issue is a truly a matter of life and death. Our pages run the gamut from conception and children, to elderly parents and grief—plus everything in between.
Michelle Underland knows a thing or five about birthing babies, having three of her own children, along with being a surrogate for two other couples. After a defining experience with her father, growing up, she realized that families come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Hearing the cry from those who struggle to conceive, bringing parental joy to potential parents through surrogacy, was and still is, Michelle’s mission. Babies on board.
Not having kids myself, it is hard to imagine going through childbirth once, much less multiple times, but as Underland says, there are many definitions of a family. For me, it’s people with whom I can be my most authentic self, including many relatives and close friends—but strangely enough, also our carpenter. He has been a part of nearly every house project, large and small for the past 25 years, and has been in every room, as well as on the roof being stung by wasps, and in the basement covered in spider webs. We’ve included him in meals, happy hours, shared stories about our actual families, and enjoyed many laughs. Sometimes we don’t see him for a year in between projects, but when we do we are greeted with, “So, what’s the good word?” as if no time has passed.
Darlene Nelson puts the giver in caregiver. Most of us care, but how much do we, or can we, give? Care and giving comes naturally to this career nurse, but those attributes were taken to another level after the death of her son over 45 years ago. The shattering grief led her to discover The Compassionate Friends, a national network supporting those who’ve lost a child. She, along with like-minded others formed a local chapter of the group. Friends indeed, for friends in need.
Our First Person article by Michelle Biedscheid shares her experience caring for her elderly parents, and is something many of us can relate to. Her journey started in 2019 with a 911 call for her dad, leading to
assisted living for both parents, eventual hospice, and ultimately their passing. For Michelle, the last six years have been a roller coaster of decisions, parental visits, preparing the family home for sale, and the burnout that can result. Her advice? Be present in lives of those you love, and that includes oneself.
If I had anything to add to Biedscheid’s story based upon my own experiences, is to keep one’s sense of humor. It can be a life saver, even if laughing may seem wrong at the time. After moving my mom to assisted living years ago, she asked us over and over (and over) where she was, and how things were being paid for. No matter how many times it was explained to her, the questions were repeated daily. Finally, although she was still in her hometown in Minnesota, I jokingly told her she was in Kansas City, and that she had to work at the local grocery store to afford her apartment. Oddly enough, realizing that I was kidding, she burst out laughing, as did I. Perplexingly, my late father-in-law’s cognitive decline had him insisting that messages were being communicated to him through the Hallmark channel on the nursing home TV where he resided. As heart-wrenching as that was, we also wondered if Hallmark told him to save the small town from greedy developers, adopt a puppy, and fall for the cute bakery owner. I sincerely hope so.
The saying goes that you can choose your friends but not your family, obviously isn’t the case. Just ask Five Sparrows founder Jessalyn Altringer who, along with her husband, have been foster parents for many years. Realizing the significant foster care community in the Mankato area, Jess, along with four others, formed the non-profit to serve foster children with care bags full of essentials. Applause for birds of a feather flocking together.
We bring back our LOOK fashion feature this month showcasing Wunderberg Collective consignment shop, owned and run by Jen and Jackie Berg. Even though the word “wunder” translates to “miracle,” working successfully with a family member, according to the sisters, doesn’t just happen without recognizing each other’s strengths, style and passion. A complete ensemble.
If this issue proves anything, it’s that family is what you make it. And that’s the good word.
Hearing a reproductive endocrinologist tell you tHat your uterus looks perfect is a compliment you never tHougHt you would want, but it absolutely makes your day.
By KELLY DEVRIENDT
PHOTOS BY LORI MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY
There was no single dramatic plan or career path that pointed Michelle Underland in the direction of surrogacy. However, there was a defining moment that reshaped how she understood what family truly means, and one that would later give deeper meaning to the choice she made to pursue surrogacy.
Underland was raised in Mankato as the oldest of four siblings, so she learned early what it meant to care for others. She graduated from Mankato West High School and went on to attend Minnesota State University–Mankato. It was there, during her freshman year, that she met her husband. This meeting led to some moves and adjustments as her husband pursued additional schooling. Underland seemingly went with the flow and adapted to new surroundings with a positive outlook. She also dedicated time to completing her general studies. Eventually, she found her professional footing in retail management, spending nine years managing Once Upon a Child. She thrived in the role, enjoying the pace, problem-solving, and daily interaction with families. Despite her gratitude and contentment in life, Michelle was always on the lookout for greater purpose and how she could contribute to the world and to others.
That purpose traces back to a moment in middle school in the early 2000s, when Michelle’s father came out as a gay man. It was a defining experience that expanded her understanding of family.
Her father was still her father, with the same love, expectations, and devotion to his children. What changed was Michelle’s awareness that families do not fit into a single mold.
“That was when I really understood that families come in all shapes and sizes,” Michelle says. “And that love is what makes them real.” That realization stayed with her. It shaped how she viewed relationships, parenthood, and the many paths’ people take to build meaningful lives.
Before surrogacy entered the picture, Michelle became a mother herself. This is in fact a requirement to pursue surrogacy. After the birth of her first daughter in 2011, she felt a profound sense of joy and gratitude. Holding her newborn, she experienced a clarity that surprised her.
“I remember thinking that everyone deserves to feel this,” she recalls. “That kind of joy shouldn’t be out of reach.”
Her son was born in 2013, followed by her youngest daughter in 2018. With three healthy children and a strong support system, Michelle felt grounded and fulfilled in her own family life. It was then that the idea of surrogacy became something she was ready to explore seriously.
Michelle approached surrogacy with care and intention. When she first became a surrogate, she chose an agency largely because she had friends who had used it.
“I just applied with them,” she says. “But knowing what I know now, I would absolutely tell women to do their research.”
Michelle emphasizes the importance of working with an ethical agency that follows ASRM guidelines and is a member of SEEDS (Society for Ethics in Egg Donation and Surrogacy). Just as important, she says, is finding an agency whose values align with your own and who truly understands what you are looking for in an intended parent match.
“That alignment matters,” she explains. “It impacts the entire journey.” Ultimately, those same values guided her later decision when choosing an agency to work for professionally.
Her first meetings with intended parents were intentional and thoughtful. Both times, Michelle met her intended parents through hour-long Zoom calls.
“We were able to ask each other questions, share about ourselves, and make sure it felt like a good fit,” she says. While not all agencies use video calls, Michelle stresses that ethical agencies ensure both parties have the chance to connect meaningfully and feel comfortable with the match.
Each time, Michelle felt a strong sense of certainty.
