Minnesota Get-Together.” If you’re bringing kids along, a little planning can help you enjoy the fair. Here are TEN kid-friendly highlights and tips to make it a great day at the fair.
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Ten Things to Do with Kids
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1. Eco Experience The Eco Experience is great for curious kids who need a break from rides and crowds. Lots of hands-on exhibits. There’s a free outdoor nature play space with water feature, sand, hammocks, fort building, and native plants. It’s right next to Salem Lutheran dining hall.
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2. Visit the Animals Head to the barns for cows, sheep, pigs, goats, and horses. Many kids love watching the baby animals at the Miracle of Birth Center, where you might catch a live birth or see newborn calves, goats, sheep, and piglets.
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3. Little Farm Hands This hands-on exhibit is always a hit with younger kids. They can plant pretend crops, feed animals, and “sell” their goods at the market.
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4. Ride the Rides The Kidway has smaller rides. The Midway has roller coasters and games. The Giant Slide is a classic and my favorite ‘ride.’
Giant SlideReady for the Roller Coaster
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5. Parades & Entertainment Catch the daily parade (2 p.m.) filled with marching bands, floats, and fun characters. Also check out the free stages scattered around the fairgrounds for music and kid-friendly shows.
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We watched a parade and fun street performer!
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5. Try the Food (Pronto Pups!) Of course, you’ll want to sample some food-on-a-stick, but there are plenty of kid favorites like cheese curds, mini donuts, and ice cream at the dairy building. Tip: Share portions so you can try more without overstuffing.
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ice cream from the dairy barnOur first Pronto Pup
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7. DNR Building and Park A mini nature center right in the fair, perfect for fish lovers.
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8. Sports Fans? Visit FAN Central or Misc. Sports Tents We stopped by the Twins tent and Luke had a blast hitting baseballs (FREE!)! A fun way to burn some energy, practice their swings, and feel like they’re in the big leagues. If you are looking for Twins merch, I found a rack of $5 Twins t-shirts inside the tent!
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9. Learn how to operate heavy equipment Luke absolutely loved getting hands-on experience with three different tractors/excavaotors. You’ll find this exhibit just outside the 4H building and it’s FREE!
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10. Butterly Exhibit We loved the Butterfly exhibit – what a unique experience and reasonable price – $4 each.
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Additional Tips:
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WATER – Bring a reusable water bottle – there are filling stations around the fair.
SNACKS – I pack some meat sticks, granola bars, and fruit for my kids so they never get hangry. I give them a little ‘backpack’ or drawstring sack to wear for their snacks and water and miscellaneous things they want or win.
TENNIS SHOES – The ground is dirty (think animal droppings) and with all the walking you will thank me later.
BLUE RIBBON BOOK – Includes coupon and discounts you can use throughout the fair.
GRAND STAND – Go inside to explore lots of shops. I recommend Martin’s Wholesale Store on the Top Level, East side. This stand has a bunch of clearance items like hoodies, backpacks, and coats for a STEAL!
MAP – Grab a map first thing and plan out your route. The fair is the perfect opportunity for your kids to learn “map-reading” skills. Let them navigate how to find your next stop.
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Those are my tips and tricks – what about you? What family-friendly recommendations do you have? Leave a comment by clicking on the little box by the Title of this post!
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As a mom of four active boys, life is full — of sports gear, busy mornings, and sore muscles! Over the years, I’ve found a handful of everyday items that make life a little easier, smoother, and more comfortable. Whether it’s taming bedhead before school, easing post-game aches, or getting out the door wrinkle-free, these simple tools are total game-changers in our house. I thought I’d share a few of my absolute favorite things — the unsung heroes that get used all the time.
I now own two of these — and honestly, I’m tempted to get a third. In a household full of athletes, sore muscles are a given, and this heating pad gets used almost daily. It heats up quickly, stays warm, and is big enough to cover backs, shoulders, or stomachs when someone’s feeling under the weather. Whether it’s for post-practice recovery, growing pains, or a cozy comfort on sick days, it’s become a go-to essential in our home.
When we’re not reaching for the heating pad, this gel ice wrap is the next best thing — especially for sports injuries and sore joints. We keep it in the freezer at all times — because with four boys in sports, it’s not a matter of if someone needs it, but when.
