Your Boat Club:
We boating! are
These late-model, meticulously maintained fishing boats, ski boats, and pontoons have served our members well. Most of our boats have been in service for only three years and are regularly detailed and refurbished. It is simply time to replace them with brand-new models and find them a new home!
The average age of our fleet is 1.5 years old- meaning our members- and you- get to experience the newest boats in the market. Because our boats are in service, they are cared for better than the average boat.
Especially after the initial depreciation, boats tend to hold their value extremely well. If you are considering buying a boat, why not eliminate the risk of overpaying and save all of that expense?
When it comes to your family’s next great adventure, you can trust Your Boat Club. With decades of experience and an unmatched love for boating, you can rely on us. We are boating! Find out more at www.YourBoatClub.com/buy-a-boat today!
The Explore Issue
We live in an efficiency and productivity-obsessed age. And I admit I fall into the trap sometimes, too. The trap of believing the only things worth doing are those for which I can make an exact calculation of the time, effort, and investment it will cost me—the things that result in the highest level of control and least amount of uncertainty.
But the truth is—that is really a sad and unfulfilling way to go through life. As I get older, the less technol ogy I use, the better it is for me. It's the memories I make, the experiences I have, and the loved ones I share them with that matter more.
We must leave some room for exploring, for trying new places and things, for being a beginner, and even for getting lost. It is those times that are unstructured and open-ended where the space exists for connections to be made, friendships to be fostered, and trust to be built.
On a recent trip, my wife and I went spelunking in Mexico. Cave exploration and some swimming in underground rivers was a new one for me. And though I don't quite cut the same dashing figure in a wet suit that I once did, I am richer for the adventure of it all. It's worth noting that "adventures" and "exploration" don't even have to be something big and crazy. It can be playing a board game out on the patio, walking a new trail, or going out to find a fun cookie place you've never been to before in a different part of town.
In this issue, we explore the best parts of summer in Waconia and Victoria. We show you how you can have that yay-I'm-a-boat-owner feeling without the ughI-have-to-maintain-and-store-this-thing vibe with Your Boat Club. (Plus, they share the best gems to cruise to on Lake Waconia!) In our What's New in Waconia feature, we share fantastic eateries that allow you to explore world flavors without leaving town. And as we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, we sit down with Jamie Joos Photography who is giving back to those who serve our communities selflessly through her program, Headshots for Heroes. Plus, we chat with the incredible team at OBGYN West and head out in nature with Jen's latest Life Minded column.
My hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for exploration and to prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. Lose yourself on a trail or in a book. Take that trip you've been thinking about, and make time for the things that matter most to you.
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com
MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER
Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Kristin Schuette | kristin.schuette@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily McKeever, Jen Fortner, Kimberly Blaker, David Scheller, and Sue Collins
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Jamie Joos
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER @WACONIACITYLIFESTYLE
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1—7: Schram Vineyards hosted a beautiful event for the Kentucky Derby. They had a wonderful turnout, and the weather cooperated perfectly. Guests donned their best hats and dapper outfits for the occasion and enjoyed best-dressed contests along with a curated menu of themed cocktails and delectable food while watching “The Run for the Roses!” Photography by David Ebersviller
business monthly
Gather and Grow Food Shelf is Growing!
Gather and Grow Food Shelf is ‘growing’ as it expands its reach to The Friends For Life Food Shelf in Watertown. Some exciting changes at The Friends For Life are a more welcoming layout with updated decor, and a shopper-choice model allowing a more dignified experience for the shoppers. They also aim to grow their volunteer base and foster stronger community connections. Congratulations to all!