“When the match was right, I had a very strong gut feeling,” she says. “Your body is really good at helping you make decisions if you listen to it.
you go into it knowing tHis is not your cHild. wHat you feel instead is pride, knowing you Helped complete a family.
Surrogacy arrangements vary widely. Sometimes intended parents are both genetic donors. In other cases, such as with same-sex couples, embryos may be created using one parent’s DNA and a donor, or embryos may come entirely from donor material or embryo adoption programs. Laws also vary by state, with some requiring genetic connection to one or both intended parents.
Michelle’s journeys were gestational surrogacies. She has never been an egg donor and was not comfortable pursuing traditional surrogacy, which involves using the surrogate’s own egg, and is not legal in all states.
The medical process itself is extensive. Surrogates undergo significant screening, including lab work to test hormone levels, immunity, and STDs, as well as physical exams to ensure their bodies are healthy enough for pregnancy. Psychological evaluations are also required to ensure emotional readiness.
“Hearing a reproductive endocrinologist tell you that your uterus looks perfect is a compliment you never thought you would want,” Michelle laughs. “But it absolutely makes your day.”
About four weeks before an embryo transfer, surrogates begin hormone medications and supplements to prepare the body for pregnancy. Because the pregnancy is not initiated naturally, the body requires medical support until the placenta takes over hormone production later in the first trimester. Five days before transfer, progesterone injections begin.
“They’re intramuscular injections you do at the same time every night,” Michelle explains. “You continue them until about twelve weeks pregnant. It’s easily one of the hardest parts of the journey. The hormones are tough on your body, and I had knots in my backside for a solid year after stopping the injections each time.”
In March 2021, Michelle was matched with her first intended parents, a same-sex couple hoping to grow their family. Later, she completed a second-sibling journey with another couple. She delivered her first surrogate baby in July 2022 and her second in August 2024.
While the physical demands were significant, Michelle describes the moments after birth not with loss, but with purpose.
“You go into it knowing this is not your child,” she says. “What you feel instead is pride, knowing you helped complete a family.”
Today, Michelle works as an intake coordinator for Golden Surrogacy, guiding prospective surrogates through the same questions and considerations she once faced. Education and transparency are central to her work.
Michelle’s story has come full circle. The middle school girl who learned that families could look different grew into a woman who helped make that truth possible for others.
“I am so lucky, grateful, and amazed to be able to see the faces of new parents when they are handed their child,” Michelle says. “It is truly the greatest gift you could ever give someone.”
families come in all sHapes and sizes.
What’s one small, everyday moment that brings you unexpected joy?
Our kids randomly tell us they love us. We tell them so often, and then it’s just normal for them to creep up, tell us they love us and walk away.
Your go-to comfort ritual after a long day is…?
A nice hot bath, candle, and a good book!
What foods did you crave during your pregnancies?
Each kid was so different, with our first it was ALWAYS spaghetti. My husband was a champ and would eat it several days a week. My first surrogate pregnancy, the only pop I could drink for a treat was Dr. Pepper, anything else would make me nauseous. For all of my pregnancies, I craved ice and water all the time. My husband was used to running to specific gas stations to get me the good pebble ice daily!
What’s something people are often surprised to learn about you?
My pregnancies are usually miserable for the first 20 weeks. I get crazy sick, but I love being pregnant and the whole delivery process so much, I don’t mind the first half of being really sick. I have also spent a total of just under 70 months either nursing our own kids or pumping for others!
What’s a lesson you wish you’d learned sooner— but appreciate now?
Not to chase the attention of people who are not willing to give you their time. If someone wants to be in your life, they will show you that.
There is a season for everything, you have to close doors to open new ones and it’s ok to move on to new things.
Setting boundaries and knowing that “No” is a complete sentence.
When you need a reset, what’s the first thing you do? Stop and take very intentional breaths. Mentally focus on what I can control and decide how I am going to let go of things I can’t. Then I’ll usually take a bath or a hot shower, listen to some 90’s country and move forward.
What does “taking care of yourself” look like in this season of life?
Making sure my family is first and everything else is second. This season of life, and things in the world–it’s so much and it can be a lot to think about. Right now, taking care of me looks like focusing on the now, being present with my family and making sure I get in some me time- reading, writing, a hot bath, or getting a massage!
Finish this sentence: Right now, I’m learning how to __________.
Use a pottery wheel! My husband knows I loved working with clay when we met, 20 years ago, and he surprised me with a pottery wheel for Christmas, so I am working on learning how to use that! RVW
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By AMY ZENTS
Darlene Nelson has always been a caregiver. Long before grief reshaped her life, her nursing career taught her how to listen carefully, how to comfort without judgment, and how to remain steady in moments of fear and pain. Those skills, earned through decades of service, became even more vital after the loss of her son, Michael “Mike” Nelson. Born August 9, 1959, Mike died far too young on September 30, 1979. His death forever altered the Nelson family, but it did not diminish Darlene’s calling to care for others. Instead, it deepened it.
For more than 45 years, Darlene and her husband, Clinton, have carried that calling forward by helping families who have lost children find connection, understanding, and hope through The Compassionate Friends.
“It’s not therapy,” Darlene said. “It’s connection. It’s knowing you’re not alone.”
Darlene’s nursing career began, as she often says, by being in the right place at the right time. For her first 17 years, she worked alongside Dr. Frank J. Carthey in family practice, an experience that shaped her understanding of compassionate medicine and patient centered care.
“He wasn’t just a great doctor; he was a good man,” Darlene recalled. “He became a friend.”
Dr. Carthey believed strongly in mentoring. He routinely invited Darlene into patient discussions, asking her to interpret lab results or examine X-rays alongside him.
“He would say, ‘Darlene, why do you think I’m ordering this test?’ or ‘Come take a look at this, what do you see?’” she said. “It was natural. I loved it. When I went to school for my LPN, it gave me the foundation, and he helped build on it.”
After the clinic relocated, Darlene’s role expanded further. She rotated through pediatrics, internal medicine, emergency care, and worked with visiting specialists, including cardiologists and nephrologists. Over the course of her career, she spent 35 years at New Ulm Medical Center, serving patients across departments and generations.
Mike Nelson
“I enjoyed it because I felt like I was learning something all the time,” she said. “My goal in life has always been to learn something new every day.”
Nursing looked different then. Nurses prepared surgical trays, handled pharmacy callbacks, and often juggled responsibilities that are now divided among specialists.
“It was much more hands on,” she said. “And honestly, it was more fun when it was truly a profession.”
Dr. Carthey was known for his generosity with both time and patience, according to Darlene.