This spray bottle is awesome — perfect for taming bedhead (especially on boys who pretend they don’t need to brush their hair), or giving wrinkled clothes a quick refresh without dragging out the iron.
Another favorite in our house: Uno Flip! I can’t say enough about the blessing of getting your kids — no matter their age — around the table for a game. You laugh, you learn, you connect (and maybe get a little competitive!). This summer, my in-laws introduced us to this fun twist on the classic Uno game – the “flip” adds just enough chaos and surprise to keep everyone on their toes. It’s simple, fast-paced, and such an easy way to make memories together.
I love a hot cup of coffee in the morning, but when the afternoon hits and I’m on the go, Spark is my favorite afternoon pick-me-up. It gives me the energy boost I need and it’s packed with vitamins to help me stay sharp and focused. Whether I’m writing blog posts, shuttling kids to practice, or trying to stay awake for late night pick ups, Spark helps me keep up with the boy-mom pace of life.
This is definitely a splurge item, but I absolutely love mine. It dries hair crazy fast — which is essential when you’re trying to look halfway human while keeping up with four boys and their non-stop sports schedules. With the right attachment, it curls or straightens like a dream. After all the heating pads, ice packs, and water bottles I use for my boys, this one’s just for me. Consider it my small act of self-care in a house full of sports gear and sweaty socks. Salon results at home, no appointment (or babysitter) required!
Whether you’re a fellow sports mom, always on the go, or just someone who appreciates a good product, I hope you found something new to try. If you’ve got a favorite everyday essential, I’d love to hear about it!
Kids don’t actually need screens to have fun (shocker!). They need space to explore, create, and connect. Whether you’re looking to cut back on screen time or just add more balance to your family’s routine, here are screen-free activities that inspire joy, movement, and imagination.
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1. Have a “What’s in the Box” Challenge
George and Clark: What’s in the Box Challenge
Cut holes a in box
Choose an item to put inside
Allow someone to reach their hand inside the box and “guess” what it is.
Take turns finding items to hide, then guessing “What’s in the Box?”
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Want to read about the Egly boys “What’s in the Box” challenge that takes an unexpected turn? Get a copy of Turtle Trouble on Amazon by clicking here. This playful tale celebrates sibling teamwork, imagination, and adventure—perfect for young readers and their families to enjoy together!
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2. Build something
Home Depot
The Home Depot and Lowe’s offer free monthly workshops for kids called Kids Workshops and DIY-U Kids Workshops. These workshops are designed to teach children ages 5-12 about building, crafting, and using tools, fostering creativity and practical skills. The workshops are held on the first Saturday of each month at participating stores, with The Home Depot’s workshops generally running from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Can’t join on Saturday? Home Depot has created take home kits for kids – Go to customer service to ask for one for each of your kids. My 11 year old was able to follow the simple instructions and build a battleship on his own.
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3. Play a Game or Complete a Puzzle
The kids played lots of games George is 12 but still likes to playCousins playing games
Set out Pencils, markers or crayons and blank paper – Set the timer for 15 minutes and encourage everyone to sit and draw. I’m amazed at some of the things they will come up with. If they don’t know what to draw, set a stuffed animal on the table or pull out a favorite book and ask their favorite page!
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5. Make playdoh
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Click here for a recipe. We like to make a batch and then I give my boys ideas things to make: a snake, a snowman, a fidget spinner!
One of the best screen free activities for kids is, of course, reading – or writing!
Find a book you and your children can enjoy together this summer. My recommendation? The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. My kids were excited to listen to a new chapter each day. When we finished, Luke said, “Can we find another book just like that one?”
Buy blank books and allow kids to write their own stories or journal about their summer!
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18. Sidewalk Chalk Art
George’s artworkClark’s artwork
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Turn your driveway into an art gallery, obstacle course, or hopscotch.
Use items you have at home whether it’s face masks, cucumber slices, or nail polish. This is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening around the house.
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20. Let them be bored
Call it “NO Tech Day” and let them figure out what to do without electronics. Their creativity will spike when they are forced to figure it out on their own. Plan for unplanned time for your kids and see what they come up with.
Spring has been full in every sense of the word—full of travel, sports, special moments with family, and glimpses of God’s goodness in the everyday. From college visits and basketball tournaments to sweet time with my sister and a meaningful Mother’s Day, these past few weeks have reminded me how precious it is to slow down and savor the people and moments that matter most.
