Albert Lea Magazine January/February 2021

ALBERT LEA

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

magazine

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OPTIONS OTHER THAN CAKE

THE BRIDE ISSUE

A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

ON ICE

EDITOR’S NOTE

Have a wedding this year? This is for you

Editor Sarah Stultz lives in Albert Lea with her husband, Jason, and son, Landon. She loves interior decorating and gardening.

Got ideas?

This is our ninth year! We at Albert Lea Magazine want to hear what you think, and we need your brightest ideas for coming issues. Favorite musicians? Finest artists? Beautiful home? Best storytellers? Local nightlife? We are open-minded. Call Sarah Stultz at 379-3433. Feel free to write a letter, too. Our address is on the right.

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After a successful first bridal issue in 2020, we return the wedding-themed issue this month with all kinds of ideas from local couples and vendors to make that special day a success.

In addition to all of the usual elements of Albert Lea Magazine you’ve grown to love, such as the DIYs, book and streaming reviews, the recipes and the columns, this issue features extra articles, information and advertisements centered around weddings and brides.

Three couples allowed us to feature them in this issue, highlighting everything from their wedding ceremony and reception itself, down to details such as the cake, the wedding dress and everything in between.

These weddings provided not only beauty and style but insight into each couple’s personalities.

We hope this issue can be an inspiration for couples looking to marry in the coming year and to serve as a reminder about all the wonderful options we have available in our own community.

Outside of the bridal theme, this issue also includes a feature on one of Albert Lea’s favorite winter pastimes — ice fishing.

But this is not your average ice fishing.

In this issue, we found residents who enjoy ice fishing in style, with all the luxuries of home built right into their ice house.

This took our normal home features to a different level, and it was fun to see all of the amenities that can be available for those who love this popular winter sport — whether it be as a family, individually or with friends.

And what made these ice houses even better is that they can be utilized throughout the year as campers when not on the ice, allowing people a year-round benefit and more time for rest and relaxation.

We hope you enjoy checking out these ice houses as much as we did.

We wish you all a wonderful year, and, as always, we thank you for being part of our journey for another year.

If you have any ideas you think would be great for a future issue, please reach out and let us know!

— Sarah Stultz

ALBERTmagazine LEA PUBLISHER Crystal Miller EDITORIAL Editor Sarah Stultz Contributing Writers Kari Anderson Linda Evenson Michelle Nelson Emily Schmidt Sarah Stultz Mollee Tscholl Contributing Photographers Colleen Harrison ART Layout Design Kim Ehrich SALES & PROMOTION Sales Representatives Chelsey Bellrichard Renee Citsay Daniel Gullickson JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 Volume 9, Number 1 EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE: Editor, Albert Lea Magazine, 808 W. Front St. Albert Lea, MN 56007 ONLINE: albertleamagazine.com or facebook.com/ albertleamagazine © 2021 All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced without written permission.

For comments, suggestions or story ideas call 507-379-3433.

To purchase advertising, call 507-379-3427.

To subscribe, call 507-379-3422.

Thorne Crest Senior Living Community invites you to a FREE

LIVE Online Video Presentation:

“Downsizing: Successful Downsizing Tips and Tricks Virtual Workshop”

– Presented by Kimberly Alwin of A Smooth Move –

January 21 • 2 p.m.

In this fun and interactive presentation you will learn:

Online Linking instructions available at

ThorneCrest.net

n How to begin the process of sorting your precious belongings n Which items are important to keep n Options for re-homing things you no longer need n Space planning 101 n Pitfalls to avoid when you move

1201 Garfield Avenue • Albert Lea, MN 56007

507-373-2311 • www.ThorneCrest.net Thorne Crest is owned and operated by American Baptist Homes of the Midwest, a not-for-profit provider of senior health care since 1930.

Always On. Unlimited article access anytime, from anywhere, on any device.

808 W Front St. | Albert Lea, MN AlbertLeaTribune.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 3

ALBERT LEA | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

on the cover

features A MEMORABLE OUTDOOR WEDDING

A COUNTRY WEDDING

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Couple has wedding at one of their favorite places in town

Couple hosts wedding, reception outside the home of bride’s parents

A HOME AWAY FROM HOME Area residents enjoy ice fishing with modern-day amenities

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— Photo courtesy PORTraits by Lynne

A COMBINATION OF ELEGANCE AND FUN

Couple’s reception combines fun and elegance for upscale carnival theme

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ALBERT LEA | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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contents Seen 8

Bride

ALBERT LEA

CHRISTMAS DECOR

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ICE STORM

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DEER WIDOWS EVENT

Departments

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16

DIY: SUGAR SCRUB

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SAVOR: APPLE AND BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS

All the rest 18

BOOKS: GREAT READS

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LOOKING BACK

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DIETITIAN’S DIGEST

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HEALTH & FITNESS

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WHY I LOVE ALBERT LEA

22 64 On the cover: Lizzie and Logan Meyer photographed

by Glasser Images

Follow us on Instagram & Facebook JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 5

No matter where you’re at in life, you’ll find a home in our community!

Independent Living Assisted Living Secured Memory Care Skilled Care Short Term Rehab Sunday Worship For more information, call 507-373-8226 or visit www.stjohnsofalbertlea.org 901 Luther Place and 1761 Eagle View Circle Albert Lea, MN 507-373-8226 www.stjohnsofalbertlea.org

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ANGIE HOFFMAN REALTOR® | OFFICE ADMIN 507.402.7399 angie@roberthoffmanrealty.com MN #40608325

R O B E RT H O F F M A N BROKER | REALTOR® | PROPERTY MGR. 507.402.4692 robert@roberthoffmanrealty.com MN #40229984, IA #B67145000

DANIEL GULLICKSON REALTOR® 507.456.4667 daniel@roberthoffmanrealty.com MN #40449989

212 Broadway Ave. S. | Albert Lea, MN | MN #40230933, IA #F06060000

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 7

SEEN | CHRISTMAS DECOR

2 Albert Lea residents decorated their homes for the Christmas season.

(1) Ruth Olson (2) Greenwood Road (3) Dave and Sandy Mullenbach, with granddaughters Jordan, Whitney and Jaeda (4) Martin Road (5) Willamor Road

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We are in

LOVE

With everything

ALbErt LEA hAs tO OffEr anD We hOPe yOU are tOO.

this publication wouldn't be possible without partnerships with our advertisers. Please support local business and support advertisers in this magazine. Let them know you saw their ad in albert Lea Magazine!

tO AdVErtisE cALL 507-379-3427.