“If there was any way to squeeze someone in, we did,” Darlene said with a laugh. “Sometimes I’d hear the six o’clock whistle and think, ‘It’s nice to get off on time, once.’”
Over her career, certain moments stayed with Darlene, moments when she knew she had truly made a difference.
She remembered a young girl who required frequent catheterizations and imaging.
“I thought I was being pretty mean to her at times,” Darlene said gently. “But she was just a sweetheart.”
One day, the child whispered something to her. Darlene knelt down to hear it.
“She said, ‘When I grow up, I want to be a nurse just like you.’ I almost cried,” she admitted.
Another child, born prematurely along with a twin who did not survive, later shared the same dream.
Then there was the man who arrived at the clinic short of breath and in cardiac distress. It was Darlene’s lunch hour, but she stayed. When she returned from a shortened break, she heard shouting. The man was preparing to leave because he did not trust the doctor he had been assigned.
“I thought, ‘if you leave, you’re going to die in the parking lot,’” she said. She intervened, contacted the on call physician, and ensured the patient was admitted. He was airlifted to Rochester and underwent surgery that same night. Weeks later, Darlene heard a familiar voice in the hallway.
“There’s the nurse who saved my life,” he called out, hurrying toward her with a hug.
“That,” she said quietly, “was a high point.”
Darlene’s son Mike was 20 years old when he died. He was athletic, quiet, and deeply trusted by his friends.
“People told us he was the best friend they could have,” Darlene said. “He listened. He never judged. And whatever you told Mike stayed with Mike.”
Mike died during a hunting trip near Hanska. Though the official cause was drowning, Darlene believes a cardiac event may have occurred first, given a family history of heart disease. The water where he was found was shallow, with a mucky bottom.
When Mike failed to reappear, his younger brother David, then 19, went to look for him. What he encountered changed his life forever. Friends were attempting CPR while another ran to call for help. Despite their efforts, Mike could not be saved.
“The loss shattered us,” Darlene said.
David struggled deeply in the months that followed. Grief knocked him off balance, disrupting his sense of direction and stability. He stepped away from college and spent time trying to find footing in a world that suddenly felt unfamiliar.
Eventually, David made a decision to reset his path. He joined the U.S. Air Force, where structure, discipline, and purpose helped him rebuild. He served six years on active duty and later went on to a 24-year career as an engineer with the Missile Defense Agency, retiring as chief engineer in the ballistic division. Both David and Clinton are Air Force veterans.
“You don’t get over it,” Darlene said. “You learn to carry it.”
Returning to work after Mike’s death was difficult.
“I couldn’t wait to get home and just sit,” she said. “I was a people person, but suddenly listening to everyday complaints felt overwhelming.”
In February following Mike’s death, Darlene attended a community education lecture on grief. While informative, it left her longing for something more specific, something for parents who had lost a child.
“I remember saying, ‘I wish there was something just for us,’” she said.
Not long after, she read an article in a local paper about The Compassionate Friends, an international self help support organization for families grieving the loss of a child. With help from her sister, Marlys Sperger, she connected with the national office.
“I thought, if we help even one or two people, it will be worth it,” Darlene said.
Together with friends and colleagues, including Kathy Goodall, Barb and Carroll Netzke, and Anita Hoffman, the South Central Minnesota chapter of The Compassionate Friends was born. They launched it in August, Mike’s birth month, more than 45 years ago.
Founded in England in 1969, The Compassionate Friends has grown into a global network offering peer support, not timelines or fixes, but understanding.
“That’s still your child,” Darlene said. “I don’t care how old they are.”
Families traveled from surrounding communities to attend meetings in New Ulm. The chapter endured because leadership was shared and commitment ran deep.
One elderly woman in her 80s attended after losing her adult son.
“He did so much for her,” Darlene said. “It was a huge loss.”
Now living at Vista Prairie at Ridgeway assisted living, Darlene continues her rituals of remembrance. She speaks Mike’s name often. She journals. She writes letters and poems. Clinton once shared his reflections through The Compassionate Friends newsletter, including a phrase that still resonates: Love never dies
The Nelsons created their own remembrance tradition, “Mike’s Day.” They visited the cemetery, then shared Mike’s favorite meal, a cheeseburger and a chocolate malt.
“Birthdays are easier,” Darlene said. “Death dates carry the grief bursts.”
Family remains central. Clinton recently turned 93 and Darlene is 90. David and his wife, June, moved back to Minnesota after retirement, settling just miles away.
David’s children continue the legacy of service. Cole Michael Nelson works as an intake caseworker at a shelter in the Orlando area. Dr. Brittany Lynne Nelson is a doctor of physical therapy, also serving geriatric patients.
“When Mike died, I didn’t know how we would go on,” Darlene said. “And here we are, 46 years later.”
Today, The Compassionate Friends continues to meet monthly at Redeemer Lutheran Church, with Zoom options available. Each December, families gather for the Worldwide Candle Lighting. At 7 p.m. in each time zone, families light candles and say their children’s names, creating a wave of light around the world for 24 hours.
Darlene Nelson’s life is a testament to resilience, compassion, and enduring love. Through personal tragedy, she found purpose. Through grief, she found connection. Through service, she transformed loss into legacy.
“You never get over it,” she said. “But you keep going. You wake up. You’re breathing. And you carry love forward.” RVW
RESOURCE
The Compassionate Friends
Supporting Families After a Child Dies
Learn more at compassionatefriends.org or call 877-969-0010.
From left, Al Bening, Jean Bening (responsible for technology and outreach for The Compassionate Friends), and newsletter editor Angie Cherney are pictured at the group’s annual candlelight ceremony in December 2025.
T H E W A Y I T S H O U L D B E B A N K I N G
Last Act of Love MICHELLE BIEDSCHEID
By MICHELLE BIEDSCHEID
I never wanted to make your financial and health decisions.
I never wanted to sell your house and liquidate your possessions.
I never wanted to move you into memory care.
I never wanted to lose you, day to day, little by little.
I never wanted to lose my own self while maintaining what was left of yours.
But I did all of those things and more. I don’t even know how I did it to be honest.
No one can understand the emotional toll the role of a caregiver brings upon a person until they are placed in that role, willingly or not.