Scan to read more
Book an Appointment for Fusion Fridays at Waconia Women's Health
Need a little boost before your busy summer weekend? You’re in luck! Nikki Siddons of Waterside Health and Wellness will be at Waconia Women’s Health for Fusion Fridays performing IV Infusion Therapy for numerous ailments such as migraines, fatigue, dehydration, and many more. Book online now because summer goes fast and you don’t want to waste a minute not feeling your best! https://waconiawomenshealth.com/fusion-friday-iv-infusion-therapy/
Lola's Lakehouse Welcomes Ryan Sathre as New General Manager
We’d like to introduce you to Ryan Sathre, the new General Manager of Lola’s Lakehouse. Sathre brings numerous years of hospitality experience, including a background in mixology and sommelier expertise. We look forward to him elevating the already refined dining experience we’ve all grown to love at Lola’s and sharing his passion for strong team collaboration to ensure an exceptional affair every time you walk through Lola’s grand double doors.
Photography by Gather and Grow Food Shelf
Photography by Lola’s Lakehouse
Dr. Alesha Roach and Dr. Ashley Anderson
(photo by Emily John)
OBGYN West
Premier Women’s Health of Minnesota-OBGYN West is dedicated to advancing the quality, value and accessibility of healthcare for all women. Their passion elevates the obstetrics and gynecology experience by partnering women with medical professionals who are just as invested in their patients’ well-being as they are their peace of mind, empowering women to make informed decisions about their health, and making everything women need to lead their healthiest lives available at multiple prestigious and independent practices throughout the greater Twin Cities area – including OBGYN West’s four locations in Chaska, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka and Waconia.
OBGYN West’s empathetic and skilled physicians pride themselves on caring for generations of women. Many grandmothers take heart knowing that their daughters and granddaughters receive expert preventive, acute and chronic care from the same doctors they entrust their own health to. In this fashion, OBGYN West has remained one of the threads that binds families together since their establishment in 1970.
OBGYN West’s Waconia clinic exemplifies their physicians’ commitment to the communities they serve. The city’s growing population includes many women who are looking forward to starting their own families. OBGYN West will answer their call.
“As an Ob/Gyn, I’m at the forefront of my patients’ childbearing and pregnancy years,” said Dr. Ashley Andersen, who is one of four primary physicians serving women at OBGYN West’s Waconia clinic. “It is a privilege to get to truly know each of my patients, and become someone she can trust with all of her health issues. As a resident of the west metro, I look forward to treating my neighbors today and decades from now. I believe that caring for multiple generations of the same family is the greatest distinction a physician could ever hope to achieve.
ARTICLE BY DAVID SCHELLER
Health Partnerships for Life
“Our clinicians understand the importance of continuity of care. A patient may not see the same physician during every visit, though she will partner with a single provider over the course of her lifetime. That creates enormous peace of mind for any expecting mother who wants the same specialist at her side during and after her pregnancy – and, needless to say, on the big day itself. By the time I’ve delivered my patient’s second baby, she and I will already have become close friends.
“Continuity of care is also invaluable to our patients who aren’t necessarily planning to have children now, but would like to sometime in the foreseeable future. If motherhood is one of your dreams, then we welcome you to OBGYN West for your annual exams. We’ll help you understand which medications are safe, which vitamins and supplements are most helpful, and which health and wellness decisions you can start making to put yourself in the best possible place when you are finally ready to start a family. And if you do encounter bumps in the road, we’ll be here to help you navigate them the right way. It’s all in service of reducing your stress to the greatest degree possible.
“OBGYN West’s state-of-the-art medical services do even more to allay our patients’ apprehensions. We have excellent and accessible sonography at all four of our locations. We also partner with the Twin Cities’ leading high-risk pregnancy specialists, including the same perinatologists who treat patients for Allina and M Health Fairview.
CONTINUED >
“I’m a mother myself, with a 2-year-old and another new life on the way. I like to think I was compassionate and understanding before experiencing motherhood firsthand, although everything has taken on a new meaning since then. Now that I have weathered the same doubts, challenges and stressors as my patients, I feel I can relate to them that much more genuinely.
“I’m also a millennial, which gives me insight into the unique health challenges faced by other members of the younger generations. I see the same social media content and ads as my peers, and know how to refute the oftentimes wildly inaccurate information they contain. I also understand younger women’s desire to incorporate chiropractic, acupuncture, yoga, and other forms of nontraditional self-care into their pregnancies, and am happy to help them get the most from their added investment in their health.