SEEN | ICE STORM

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The area landscape was covered in ice in mid-November during a winter storm that made for photogenic scenery.

(1) Rebekah Hanson (2) Dessari Oakland (3) Mary Thompson (4) Veronica Petersen (5) Heidi Pryor (6) Laurel Yost (7) Paula Buendorf (8) Heidi Pryor (9) Käri Smither-Brua (10) Ruth Olson (11) Veronica Petersen

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ICE STORM | SEEN

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SEEN | DEER WIDOWS EVENT

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The Albert Lea Main Street Program and Albert Lea Convention and Visitors Bureau organized the Deer Widows Big Buck Hunting event Nov. 6 and 7 at Albert Lea businesses. Participants in the event had to take photos in front of each store’s deer post or with their purchases to be eligible for prizes.

(1) Laura Munson (2) Kiki Christensen (3) Annie Furland (4) Jenni Hanna (5) Desirae Wagner was the winner of the Deer Widows Big Buck Hunt event (6) Betsy Smith (7) Jessica Asay, Emily Hovseth, Mary Nelson, Melanie Aldrich and Erica Kirgan

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DEER WIDOWS EVENT | SEEN

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(8) Tricia Dahl (9) Amber Smith (10) Daphney Maras (11) Paula Twedt (12) Christi Johnson (13) Griselda Root

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Find everything you need in

Downtown Albert Lea Flavor & Quality That

Make the Cut

Conger Meat Market Quality Meats All Locally Raised Two Locations to Choose From

146 William St. E doWntoWn albErt lEa and 100 William avE. congEr

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albert lea: 507-377-1556 • conger: 507-265-3340

I

Attorney

ALLAN L. HALVORSEN Goldman, Sturtz & HalvorSen

Wills | Probate | PoWers of attorney HealtH Care DireCtives real estate | transfer on DeatH DeeDs 137 North Broadway Ave. | Albert Lea, MN 507-373-1409

Want to be a part of this section in the next magazine?

Contact Renee Citsay at 507-379-3430 or renee.citsay@albertleatribune.com

BY KARI ANDERSON

DIY | SUGAR SCRUB

VANILLA LATTE

SUGAR SCRUB Sugar scrubs are a cheap, easy item to make. They make great gifts, whether for a bridal party, for birthdays or holidays, or for treating yourself.

What you will need:

Kari Anderson works full time and is a full-time college student who lives in Albert Lea with her fiance, their two children and their several animals. She loves bringing people joy through her business, Kreations by Koral, where she makes home decor, soaps, scrubs and other items.

1 If using coconut oil, heat it so that it liquifies.

Don’t let it get too hot, as it will melt the sugar. It should be liquid but you should be able to touch it.

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1 cup brown sugar 1/8 cup coconut oil or avocado oil 1/2 cup coffee grounds 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Essential oils, if desired Bowl Spatula Measuring cups and spoons 2 4-ounce jars or 1 8-ounce jar

2 Measure out the brown sugar and pour into bowl. Repeat for coffee grounds, vanilla extra and oils, if using.

3 Pour in coconut oil or avocado oil and mix together.

4 Pour mixture into jar or container. Apply label, string or other materials, if desired, for extra cuteness.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 17

BOOKS | GREAT READS

AREA AUTHORS

SHARE SUCCESS

“Tumbleweeds Burning, A Novel” “Tumbleweeds Burning, Book 2”

By Milt Ost

Heinrich and Anna Marie Oster are invited by the czar to move to Russia. Their excitement runs high when a son of their family is selected to serve in the czar’s elite body guard, the Imperial Hussars, and life is good.

Life next to the royals is full of thrills and color, but before long the corruption and greed in high places are exposed, and, soon, bitter persecution of the family makes their days difficult. Their children flee to America and accept the government’s offer of free homestead acres on the great prairies of the heartland.

The free land, however, extracts a heavy price. As they wrestle their sod house out of the stubborn buffalo grasses, they discover that their new “palace on the prairies” is only three miles from the native sons of the warriors who scalped George Armstrong Custer.

It leaves their days uneasy, their nights uncertain.

At every turn, nature confronts them with immense battles, from killing blizzards and sweeping fires, to plagues of

grasshoppers — from years of death dealing drought where nothing grows but tumbleweeds and biting flies, to international conflicts that drastically change their lives. Through it all, they come together in faith and turn their little spot of earth into the breadbasket of the world.

Background about Ost In the late 1960s, Albert Lea football was in its glory days, and the Albert Lea Tribune’s sports editor was John Polis. Earlier, Polis and Ost had been dorm-mates at college, and in 1971, when they came to town, Polis and Ost, with their families, became good friends.

Polis had been born in Latvia under the old Soviet Union regime and together with his family endured unbelievable hardship and suffering during World War II. In 1949, they were granted displaced persons status and came to America and then finally to Albert Lea, where Ost and Polis later met.

In the meantime, Polis’ older brother remained in Latvia, and Polis, wanting to go back home to visit him, asked Ost to come along. While there, they met the recently elected Lutheran archbishop of the “new Russia,” who introduced them to the newly reorganized Russia Lutheran Church, which had been virtually destroyed by the Communists.

Ost’s own connection to Russia was that his German ancestors had been invited by the czars in 1804 to immigrate to Russia, where they were given free land, among other things. For nearly 100 years they lived there, until persecutions made life difficult, and in 1902 they fled to America, settling in western North Dakota.

The two “Tumbleweeds Burning” volumes tell their story through five generations of the Oster family, in historical novel form. The first volume relates their life in Russia, while the second tells the story of their life as homesteaders in the American heartland. A third volume, close to being finished, relates the story of the fifth generations up to present times.

The books are available from the author at 1204 Kent Ave., Albert Lea (telephone 507-402-7992 or email demost@lakes.com), or at Homestead Boutique, 415 E. William St. in Albert Lea, and also at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

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MORE ABOUT

THE PARK AVENUE AUTHORS The Park Avenue Authors was founded by Susan Joyce in 2013.

The group meets monthly for an afternoon, during which time they educate themselves about elements of novel writing and publishing, plus provide support, encouragement and critique to members.