My “official” journey began on my birthday in January of 2019. I received a frantic call from my 84-year-old mother that she believed my dad was either having a stroke or seizure. I said, “Mom, call 911.” She struggled to grasp how to do that. She kept saying, “Come help.” My husband drove us to Mankato while I called 911. We arrived to their home at the same time as the ambulance. My dad was indeed having some type of stroke. The paramedics took action and transported him to Immanuel St. Joseph (ISJ). Once there, a decision needed to be made. Breathing tube and air flight to Rochester, or let him go. Mom made the decision, and my husband drove her home due to her mental exhaustion. I stayed back and watched as the helicopter wisked him away in the freezing polar vortex temps, as tears froze to my face. Little did I know at that moment, it would be the first of many tears, and that helicopter was a gentle reminder of how my life was going to change in the blink of an eye.
After a month of ICU and driving my mom to Rochester a couple times a week, my dad, who already had early stage dementia, was released to a care facility in Mankato. My mom eventually brought him home against our wishes. His cognitive decline was much worse after the stroke, and I felt it was too much for her to care for him. The summer of 2019 was tough. I started noticing it wasn’t just my dad who had issues with cognition, but my mother as well. For about five years prior, anything misplaced, disorganized or forgotten was always my dad’s
fault. I was soon to find out that was not always true. That summer I was called almost daily to help with various things: lost passwords, lost checkbooks, bills that weren’t paid that they thought they paid, household help like mowing the yard, changing light bulbs, fixing minor things or simple cleaning duties. She finally realized that they needed to be in assisted living. I was so glad. Maybe some relief. All my siblings live out of state, so the responsibility was mine. I was struggling to maintain at this point. I worked two jobs, six days a week. My only day off was Sunday.
My siblings came to Minnesota and we cleaned out their home in three days in the fall of 2019. Over 20 pickup loads to the thrift store and another 10 loads to the dump. It was heartbreaking going through your parent’s prized possessions, and deciding keep, toss or donate.
Once in assisted living, I soon found out that I needed to know their finances and other details. My parents were very private about their financial situation and end of life plans. Reality was, they had no plan. I am guessing this is like many of us. I was now trying to figure out where they banked, what their assets were, did they have funeral arrangements, house information, doctor information, you name it. In sleuthing all of these things, I sent countless copies of power of attorney (POA) paperwork to various places showing I was legally appointed to do this. The numerous trips on lunch breaks or after work to make photocopies, mail POA paperwork and track it all was very time consuming. In the meantime, my husband and I prepped their home for sale to pay for their care. The home needed some TLC and we removed wallpaper, painted, laid new carpet, cleaned, and did all the correspondence in getting a real estate agent on board to sell the home.
While in assisted living it became more apparent that my mom was struggling cognitively as well. In addition, her physical health was declining at a rapid rate. She had two major falls that resulted in broken bones. Late nights in the ER, sleeping at the assisted living facility to make sure my dad wasn’t confused, and looking for her became the norm. Then Covid hit and it caused another significant decline. With that, I decided a memory care facility was the only option, and moved them in fall of 2020.
Once in memory care, it became more apparent that they both needed redirection, assistance with daily hygiene, eating and even moving. Wheelchairs and walkers became the norm. I would get constant questions and comments on how they wanted to go home. Each Sunday I went to visit. Each Sunday I struggled personally with seeing this decline. It broke my heart.
At this point I had to give up one of my jobs as my own health was starting to be impacted. Lack of sleep, paperwork, taxes, doctor appointments, shopping for them, being on hold, or hours spent with agencies designated to help me, making their final arrangements, and tracking all transactions in my free time were starting to wear on me. I wanted help so badly. I wanted rest. Many times I would retire to my bedroom to stare at a blank wall as sleep would not come for me. My mind raced with all of the things I needed to do. I joined a social
media network on caregivers for dementia/Alzheimer’s patients to help me not feel alone. I made a planner and made lists. I tracked everything to the best of my ability. I cried a lot. I took drives after each visit to calm my mind and shed a few tears before returning home to my family.
In 2022, my dad finally gained his wings and freedom from his awful disease. I thought mom would follow shortly after as they were soulmates. They did everything together. That was not how it worked. Mom hung on until August of 2025. I would pray for God to take her. I would ask him “why.” I questioned what I needed to learn from this situation. I witnessed both of them take their last breaths. I stayed by their sides until the end. Each scenario in their passing was different. Sad, yet beautiful. The end of a life well lived. My dad died rather quickly. As he was transitioning, I told him I loved him and it was okay to go. I told him if you hear me to squeeze my hand. He did. He died shortly after. For mom, she was on hospice the last six weeks of her life. I visited her every day for many hours. She was bedridden. I talked to her. Told her about my day. Sang to her. Prayed with her. Wiped her face, fed her and did everything in my power to make her comfortable.
Mom was not able to speak coherently the last six months of her life. Two weeks before she passed, I told her this: “Mom, I love you and it is okay to go. You are going on a wonderful journey.” I told her I would be okay and I would miss her terribly. We held hands and gazed in each other’s eyes. On this one occasion, I said “Mom, I love you and I would do it all over again for you. Thank you for everything you taught me, gave me and most of all for loving me.” She looked me squarely in the face and said. “I love you more!” Those were the last words she spoke to me. I will never forget it.
The advice I would give to anyone going through this would be to go see your parents or loved ones. They don’t want to give up their freedom and they don’t want to ask for help. They are still humans deserving of kindness and respect. They are just going through a tough time that often leads to the end of their life. Sometimes you have to intervene and be the caregiver. I saw so many residents long for a familiar face even though they didn’t have the words or wisdom to know their names any longer. They needed something familiar. A look, a face, a spoken work or even just a touch. Give them that. This gift is not only for them, but for you. You have to go to bed every night knowing that you did the best you could. The right thing. The thing you would want someone to do for you.
The last piece of advice I would give is take time for yourself. Most people around you won’t get it unless they have been through it. I seeked out online support, read books, took walks and drives to center myself for over five years. I talked to God a lot. If you have family or friends to lean on, do it. Ask for help. I had no one to lean except my husband, who I am grateful for.
I like to believe my mom and dad are in heaven. I picture them laughing, telling jokes and doing all the things they loved before life got hard. As for me, I have grieved the last six years over and over again. While I miss them both, I know they are in a better place. I now am taking the time to get my own life back on track. My dad had a saying he would tell me. “Michelle, go while you can go. You never know what tomorrow may bring.”
So now my husband and I do that. We take the walk. We take the trip. We go to the concert. We take the Sunday drive. We ride the bike. We do the best with the life we have. We want to spend the time with those we love and make memories, so that when our day comes, we can slide into heaven sideways knowing we lived and loved. We cherish experiences and memories over things. Funny how that changes as you age.
I have learned through this caregiving journey that time waits for no one and the most important thing you can do is love someone and be present in their lives through the good and the bad. That is what matters most. That is what love is all about. RVW
The last piece of advice I would give is take time for yourself.
