Inspired Home Summer 2023

INSPIRED HOME

SUMMER

SUMMER 2023

A FRESH APPROACH TO HOME & LIFE

Summer THE

ISSUE

2023

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CONTENTS

SUMMER Blanket Flower, Spintop Copper Sun | Photography by Travis Beauchene

2023

FEATURE

VOLUME 2, ISSUE 8

50 SHOWCASE In the heart of northwest Otter Tail County, a family with strong connections to the land, build a home on Crystal Lake to accommodate a growing family.

30 ELEMENTS Gazing out into the vast space behind your home, you may have been considering backyard ideas to add to your at-home experience.

Check out our finds!

DEPARTMENTS

40 OUTDOORS The idea that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections to nature is confirmed. See these stunning outdoor spaces to enjoy their “seamless” beauty.

14 COLOR Rambunctious and unruly yet incredibly beautiful and spectacular – the English Garden. Learn basic elements of this type of summer showcase to create your own.

22 GARDEN Sunflowers are some of the happiest sun-drenched flowers we enjoy on warm summer days. With more than 70 varieties, we have showcased a few of our favorites.

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60 TRAVEL Summer offers opportunities for family travel and educational experiences. Writer Bailey Hovland takes us to Boston, Massachusetts to share history, whales and more!

ADDITIONS 8

Musings

10

Contributors

82

Wine Wisdom

68 CUISINE Something cool, smooth and delicious has arrived, just in time for summer. Meet Maartje and Casey to discover what Holsteins, gelato and the Netherlands have in common.

78 INGREDIENTS A perfect summer dessert and history collide to bring you an elegant and delicious way to impress guests. Beautiful to look at and easy to create makes Pavlova perfect.

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musings

Inspired Home Associate Publisher Terri Ferragut Phone: 701.866.4405 Email: terri@inspiredhomemagazine.com terri.ferragut@gmail.com Find us on

(Inspired Home Magazine) Editorial Director Terri Ferragut

The American Goldfinch surrounded by Cosmos flowers. Ray Hennessy Photography

L

ife in our community has been greeted by summer and everywhere you look, we see ambitious results of her handiwork.

Farmers, gardeners and construction companies alike are gearing up, slowly methodically changing the landscape of our F-M area with new growth. Our community “is on the grow” and it’s exciting to witness.

In the Summer Issue of Inspired Home, we celebrate the outdoors in beautiful ways.

From creating a traditional English Garden to highly functional outdoor living spaces, we are definitely tuned in to warm summer months at the lakes and our backyards.

Extending living areas with seamless transitions from home to the great outdoors might seem impossible but dreams really do come true with expertise from area builders, architects and designers. Read Living Life Outdoors to see how area homeowners have created inspirational spaces to capture the art of living outdoors.

Summertime also offers family travel opportunities and exciting educational summer experiences. Our own Bailey Hovland, family law attorney and Inspired Home social media director takes us to Boston, Massachusetts. Experience historical discoveries and her favorite, whale watching – a great read.

Summer cuisine – it’s cool, velvety smooth and delicious. Meet Maartje and Casey, owners of Cows & Co Creamery in Carrington and Fargo. Discover the area’s only destination for small-batched gelato and authentic Gouda cheese. For stay-at-home treat-seekers, Lauren Carlson shares her recipe for Pavlova, a visually stunning dessert with historical significance. Easy to make, it’s perfect for hot summer days.

We do it all for you! Enjoy reading the Inspired Home Summer Issue.

Creative Director Terri Ferragut Art Director Deborah Schultz Director of Operations Scott Drzewiecki Contributing Photographers Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss Lauren Ferragut Carlson Sarah Dolyniuck Bailey Hovland Chelsey Malstrom Kensie Wallace Contributing Writers Lauren Ferragut Carlson Terri Ferragut Chelsey Malstrom Granville Wood Copy Editor Keri Guten Cohen Social Media Director Bailey Hovland

Production representative

Terri Ferragut

Associate Publisher Editorial Director terri.ferragut@gmail.com terri@inspiredhomemagazine.com

8 | SUMMER 2023

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contributors

JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss is a photographer for architecture and interior design. Her clients range from designers and builders, both commercial and residential. When she's not working she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, cooking, traveling and entertaining.

TERRI FERRAGUT Every issue, we take great pride in presenting this beautiful local home and lifestyle guide we call Inspired Home. From design to great food our goal is to provide you with relevant information you value. Truth of the matter is, without the heart and dedication of this talented and professional team, this publication would not be possible. Issue after issue, their creativity brings Inspired Home to your doorstep or area business. They inspire me.

ASHLEY F. JOHNSON Ashley Johnson loves her home city of Fargo.

She works as a registered nurse at Sanford Medical Center and shares her happy home with her husband, 2 children and a rescue cat. She loves traveling with her family, cooking, entertaining and good wine. She can’t wait to show her children the world.

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LAUREN F. CARLSON recently moved back home to Fargo with her husband and daughter after living in Upstate New York for 8 years where she worked at Cornell University as a research technician. There she worked with hemp for CBD/grain/fiber and willow for bioenergy. After having a baby she took some time off to be a mom. She loves knitting, running, cross-stitch, and of course, Scandinavian baking.

SARAH DOLYNIUK A career in the interior design world, along with a genuine interest in connection, led Sarah here to Inspired Home Magazine. She loves date nights (or days) with her boyfriend, nature photography (iphone style), walks with her dog, kissing on her rescue kitties, listening to podcasts, reading, yoga, antiquing, getting lost in a good television show, and enjoying a citrusy IPA or glass of wine.

BAILEY HOVLAND Before earning an English writing degree at Concordia College, Hovland dreamed of being an interior designer. Now, serving Inspired Home Magazine as a writer and social media director, she has the best of both worlds—pairing the power of words with innovative interior design.

CHELSEY MALSTROM Born and raised in Detroit Lakes, MN, Chelsey enjoys all things lakes country. Finding her love for wine working at Epcot Food and Wine Festival in 2012, she was thrilled to move back to Detroit Lakes to help run the family business. Today you can find her at Seven Sisters Spirits, planning events and helping people find the perfect wine.

KINSEY WALLACE A licensed real estate agent and photographer based in the FM area, Kinsey can wholeheartedly say she found her calling and has met amazing people along the way! Obsessed with interior design and home renovation, she is, by her own admission, a true introvert that enjoys spending her free time traveling, reading, and enjoying the outdoors with her dogs, Finley and Murphy.

GRANVILLE WOOD Wood is an international chef who worked in London, Stockholm, Toronto, Vancouver, Palm Beach and Houston before moving to Fargo with wife Susie, a doctor with Sanford Health. Most recently he operated The Blue Goose Café in the Plains Art Museum.