There are now 17 members in the group, all of whom have been published when they put together a book for the Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener in 2019 titled “The Biggest Fish Story,” which the city of Albert Lea purchased and included in the 600 visitor packets.

Aside from that, there are now six members who are published, and most having published multiple times.

Susan Joyce

Joyce is an award-winning financial adviser and lecturer, who has facilitated hundreds of presentations and seminars in the area of financial management, business development and marketing, career and personal development, and economic trends and political impacts on personal finance.

She is listed in the Cambridge Who’s Who Registry of Executives and Professionals, has been a member of multiple state, national and international organizations, such as Rotary, Zonta International, Business and Professional Women, National Association of Female Executives, Public Relations Society of America, and NonFiction Authors Association. She founded and directs the Women’s Financial Focus Groups of Minnesota and continues to work passionately to educate people, particularly women, about the world of finance for the purpose of empowering them to live their lives fully and with greater purpose. Now retired, Susan is an author, lecturer and serves on academic and financial boards and committees within her community, and as an ordained deacon of her church. Now retired, she lives with her husband and their two rescue dogs in a turn-of-the-century home on a lake in southern Minnesota.

Chaunce Stanton

Stanton grew up in Annandale and attended St. Cloud State University, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in english and creative writing.

He has written three novels and numerous short fiction pieces, and also hosts the quirky Claudia Ryan-Smith podcast called “Boxflap.”

Smith has been writing for about 20 years.

His latest novel (“Grave of Songs”) is set She enjoys history of the American West, so in Annandale in 1888. It is literary historical fiction, but with a focus that’s what she writes about. on family drama and suspense. The book was inspired by an actual Her mother grew up on the Rosebud newspaper article from that time about a farmer in Clearwater who was Indian reservation in South Dakota. Her clearing land and discovered the skeletons of seven giants. He wondered grandpa was a real cowboy and ranched for what it would have been like to have lived through that discovery and many years in South Dakota. They later moved how it might change things. As he wrote, he realized that the bones were

to Iowa. He influenced her a great deal because he just a small part of the family’s story. They have their own secrets and liked to tell stories about the old days. drama, just like all families.

No matter the era, the human condition is the same: sorrow and joy, The hero is young Mundy Nelson, a boy whose father dies. Mundy love and hate, life and death and struggle and triumph. How did people struggles to save the family farm. His strict aunt and uncle arrive from cope in the 1800s? Not much differently than today. Perhaps a bit more Spring Grove and really cause problems for him with physical and reliance on self and hard work than on technology, but otherwise much emotional abuse, but Mundy persists. Ultimately, this is a coming-of-age the same. Her stories incorporate that element of human nature. story that is about faith and redemption without being preachy.

She has always been a reader, and at some point she thought, “I can do All of Stanton’s novels are available at Sweet Reads in Austin and online. this — tell an interesting tale.”

His short humor pieces are available on Amazon for the Kindle. The latest Of course, that’s not as easy as it may seem in one’s mind. She read this one, “Ouija Bored” is about to come out in audio version, as well. bit of great advice: Thinking is not writing. Getting words on paper can be Stanton’s wife, Naomi, and he lived in the heart of urban St. Paul for a challenge. But for anyone out there wanting to write, she says, “Just do more than 20 years before moving to a five-acre hobby farm in Lyle. it.” You’ll find it is fun.

They raise organic veggies, garlic, medicinal herbs and have planted Her published books are “Coyote Moon” and “Tomorrow’s Promise.”

800 trees since they moved in two years ago — mostly native fruit and They are available on Amazon. “Finding Home” is due out in a few nut trees and bushes. They hope to increase ecological diversity in their months. corner of the world while raising food for themselves and for others.

Matryoshka dolls are a set of wooden dolls of decreasing size placed one inside another. A set of matryoshkas consists of a wooden figure, which separates at the middle, top from bottom, to reveal a smaller figure of the same sort inside, which has, in turn, another figure inside of it, and so on. The first Russian nested doll set was made in 1890 by wood turning craftsman and wood carver Vasily Zvyozdochkin from a design by Sergey Malyutin, who was a folk crafts painter at Abramtsevo. Traditionally the outer layer is a woman, dressed in a sarafan, a long and shapeless traditional Russian peasant jumper dress. The figures inside may be of any gender; the smallest, innermost doll is typically a baby turned from a single piece of wood. Ost got his nesting dolls about 10 years ago when he was visiting St. Petersburg, Russia.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 19

STREAMING REVIEWS “The Queen’s Gambit” Available on Netflix Review by Chelsey Bellrichard

Apparently a record-setting 62 million households chose to watch “The Queen’s Gambit” in its first 28 days, making it the biggest scripted limited series on Netflix to date — and yes, I was one of them.

The show is set during the Cold War era and focuses on an orphaned chess prodigy, Beth Harmon. We watch Beth struggle with addiction from a young age in her orphanage, and continue to watch her grow into possibly the world’s greatest chess player.

The show roped me in right away, and I was hooked! I binged this show in a day; since there is only eight episodes as it is a limited series, it was not hard to do. I myself know nothing about chess but was deeply invested in Beth and watching her play each match.

I highly recommend adding this show to your Netflix list.

“Dark”

Available on Netflix Review by Terry Thissen “A glitch in the matrix?”

“Or, a message from the other side?”

These are a few questions posed by two characters in the Netflix series “Dark,” as they attempt to understand the high strangeness that besets their small town.

The sci-fi drama links 2019 to 1986 in a kaleidoscope of mysteries, a 33-year loop that challenges the viewer to solve for X. Think “Stranger Things,” only in German.

Yes, it’s in German. You will need to suffer 20 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

the subtitles to enjoy the show, but it’s worth the effort.

Parallels to “Stranger Things” are certainly evident through a plotline with missing kids, supernatural weirdness and potsmoking teens on the loose in the 1980s.

But these superficial similarities vanish as “Dark,” unlike the straightforward storytelling of its counterpart, delves into a complicated mystery with many layers to savor.

The audience must work for its dessert in this absorbing drama. If you have a taste for spooky, existential forays into the nature of time, then grab a slice of Black Forest Torte with “Dark.”

“Crikey! It’s the Irwins”

Available on Hulu and Animal Planet Go Review by Tyler Julson For all of us who grew up watching Steve Irwin doing those crazy things on Animal Planet, we finally have the Irwin family back, and they do not disappoint.