Each Sunday I went to visit. Each Sunday I struggled personally with seeing this decline. It broke my heart.
LOSING MONEY OUT YOUR WINDOWS?
How Cellular Shades Can Cut Energy Costs Year-Round
Are you losing money out your windows? Cellular Shades can help with your energy costs!
If you live in Minnesota, you already know — our windows get tested hard. Between below-zero winters, strong sun, and big temperature swings, windows can make or break how comfortable a home feels. Even newer windows can let in cold air during the winter and heat during the summer. That’s usually why certain rooms feel drafty, chilly, or just harder to keep comfortable.
When adding cellular shades to your windows, you will notice the difference right away — rooms feel warmer, drafts are reduced, and the furnace or air conditioner doesn’t seem to run as often. Over time, that added insulation can help reduce heating and cooling costs as well.
That’s why I recommend cellular (honeycomb) shades so often. They’re one of the most versatile and energy-efficient window treatments available. The honeycomb design traps air inside the shade, creating insulation right at the glass. In the winter, that helps keep warm air inside where you want it. In the summer, it helps block heat and glare from coming in.
What I really love about cellular shades is how many different window types they work for. They’re great for standard windows, but they can also be custom made for specialty-shaped windows like arches, angles, and circles. They’re one of the best solutions for skylights, which are beautiful but can let in a lot of heat and cold. And they work beautifully on patio doors and large expanses of glass, offering much better insulation than traditional vertical blinds.
Cellular shades also give you flexibility. You can choose light-filtering, room-darkening, or blackout fabrics, along with single, double, or triple cell designs depending on how much insulation you want. Add cordless or motorized operation, and they’re as convenient as they are comfortable.
At the end of the day, cellular shades are an easy way to make a home more comfortable year-round — without replacing the windows.
Family Bakery a Sweet Success
By MEGAN (BECKIUS) ANDERSON
My name is Megan (Beckius) Anderson. I was raised near Godahl on a farm but spent a lot of my younger years in Hanska watching my dad at the ball field. I have always enjoyed baking/cooking, ever since I was little and I got my first easy bake oven! After high school I went to school to become an X-ray tech. Throughout college, I got my cottage license and baked for people for special events and such. I then got a job in New Ulm at Allina and worked there full time for 10 years. While at Allina I still kept up on my cottage license and baked for people, and I kept getting busier and busier where it was harder to work full time and bake too. My parents and I were offered the chance to buy the building we are in now and after many conversations, here we are today! My parents have always been my number one supporters, so I am so glad to get to be able to do this business venture with them!
We got the building in 2022, but with all the things we had to do to it, and the licensing, we weren’t able to open until March of 2024. That first weekend the line was out the door for a majority of the day which was so fun to see! My little dream was finally coming true and my heart was so happy to see it all falling into place!
We offer lots of different options here at Sweet Sisters. We offer made to order breakfast, breakfast sandwiches, fresh rolls, pastries and lots of varieties of sweets, which vary day to day. Lunch is something different every day. The menu is always different!
We had a wide variety of clients. Lots of them are Hanska people, but we do get people in from neighboring towns, which is fun to see!
My favorite things to make are definitely madeto-order cakes that people need for special occasions. I love decorating them, just so relaxing and so satisfying in the end.
Owning a bakery, I don’t have a huge sweet tooth, so I don’t eat a lot of sweets. But if I had to choose something, it would probably have to be a monster cookie! So I share my recipe with you.
MONSTER COOKIES
Ingredients
1/2 c butter
1/2 c brown sugar
1/4 c sugar
3/4 c peanut butter
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla
Directions
1/2 tsp baking soda
11/4 c all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 c oats
3/4 c M&M's
1/2 c chocolate chips
1. Cream butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and peanut butter together until smooth.
2. Add egg; mix well.
3. Stir in vanilla and baking soda.
4. Add remaining ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Scoop dough using a heaping Tbsp, roll into balls, and flatten slightly.
6. Bake at 350°F for 9–10 min.
FIVE SPARROWS SERVES FOSTER CARE COMMUNITY
Five Sparrows was founded by its president, Jessalyn Altringer. Jess and her husband, Gary, have been foster parents in the Mankato community for many years. Over time, nearly 100 children have come through their home through foster care, respite care, and crisis nursery services. Jess recognized not only the critical need to provide essentials for children entering care, but also felt a deeper calling to create a supportive community for foster parents and families.
From that initial vision, people came together—starting with a small group at Hillside Church in Mankato, located off Victory Drive.
“We quickly realized there was a significant foster care community within our very own congregation,” said Jess.
This awareness sparked something deeper, and ultimately led to five women who felt especially passionate about the mission. Leah Garry, Amelia Schutte, Anna Geissler, Tawnda Andrews, and Jessalyn Altringer, took the leap to officially establish Five Sparrows as a nonprofit organization in April 2024.
At Five Sparrows Foster Closet their mission is to serve foster care children ages 0-18 and their families in the greater Mankato area. This is accomplished by providing clothing and other essentials during the difficult transition into foster care, making them feel seen, known, and loved.
Five Sparrows provides care bags within the first 24 hours of a child entering foster care. These bags are filled with brand-new items specifically for the child. Often, children enter care with nothing—or with belongings that may not be safe or usable. For example, in cases involving drug exposure, items can be contaminated and unsafe for immediate use. That first night, children need clean pajamas, diapers or pull-ups, wipes, underwear, socks, a toothbrush and toothpaste, a comfort item, and a blanket—all the little things we often take for granted but are incredibly important in that moment when they are scared, sad, angry, and in a new unfamiliar home.
Looking ahead, the five plan to create a “Once Upon a Child”-style experience where foster families can visit, connect with the organization, and receive clothing and other essentials for their foster children at no cost.
Why is this so important for families involved in foster care?
Foster care is incredibly fulfilling, according to the women, but it can also be extremely isolating. Unless you are a foster parent yourself, it’s difficult to fully understand the emotional highs and lows that come with each placement. There are parent visits, social workers and guardians coming and going, court dates, therapy sessions, and doctor’s appointments— all while you’re simply trying to love and support a child, and pray for their biological family in hopes of a safe reunification. It’s a deeply meaningful journey, but also an exhausting one. That’s why it’s so important to create a supportive community where foster parents can connect with others who truly understand, feel seen, and know they are not alone—where others are praying for them, encouraging them, and helping them navigate the complexities of the system.
How can individuals get involved? We need prayer, monetary donations, and volunteers as we continue to grow and serve more foster care families in our community. Your support in any of these areas makes a meaningful difference.