“I only refer to OBGYN West’s clients as ‘patients’ out of custom. In reality, we treat individuals – each of whom comes to us with her own one-of-a-kind health history and aspirations. I can only do my best work by truly getting to know someone as a person. I am grateful to work at a clinic that lets me do just that!”
Please visit premierwomenshealthmn.com to learn more about OBGYN West’s health partnerships for life, or call (952) 249-2000 to book an appointment at any of their four clinics in the west metro.
SERVICES OFFERED AT OBGYN WEST
• Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery
• Annual Well-Woman Visit
• Birth Control
• Endometrial Ablation
• Endometriosis Treatment
• Family Medicine
• Gynecology
• In-Office Surgery
• Infertility
• Mammography
• Menopausal Care
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Nutritional Therapy
• Pelvic Medicine
• Pregnancy
• Robotic Surgery
• Telehealth
• Weight Management
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
“Your Boat Club gives you that yay-I’m-aboat-owner feeling without the ugh-Ihave-to-maintain-andstore-this-thing vibe.”
Cruising in Comfort and Style
Explore the waters of Your Boat Club for your summer adventures
You’ve been waiting all year for this. A cooler full of treats prepared, sunscreen on that delicate Minnesota winter skin, your hair whipping in the wind as you wave to the other boaters and mouth in unison, “This is amazing!” It’s officially boating season. Your favorite crewmates are on deck: Captain Dad, First Mate (most helpful child in the family), Navigator (newly licensed teen son), Chef (snack aficionado teen daughter), and Steward… that’s you! You feel relaxed, comfortable, and, above all, content. This day couldn’t be more blissful if you scripted it yourself. But wait, you did! Guided by Your Boat Club – the experts in top-quality boat rentals that get the splash seeker in you on the water with style and ease. Ready to plan your unforgettable summer voyage on the lake? Before you send an SOS, unsure of where to begin, come aboard with Trevor Gibson, Location Manager for Your Boat Club, as he steers us through Your Boat Club’s offerings and elevated hassle-free experience.
“Your Boat Club offers a wide range of services. In addition to unlimited boating for our members, we offer half-day, fullday, and even week- or month-long rentals for anyone who would like to spend time on the water without the commitment to join the club,” Trevor shares. You can rent pontoons and fishing boats, so no matter your nautical adventure, YBC gives you that yay-I’m-a-boat-owner feeling without the
ugh-I-have-to-maintain-and-store-this-thing vibe. And regardless of the watercraft you choose, rest assured it will be in tip-top shape.
Of their fleet of over 400, not one boat is over 18 months old, and each is clean, gassed up, and ready for you at the marina on Your Boat Day. Trevor explains, “Our boats come out of the water every month or so and go through a complete servicing regimen. Our on-site technicians complete the repairs and maintenance and then personally test them in the water to ensure proper and safe operating conditions.” They are also cleaned thoroughly after every use, living up to one of their catchy taglines, “Our boats, your fun!”
So, how does membership work? There are 3 different types to suit every water buff’s needs and desires, and each level offers different access to boats, days and times available, and how many reservations are allowed simultaneously. You simply show up in your new swimsuit with matching flip-flops, grab the keys from a member of their experienced dock staff, and you’re off! The same goes for when you’re sun-kissed and a little weary, with a memory bank full of indelible moments… just drop the keys and head home. No cleaning or gassing – only reflecting on all the day’s fun.
When planning your version of an ideal summer day or evening excursion,
“If you’re heading out to snag some fish, then a fishing boat is perfect for you, but you can fish off any boat!” Trevor says that pontoons are very popular for people who might want to do a wide range of activities. “You can lay back and soak up some sun, cruise around the water and check out the scenery, have a picnic, or simply drop anchor and go swimming.”