The show follows his family and numerous other workers at the Australia Zoo as they go about their daily lives, showing us the ins and outs of running one of the world’s most popular zoos. We see things like the birthing of animals, caring for the animals at the zoo and even wild animal rescues, all while making you feel like you learned something — just like Steve’s original shows.

Terri, Steve’s wife, returns as a familiar face, along with her children Bindi and Robert. While of course we all miss Steve, seeing Robert being trained and working with animals is like watching a young Steve.

“Crikey! It’s the Irwins” is a great nostalgia blast for those who used to watch Steve Irwin religiously, and is a great way for younger generations to get in touch with their naturalist conservation side.

“Ratched”

Available on Netflix Review by Colleen Harrison I checked out “Ratched” because I loved “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” and was intrigued to see a show go into the backstory of an infamous villain. “Ratched” started off strong and drew me in right away, wondering how each character’s storyline would connect.

As the series developed, though, I felt the character development was inconsistent and at times the writing got lazy. It was interesting enough to watch until the end of the last episode, but overall I found it underwhelming. If there ends up being another season, I’m on the fence as to whether or not I’d watch it.

“The Home Edit” Available on Netflix Review by Kim Ehrich

Calling all people with OCD and who love to organize — watch this!

It’s about professional home organizers Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin, who go in and help celebrities and everyday clients with categorizing, containing and completely flipping their spaces. They will “edit” just about any area — from pantries,

closets, garages to even refrigerators.

I was able to feel the anxiety of the client’s disorganization and then the relief after the experts came in and made everything look absolutely beautiful! The organization and functionality of the end result was very satisfying. It inspired me to do some home editing myself.

“Orphan Black” Available on Amazon Prime Review by Deanna Rochleau

“Orphan Black” will hook you within the first 15 minutes, then hang on. You won’t know what is going on and neither will she.

There are so many twists and turns, this show will keep you guessing until the end, and the end is very satisfying.

Tatiana Maslany plays no less than 11 different characters in this thriller. I tell you that only to remind you, because you will forget one actress is playing so many different parts! Your favorite will change many times; she is that good. As amazing as Tatiana is, her co-stars are just as riveting.

There are five seasons of “Orphan Black.” I watched them all in under two weeks. I could not stop! Watch it!

Have a series you want us to review?

If you’re like most people, you’ve probably had a little bit of extra time to check out a new series on Netflix or Hulu during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you had one you enjoyed that would be worthwhile for us to review, contact Sarah Stultz at 379-3433 or sarah.stultz@albertleatribune.com.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 21

SAVOR | APPLE AND BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS

BY BRYAN CUNNINGHAM

A FRESH TAKE ON AN

OLD CLASSIC Apple and Bacon Brussels Sprouts Bryan Cunningham has been a chef for over 20 years. He loves learning new skills in the kitchen and experimenting with different ingredients. When he’s not in the kitchen, he is watching shows featuring his favorite chefs or spending time with his wife and three children. He is proud of living in his native town of Albert Lea and owns Yankee Catering.

Ingredients 6 slices bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 small onion, julienned 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 small Granny Smith apple, cored and chopped

1 recipe Basic Brussels Sprouts, recipe below 1/2 cup heavy cream 1 teaspoon whole-grain Dijon mustard

Directions

Place the bacon into a 10-inch straight-sided saute pan and set over medium-high heat.

Cook bacon until crisp and brown. Remove bacon and all but 1 tablespoon of the fat from the pan using a slotted spoon.

Decrease the heat to low. Add the onion and cook just until it turns semi-translucent, approximately 3 minutes. Add the salt and apple and continue to cook for another minute.

Add the Brussels sprouts, heavy cream and mustard and cook just until the Brussels sprouts are heated through, approximately 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the bacon.me.

Basic Brussels Sprouts Ingredients 1 pound Brussels sprouts, rinsed 1/2 cup water

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions

Cut off the stem end of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellowing outer leaves. Cut each Brussels sprout in half from top to bottom. Place the Brussels sprouts, water and salt into a 3- to 4-quart saucier and cover. Place over high heat and cook for 5 minutes or until tender.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 23

Bride

ALBERT LEA

COUPLES SHARE IDEAS FROM THEIR

BIG DAY P. 28, 34, 40

A MEMORABLE OUTDOOR

WEDDING

Couple has wedding at one of their favorite places in town Photography by HOLLY KARSJENS FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY

Bride: Erin (Murtaugh) Stoneking Registered nurse Groom: Tim Stoneking Car salesman Wedding date: Aug. 15, 2020 Where was your wedding and reception?

Both our ceremony and reception were at Three Oak Winery in Albert Lea.

Why did you choose that location?

We chose this location because it is one of our favorite places to spend time in town. We chose the date that we did because Tim performed (music) there at that time of year a few years prior, and the wildflowers and grapes were beautiful.

Did you have a theme for the wedding?

I guess you could say it was winery-themed. Our colors were navy and maroon with metallic accents.

Tell us about the dress.

I got my dress at Fringe and Lace by Brittany in Northwood. It was the first dress I tried on and knew right away it was “the one.”

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Tell us about the flowers.

Our flowers came from Southern Blooms Co. in Lebanon, Tennessee. They are made from sola wood. We chose these because of their unique look, and because they are made of wood they will last forever, making a special keepsake from our wedding day.are.

Other decorations?

We collected wine bottles and painted them silver, gold and copper for centerpieces. All of the other decorations were made by me using my Cricut. Our guestbook was a canvas of grapevines that is now on display in our home.

Tell us about the cake.

We had a small vanilla almond cutting cake. Our guests were served Oreo, lemon berry, vanilla almond and salted caramel cupcakes. Both the cake and cupcakes came from Sassy Sweets in Albert Lea.

Who was your photographer and why did you want this person to photograph your wedding?

Our wedding photographer was Holly Karsjens, based out of Albert Lea. I chose Holly because I have used her for previous photography needs, and I also loved her wedding portfolio and photography style.

What was your favorite detail?

I would have to say that our favorite detail was our choice to have the Peppered Cow food truck for catering. We had chicken shawarmas, burgers and fries. It was delicious and put a fun twist on our day.

What were you most nervous about?

I wouldn’t say either of us were nervous. We were both ready to be married and were laid back about everything, both during the planning and the day of.

What was your most memorable moment?