The best way to reach us right now is by emailing us at fivesparrowscloset@gmail.com
We also have an active presence on Facebook, where you can message us directly—we’d love to connect with you!
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about foster care?
Foster care is a truly life-changing experience—it will stretch you, challenge you, and ultimately transform you in the best possible ways. As a foster parent, your heart will be forever changed. Our community is always in need of more individuals and families willing to open their hearts and homes to provide safe, loving care for children. Saying “yes” might just be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make—I promise, you won’t regret it.
Leah Garry, Amelia Schutte, Anna Geissler, Tawnda Andrews, Jessalyn Altringer.
MARCH 13-15, 2026
TUSCAN CHICKEN BONE-BROTH SOUP
½ medium yellow onion
4 ribs celery
3 whole carrots
1 tbsp. Gustare Vita olive oil
1 tsp. kosher salt
½ tsp. coarsely ground Hy-Vee black pepper
3 sprig(s) fresh oregano
1 (15.5-ounce) can Hy-Vee cannellini beans
5 c. baby kale
2 (32-oz.) containers Full Circle Market organic chicken bone broth
Finely chop onion; chop celery. Peel carrots and cut into half-moon slices. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrots, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until vegetables are slightly softened, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, tie sprigs of oregano together with a piece of 100-percent-cotton kitchen string. Drain and rinse cannellini beans; set aside. Remove and discard stems from kale; set aside.
Add oregano bundle, cannellini beans, bone broth, and undrained tomatoes to Dutch oven. Cover and bring mixture to a boil. Uncover and gently stir in rotisserie chicken. Simmer, uncovered, over medium-low heat for 5 to 6 minutes or until chicken is heated through. Remove from heat; gently stir in kale and lemon juice.
To serve, remove and discard oregano bundle. Ladle soup into serving bowls. Garnish with additional fresh oregano, if desired.
COLLAGEN FOR
HEALTHY
AGING:
TIPS FOR WOMEN OVER 35
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies and plays a pivotal role in maintaining skin elasticity, joint comfort, bone density, and muscle strength. As women age, especially through perimenopause and postmenopause, natural collagen production declines significantly. One study estimates women lose about 30% of collagen in the first five years of menopause, with an additional ~2% loss each year thereafter.
BENEFITS WORTH BOUNCING BACK FOR
• Skin Renewal: Clinical trials show daily collagen supplementation over 8 to 12 weeks significantly improves skin hydration, elasticity, and smoothness while reducing wrinkles in women aged 30 to 65.
• Joint & Bone Support: Trials in postmenopausal women link collagen supplementation to improved bone mineral density and reduced joint discomfort.
• Muscle Maintenance: When combined with resistance training, collagen can help preserve or build lean muscle, which is key for vitality across the decades.
Women in their late 30s to 70s should consider collagen, especially during or after menopause when natural decline accelerates. Those noticing skin laxity, fine lines, joint achiness, or decreasing muscle tone are ideal candidates. Collagen also benefits smokers or anyone with high sun exposure, as these factors can speed early collagen loss.
SOURCES TO BUILD FROM
• Whole Foods: Bone broth and gelatinous cuts of meat provide natural collagen. Animal-sourced proteins like beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, beans, and legumes, supply supporting amino acids and nutrients.
• Supplements: Hydrolyzed (peptide) collagen, ideally types I and III, is the most absorbable. Most studies use 5–15 g daily for meaningful skin, joint, and bone benefits.
• Collagen-boosting nutrients: Foods high in Vitamin C (citrus, berries, peppers), zinc, copper, and protein help stimulate natural collagen production.
THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR
• Quality matters: Choose third-party tested supplements, transparent about collagen type and source, to avoid contaminants.
• Dosage matters: Aim for at least 5 g daily; most studies show benefits at doses closer to 10–15 g. Pairing collagen with Vitamin C may enhance skin effects.
• Manage expectations: While promising for skin, joints, bones, and muscle, research is still developing for weight loss, gut health, or other areas.
• Check with your provider: Though generally safe, it’s wise to consult a health professional if you have specific conditions or dietary needs.
Bottom line: For women aged 35 to 70, collagen is more than just a beauty buzzword, it’s a foundational protein that supports skin, bones, joints, and muscle. When sourced wisely and paired with essential nutrients, collagen can help women age with strength, radiance, and vitality.
Let your Hy-Vee pharmacy take care of your prescription needs this year!
Transferring your prescriptions is easy, just let your helpful Hy-Vee pharmacy staff know and we will take care of everything for you. We accept most insurance plans and offer low copays on Medicare Part D plans. Stop in today and see what your Hy-Vee pharmacy can do for you.
ENJOY THE HUNT AT WUNDER BERG COLLECTIVE
NEW ULM
What made you decide to open Wunderberg Collective?
We both love shopping and consigning our own clothes. When we heard that the store was for sale we jumped at the chance to keep it open in our community.
What experience can people expect when they visit your shop?
We love saying “enjoy the hunt” when we greet people in the store. We add about 100 new items a day, you never know what you might find from a silver star shaped Coach purse, to a vintage nightgown. We try to have something that will be exciting to find for everyone. The store is clean and has a boutique feel. We also offer personal shopping and sessions with a wardrobe stylist.
As sisters, what is it like to work together every day? We have learned each other’s communication styles so it makes collaboration fast and easy. We also know each other’s boundaries, so we have separated the work based off strengths and passions. We have found that with shared goals we have built in support, and we feel we are building something meaningful.
What are your individual strengths?
Jen’s strengths are in organization and execution. She is excellent at research and plays a key role in keeping the front end running smoothly and efficiently. Jackie brings creative vision. She is always generating ideas and helping to shape the overall direction.
JEN & JACKIE BERG
Are there challenges being sisters who work together?
Yes, because we are sisters, communication can be very direct, which is a strength, but it also means we have to be intentional about keeping conversations professional and respectful. We’ve had to learn how to separate work from family, and recognize when to step back and give each other space. That said, our shared trust and understanding outweigh the challenges. We know each other’s strengths, respect our individual roles, and are aligned in our goals, which allows us to work through challenges quickly and move forward together.
What is your personal fashion style?
We have totally different fashion styles. Jackie’s style is more classic and intentional—she gravitate towards timeless pieces that are functional, well-organized, and easy to wear. Jen’s style is more expressive—she enjoys mixing textures, colors, and unique pieces to create looks that feel inspired. Together, our different styles help us curate a balanced assortment that appeals to a wide range of customers while staying true to our brand.