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Home Sweet Oklahoma
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A tiny fish that Paul caughtA giant Frog Paul caughtHiking with my little sistersLifelong friendsTime with my Great Uncle
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Dinner with friends
Over Spring Break, we spent a long weekend in Oklahoma and packed it full of goodness. It’s never enough time with family, and saying goodbye is always the hardest part. We soaked up every minute with Nana and Papa, my sisters, stepmom, and a few lifelong friends—time that truly fills the soul. There were so many laughs and memories made.
The boys loved all the classic “boy stuff”—backyard football, fishing, and a stock car race with Papa. One of the highlights was getting to see Nana’s brother, who captivated us with stories of his childhood on St. Thomas Island with Shirley. Tales of swimming with sharks and fishing adventures brought family history to life in the best way.
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Spring Sport in Full Swing
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Clark is playing AAU basketball with a fantastic group of boys, Paul is back on the soccer field, and Luke is back on the diamond for another season of baseball.
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Basketball, Buzzer-Beaters, and Big Wins
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A visit from friendsPaul came to cheer on Clark’s team
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Ted took Clark to Iowa for an out-of-town tournament, and they came home as champions! One highlight was having friends who live in Iowa come out to cheer Clark on. Another unforgettable moment was the most exciting game of the weekend: the boys were down by three, and in the final second, Clark’s teammate made a three-point shot to send the game into overtime. With the clock winding down in OT and the score tied again, the team pulled off a Hail Mary—heaving the ball across the court to Clark’s teammate, who caught it between two defenders and nailed the game-winning layup. It was such a fun, high-energy game and a memory they won’t forget!
Watch it here:
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My First Twins Game
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Luke’s school reserved a section of seats for all students, so he took me to my very first Twins game. One of the highlights was getting to meet the team’s organist, who’s been playing at every game since 1999! We had a blast cheering on the team—and even better, the Twins beat the Angels!
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Sisters, Sweet Tea, and Speaking at Summit
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My sister and brother-in-law
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I was so honored to be the guest speaker at a ladies’ event at Summit Church in Acworth, GA. My brother-in-law is the pastor there, which makes my sister the pastor’s wife. The event was beautifully done, and the time I spent with my sister made it even more special. We shared delicious meals, sipped sweet tea, watched chick flicks, went to church together on Sunday, and explored the charming town of Woodstock. It was a weekend full of meaning, connection, and joy.
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Exploring NDSU with George
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Architecture Building
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I took George on his first out-of-state college visit to North Dakota State University, about 3.5 hours northwest of us. The campus was beautiful, and the staff gave an outstanding tour. We explored the impressive architecture building and the College of Business, both of which left a good impression. George was happy to learn that the meal plan includes unlimited visits to the dining hall (TBH, I was excited about this as well). He’s also pumped about the chance to attend sports games at this D1 school. NDSU is high on the list of future contenders!
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A VIP Soccer Experience
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Paul, Luke, and Messi!
Ted won four tickets through work to the Minnesota United vs. Miami soccer game. As part of the special event, Paul and Luke had the incredible opportunity to step onto the field for the National Anthem, standing in front of Lionel Messi, one of the greatest soccer players of all time. The excitement didn’t stop there—Paul was thrilled to see Justin Jefferson at the game, the Vikings wide receiver. According to Paul, Jefferson even “dabbed him up.”
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God’s Good Gifts on Mother’s Day
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On Mother’s Day, Clark had two basketball games (I’d love to have a word with whoever made that schedule), so Ted took him to those. But before they left, Ted woke up extra early to go pick up Starbucks coffee and a breakfast sandwich. He even set the dining table out on our back deck so I could relax with my book, coffee in hand, surrounded by morning sunshine. He also bought me beautiful flowers and had the boys write me handwritten cards—the very best kind.
While Clark was at his games, the other three boys and I went to church, then enjoyed a picnic lunch on Lake Minnetonka. We strolled around Wayzata and stopped by the old Railroad Depot, now a charming little museum. That evening, Ted picked up Mexican food (my favorite!), and we ended the day with a family dinner on the deck.
It was a truly wonderful day, and I’m so grateful—for the boys God has blessed me with, and for a husband who went out of his way to make it all so special.
This spring has reminded us of the importance of family, fun, and embracing every moment. We can’t wait to see what summer has in store!
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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.