The most memorable thing about our wedding day would be the fact that we got married in the midst of COVID-19. We had to make a few changes, the biggest being the number of guests we could have. When everything started shutting down in March, we had the conversation and came up with a plan as to what we would do if there were still restrictions come August. We knew that we didn’t want to wait any longer to get married, so we would be doing so if we could have 10 people in attendance, or 250 people in attendance.

Ultimately, we were able to have our immediate and extended family and our wedding party, which had both friends and family in it.

When we had to announce to our friends that our guests had to be limited to family only, everyone was extremely understanding, and we are so thankful for that. We did have a set time for friends to drive by and greet us after the ceremony, which was so fun. Looking back, we couldn’t imagine our wedding day any other way.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 31

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 33

A COUNTRY

WEDDING

Couple hosts wedding, reception outside the home of bride’s parents Photography by PORTRAITS BY LYNNE

Bride: Lynzee (Underdahl) Herfindahl Human resources specialist Groom: Taylor Herfindahl Commercial loan analyst/ junior lender Wedding date: Sept. 19, 2020

Where was your wedding and reception?

The wedding and reception were both out at Lynzee’s parents house in the country south of Albert Lea.

Why did you choose those locations?

Lynzee’s parents had a nice set-up for the wedding and ceremony, and due to the COVID situation, it was nice to be able to celebrate outdoors.

Did you have a theme for the wedding?

The theme wasn’t specific. We did navy and gray for our colors and kept things relatively simple.

Tell us about the dress.

The dress was from Diamond Bride in Plymouth. It was customized to add the sleeves, and they also had a seamstress in house that did amazing work!

Tell us about the flowers.

The flowers were designed by and put together by a friend, Barb Schoppers. We did blue hydrangeas and eucalyptus.

Other decorations?

For our centerpieces we did a wood slice with lights and tulle underneath. We also used cupcakes as part of our centerpieces. We also did a bunch of photos of our grandparents/parents going back three generations.

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Tell us about the cake.

The cake and cupcakes were by Brooke Gulbrandson, who has BG Bakehouse. They were chocolate and almond-flavored.

Who was your photographer and why did you want this person to photograph your wedding?

Our photographer was Lynne Port (PORTraits by Lynne) of Brownsdale, and we chose her because she was a referral we got from someone and when we saw her photos she did an amazing job. Her professionalism and skill were amazing. Hiring her was probably our best decision of the wedding.

What was your favorite detail?

Our favorite detail was probably the grandparents’ photos. It was fun to see all the generations of our families, and it really shows how many people had to meet for us to also find each other!

What were you most nervous about?

Probably just for the ceremony itself since we were standing up in front of that many people.

What was your most memorable moment?

The most memorable moment was probably our first look. It was just us and we had not seen each other all day or the night before. It really just made the day seem real and like “Wow, this is it.”

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 37

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COMBINING

ELEGANCE AND FUN Couple’s reception has rustic boujee carnival theme Photography by GLASSER IMAGES

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 41

Bride: Lizzie (Rasmuson) Meyer Business owner/photographer Groom: Logan Meyer Business owner/photographer Wedding date: Oct. 5, 2019 Where was your wedding and reception?

On Logan’s parents’ farm.

Why did you choose those locations?

We plan to build our house on the farm and thought it would be special to get married there.

Did you have a theme for the wedding?

It was a rustic fair/carnival theme.

Tell us about the dress.

I wanted something lacy but flowy! Something sexy but simple!

Everyone said, “Oh your dress is getting dirty” because it was raining all day and we did pictures beforehand. I just picked up the tuelle bottom, put it in the sink and rinsed it out!

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Tell us about the flowers.

Flowers weren’t really our thing. We ordered some on Amazon and had fun as a family putting them together.

Other decorations?

My stepmom, Brook Rasmuson, owns a shop with Sam Stumpf. I gave them creative control over everything. I said I wanted a rustic boujee carnival theme and came up with the different booth and food ideas. They went crazy and made it incredible. My dad, Troy Rasmuson, was awesome at creating anything I needed built, like the carnival booths!

Tell us about the cake.

We just wanted something small and cute. Megan Haukoos of Meggie Sue’s made the cake along with the cupcakes! Can we talk about those cupcakes?! Best red velvet I’ve ever had and she made custom flavors just for us!

What was your favorite detail?

Honestly, it was just the fact that our families came together to take a space that was special to us into something we couldn’t have dreamed of. The day after the wedding we were cleaning up, and I was standing in the empty barn and cried because I already missed it!

What were you most nervous about?

I wasn’t really nervous at all. I think I had the jitters a bit, just to have everyone looking at me. But overall I wasn’t nervous — just excited to marry Logan and that’s all that mattered.

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What was your most memorable moment?

I think our first look in the rain on the top of the hill, where we plan to build our forever home. It was such a special moment. And also my dad’s speech. That was something special I will forever cherish.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 45

46 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 | 47

A HOME AWAY

FROM HOME

Area residents enjoy ice fishing with modern-day amenities Story by SARAH STULTZ Photography by COLLEEN HARRISON

G

Lights that go around the Riggles’ ice house can change colors with the touch of a remote button.

one are the traditional days of ice fishing, and in are the days when people can fish while enjoying the amenities they’re accustomed to at home.

The Riggles use a contraption that lights up when a fish is on the line.

Eli Riggle said it especially helps at night when multiple lines are cast.

Jenna and Eli Riggle of Albert Lea in the last year upgraded to a larger ice house that they can better enjoy with their three children, Henryk, Huntley and Haidyn. For them, it’s about getting their young family out on the ice and making memories.

“It’s a family thing,” Jenna Riggle said of their love of ice fishing.

“It’s something fun to do.”

They purchased their 30-foot-long Diamond Edition Ice Castle fish house from a person in the Faribault area and are looking forward to the upcoming ice fishing season. They said they especially enjoy fishing on Mille Lacs Lake and Lake of the Woods but also enjoy fishing on area lakes in Albert Lea and Faribault. They were planning their next weeklong trip at the end of January or early February.

The Riggles ice house includes 10 holes for ice fishing.

The couch in the Riggles’ ice house folds out into a bed.

Their new fish house includes a fireplace, a dining table that can be removed for an additional sleeping area, a slide-out couch, a queen bed, a stove, kitchen cabinets and amenities, two televisions with surround sound that can utilize satellite television, and a bathroom with extra cabinet storage. It also has LED lights that can be changed colors that trace the top of the ice house and the cabinets. It utilizes LP heat and stays nice and warm out in the cold Minnesota winters, Eli Riggle said.