Most boats available through Your Boat Club accommodate approximately 8-12 passengers, and Trevor says you don’t need any experience to become captain of one of their ships — just a willing spirit and a sense of adventure. Included with membership is a free, thorough, in-person,
on-the-water orientation that can be done as many times as you’d like. For their daily rentals, they provide a modified on-thedock training class to help guide people a little less familiar with boats and how they operate. They will also go over any hazardous areas on the lakes and how to ensure an enjoyable, relaxed time on the water.
One of Your Boat Club’s missions is to provide its clients with the most memorable experiences in boating while ensuring a safe environment without the complexities of being a boat owner. “The YBC team is like family. We care about each other, help each other day in and day out, and we hope
that this mutual respect shines through to our customers, who become like family to us as well.” This devoted team has hosted countless birthday, graduation, and anniversary parties, but Trevor recalls an extra special affair when their crew assisted with a marriage proposal. “She said yes!”
Now that the ‘where to rent the boat’ question is answered, how about some exciting ideas to enhance the occasion?
On Lake Waconia, Trevor says you can’t miss a stop at Lola’s Lakehouse for their delicious goat cheese flatbread. He also suggests anchoring up and hanging out in the shallows around Coney Island.
“Go on a walk through the island itself! You’ll find picnic tables and a few hiking trails.”
Another signature line that Your Boat Club often uses is “Life is Better on the Water.” And it’s true – the tranquility and warmth you feel when you’re with your people on one of nature’s shimmering jewels is nothing short of magical. But what takes it to the next level is the outstanding service and ease that setting sail with Your Boat Club offers. They make navigating those summer waters with the ones you love a refreshing lake breeze.
Learn more: https://yourboatclub.com/
Rumor has it there are families who enjoy all the same activities. Together.
They are a ski family. That family golfs. Her family loves Broadway shows. Those people go to the cabin to mountain bike. His family are all sailors. We are none of these. We are a grab-bag family with varied interests and very strong opinions. What we do all enjoy aside from verbal sparring is animal sightings. This theory has been tested and proven multiple times when we travel. After unnecessary arguing over travel routes,
Life Minded
car speeds, where to have dinner, music, politics, who sits where, and air temperature, if someone spots a groundhog out a car window, peace is restored.
We watched a herd of elk in Colorado. We followed a raft of otters in Alaska. We saw bears in Wyoming and tiny lizards in Utah. But there is plenty to witness here at home. I’ve spent hours this spring and summer watching a family of foxes, turtles, muskrats, deer, beavers, and a variety of birds in the yard. I have become something of a birdwatcher. We have songbirds and woodpeckers who are trying to move into our chimney, eagles and red-tailed hawks, and hummingbirds. My favorite in the cast of characters is the Great Blue Heron. There are two of them this year, and we must have the best frogs in town because they are out there nearly every day feasting like they have been intermittent fasting.
When anyone else here spots the heron, they scream for me, and I run
to the window. We try to creep outside without startling them. We watch them together. We are an animal family. Our family text thread is composed nearly entirely of animal photos and trying to coordinate dinner times.
We’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by wildlife and enjoy the animal entertainment over the years. We even had a moose in our yard once. A woman who lived a few blocks away happened to be walking on our street when we were all excitedly discussing the moose. We told her about it, and she patted my hand and said, “I’m pretty sure what you saw was a deer , sweetie. They are big like that. With antlers. Not a moose.” Woman. It was moose. Months later, there was a news article about the moose who had taken up residence on the Medina golf course. They speculated he had an altercation over a female with another male and left the pack. He had been seen in a number of local neighborhoods. This moose had a whole interesting backstory.
I really wanted to find that neighbor and give her a framed photo of the article. But I didn’t. I probably shouldn’t fight with the elderly over moose sightings. There is enough conflict in the world. I saw it with my own eyes, and my family did too, and this is the rich reward for looking around outside.
A friend suggested perhaps we were “a certain age” now that we spent time watching birds. I beg to differ. I think, just brainstorming here, the people I live with haven’t allowed me to sit still much in twenty years. But they are older and busier now, so I’ve grown into my full amateur birder self. Watching and waiting and witnessing takes time, whether at a youth soccer game or out in the woods.