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s u o i t c n u Ramb and unruly – the English cottage garden

BY TERRI FERRAGUT

he term “cottage garden” most often refers to an informal ornamental planting of flowers incorporating other garden structures. By definition, cottage gardens are meant to have a less organized and less structured, free-flowing design aesthetic. They are notable for not adhering to rigid customs of landscape design.

Cottage gardens can be traced back to the 1400s in England by peasants living in the countryside needing a source of herbs, vegetables and fruits simply to survive. Flowers and beehives, primarily meant to attract and hold pollinators, were interspersed throughout. As years passed, cottage-style gardens evolved from the small sustenance plots of the poor to larger, more formal gardens that became a balance of flowers with vegetables.

By the mid-1800s, cottage gardens became known as garden rooms and were considered to be an essential element of estate gardens for the flourishing middle class. They were often enclosed by boxwood hedges and planted with masses of greenhouse-grown annuals, fragrant roses and exotic plants. They were beautiful, but no longer reflected their original purpose.

By the late 19th century, simplicity and connections to nature took hold in Europe and the United States and true cottage gardens with their riotous spills of color and mesmerizing fragrances began to reappear.

Currently, in our fast-paced society, an English cottage garden is a place to step back, take a deep breath and savor the beauty of the moment. Today, these

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gardens create charming randomness and are packed full of different types of foliage and flowers — an explosion of pastel, primary and secondary colors.

To plan your own English cottage-style garden, include both tall plants and short flowering shrubs. Feature beautiful spires and trellises of climbing roses alongside groundcovers like phlox, dianthus or shrub roses. Use traditional favorites your grandmother might have grown such as peonies, cosmos, foxgloves, snapdragons, 16 | SUMMER 2023

pansies, bachelor’s buttons, columbines, bleeding hearts and hollyhocks. Try plants packed with petals — peonies and old roses are good examples. These old-fashioned varieties are also wonderfully fragrant.

The most important thing is to give your cottage garden a natural feel with a lush variety of colors. To foster a romantic and nostalgic look that beckons views, look for blooms in soft pastel shades. Incorporate outdoor decor to create a softer, human touch.

Birdbaths, picket fences, paved walkways,

sundials or other garden art will add your own personality to this special landscape space. You are truly limited only by your own imagination.

Inspired Home discovered many timehonored plants for you to consider for your own garden. While all these elements are commonly found in a cottage garden, the biggest rule is to try not to follow the “rules.”

Create a look you love. Plant what you like and how you like it for a delightful cottagestyle garden.

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Classic English Garden Flower Options 1. Dianthus includes biennial and perennial species that add both color and fragrance to the garden. Blooming in species of dianthus shades of white, pink and red, open-pollinated varieties of dianthus are known for their sweet, clove-like fragrance.

2. Hollyhocks are among the tallest cottage garden plants and serve to add interesting height and stunning appeal to the growing space.

Mass plantings of hollyhock flowers are also useful in the creation of a living privacy screen in your landscaping.

3. Bee Balm, also called wild bergamot, in any cottage garden setting serves to attract pollinators to the growing space. These perennial flowers can be easily grown from seed and thrive under a wide range of growing conditions.

4. Foxglove plants produce tall, prominent floral spikes. As biennials, ornamental gardeners should expect flowering to begin in the second season of growth. Like many ornamental plants, it should be noted that foxglove is highly toxic.

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5. Allium flowers in a cottage garden are quite common. Most gardeners delight in the production of their large, attentiongrabbing floral spikes. Though the size and color of allium flowers will vary, many may even naturalize to return season after season.

6. Roses in a cottage rose garden are sure to add lovely fragrance and nostalgic beauty to your yard spaces. Both shrubs and climbing roses can help frame your flower beds and bring attention to your incorporated garden structures.

7. Peonies are loved for their elegance, alluring fragrance, breathtaking colors and their extravagant, early summer blossoms. They are easy, reliable garden classics that will bloom INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

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for generations with little or no attention. As cut flowers, with an unforgettable perfume, they are endearing.

8. Daffodils are spring flowering plants and essential for a cottage garden. Daffodils are often among the first flowers to produce blooms in early spring. Though yellow daffodils are more traditional, cultivars in shades of white and pink can add a unique flair to your growing spaces.

9. Delphinium plants are celebrated for their bright, true-blue flowers. They are also prized in ornamental gardens for their magnificent tall spikes, which are covered in florets. Many taller species of delphinium may require staking to make certain their flowers remain upright.

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Add a little

(or big) sunshine

to your garden

BY TERRI FERRAGUT PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY NATIONAL GARDENING ASSOCIATION

G Sunset accentuates the beauty of the giant-faced plant we call the sunflower.

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rowing up on a farm, one of my favorite memories was seeing my father’s tall, never-ending rows of beautiful yellow giant-faced flowers turned towards the sun.

Sunflowers remain some of the happiest, sundrenched flowers that we enjoy seeing on warm summer days.

Native to North America, they have an international history. The Spanish brought this New World plant to Europe in the 1500s and, by the 1700s and 1800s, the Russians were growing them in large quantities. The Russian varieties eventually reached North America, some of which we still grow today, like the “Mammoth Russian.”

They love the summer heat and are full-sun flowers that thrive in the garden with lots of light. Sunflowers love the sunshine so much that they are famous for heliotropism, a behavior in which plants actually move throughout the day so that they’re always facing the sun. The flower buds follow the movement of the sun across the sky from east to west and then return at night to face the east, ready for the morning sun. Once flowering, they remain facing east.

Nature is amazing and pretty incredible when you stop to think about it.

INSPIRED HOME | 23

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MS. MARS This is a stand-out bloom, uncommonly gorgeous. A low-growing dwarf sunflower, it is a vigorously branching and mounding variety, 20 inches to 30 inches tall. Its merlot-colored petals transition to a pretty pink of its 6-inch beautiful face, surrounded by dark foliage. This stunning sunflower is perfect for borders and cut flowers.

SKYSCRAPER These are giants, categorized as tall sunflowers that grow 12 to 14 feet. They have sturdy, thick 4-inch stalks and produce 14-inch flowers. An heirloom seed, they attract pollinators, love the sun and have summer blooms.

Heat-tolerant as all sunflowers are, they are easy to grow, love the sun and produce delicious seeds for birds and humans!

CHOCOLATE The rich, mahogany summer blooms of this sunflower are a wonder to behold.

This tall-growing annual is a branching variety that reaches a mature height of 4-5 feet tall and produces flowers 5-6 inches wide. This heirloom attracts bees, butterflies and pollinators, and its seeds are deliciously edible.