The family said they particularly enjoy cooking breakfast when they are out fishing, including eggs, bacon and toast in the kitchen of the ice house. They also enjoy using the pizza oven.

“It’s practically home on ice,” he said. “The sky’s the limit.”

The ice house is set up similarly to what you would find in a camper, aside from the 10 fishing holes along the floor that can be covered when not in use.

The family has gear in place to hold the poles, or they can hold the fishing poles by hand, too, if they would rather. At night, they also have a special tool that lights up on a pole when a fish takes a bite on the line.

The ice house can also be used in the summer for camping, and there is an awning that pulls out on the front.

52 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

“

It’s practically home on ice. The sky’s the limit.

— Eli Riggle

”

Eric Battle of rural Albert Lea purchased his 24-foot Ice Castle fish house in 2019 but has been ice fishing for many years, including when his children were younger.

He said he uses his fish house not only for ice fishing, but camping as well. He enjoys ice fishing in January on Fountain Lake in Albert Lea and sometimes on Roberds Lake in Faribault. He often goes out for three to four days at a time.

“There’s not many toys in Minnesota that you can use all four

Eric Battle gets a lot of use out of his kitchen area when he goes ice fishing.

One television in Battle’s ice house is in the kitchen area. seasons,” Battle said.

His fish house features many of the same amenities as the Riggles’ house but with eight ice fishing holes and a shower in the bathroom.

He said the house is on hydraulics, which allows him to lift it up, use an auger to drill his ice fishing holes and then lower the house back down.

“

There’s not many toys in Minnesota that you can use all four seasons.

Eric Battle is an electrician and enjoys using his ice house for fishing as well as camping.

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— Eric Battle

”

Some of the amenities that attracted him to the fish house were the lift bed, slide out couches and things like ceiling fans.

“Just having the nice things that you have at home,” Battle said.

This year, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he has used his ice house for an office, but he looks forward to getting back out on the ice.

“I’ve always said I’m not much of a soft water fisherman,” he said.

“I’m a hard water fisherman.” AL

The couch in Battle’s ice house folds out into a bed.

Battle has turned his ice house into his office while he works from home amid the pandemic.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 55

LOOKING BACK | VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURE

The image of Frederick Cochrane’s Fountain Street home is from a stereoscope card. Believed to have been built in 1872, the structure experienced damage from a fire several years later. The replacement roof changed the silhouette of the house.

VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURE TOUCHES ALBERT LEA HOUSES

By LINDA EVENSON Photos courtesy FREEBORN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM Victorian era architecture encompasses several different styles from Queen Anne Revival to Italianate. Many Albert Lea houses reflect these styles because the city experienced a building boom during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Building contractors were busy. Builder and contractor H. A. Paine constructed many residences including his own home that remain 56 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

part of the city’s landscape.

Today, examples of Victorian era architecture populate Albert Lea. Many houses have experienced renewed life, while others have suffered from the passage of time. Some façades have changed but the essence remains. Enjoy a walk or drive through Albert Lea and discover many beautiful homes from the Victorian era.

A vine covers the chimney’s distinct brick pattern on the Rev. R. B. Abbott’s Lakeview Boulevard house. Built in 1885, a local newspaper reported the house was “constructed according to his best ideas of comfort and attractiveness.”

In July 1895, D.R.P. Hibbs, local attorney, decided to enlarge and improve his Park Avenue home. Upon completion, the house would contain 14 rooms, a wide veranda, a tower and cupola.

The Fountain Street residence of Dr. A. C. Wedge is a good example of the Queen Anne shingle style. Dr. Wedge hired H. A. Paine as the home’s designer and contractor. Built in 1887, this house is on the National Register of Historic Places.

John W. Smith, an Albert Lea dry goods merchant, lived in his Fountain Street residence for a number of years. The photo, reportedly taken in 1874, is from a stereoscope card.

About 1910, the house was moved to James Avenue.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 57

DIETITIAN’S DIGEST | BY EMILY SCHMIDT

Albert Lea resident Emily Schmidt is a registered dietitian at Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea. She enjoys writing, cooking and spending time with family.

Healthy foods within the grocery store aisles

As a dietitian, I’ve often heard the advice from other dietitians and patients that it’s healthiest to “shop the perimeter of the grocery store.” Although there are many truths to this — after all, the perimeter of the grocery store typically contains all of the fresh produce, dairy, eggs and meats — it also ignores the fact that there are many healthy foods within the aisles of the store as well. Additionally, those who are on a budget or are simply not able to get to the grocery store often enough to rely solely on fresh foods are in need of purchasing more shelf stable foods.

This article highlights some of the non-perimeter grocery items that are, in fact, still quite healthy.

Plant-based oils

Olive, canola, sunflower and other plant-based oils are excellent sources of both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids. You can use these oils to cook with, or use uncooked for homemade salad dressings. Store these oils in a cool, dark place such as a cupboard away from direct sunlight.

Beans, lentils, nuts and seeds

Whether dried or canned (preferably no salt added), legumes and other nuts and seeds are a wonderful source of fiber, protein and many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Look for those with no salt or sugar added. If using canned beans, simply rinse in a colander or strainer and either cook or sprinkle cold over a salad. Some ideas for bean-inspired recipes include burritos, tacos, quesadillas, bean burgers and bean soups or chili. Grab unsalted nuts or seeds for a snack or add to salads or smoothies.

Whole grains

Foods in this category include oatmeal (look for old fashioned or steel cut), brown and wild rice, quinoa, whole grain breads and tortillas and other pre-made bakery products, and granola.

These foods provide fiber — excellent for gut and heart health 58 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

— as well as a multitude of other nutrients such as protein, magnesium, B vitamins, iron, copper, zinc and more. Even if you try to limit your carbohydrates, including small amounts of these foods can provide many nutrients that are beneficial for health.

It’s better to limit refined or overly processed grains such as white bread or white pasta.

Herbs and spices

Though fresh herbs found in the produce section are extremely nutrient- and antioxidant-rich, dried herbs and spices also supply a good source of salt-free nutrition. Another benefit of herbs and spices is that you can avoid using as much salt in a recipe and focus instead on the flavors of healthier seasonings.