Summer is a good season for our family. We can be outside or inside, and there is plenty of content to watch. It’s better than Hulu, and we all like the same show. I’m taking a page from the bird playbook and will enjoy spending summer outside cruising around, exploring close to home.
Minded
COLUMN BY JEN FORTNER
Jen Fortner is a freelance writer who enjoys asking friends and strangers far too many questions. She spends her spare time sitting in inclement weather watching youth sports, traveling, cooking, and searching for the very best baked goods. She lives in the Southwest Metro with her husband, three children and the most spoiled dog.
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
What’s New in Waconia
One of the beauties of living in this community is that nearly everything you require for day-to-day needs and wants is right at your fingertips. You’re likely to find everything on your weekly list with the convenient grocery store options just down the street. Sick or looking for a trusted clinician to check on that questionable mole? We have a quality health system here for that. And when you have a hankering for French cuisine, you need only step inside The Noble Lion and order the Steak Au Poivre (with a glass of Malbec, of course). Instead of sailing across the ocean for a cultural exploration of the culinary sort, take your tastebuds on a trip around the world to these delectable local establishments.
LOLA’S LAKEHOUSE
Nothing says, “Toto, I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore,” than diving into the elevated menu at Lola’s Lakehouse for seafood-inspired dishes and unparalleled ambiance. Dream away on their large patio overlooking Lake Waconia while sipping on a signature cocktail and indulging in fresh oysters and a warm lobster roll. Or PEI mussels and a salmon salad. Or clam chowder and Chilean sea bass. Or…
MED BOX GRILL FOOD TRUCK
When Med Box Grill pulls up, you know you’re in for a Mediterranean treat. Since 2017 the passionate chefs inside this rolling kitchen have been serving their visitors savory falafel, fresh Greek salads, and the most decadent baklava this side of the Aegean. When you see their signature yellow and white food truck, run, don’t walk.
NOBLE LION
The patio is open at this European-style eatery in downtown Victoria! Set sail on your epicurean adventure with their small plate and sharable menu. The beef tartare or burrata are excellent choices to start with, followed by delighting your palate with the branzino or jagerschnitzel. And always with a side of their Belgian-style frites with sauces. Next, pay a visit to The Lion’s Den, their tuckedaway bar situated across the alleyway, is full of classy décor, high-end liquor, and specialty cocktails.
PAU PAU SUSHI
Imagine discovering the freshest rolls, nigiri, sashimi, and more - made with premium ingredients and showcasing eye-catching presentation - inside a grocery store! Well, it’s true. You’ll find Pau Pau Sushi crafting its exquisite and flavorful delicacies in Mackenthun’s Fine Foods, and you should find yourself there, too. Thank us later.
PEP ISLAND FOOD TRAILER
Comfort food plus a tropical twist equals a flavor fiesta. Their 2024 summer menu consists of sun-drenched items like island sliders, Margherita quesadillas, and a gigantic hot dog… You’ll understand how big it is when you see its cheeky name. If you’re a true Islander (the moniker they’ve given their followers), you’ll spot their tie-dyed truck a mile away. If you’re a newbie, just follow your nose.
SIZZLE STREET
This self-proclaimed Indian restaurant “with a twist” will leave a lasting impression on your appetite. Their story is a rich one, and the dishes they create reflect their expertise and commitment to perfection. If you’re a buff of Indian fare, go for your trusted classics, but be sure to venture out of the norm – there’s so much to choose from! If you’re a newcomer to this cuisine, don’t be intimidated. This family-owned operation will be sure to guide you through the menu.
TACOS LA CATRINA FOOD TRUCK
This Mexican food truck has a permanent spot in Waconia, so you can always rely on hot, authentic Mexican fare parked at 140 West Highway 5. Asada tacos, a pastor burrito, chicken tortas, or shredded beef quesadillas, it’s really hard to pick. Top off your order of choice with chips and guacamole or salsa, because, why not, and also, have you ever heard someone say, ‘I really wish I hadn’t ordered the chips and guacamole or salsa?’