RUSSIAN MAMMOTH This is the most familiar and iconic of all classic sunflowers. One of the tallest and a favorite for growing competitions, these sunflowers range from 9 to 12 feet tall.

Popular with pollinators like bees, butterflies, squirrels and birds, they are a favorite for eating delicious seeds and growing for children’s gardens. The 10-inch blooms are beautiful!

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With more than 70 different varieties, both annual and perennial, they are all in the daisy family, Asteraceae. Its botanical name, Helianthus annuus, literally means sunflower annual and they come in a plethora of sizes and colors. Over time, breeders have created new varieties that have changed sunflower size, heads per plant and flower colors, to name a few characteristics.

Different varieties will grow from 18 inches to 16 feet tall or more. The flower color range is endless. White, cream, gold, yellow, orange, red, pink, mahogany and even chocolate brown. One of the continued on page 23

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MOULIN ROUGE A strong-branching summer variety is pollenless, which means they are perfect for long-lasting beautiful cut flowers. They possess deep burgundyred flower faces with dark cocoa centers, have medium-sized flowers, 4-6 inches, and reach 5-7 feet in height.

They are attractive to bees, butterflies and pollinators, and their seeds are edible.

MARDI GRAS A colorful, feathery and multiplebranched sunflower, it will develop flower heads that will grow to be 5 inches when bloomed and make for a stunning cut flower. This tall blend will reach 6 to 7 feet, is easy to grow and is a big hit with all pollinators. A beautiful addition to your garden, Mardi Gras will make their own parade in your backyard.

WHITE NITE This beautiful sunflower has petals that transition from creamy yellow to white in a matter of days. It is pollenless, so it is perfect for long-living cut flowers. Its single-stem flowers attract bees, hummingbirds, butterflies and pollinators, and are easy to grow.

Fast-growing, it blooms from spring through fall and its seeds are edible.

continued from page 24 TEDDY BEAR The fluffy petals of Teddy Bear sunflowers are what give this variety its charming name. These mounding dwarf sunflowers can grow to about 2 feet tall, and their edible petals can be fun to use for salad toppings or cake decorating. These fluffy-headed beauties are well-suited for mid-borders, containers and bouquets. Perfect as cut flowers.

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FLOREN Originating from Poland, they are shorter growing, as sunflowers go, with this beauty topping out at around 4 feet tall. It’s bold and beautiful, producing large, sunset-like colored flowers with deep colored centers outward to tinged in light. Many great benefits — easy to grow, they attract pollinators, are deer-resistant, edible, heat-loving and drought-resistant.

easiest flowers to grow, they are drought-tolerant, pest-resistant and attractive to pollinators and birds. They are beautiful as cut flowers and their seeds and oil are a source of food for birds and humans.

With so many varieties, you will be sure to find one that fits your personality and garden. Branching stems or single-stems, those that produce pollen for pollinators or are pollen-free (the continued on page 27

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SUN RICH GOLD These beauties are pollenless, making excellent cutting flowers. Their vibrant overlapping petals range from yellow to orange with blooms of 4 to 6 inches and grow to an average height of 48 to 72 inches. Contrasting green centers and doubled layers of petals create a lush flower with a long-lasting bloom.

Attractive to pollinators!

AUTUMN BEAUTY Easy to grow, this stunning flower — reminiscent of the colors of fall leaves — will reach up to 7 feet tall. A summer bloomer, it’s attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinators in your garden. Excellent for cut flowers and the mature seeds are excellent for eating. Pair with traditional yellow sunflowers for a beautiful contrast.

continued from page 26 MOON SHINE Naturally contrasting with its blonde petals and dark eye, this sunflower is a prolific bloomer. An heirloom seed, this gentle glow in your garden will attract bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators. It is edible, and will reach a height of 5 to 6 feet in your garden. Beautiful alongside a fence, and stunning as a cut flower in your home.

latter are best for bouquets), and those that stay small or tower above the rest of the garden — you will find the ones you wish to grow this summer. If I haven’t convinced you yet of their gardenworthiness, take a look at these stunning varieties and you’ll be a believer, just like me.

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Backyard

Bliss

BY TERRI FERRAGUT

R E L A X W I T H N AT U R E Designer Marco Lavit designed this welcoming “hut” for Ethimo Outdoor Furniture. This beautiful lounge bed, with its strong visual impact, is composed of “stems” of durable, high-performance larch wood with comfortable decorative cushions, curtains and pillows in an array of colors and textures. ethimo.com

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n our part of the country, warm summer days are longed for, coveted and, at times, elusive. The brevity of the warm season wills us to enjoy nature’s gift, albeit short, to the full extent, each and every day. Gazing out onto the vast space behind your home may have you considering summer backyard ideas to add to your at-home summer experience.

The area surrounding your home is an extension of your indoor living, and it deserves the same care and consideration as any other part of the house. It is a place you retreat to at the end of a long day to ease stress and tension. When daily life is frequently defined using words like stressed, busy, frantic, rushed and crazy, people are actively seeking out spaces where they know they can go to find peace and solitude.

This longing and search for serenity is leading us from the office space and busy city streets right back to our own backyards. It is your family’s personal space to escape — where you can enjoy life and experience rejuvenation. While the concept of enjoying our backyards is universal, what’s important differs from person to person. It can be transformed into the ultimate area for entertainment and relaxation.

The ideal concept of your backyard space might offer multiple uses, with different areas geared toward different types of activities. With a little planning, you can turn your backyard into the ultimate private retreat that promotes well-being and enjoyment.

No matter how you choose to utilize your outdoor property, here are a few creative elements to incorporate that will set the tone for the summer outdoor living season. Check out these backyard elements guaranteed to add peace and calm to the days of summer.

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+ Art and Soul is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization + There is no cost to participants + Participants learn and work in painting, drawing, music, dance, and much more – in a safe environment + Watch for more information and upcoming events!

FIRE MEANS LIFE Stone Forest, a creative group of New Mexico artisans and designers is focused on bringing the elegant simplicity of natural materials into the bath and garden. Taking their lead from nature’s blueprint, the quiet beauty of stone, bronze, copper, wood, bamboo and iron are emphasized in their creations. stoneforest.com F LY H I G H In complete harmony with nature, carefree swinging in the open air provides a sense of freedom and carefree relaxation for the young and old. Italian-made and designed, the Allaperto Nautic collection combines teak and an artisanal polypropylene herringbone patterned rope weave seat for beauty and durability. ethimo.com continued on page 34

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S U R F Y O U R B A C K YA R D Unplug, get outdoors and hang out. Surf the air and have fun practicing extreme board tricks when you are not on the water or snow. Fun for the entire family, it’s athletic, therapeutic and perfect for strengthening your core balance.