Fruits and vegetables Frozen and canned fruits and vegetables are an excellent alternative to fresh produce. Of course it’s still important to include fresh produce in your diet, both cooked and raw, but it’s not realistic for many people to always rely on fresh. Not only can it be expensive, but if you’re unable to get to the grocery store frequently, it’s very difficult to get by without a variety of fresh, frozen and canned fruits and vegetables. Look for no salt added canned or frozen vegetables, and no sugar added fruits.

If you’re unsure what to do with frozen fruits, toss them into a smoothie, oatmeal or yogurt.

Seafood

Tuna, salmon, sardines, oysters and other canned or packaged seafood contain plenty of nutrients, such as unsaturated fats including omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and vitamin D especially in seafood with the bones, protein and other vitamins and minerals. If possible opt for seafood with less than 200 mg sodium per serving, and if concerned about managing your weight, stick with seafood packed in water.

Check out https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes for recipe ideas.

HEALTH & FITNESS | BY MOLLEE TSCHOLL

Mollee Tscholl is co-owner of Albert Lea’s SNAP Fitness and TMJ Elite Fitness.

Exercise is one of the best ways to boost immunity

The immune system is defined as a complex network of biological structures and processes within an organism that protects it against disease. As human beings, having a healthy immune system is critical to our ability to combat illness and fight off diseases. Right now, caught in the middle of a pandemic, in which our bodies are waging war against a brand new adversary — COVID-19 — the need for strong immune systems is more important than ever. The CDC and MDH continue to promote mask-wearing and social distancing as a means of warring off COVID-19, but while these things help protect us from exposure, they don’t help strengthen the immune system. What, then, can we be doing to prepare our bodies to put up a good fight, should the virus or another illness or disease find us and want to do battle?

Believe it or not, one of the best things we can do is get regular exercise! As a gym owner, trainer and long-time exercise enthusiast, this is perhaps one of the biggest reasons it was hard to stomach Governor Walz’s most recent executive order, again, closing down fitness centers in Minnesota, at the start of the winter season no less. Looking specifically at COVID-19, it’s estimated that 20% to 42% of hospitalized patients will develop Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS); for patients admitted to intensive care, this range increases to 67% to 85%.

A recent review, however, by Zhen Yan of the University of Virginia School of Medicine found medical research findings to “strongly support” the possibility that exercise can prevent or at least reduce the severity of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.

The production of an antioxidant called Extracellular Superoxide

Dismutase (EcSoD), which is naturally produced in our muscles, and works by hunting down harmful free radicals, is known to increase with cardiovascular exercise. EcSoD, has been found to be deficient in patients who have not only acute lung disease, but also those who have ischemic heart disease, kidney failure and osteoarthritis. So, in short, regular exercise, can help our bodies fight off or at the least, reduce the severity of COVID-19 and other various illnesses and diseases.

Stress, a common cause of a weakened immune system, is high right now due to all of the changes and restrictions we are facing from this pandemic. The good news is stress can also be combated through exercise! Chemicals called endorphins, which are produced by the body to combat stress and pain, are released into the body during exercise. At the same time, cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, is lowered through exercise. So, remember, during stressful times, exercise can be a game-changer in keeping you physically and mentally strong. Get that sweat on! Move that body!

A few other things you can do to strengthen your immune system are getting an adequate night’s sleep, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and/or taking a multi-vitamin, and maintaining social connection with others. So, in a time where social gatherings are discouraged, make those phone calls, schedule those Zoom meetings, write that long put-off letter you’ve been meaning to send!

We at SNAP Fitness wish you all a happy and healthy 2021, one in which we can soon get back to doing the things and seeing the people we love!

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 59

DON’T WANT A WEDDING CAKE?

9 OPTIONS FOR YOUR BIG DAY Want to do something a little outside of the box for your big day? Consider an alternative to a traditional wedding cake.

1. Pies

Whether it’s pumpkin or pecan pie in the fall or a lemon meringue or key lime pie in the spring or summer, options are limitless for pies, with everything ranging from fruit-filled to creamfilled or even dipping into the ever-popular French silk pie. Have several options to appeal to a variety of tastes or stick to your favorite.

2. Fondue

Fondue can be a fun treat for all ages and can be both a sweet treat or something a little more savory. Serve cut-up French bread or veggies with your favorite cheese fondue, or stick to a chocolate fondue and dip anything from fruit to marshmallows to pound cake or cookies.

3. Doughnuts

Sure, it’s still in the cake family, but these fried desserts are growing in popularity. Whether you go with simple glazed doughnuts, something creme-filled or anything in-between, showcase your personality with a fun variety of doughnuts for your guests.

4. Cupcakes

With numerous flavors and toppings available, cupcakes allow you to offer your guests a variety of options with the same beauty of a traditional cake — and all with a little more ease. While there are always plain cupcakes, remember fancier upgrades, including fillings, are also an option.

5. Cookies

Pick out four or five of your favorite cookie recipes, and let your

60 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

guests pick out their favorite. Whether it’s a traditional chocolate chip cookie, a glazed sugar cookie, monster cookie, peanut butter or something a little more upscale, cookies are sure to be a guest favorite and allow you to find something for everyone.

6. Cheesecake

A longtime crowd-pleaser, cheesecake also comes in many varieties sure to please any guest.

Pick out a few options to offer guests, or set up a cheesecake bar and allow people to choose their own toppings, such as chocolate, caramel or other fruit-flavored syrups.

7. Ice cream

Whether in a cup or a cone, this frozen treat will be a guest favorite.

Pick out a few flavors for guests to enjoy, and don’t forget to get creative with toppings, too. Want something a little less messy? Don’t forget about options for root beer floats and milkshakes, too.

8. S’mores bar

Start with the basic s’mores ingredients such as graham crackers, marshmallows and basic milk chocolate bars for guests, and dress it up a little with fancier varieties of chocolate bars or other ingredients such as dried fruits or chopped nuts. For an indoor reception, have a table-top grill at the center of the bar or smaller grills throughout the venue for guests to use. If you’re using an outdoor venue, you might be able to utilize an actual wood fire to cook these delectable treats.

8. Candy bar

The sky’s the limit for a fun candy dessert table for guests. Pick out your favorite candies and showcase them in large clear jars, or pick out color-coordinated candies for a more cohesive look. Make sure to label your candies clearly so no one has to guess.

HEALTHY PETS | BY MICHELLE NELSON

Michelle Nelson is the owner of The Pet Authority.