What do you admire about each other?
We really admire each other’s strengths. Our mutual respect is a big part of why we work so well together and continue to grow as partners and sisters.
Advice for going into business with a family member?
Early on, we clearly defined roles and responsibilities. We also prioritized open and honest communication. Being open to feedback and giving each other grace on a daily basis. That foundation has been essential to maintaining both a strong business partnership and a healthy family relationship.
Your winter blahs become whoo hoo blue with this elegant top that dresses up or down. The perfect seasonal transition jacket with that hint of vintage.
LEATHER WEATHER
Pair this classic
LOOKS GRAPE!
A bold choice that may just rival the colors of spring.
GREEN SCENE
A bold choice that may just rival the colors of spring.
There’s no these showfrom About
THINK PINK
Throw on this leopard look shirtjacket, team it with ripped jeggings, and you’ll be the cat’s meow.
TURN UP THE FUNK
There’s no one like you when you sport this combo, topped off with a jaunty woven hat.
TEAM SPIRIT
Go with the flow of this light weight fuchsia jacket, and elegance will be your middle name.
You’ll have a ball when you and yours show your purple pride at prom, or other occasions.
GET TO THE ROOT OF PAIN
At Legacy Chiropractic, we don’t guess— we get specific.
Using Gonstead Chiropractic and advanced REACT Technology, we focus on the root cause of your discomfort, not just temporary relief. Every adjustment and therapy plan is individualized, precise, and designed to help your body heal and function at its best.
Chiropractic Conditions We Help Address
• Neck Pain
• Back Pain
MEET
Dr. Lauryn
• Headaches
• Bed Wetting
• Ear Infections
• Wellness
• The only female chiropractor in New Ulm
• The only Gonstead Chiropractor in Brown County
Her approach is hands-on, highly specific, and centered on long-term wellness for individuals and families alike.
React Conditions We Help Address
• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Neuropathy
Plantar Fasciitis
Vertigo
Sports Rehab
Knee, Hip & Shoulder Pain
The REACT Table uses noninvasive, bio-electric magnetic therapy to help improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore confidence in everyday movement-without aggressive or rushed treatment.
223744
223747
Know the Signs of Dental Distress in Your Pet
You are all snuggled in with your pet on your lap and they lean in to show you their affection. As much as you love them, their breath is intolerable. That smell is the smell of dental disease that has already started.
Did you know that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats will have some form of dental disease by age three? Not only does dental disease cause bad breath and red gums, but it also can cause damage to internal organs such as the kidneys and heart, and it doesn’t stop there! If you think about how our moods change when we are not feeling well, it should not be surprising that we see the same behavior changes in our pets. Some of these teeth can also be quite painful and may even change eating behaviors as well as relationships with housemates. Painful teeth may even take away from the things your pet enjoys. Some dogs stop chewing on bones, certain toys are less exciting, or they may not enjoy tug-of-war any longer. Cats show discomfort by avoiding human interactions, they hide more or even find new places to urinate. If you have ever had a painful tooth, we are on the phone calling a dentist and trying to get in at the soonest available appointment. The idea of waiting months to get in to get painful teeth cared for sounds horrible!
All dogs are at risk for dental disease but small breeds are even more susceptible. Puppies start out with 28 teeth but those teeth fall out around 6 months of age and 42 adult teeth are supposed to replace them. As you can imagine, 42 teeth fit very well in a lab’s mouth but not so much in a pomeranian or a chihuahua. Most small breeds are prone to dental disease as their teeth are super crowded which leads to increased buildup and bacteria. Brachiocephalic breeds (such as pugs or dogs with short noses) are even worse as their teeth tend to rotate due to limited space in the mouth. Although larger breeds are not as susceptible to crowding, they are more likely to fracture teeth due to their aggressive bone (rock or whatever they find) chewing.
Kittens have 26 little daggers that fall out around 6 months of age and are replaced by 30 adult chompers. Cats are prone to dental disease for the same reasons as dogs are but some cats are also genetically predisposed to something called Feline Oral Resorptive Lesions (FORLs). These lesions typically start out of sight (just under the bone on the roots) and progress to “eating” away the crown (visual part of the tooth you can see) of the tooth. Once these lesions are above the gum line, they are quite painful. Most cats will hide this pain well but that’s just because they are impressive creatures! Removing these teeth before they are fully resorbed will help the cat feel more comfortable. Unfortunately, once we find FORLs in a mouth, we tend to see more in the future. This makes these cats good candidates for yearly dental procedures.
An annual exam by your veterinarian should include an oral exam, but sometimes this can be hard to do. Some pets simply do not comply with us wanting to take a peek, and share their dismay with a warning snap. Even with a good exam it can be hard to fully assess what is going on in the mouth. Heavy calculus buildup can hide concerns and things such as FORLs may not be seen until radiographs show us what lies beneath. This can lead to frustration with longer procedures, and greater cost.
Since pets cannot communicate like humans can, they require sedation. Sedation comes with risks, but by doing pre-sedation bloodwork, exams and monitoring under anesthesia these risks are greatly diminished. Although the procedure may vary from clinic to clinic, they should include radiographs to see what is going on under the bone, probing to assess pockets, cleaning each tooth, extracting any painful or problematic teeth, nerve blocks to help with anesthesia and pain control as well as polishing the remaining teeth. Pain medications should be prescribed post extractions. It should not be surprising that pet dentals cost more than human dentals when sedation is required.
February is dental health month and now is a good time to be aware of things you can do to help prevent dental disease. Start by getting pet insurance. Research the company and find one that covers dental care. This will help you save so much money as your pet ages! If given the option, start brushing teeth at a young age. This way it becomes something they are used to. Regardless of age, start small. You will need to use pet safe toothpaste. Most of these are flavored. Start by allowing the pet to lick the toothpaste off the brush. Maybe brush a couple teeth at a time. No need to get the entire mouth done at one time. Try to do this daily so it becomes routine as well as catches plaque before it turns into calculus. Follow the experience with a tasty treat. Make it to your annual vet appointments to get a good oral exam and catch things before they are painful. If you own a small breed dog or cat, consider doing preventative annual dental cleanings at your clinic.
Take a bite out of dental disease and enjoy fresh kisses and snuggles! Your pet will thank you.
NICOLE LUECK, BS, CVT MN Valley Pet Hospital Mankato
PEOPLE CARING FOR PEOPLE
River’s Edge Hospital uses state-of-theart equipment to provide a variety of laboratory clinical testing to diagnose, monitor and prevent disease. And for your convenience, Direct Access Testing (DAT) is available so you can receive commonly asked for tests without an order from your physician. Call 507-931-2200 today for your easy to schedule appointment!