Developed by a surfer dad for his kids, the Swurfer is handcrafted in Charleston, South Carolina. swurfer.com A I R B O R N E S A N C T U A RY Get involved in a backyard project the entire family can benefit from — build a tree house. Nature, imagination, teamwork and problem-solving are just a few rewards to be reaped when building your very own backyard tree house. With help from the Tree House Guide for Beginners, let your airborne journey begin! treehouseguides.com

continued on page 36

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elements

YA R D E N C H A N T M E N T Yard art is a way to express yourself, the same as in any other art form in your home.

It puts a beautiful emphasis on the differences between nature and composition, marrying the two perspectives. Copper and steel comprise this piece by metal sculptor, Patrick Shannon, Forest Edge Gallery, Vergas, Minnesota. forestedgeartgallery.com BEE HAPPY Garden art columns are a great way to add visual contrast to your garden, flower bed or deck. This unique beehive design is cut on all four sides, so it looks great from anywhere in your yard. Each column is welded by hand and pre-rusted so it will blend in with your landscape as soon as you place it in your space. esty.com G AT H E R Y O U R BIRD FRIENDS Birds need to refresh and rejuvenate, too! This beautiful bird bath art pole is crafted with a hand-hammered, copper-plated stainless-steel top with a durable, fade-resistant base. Stephanie Burgess, an acclaimed artist, is known for her colorful and whimsical designs found on garden décor products nationally and globally. paintedpeace.com SOOTHE THE SOUL For centuries, people have been drawn to the mystical allure of wind chimes. Chimes add beautiful movement and soft harmonic melodies to your backyard experience. Your breathing slows and your heart rate lowers as you listen. These “Dragonfly” ceramic chimes are handcrafted by EarthWind Bells founder and artist, Bruce Fraser. earthwindbells.com

36 | summer 2023

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elements S TA N D O U T FROM THE HERD Harlequin sheep garden statues go from the barnyard to the most unique home accent. They are crafted from durable resin and hand-painted in bold black and white. The neighbors will notice and you will smile each time you see it, indoors or out.

With 360-degree sculpting, they are adorable from any angle. grandinroad.com

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50

Achieve Beautiful Gardens with tips from Master Gardener, Tony Randall

Landscape Design Installation of Trees, Shrubs and Perennials Rock and Mulch | Sod Maintenance Plant Care & Health Consulting Hardscape See our work at gardenprofm.com tony@gardenprofm.com

38 | summer 2023

FREE ESTIMATES Call Tony 701.476.0491 West Fargo, ND

F O U N TA I N O F P L E N T Y As water flows over the irregular saw-cut texture of the granite, it creates a wavy, mesmerizing water pattern. The hypnotic sound of the water as it bubbles top and down creates the relaxing sound of a small stream running. The simplicity and artisanal design create the uniqueness of the natural stone in each one crafted. stoneforest.com ROCK-A-BYE-BABY If you are fortunate to have a porch, this is an absolute for summer — a porch swing. The perfect place to relax with your morning coffee or end your day, the many health benefits are a given. Whether your taste in design is contemporary, coastal, classic or rustic, you’ll achieve the look you will love. duraweather.com

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We’re with you... all the way home Committed to building the best and most respected real estate services company in the area.

Owner|Broker Laurie Henkes Cell: 218.731.4009

Owner|Agent Tina Greene Cell: 218.731.2705

Steve Young Cell: 218.371.9289

Tim McCarte Cell: 218.731.1691

Bennet Stich Cell: 218.371.7087

Chris Ronning Cell: 218.205.2270

Paulson Land Company 106 North Lake Avenue Battle Lake, Minnesota Lauries Henkes, Broker/Owner laurieah@arvig.net Lic. 40620933

wrpaulsonland.com Office: 218.864.5203 Clay Houselog Cell: 218.639.1229

Michele Kezior Cell: 218.282.0505

Robert Ehlert Cell: 218.770.9901

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John Mess Cell: 612.323.4242

Owned and Operated Independently

outdoors

40 | SUMMER 2023

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Living life

BY TERRI FERRAGUT IMAGES COURTESY BHH PARTNERS, PLANNERS|ARCHITECTS, JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS PHOTOGRAPHY

outdoors

Peace and tranquility are the end result of this stunning Minnesota lake home project. Sliding glass doors and moving glass systems can create nature-filled spaces for entertaining or just relaxing. The overhead infrared heating and the beauty of a fire create total comfort for colder weather.

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inspired home | 41

OUTDOORS

A seamless connection between nature and the home is clearly evident here as guests move freely from one area of the home to the great outdoors.

B

eing outdoors provides many real health benefits, from boosting your mood to improving your short-term memory and increasing your levels of vitamin D needed for bone health. The perfect Rx: outdoor living spaces. They are the one area of the home to come the furthest in terms of sophistication and design over the years.

Once just spaces to place patio furniture and maybe a grill, homeowners are now including televisions, kitchens, dining areas, fire pits and fireplaces. Even in climates like ours where all four seasons are evident, year-round usage is entirely possible with a covered overhead area to protect you, your family and guests from the elements of nature.

biophilia -

The idea that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life.

­– Encyclopedia Britannica

42 | SUMMER 2023

Outdoor living considerations • Plan a layout A clear visual connection between inside your home and the outside spaces creates a welcoming transition for your guests. A covered outdoor area enables more design options for furniture and décor, creating a seamless relationship between your indoors and out. For those who like to entertain, indoor-outdoor spaces are perfect for gatherings where guests can enjoy a free-flowing experience for al fresco dining, cocktails and kitchen conversations all in one place. continued on page 46

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Enjoy a fresh start!

AFTER

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“ BEFORE

BEFORE

Such an awesome experience!

Bryan and Andrea were so helpful and professional throughout the entire process. Enjoyed working with both of them so much and would highly recommend Kitchen Refresh! Our new kitchen is beautiful! Thank you!!

- JL

”

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outdoors

Fresh air abounds from the outdoor full-service kitchen and dining area to the step-down patio outside. This outdoor living design creates a seamless transition from the home’s interiors to watching a meal prepared – a perfect alfresco dining experience.

44 | SUMMER 2023

• Lighting options The range of lighting fixtures offered for outdoor living is endless. From wall sconces and flush mounts to chandeliers, recessed and even floor lamps, you can give your outdoor living room a feeling of total comfort and sophistication. Targeted task lighting for the outdoor kitchen or barbecue area is a popular trend for homeowners who love to cook while entertaining their guests. Outdoor lighting and fans should be listed for damp locations for covered spaces and listed for wet locations for uncovered areas.