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Rawhide — is it safe?

As pet owners, we strive to keep our pets healthy; we feed them a high-quality food, exercise them daily and schedule regular vet checks, but oftentimes we buy just whatever is in the checkout lane at the grocery store for their chews and treats. We have all been guilty of it, thinking, “It’s just a treat, what harm can it really do?” Today I want to take a look at the commonly purchased rawhide. You will quickly understand why I choose not to sell it.

The name rawhide itself is quite deceptive as there is absolutely nothing raw about it. Completely processed from beginning to end, rawhide is really a by-product of the leather industry, not the beef industry like you would think. That being said, it is not subject to the same rules and regulations as other dog chews. Let’s take a closer look at how rawhide is made, and then I will let you decide if this is a wise choice to feed your dogs.

Step 1: Cattle hides are shipped from slaughter houses to tanneries for processing. The hides are treated with a chemical to prevent spoilage during transportation. Upon arrival at the tanneries, hides are soaked and treated with either an ash-lye solution or a highly toxic recipe of sodium sulphide liming to strip the hair and fat off the hide. It is then treated with chemicals to puff the hide so it can be split into layers; the outer layer goes to shoes, purses, car seats etc. and the inner layer is made into gelatin, cosmetics, glue and rawhide.

Step 2: In the post-tanning stage, hides are washed and whitened with a solution of hydrogen peroxide and/or bleach. Additional

chemicals are used if further whitening is needed.

Step 3: Rawhide can then be basted, smoked or tinted with FD&C Red 40 and sodium benzoate, both of which are a low-dose poisoning to our pets.

Step 4: In order for rawhides to last forever, glue is added. These glues often contain lead, arsenic, mercury, chromium salts or formaldehyde.

I know many of you are using rawhides to keep your pet’s teeth clean, but what starts out as a hard piece of hide is quickly turned into a slimy glob of goo that has absolutely no dental benefit. There are much healthier and safer options than rawhide; my favorite is raw bones or chicken necks (also great for cats), bully sticks, no-hides, beef cheek rolls, etc., all of which are great for cleaning teeth.

If you still insistent on feeding rawhide, look for organic, USAmade rawhide to purchase. Initially, rawhide needs to be bigger than your dog’s head; and once it is half its original size, throw it away as it can then be easily swallowed and can lodge in the esophagus or other parts of the digestive tract. Sometimes abdominal surgery is needed to remove rawhide compactions from the stomach or intestines. If the blockage is not removed, it can ultimately lead to death. I personally have had several customers that had to have rawhide compactions surgically removed from their pets.

So the next time you come across that big, white rawhide bone, my suggestion to you is to keep on walking, as we decide how healthy our pets are going to be.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 61

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PARTING SHOT Lens and Shutter Club member Mitch Pederson took this photo of ice-covered evergreen needles.

WHY I LOVE ALBERT LEA | BY MARY PACKER UMSTEAD

Why I Albert Lea Mary Packer Umstead has owned The Mary Go Round Shoppe for 33 years and is passionate about her business. She and her husband, Bill, have a daughter, Carly Solland, as well as four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

I simply love Albert Lea, and I am over the moon for its people.

Bill, Carly and I moved back to the Midwest in August 1986. We grew up in small Iowa towns, Humboldt and Eagle Grove. Bill’s parents owned a sale barn and had cattle and horse sales for 57 years. Every other Saturday, come rain, shine or blizzard, they sold cattle in the morning and horses in the afternoon. Thus, we have raised cattle and horses for many years.

We intended to move to Mankato, where I could continue my English and history major. There are no rentals in August in Mankato because of the abundance of students, and on our return to Iowa, our truck broke down in Albert Lea. The people at Collins Auto Repair were wonderful to us; however, the part we needed would take about two weeks to come in to their shop. Buzz Hagen came in to Collins one day as I checked on the truck part.

He said, “We need to find you a place to live, and your daughter needs to sign up for school.” So we settled here. I worked at the old Kahler as bar manager for a couple years. I met nice people who worked at the prestigious hotel. I met business owners, real estate folks, radio announcers, auctioneers, other bar owners and restaurant folks, all who believed in Albert Lea and loved this community.

One day a dear friend told me she wished to sell her consignment store, and I found it was my niche. D.J. Duds became The Mary Go Round Shoppe Nov. 1, 1988. So who knew I would fall in love with my business and absolutely love my job?

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The folks who cross my threshold grace me daily. I still have a bar tender’s ear and a shoulder to share. The people in my community and surrounding towns all have stories to tell, and I am a listener.

They come for a smile or a hug. I am a hugger, so COVID-19 is tough on us who need to touch. Many of my customers and clients have become the dearest of friends.

I am grateful to share downtown with EJ’s Mercantile, Whimzy, Junktion Market, Plymouth Shoe Store, Expressions, Fisher and Stadheim jewelers, Addie’s, Adams Originals, Brick Furniture, Frames-R-Us, Between Friends, Ellen & Jane Boutique, Holcomb Tax, the Art Center and all of the restaurants and other businesses.

To those of you who have deeply touched my life, my bankers, book club gals, hairdressers, accountant, medical angels and my consigners who clean out their closets for my business, I am so thankful. My yoga teacher has shared with me that “having an attitude of gratitude” is very important. My yoga family is awesome as well as my own family, and the fact that we have three other great consignment stores in our community.

I believe our lives are divinely guided. I also believe we are more alike than different. We all want people to honor us, value us, respect us and love us. In spite of our political, religious or personal beliefs we can beg to differ. Once we acknowledge that, perhaps we can learn to be kind and compassionate, and recognize we can be the peace that we alone can initiate.

Albert Lea has some magic within its communal aura, and I see it and feel it every day. The town is full of beautiful lakes, wonderful walking trails and delightfully enchanting parks. I gratefully turn my thoughts this holiday season to those who make me who I am.

Happy new year from The Mary Go Round Shoppe.

It’s so much more than just a dress...

It’s a moment

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Check out local photos of your friends and family in Albert Lea Magazine issues.

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CARE WHEN YOU NEED IT.

Mayo Clinic Health System remains committed to providing the care you and your family need.

Whether you are seeking routine or preventive care, or treatment for a serious or complex condition, Mayo Clinic Health System has convenient and safe options available, including virtual or in-person appointments.

Learn more at mayoclinichealthsystem.org.