WINCHESTER & RYE
Get a little taste of Italy at this upscale dining venue. They beautifully and deliciously craft handmade pizzas in their grandiose wood-fired oven with styles like The White Hot Arugula, So Gouda, or the Wiseguy. And their tortellini seem to be made with magic… and cheese. Lots and lots of cheese. Mangia!
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMIE JOOS PHOTOGRAPHY
HEADSHOTS FOR HEROES
JAMIE JOOS PHOTOGRAPHY OFFERS KINDNESS AND APPRECIATION WITH EVERY CLICK OF HER CAMERA
Heroes are part of the fabric of our community, and you don’t have to search too far to find them. Some are easily recognizable in their bright, robust firetruck or cartoon-covered scrubs. Others, however, are less apparent, quietly fulfilling their roles behind a desk in a second-grade classroom or stocking shelves at the local food shelf. Not only do we have a multitude of true inspirations among us, but we also have countless gracious souls who show gratitude and reverence and do all they can to ensure these local standouts know how much their sacrifice is valued. One of these people is Jamie Joos, owner and photographer of Jamie Joos Photography.
Jamie Joos, owner and photographer of Jamie Joos Photography
Public safety professionals— firefighters, police officers, and paramedics— often don’t get the recognition they deserve. By offering them professional headshots at no cost, I want to show my gratitude and support.
“Jamie Joos Photography’s journey began with a passion for photography and a deep appreciation for the power of a well-captured image. I am all about capturing authentic and unique stories of every individual,” Jamie shares. Jamie specializes in portraits, headshots, and boudoir sessions and also offers photo booth rentals for special events. Her ideal clients are those looking to celebrate their individuality, create lasting memories, and feel empowered and uplifted through photography. One way she succeeds in this goal is through her program, Headshots for Heroes. Jamie says the inspiration for this endeavor came from a desire to give back to those who serve our communities selflessly. “Public safety professionals—such as firefighters, police officers, and paramedics—often don’t get the recognition they deserve. By offering them professional headshots at no cost, I want to show my gratitude and support and provide them with a valuable resource for their careers.”
Jamie explains that the process is designed to be straightforward and respectful of the professionals’ time. She coordinates with local departments to schedule sessions tailored to each individual’s needs, either at their location or her studio. Her approach is to highlight their professionalism and capture their genuine personality, all while ensuring they feel comfortable and confident. And Jamie’s generosity doesn’t stop there; soon she plans to expand Headshots for Heroes to include other essential workers like teachers and healthcare professionals. She knows they also play a crucial role in our communities and deserve recognition.
“I am all about capturing authentic and unique stories of every individual.”
The recipients of this initiative aren’t the only ones benefiting. “Headshots for Heroes has been incredibly fulfilling personally and professionally,” Jamie expresses. “It has allowed me to connect with and give back to my community in a meaningful way.” Professionally, she says it’s also broadened her network and reinforced the importance of her work. This is evident when you hear people talk about partnering with Jamie. You’ll often hear, “I had a blast!”, “She was so kind and patient,” and “Phenomenal!” proving that her clients walk away with much more than a gorgeous professional photo; they walk away with an enjoyable experience that makes them feel something. This is precisely what Jamie intends to provide.
As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, we expect that extra sense of pride and gratitude to swell for those who sacrifice their safety, time with loved ones, personal health and well-being, and much more. Let’s add to that list people like Jamie who offer beautiful tokens of appreciation, for it’s acts like these that keep the spirit of the community and kindness alive.
Learn more:
https://www.jamiejoosphotography.com/
ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY BLAKER
A Hands-On Hiking Experience
Fun, Family Hiking Adventures
What better way to spend quality time with your family and get in touch with nature than a fresh, invigorating walk in the woods, along a river, or the beach? What’s more, family hikes make for fun learning opportunities for kids and parents alike. So try some of these hiking activities with your youngsters.