• Four-season living From drinking lemonade while watching a summer thunderstorm to enjoying a cup of hot chocolate while your family builds a snowman — both scenarios are possible with a warmed-covered space. Overhead heating, a fireplace, a fire pit, patio heaters, and wallmounted or free-standing units are all options to warm the area for your guests. The end result is comfort and wonderful memories.

• Retractable Patio Screens Create an outdoor space with customfit retractable motorized screens. The INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

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inspired home | 45

outdoors

Outdoor living experiences are an integral part of the design of this home. In the comfort of the covered overhead space, natural materials of stone and wood create a place of continuity with nature and a place for conversation.

46 | SUMMER 2023

now-you-see-them, now-you-don’t screens add protection and comfort to your outdoor spaces. Choose from lighter or tighter screen weaves to control privacy, UV rays, air, light, heat and bugs. Even chase cold weather’s chill away with clear vinyl, often installed in a dual roller system with a traditional mesh screen option for the summer season.

• Incorporate Natural materials Humans are innately attracted to nature. The appearance of the natural world, with its rich diversity of shapes, colors and life is universally accepted. Natural materials are a smart design decision when creating an outdoor space. Bringing brick, stone and wood, combined with living plants, into the space is a thoughtful and important design element that you and your guests will appreciate.

• Outdoor dining Kitchens play an important role in our home and the same principle goes for outdoor living. Outdoor kitchens are a perfect space to entertain people. Built-in grill, cabinets, lighting, sink, countertop area and a refrigerator are perfect partners that bring al fresco dining to delicious fruition. While the food is being pepped, grilled or cooked, outside guests can gather around and socialize while the meal is being prepared. From hosting a lively party to an intimate dinner, your evening will be a success.

Consider being nurtured by nature. Expand your living space outdoors and begin to enjoy the lasting benefits it offers. From a modest project to one that is more involved, this engaging area will promote better health, family bonding and entertainment with living life outdoors.

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Give us a call! inspired home | 47

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HOME SHOWCASE

Minnesota’s Crystal Lake became a beautiful backdrop for this family’s new home. With its refined rustic look, ample living space and multiple covered outdoor areas for the family to gather, the homeowner’s goals were completed.

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special A

spot

BY TERRI FERRAGUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS

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INSPIRED HOME | 51

HOME SHOWCASE

I The beauty of fire is represented both indoors and outdoors in this lake home. Mixed materials of wood and brick bring natural beauty inside to accentuate the rustic, yet elegant design goal.

52 | summer 2023

n the heart of northwest Otter Tail County lies a pristine 1,412-acre area of summer bliss — Lake Crystal. A perfect haven for anglers of panfish, largemouth bass, northern pike and walleye, Lake Crystal also became a perfect Minnesota wooded site for the new home of a growing family.

Having long-standing connections to the west central Minnesota lakes region, including a multi-generational family farm near Pelican Rapids, Minnesota, they knew without a doubt that their search for a lake home would begin and end there.

“We bought our first lake cabin on Crystal Lake in 2000, and rebuilt on the same site in 2005,” the homeowner shares. As their family grew, including grandchildren, they

eventually outgrew the second home they built — especially during weekend get-togathers with extended family. When a new development on Crystal Lake opened in 2018, the time seemed right for a new chapter to begin in their lives.

“When we began looking to upsize our lake home in 2018, we checked out a number of lots and lake homes that were for sale. Ultimately, we purchased a lot on Crystal Lake because it offered an ideal combination of elevation, size and shoreline,” the homeowner said. While the homeowners weren’t opposed to finding the right turnkey property, they were also open to the idea of building new. “We were not overly intimidated by the building process, and figured we could likely get through it

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Wood beams, curved arches and large window displays to the lakeside help capture the feeling of comfort of the Minnesota woods and water.

with our marriage intact,” quipped the homeowner.

Although the homeowners were undaunted by the new project, the depth and breadth of their new plans brought them to the realization they would benefit by enlisting the help of an architect. “We needed some creative thinking and expertise to get the most out of the project.

We connected with Tony Stall of bhh Partners, Perham, Minnesota, and while we had some general ideas about what we wanted, Tony was very engaging and asked us all the right questions.” From what started as ideas on Pinterest and Houzz boards came the impetus to collaborate, define and refine the homeowner’s desired outcome with bhh Partners.

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The open floor creates ease of movement from one area to another. Here, the transition from preparing dinner to dining and then relaxing with a fire is enjoyable.

INSPIRED HOME | 53

HOME SHOWCASE

Rich wood tones become a striking element in the rustic elegance of this lake home. Flooring by Floor to Ceiling in Fargo and stunning wood cabinetry created by Country Classic Cabinetry of Barnesville, MN creates a desired natural, modern and earthy vibe.

Another view of the kitchen reveals a cozy nook where family members can gather and converse for a quick bite to eat before heading out for a day’s activities on Crystal Lake.

54 | summer 2023

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Natural-toned colors, large windows and harmonious wood hues continue with the family’s desire to create living spaces that reflect and meld with nature’s realm.

The striking design combination of rich wood tones melded with black lighting, hardware, window frame and fixtures complete this space.

The shower tile by Floor to Ceiling in Fargo reflects the beauty of rough-hewn wood and is the design hero that captures attention in this bathroom. The coordination of the complimentary tile pattern and color of the shower floor adds additional visual interest.

Overall goals for a well-planned functioning home for the family had several desired key elements. Enjoying the lakeside to its full extent, incorporating modern yet rustic and refined design, and establishing a feeling of openness and coziness was paramount to the family. “Tony at bhh Partners pretty well nailed it, as the design plan made places large enough for the entire family to gather such as the open kitchen, great room and deck. Other areas gave them their own space as well, such as the downstairs entertainment area and the fourseason porch,” added the homeowner.

As in all successful builds, good communication between everyone became the basic foundation for the build. “We worked with Jerod Steer of Steer Construction from Hawley, Minnesota. Early on, we established a good rapport and relationship with him. Just as in many relationships, early and INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

INSPIRED HOME | 55

HOME SHOWCASE

frequent communication was key. Even though we built during the height of the pandemic, Jerod was able to get the home built on time and on budget, which was no small feat. Jerod also had helpful suggestions on the design and build.

The family’s favorite features of their new home’s design were quickly established. “We like how the home blends in with the wooded surroundings and lakeshore, as well as our covered deck, the bunkroom above the garage and the four-season porch. We’re very happy with the finished product.”

Crystal Lake is a beautiful Minnesota haven for fish. And my guess is that this family believes it’s a very special spot on the Minnesota map for them as well.

Lakeside, a comfortable space is dedicated to a “cold one” on a hot humid day at the lakes. This inviting space is a place to relax and enjoy the beautiful view with family and friends.

A four-season porch is a place appreciated as a comforting space for morning coffee and conversation with friends and family. Wood, arched windows and comfortable seating are integral elements in the joy this room emits.

56 | summer 2023

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CONTRIBUTORS ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN: Tony Stoll, AIA, Principal Architect, bhh Partners, Planners/ Architects, Perham, MN

GENERAL CONTRACTOR, BUILDER: Jerod Steer, Steer Builders, Hawley, MN Floor To Ceiling, Fargo: Tile and Flooring Country Classic Cabinets, Barnesville, MN: Cabinetry Lakes Area Landscaping, Pelican Rapids, MN: Landscaping Homeowners: Interior Design Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss: Photography

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The stunning architectural features of the lake-facing exterior is a thing of total beauty. Mixed materials of lap siding, board and batten and stone create a refined rustic look.

The large roof features overframed areas that are incorporated from the roadside to the lakeside creating an added element of architectural charm.

INSPIRED HOME | 57

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travel

Boston, a treasure trove of memories PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY BAILEY HOVLAND

60 | summer 2023

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A statue of Paul Revere on his steed in the North End of Boston, depicts the revolutionary midnight ride to warn others that the British were on their way.

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oston is a town famous for many different reasons.

The city was an essential military port in the American Revolutionary war, is home to the beloved Fenway Park and boasts the invention of the Boston Cream Pie. Boston is an American city like no other.

Esteemed author E.B. White wrote, “There is about Boston a certain reminiscent and classical tone, suggesting an authenticity and piety which few other American cities possess.” My family and I visited Massachusetts this last May, hoping to immerse ourselves in the history and culture of the Boston metropolis and the surrounding towns during our stay.

We walked the Freedom Trail, a 2.5mile stretch of history dating all the way back to the 1600s. The red-brick trail winds from downtown Boston, across the water of the Charles River streaming into the Boston Harbor, all the way to Charlestown. We trekked past the Massachusetts State House and the Boston City Hall, wandered through the headstones at Granary Burying Ground and spent some time reflecting between the melancholic glass spires of the New England Holocaust Memorial. Each monument offered a looking glass into the past, illuminating the tumultuous and storied history of the nation.

My favorite spot was the North End, the “Little Italy” of Boston. Four- and fivestory brick buildings were stacked up and down the streets with moments of history tucked in between. Paul Revere, the notorious night rider who warned people near and far that the British were, in fact, coming, lived on 19 North Square in a 17th-century urban home. Just northwest of the Revere household is Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, a colonial cemetery that the British used as a vantage point to train their cannons on Charlestown in the Battle of Bunker Hill. And, of course, INSPIRED HOME | 61

T R AV E L

The historic buildings of the North End of Boston demonstrate the importance of preserving historic architecture, featuring impressive buildings still standing from the 18th century.

The Boston Public Library was a pioneer of public libraries in America, as it was the first public library to lend books in the United States.

The John Hancock Memorial is located in the Granary Burying Grounds, paying homage to the late revolutionaries and one of the most famous signatories in American history.

Granary Burying Ground has approximately 2,300 markers and is the resting place for Benjamin Franklin’s parents, with an epitaph erected in their honor in the middle of the cemetery.

62 | summer 2023

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“

Each monument offered a looking glass into the past, illuminating the tumultuous and storied history of the nation.

”

Tired of cleaning out

egress wells?

The New England Holocaust Memorial in Boston, Massachusetts, is dedicated to the Jewish people who were murdered by Nazi Germany during the Holocaust.

Boston’s Old City Hall was one of the first American buildings built in the French Second Empire Style, resembling the architecture of the Executive Office Building in Washington D.C. and city halls in Providence, Baltimore, and Philadelphia.

Italian cafes and restaurants and bakeries were abundant, from the savory slices of pizza at Ernesto’s to the cannoli at Mike’s Pastry, a bakery referred to as the Granddaddy of the North End bakeries.

Yet the highlight of the trip was not the incredible pistachio iced coffee from Caffe Dello Sport in North End (although it was the best coffee I have ever tasted), nor was it the inside look at Old Ironsides (the world’s oldest ship still afloat) anchored just outside the USS Constitution Museum. A little less than an hour outside of Boston is Gloucester. This INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

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travel

“

We returned to land after a few hours at sea, yet it felt like we had not spent enough time with these curious creatures of the deep.

”

64 | summer 2023

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From left to right: Me, my mother, and my sister aboard the. whale-watching excursion excited to see some humpback whale sightings.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Whales surfaced less than thirty feet from the boat, allowing us a close-up view of these giant creatures of the deep.

Once a whale spout appeared, everyone on board the boat turned their eyes, cameras, and binoculars to catch a glimpse of the surfacing whales.

Each humpback whale tail is as unique as a human fingerprint, allowing researchers to identify whales by the different characteristics of their tail flukes.

town of around 29,000 people is a coastal city on Cape Ann and the ideal location to check one item off of my bucket list: humpback whale watching.

We boarded the boat early in the morning, settling into the second-floor seating of the vessel under a misty and overcast sky. Our guides were trained naturalists, able to provide extensive insight into the lives of the whales we were hoping to see. After less than a half hour on the open ocean, one spout broke the surface to announce the underwater giant’s presence. Soon after, a marbled fin appeared out of the water, seeming to wave at its spectators. In total, we saw over a dozen humpback whales. The grace with which they moved through the water was jaw-dropping, as it seemed impossible for such a large being to swim so elegantly.

It was an indescribable experience, yet here I am, attempting to capture this otherworldly meet and greet in written word. We returned to land after a few hours at sea, yet it felt like we had not spent enough time with these curious creatures of the deep. Humpback whales come and go from the Massachusetts coast, traveling from Iceland, Greenland and even Norway to reach their North American feeding grounds. And we were lucky enough to witness their beauty for just a few hours under the late spring sun, granting us the perfect ending to our Massachusetts getaway.

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Photographer | Real Estate Photography

INSPIRED HOME | 65

Reclaim your outdoor spaces Summer is fleeting - enjoy it!

From comfortable shade to creating the cedar gazebo of your dreams, we’ll make sure this summer is the best!

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FARGO, ND 701.237.4021

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cuisine

68 | SUMMER 2023

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Cows & Co Creamery has arrived…

Move over ice cream…GELATO is in town

BY CHEF GRANVILLE WOOD BREWHALLA MARKET IMAGES BY M.SCHLEIF PHOTOGRAPHY

T

Summer 2023 will be a cool, creamy delicious one with the arrival of Cows & Co Creamery.