A STONE IS A STONE IS A…MINERAL?
Go on an excursion to learn about rocks and minerals. Shorelines offer a variety of stones. Before you go, learn which rocks and minerals are abundant in the area, and have each family member choose several to scout for. Take along a small plastic container with dividers, a descriptive rock and mineral
guide, and a magnifying glass for viewing the colors, layers, and details. As you identify stones and minerals, discuss their uses and other neat facts.
SOUNDS OF NATURE
Wander through a forest and listen carefully for a variety of bird and animal sounds. Before you go, check out YouTube or visit your library for a DVD or audio CD of birds and wild animal calls. Then, download an audio recorder on your phone and carry it on your hike to record some of the sounds you hear. Listen to the recording again at home and play a game of detective to determine the source of the sounds you can’t make out. Search the internet and books to discover the makers of the mystery calls.
PHOTO ADVENTURE
Capture nature’s splendor. Hiking trails provide plenty of photo opportunities, and kids will love snapping the shots. Discuss in advance what each family member wants to photograph, such as a huge oak tree, a monarch butterfly, deer tracks, or a close-up of a nibbling squirrel. When you get home, print out the best photos and create a nature scrapbook with them.
CREEPY CRAWLY THINGS
Scouting for insects is an all-time favorite among kids, and the variety of creepy-crawly creatures in the woods is remarkable. Carry an insect book, clear container, tweezers, and a magnifying glass for a close examination of insects’ fascinating features. Bring a journal and track the types of insects you find. Read about insects’ defense behaviors and characteristics, such as colors that indicate danger to predators.
WHICH
WAY DO WE GO?
Roam the neighborhood or local trails and teach your children directional skills, such as how to read a map and use a compass or the sun to determine direction. Before setting out, choose a trail system that provides maps or make up your own. Take a trail that branches off several times, allowing for plenty of skill-building opportunities. For even more fun, turn the excursion into a treasure hunt and go Geocaching or hide a small prize just off the trail yourself, mark the location on your map, and let the journey begin.
CONTINUED >
PLANT LIFE, OLD AND NEW
Discover with your kids the fantastic diversity of plant life. Before you head out, review some books on plants to spark your children’s interest. On each hiking trip, choose a different trail or area and see what plants grow in certain types of soil, climates, and in each season. As you inspect plants, look for their seeds and notice the variations. Talk about how seeds travel by blowing in the wind or catching on the fur of animals. Carefully brush away the ground cover and look
for seeds that have sprouted their roots that will soon develop into a new plant or tree. Learn how individual plants have evolved to have natural defenses to protect against creatures that would otherwise devour them. Now, you’re ready to hit the trails for a fun and unforgettable hiking experience with the whole family. Lake Minnewashta Regional Park, Lake Waconia Regional Park, and Baylor Regional Park are great places to start exploring, and many offer their own programming and activities that are great for all ages.
Trekkin’ tips for tykes
When hiking with children, keep these suggestions in mind.
• Allow small legs plenty of time for breaks and making the journey, and know your child’s limitations.
• Be familiar with potential dangers in the area in which you’ll explore and teach your children trail and animal safety.
• Before you set out, prepare your kids by informing them that there may be rules against taking their nature finds home.
Learn about investment strategies that could potentially lower next year’s tax bill. Contact your financial advisor today to learn how.
641 Marketplace Dr, Ste. 4 Waconia, MN 952-442-1016
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 4TH
Lake Waconia Fireworks Festival
Lake Waconia Regional Park | 7:00 PM
The Lake Waconia Fireworks Festival, led by the Waconia Chamber of Commerce, is hosting the 4th of July Fireworks display at Lake Waconia Regional Park. The show starts at dusk. Our favorite spots to watch the show: • Island View Golf Club • Lake Waconia Regional Park • Lola’s Lakehouse • The Winery at Sovereign Estate • Hill near Target and Twin Cities Orthopedics • From a boat on Lake Waconia
JULY 13TH - 14TH
Art Stock: Art, Wine & Music Festival
Parley Lake Winery | 11:00 AM
Celebrating their 13th anniversary, Art Stock is a two-day art and music festival put on by the Arts Consortium of Carver County. Hosted at Parley Lake Winery, come enjoy exciting new artists, as well as old favorites, representing diverse media such as photography, sculpture, wearable arts, glass, fibers, painting, and more. Plus, you'll enjoy live music throughout both days.