Here, in their new location in Brewhalla Market, you’ll experience the flavors of artisan gelato and truly authentic gouda cheese from their family dairy farm. This deserves a toast!

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ravel west from Fargo to the small rural town of Carrington, North Dakota, and there on the outskirts you will find a gem of a dairy farm producing some of the finest, truly farm-to-table gelatos as well as Gouda cheese. How the family arrived in North Dakota is an adventure that starts in the Netherlands (Holland), then crosses the pond to northern Alberta and then onward to North Dakota, where 1,500 happy Holsteins and a few Swiss brown cows provide the pure whole milk for their artisan Duchessa (a nod to their Dutch roots) gelato.

With a long history of dairy farming in the Netherlands, the family wanted

to expand and grow their herd. Holland is a beautiful agricultural country, compact, with giant tulip farms, stunning architecture, massive engineering feats to keep the sea at bay and also home to the great painters Rembrandt, Van Gough and Vermeer. But opportunities to expand were limited so the call of the Canadian West brought them to the small town of Calmar, Alberta, outside of Edmonton. It must have been quite a shock to find themselves on the vast open prairie after the beautiful, lush landscape of the Netherlands.

Maartje, our heroine in this article, was 6 years old when she left the Netherlands.

INSPIRED HOME | 69

cuisine

The roots of Maartje and Evan Murphy’s dairy farm in Carrington, ND, extend beyond, deep into the green grass of the Netherlands. With generational knowledge, the health and welfare of their 1500 happy Holsteins in their pristine Dutch-inspired barn are paramount to their success.

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“

With a long history of dairy farming in the Netherlands, the family wanted to expand and grow their herd. ­­­– Chef Granville Wood

”

One small piece of delicious evidence – authentic gelato from your trip to Cow & Co Creamery at Brewhalla Market.

Her family spent the next eight years in Canada before they picked up again and moved to Carrington, where their dream to expand and grow their herd came to fruition. This is where Maartje made her dream of bringing a taste of the Netherlands through her gelato to North Dakota. As her business grew, the opportunity to purchase a nearby farmstead allowed Maartje and her husband, Casey, to create a new creamery where they produce their intensely flavored small-batch gelato and authentic Gouda cheese.

There are several things that really say summer — the smell of freshly mowed grass, food cooking on the grill, sweet corn and “real” tomatoes fresh off the vine. And then there is the dingle of a bell announcing the ice cream truck is coming, chased by the neighborhood children wanting a cool frozen treat. I think it is safe to say almost everyone loves ice cream, except those poor souls who are lactose intolerant. I do know a few who will suffer the consequences regardless. That is how strong the satisfaction of a good handdipped cone is on a warm summer’s eve.

As a young lad growing up in a multicultural city many a summer evening was spent in cafes with my parents and their friends having an after-theater coffee or aperitivo. My treat for being such a INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

e n i W !

e m Ti

FREE 5 lb. bag of ice with purchase Expires August 31, 2023

3 minutes south of We Fest on Hwy. 59 Detroit Lakes, Minnesota 218.847.BEER (2337) I 218.846.WINE (9463) www.7sistersspirits.com INSPIRED HOME | 71

cuisine

IF YOU GO

72 | SUMMER 2023

Maria Rue, Impact Social

Cows & Co Creamery Brewhalla Market 1702 1st Avenue North Fargo, ND

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Maartje & Evan Murphy, the proud owners of Cows & Co Creamery are living the “American Dream,” which for them has been a journey that has required much work and sacrifice. Their wish is that when you visit them at Cows & Co Creamery, you will experience a true “taste” of the Netherlands.

Located on a piece of paradise northwest of Vergas, Minnesota, this gallery is owned and operated by metal artist/potter, Patrick Shannon and painter/ jewelry maker, Helena Johnson.

We feature a kaleidoscope of works from hand-blown glass and sculptures to pottery. Take a stroll through our beautiful floral and sculpture gardens.

In the aging room at their dairy farm in Carrington, ND, their classic Gouda cheese wheel is a prized and personal product to be shared. All the goodness of nature is captured in its soft and creamy buttery taste.

Back in Carrington at the dairy farm where it all began, this charming café awaits hungry patrons.

well-behaved boy was either a bowl or cone of densely flavored gelato, Italy’s version of ice cream, and its gift to the world.

Gelato means “frozen” in Italian, and it has a rich history that has touched several cultures in various forms going back 5,000 years. The Italian Renaissance in the 14th century gave us the first forms of gelato. Italian artist and architect Bernardo Buontalenti conceived of putting eggs, milk, sugar and flavorings together, creating a delicious gelato that was first served to honor the King of Spain at an opulent banquet.

The beauty of Cows & Co Creamery’s Duchessa artisan gelato is the quality of the milk and other ingredients used, giving Maartje total control of the process. The milk comes directly from their very happy cows — if you saw their barn, you would understand why they are so happy — straight to the creamery where it is aged overnight with cream and sugar to cure. After aged eggs are added and heated, forming the base, it is slowly churned in small batches minimizing the amount of air going into the gelato, giving it a unique creamy texture.

High-quality flavorings, such as Callebaut Belgian chocolate, are incorporated for her out-of-this-world “Stracciatella.”

Maartje’s gelato, made in Old-World style, has an intense flavor and dense texture that comes from using the best ingredients and techniques that result in a smooth, creamy and silky concoction worthy of any Italian gelateria. Cows & Co Creamery is located INSPIREDHOMEMAGAZINE.COM

forestedgeartgallery.com 218.342.2681 Open: Memorial Weekend through Labor Day Weekend Summer Hours: Tues – Sat, 11 – 5, Sun 11 - 3 Closed: Mondays and July 4th

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INSPIRED HOME | 73

cuisine

The success of any business is the quality of its employees and here is the living testimony.

Pictured are Maarjte with Eryn, Cows & Co Creamery manager at the Brewhalla Market, making a joyous toast to their new endeavor.

scandinavian beauty & practicality Discover the charm of Scandinavia. From glassware and candles to clothing and home decor, you’ll find that perfect gift.

in the recently opened Brewhalla food court on First Avenue North, just west of University Drive, where Eryn and Jody will serve you a cone or cup from the several flavors on hand in their custom-made Italian gelato case. Grab a pint from the freezer and see if you can make it home without gobbling it all down.

Buon appetito!

Shop in store or online

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Kitchen Smarts NEW AT CREATIVE KITCHEN!

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The Shallow Round oven is crafted from their enameled cast iron for superior results. Versatile, it’s sized for casseroles, side dishes, reheating leftovers and more.

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ingredients

Pavlova, please…

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN FERRAGUT CARLSON

78 | summer 2023

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I

think the easiest desserts to make are those involving whipped egg whites. Meringues, Norwegian trollkrem and French macarons are all elegant and not as difficult to make as you may think.

Pavlova, a favorite dessert of mine, when it comes right down to it, is simply whisking egg whites into stiff peaks — and it yields the most impressive summer dessert!

Pavlova has its roots in Australia, dating somewhere around 1906.

The dessert was famously created in honor of Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova during her tours to Australia and New Zealand around that same time. She craved a dessert that was an indulgence, but one that was low in calories. Pavlova, really just eggs white and a little sugar, is still very popular in New Zealand and Australia.

If you are a fan of texture, this could be your dessert. Its signature is the crunchy crispiness, the chewiness and the marshmallow-y goodness in the center. All Pavlova recipes require egg whites and sugar and will also call for an acid and corn starch, which serve very important purposes. Baking, after all, is edible chemistry!

The whipped egg whites serve as the base structure of the Pavlova. The sugar serves to slightly sweeten the dessert, but it also binds to the egg whites, which helps to stabilize the structure of the tiny air bubbles. This is where the acid comes in. You can use any type of vinegar (which I think works best), lemon juice or cream of tartar. Cornstarch is a classic thickener and is what helps give Pavlova its classic, gooey, marshmallow-y center.

Some things I learned along the way: • A free-form, rustic Pavlova is the best. There are no rules when it comes to shape or height, you’ll just have to

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Russian prima ballerina Anna Pavlova of the late 19th and early 20th centuries was one of the most celebrated and influential ballet dancers of her time. Her passion and grace are captured here in this striking portrait. Pavlova dessert, her namesake, was said to be as light and airy as her dancing.

INSPIRED HOME | 79

ingredients

adjust the baking time. Some are wide and shallow, some are tall, some are swoopy and some are swirly. I do recommend keeping the diameter around 9 inches. Have fun with it!

• You can never let it cool, rest or dry for too long. Pavlovas are baked at a low temperature for a long time, anywhere from 1½ to 5 hours or even longer. I opt for the “even longer” method. No one wants a weepy, mushy Pavlova, so work in your garden for a few hours if yours is thick and tall. Alternatively, one that is more disk-like and shallow will take a shorter amount of time.

• You know your pavlova is done baking when it is pale in color and has some cracks.

Wanting cracks seems counterintuitive (especially if you are a perfectionist), but this ensures those crispy crunchy edges and a perfect center. It is important to let the Pavlova cool in the oven for a couple of hours after you’ve baked it, which helps to dry it out.

Traditionally, Pavlova is topped with fresh whipped cream and fresh fruit, which is exactly what I like to do. You can use any fruit you have on hand in your kitchen.

Another great option is to add a layer of custard. After all, you’ll have four egg yolks left over from this recipe — just what you need to create crème patisserie, pudding or delicious lemon curd. Then, just top off that additional layer with whipped cream and fruit.

You can easily make this recipe ahead of time, which is great news. If it is completely dry and cool, it stores perfectly in an airtight container.

Impress your friends and family this summer with a beautiful, light and berrytopped Pavlova. It will be an instant hit!

80 | SUMMER 2023

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This dessert may look difficult to make, but I assure you – it is easy. If you can beat egg whites, you can make this dessert. TIP: When making Pavlova, use room-temperature eggs. They will whip up faster and have a greater volume than cold eggs.

TIP: Typically caster sugar, also known as superfine sugar, is an important ingredient in this recipe. If you don't have any on hand, you can whizz granulated sugar in a food processor until it is ground to a fine texture. Do not use powdered sugar.

TIP: The meringue tends to look uniquely different for each Pavlova I make. I used an off-set spatula to make the vertical ridges on the side of my Pavlova.

You may use a butter knife or the back of a spoon to make creative swirls and swoop patterns.

PAV LOVA

This is a graceful and beautiful dessert, perfect for serving guests on a hot summer day.

INGREDIENTS:

METHOD:

4

large egg whites, room temperature (optional: use the yolks for lemon curd!)

1

cup superfine sugar

1

tsp. pure vanilla extract

½

tsp. cream of tartar or 1 tsp. vinegar

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees F. Line a sheet tray with parchment.

Draw a circle about 9 inches in diameter with a pencil. Be sure to turn the parchment over so the pencil doesn’t get on your pavlova.

1

tsp. cornstarch

GARNISH: Assorted fresh fruit – berries, kiwi, etc.

WHIPPED CREAM: 2

cups cold heavy cream

2

Tbsp. powdered sugar

1

tsp. vanilla

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Separate the eggs and, in a clean bowl, beat the egg whites on high until soft peaks form, about 3 minutes. Gently add the sugar little by little while the mixer is still going.

Add vanilla and keep beating until the peaks become glossy, shiny and stiff. The sugar should be completely dissolved. Hold a whisk upright — the peaks should not move. Fold in vinegar (or cornstarch) and the cream of tartar into the egg whites.

Spread the Pavlova mixture onto the parchment-lined tray. Use a spatula

to make a concave mound. Make swoops upward around the edge or make decorative tips and swirls, as you like.

Bake until firm and dry, about 90 minutes. Rotate the baking sheet if you notice some spots browning.

Use your oven light to check on the Pavlova rather than opening the oven door.

Turn the oven off and let the Pavlova cool IN the oven for 1-2 hours. Once the Pavlova is cool, top with fresh whipped cream and fruit.

To serve later, store it covered tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days.

METHOD FOR WHIPPED CREAM: Beat the egg whites on high until stiff peaks form.

INSPIRED HOME | 81

Wine Wisdom

Chandon Garden Spritz This is definitely not your average bottle of bubbles – this Spritz is bursting with flavor.

Chandon takes their classic Brut and enhances it with bitters and orange peel just before bottling.

The natural flavors of this upgrade are perfect for summer entertaining! Take it a step further by adding gin or vodka and with a fun summer garnish. It’s great for brunch or sipping on a sunset pontoon cruise.

Moonshot Red Blend

Chelsey Malstrom, Seven Sisters Spirits, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

This Merlot/Cabernet blend from Sonoma wine country started as a passion project between two friends from Minnesota with a love for the Northern California coast. The Midwest duo teamed up with a small Sonoma family winery.

The match was perfect, much like this blend.

Warm blueberry and cherry pie on the nose, followed by juicy, cranberry, plum, and citrus dancing on your palette. This wine has plenty of fruity qualities, ever balanced with tannin and structure. This blend is perfect with anything on the grill or sipping by the campfire.

Cheers!

Chelsesytrom Mal

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