JULY 18TH
Farmers' Market of Victoria
ENKI Brewing | 3:00 PM
The Farmers’ Market of Victoria is back and held outdoors on the ENKI Brewing patio every Thursday this summer. Stop by to hang out, grab a beer, and shop the local offerings from the greatest local vendors around. The market is open from 3pm to 6pm and at 4:30pm enjoy live music from Gigi the Ukulady.
JULY 27TH
Cars & Caves Car Show
Chanhassen AutoPlex | 9:00 AM
Cars and Caves, a one-of-a-kind outdoor auto event, is back for the 2024 season. Showcasing a stunning array of antiques, classics, collectors, exotics, and muscle cars, this event is a must-visit for car enthusiasts. On the last Saturday of the month, from 9am to 1pm, you can head to Chanhassen AutoPlex and be a part of the best car show experience in the state.
JULY 27TH - 28TH
Waconia Wine Festival
Schram Vineyards, Sovereign Estate, & Parley Lake Winery | 11:00 AM
The Waconia Wine Festival is a two-day festival from 11am-6pm featuring three distinctive vineyards within a 5-mile radius of each other: Schram Vineyards, Sovereign Estate, and Parley Lake Winery. This is the perfect opportunity to visit some of the best wineries in the state. Choose which day, what time, and what winery you would like to begin your tour. Each winery will be offering a special food menu, wine deals, and live music!
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BOOKS TO TAKE YOU AWAY
I ASKED MY EXPAT AND TRAVEL-SAVVY FRIENDS TO RECOMMEND BOOKS TO TAKE ME FAR AWAY. HERE YOU GO!
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
The Corfu Trilogy
BY GERALD DURRELL
Three classic tales of childhood on an island paradise - My Family and Other Animals, Birds, Beasts and Relatives and The Garden of the Gods by Gerald Durrell - are available in a single edition for the first time in The Corfu Trilogy.
Blue Latitudes
BY TONY HORWITZ
Blue Latitudes: Boldly Going Where Captain Cook Has Gone Before
The Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist travels to various parts of the world, following in the footsteps of explorer James Cook.
The Island of Missing Trees
BY ELIF SHAFAIT
It is 1974 on the island of Cyprus. Two teenagers, from opposite sides of a divided land, meet at a tavern in the city they both call home. The tavern is the only place that Kostas, who is Greek and Christian, and Defne, who is Turkish and Muslim, can meet, in secret, hidden beneath the blackened beams from which hang garlands of garlic, chili peppers and wild herbs. This is where one can find the best food in town, the best music, the best wine. But there is something else to the place: it makes one forget, even if for just a few hours, the world outside and its immoderate sorrows.
Just before the Second World War the Durrell family decamped to the glorious, sun-soaked island of Corfu, where the youngest of the four children, ten-year-old Gerald, discovered his passion for animals: toads and tortoises, bats and butterflies, scorpions and octopuses. Through glorious silver-green olive groves and across brilliant-white beaches Gerry pursued his obsession . . . causing hilarity and mayhem in his ever-tolerant family.
Cutting for Stone
BY ABRAHAM VERGHESE
Cutting for Stone is a novel written by Ethiopian-born, IndianAmerican medical doctor and author Abraham Verghese. It is a saga of twin brothers, orphaned by their mother’s death at their births and forsaken by their father.
The Museum of Innocence
BY ORHAN PAMUK
The author is a Nobel-laureate Turkish novelist. The book, set in Istanbul between 1975 and 1984, is an account of the love story between the wealthy businessman Kemal and a poorer distant relative of his, Füsun.