Trusted Plumbing, Heating & AC Specialists in Mankato, MN
At Babe Plumbing, Heating and Air, we’re your hometown team in Mankato, MN, making it easy to keep your home comfortable and running smoothly. From heating systems like furnaces, heat pumps, and boilers, to reliable air conditioning, to full-service plumbing including sewer work, water heaters, and more, we’ve got everything you need in one place. You can always count on honest recommendations, upfront pricing, and flexible financing options, backed by a commitment to excellence that’s been at the heart of our work since day one. We’re here to get the job done right, without the hassle.
Heating
When you need furnace, boiler, or heat pump services in southern Minnesota, trust the experts at Babe Plumbing, Heating and Air.
Air Conditioning
We are southern Minnesota’s trusted name in air conditioning repair and installation. We service central air systems, ductless minisplits, and high-efficiency AC units.
Plumbing Service
When you need dependable professional residential plumbing service in southern Minnesota, turn to Babe Plumbing, Heating and Air. Contact us today to book your appointment.
Babe Plumbing, Heating and Air is a professional plumbing contracting company with experience in installing, servicing, and repairing water filtration systems.
The Ubiquity of Deception: Why Lying Pervades Family Life
By AMY ZENTS
“Tiny slips of the tongue can chip away at trust — even the ones we think are harmless.”
It starts small. Your teenager swears they did their homework, even though the dog somehow ate the papers. Or you smile and tell your mom you love that lopsided sweater she knitted. Tiny slips like these feel harmless — but over time, they can chip away at trust. Even in the closest families, deception sneaks in. Kids hide mistakes. Adults stretch the truth to avoid conflict. Siblings exaggerate stories to get attention. Why? Because lying often feels easier, safer, or kinder than the full truth.
Exaggerations can erode trust. A chore becomes “impossible,” a weekend adventure turns epic — repeated small lies make it harder to believe each other. Conversations get cautious, tense, or suspicious.
Then there are the lies meant to protect feelings. You tell your child you love a handmade gift, or cheer extra loudly for a sibling’s drawing. Kindness matters, of course, but repeated avoidance of honesty teaches children that words and reality don’t always match. Modeling thoughtful, honest communication helps kids learn to speak openly without fear.
Self-deception is another challenge. We rationalize mistakes: “I didn’t really forget that; it didn’t matter,” or “I wasn’t snapping, I was just stressed.” Avoiding ownership feels protective but blocks growth. Being honest with ourselves matters just as much as honesty with others.
Dishonesty carries a cost. Trust, once broken, is hard to rebuild. A child who lies about a test score may need weeks to regain confidence. Siblings who exaggerate or take credit for each other’s accomplishments create tension. Even minor slips, when discovered, foster suspicion. Families thrive when words and actions align — when honesty is modeled, practiced, and encouraged.
Family life is full of small tests of honesty: Homework and chores— Did the dog really eat it, or did your teen skip it?
Gifts and gestures— Praising a handmade sweater or imperfect craft.
Stories and memories— Exaggerating adventures or family tales.
Digital life—Teens hiding screen time, apps, or messages. Encouraging honesty starts at home. Model it, reward it, talk about it openly. Safe spaces for truth — without harsh punishment — help everyone feel confident honesty won’t cause unnecessary conflict. Balancing truth with tact shows that honesty doesn’t have to be brutal and strengthens family communication.
Honesty builds trust, strengthens relationships, and smooths family life. Deception might seem easier, but the cost is real: strained relationships, lost credibility, missed opportunities. Families that choose truth, even when it’s uncomfortable, create bonds that are resilient, authentic, and lasting.
Because in the end, honesty isn’t just about telling the truth — it’s about keeping the people you love close to your heart and your words.
8 Ways FAMILIES BEND THE TRUTH
1. White Lies – Protecting feelings. (“I love your sweater!”)
2. Exaggeration – Making stories bigger or more exciting.
3. Omission – Leaving out details to avoid trouble.
4. Politeness Lies – Saying what’s expected rather than what you feel.
7. Avoidance – Changing the subject or joking instead of answering truthfully.
8. Secret-Keeping – Hiding info to protect someone (or yourself), which can backfire.
Quick Tip: Spotting these habits is the first step toward honesty. Families thrive when communication is clear, kind, and truthful.
Amy Zents is a New Ulm–based freelance photojournalist, editorial leader, and radio broadcaster whose work celebrates community, culture, and clarity.
A Resolution to Be Normal
We’ve turned the calendar and another year is under way, and with it comes the obligatory demands that we make every day matter, count blessings, savor life’s moments, and stop and smell the roses. And don’t forget to say I love you at least every hour to spouses, parents and children because you just never know, right? The speeding bus may be right around the corner, or that piano being lowered from a high-rise just might bust its cable whilst you’re out walking the dog. Get real.
Of course, untimely death is no laughing matter, but it isn’t feasible to live up to advice books or Hallmark movies 24-7. And waiting for the other shoe to drop—or that grand piano— isn’t exactly a healthy way to live. But being your normal self is, and in the long run, what we crave day to day. Honestly, if my husband started declaring his love every time I headed to the office “just in case,” it would be a bit disconcerting. Not to mention out of character.
When tragedies happen to others, such as school shootings, accidents, or a sudden death, it’s human nature to pour extra love and attention onto your own family and friends, and certainly prudent to count one’s
blessings. But eventually it’s natural to go back to being annoyed at dirty dishes left in the sink, underwear that missed the hamper, or the racket your kids are making. You know—normal.
It’s like when you get a speeding ticket. Afterwards you’re hyper aware of following the speed limit for a month or so before returning to old habits.
My point here is that life changes, as life will do, and when it does there can be much comfort to be had with the same old, same old.
For example, a dear friend of mine was diagnosed with cancer. After the initial shock and discussion with him about prognosis, treatments, etc., we went back to our usual funny conversations and silly texting rituals. While I am indeed concerned for his health and we don’t avoid the “C” word, I’ve never changed my demeanor with him by being overly solicitous, nor behaving any other way than I always have. He told me that he appreciates that more than anything—that we carry on like normal.
I recall one year I had the flu, and felt lousy for what seemed like a month or more. At the time, all I could think about was what I was going to do when I was back to good health. No vacations to the Bahamas, or other lofty plans. What I dreamed of doing was just going to the grocery store, shopping for food, and coming home to cook it. Then hanging out and watching my favorite TV show, without feeling like I had to throw up, blow my nose, or cough like a cat with a hairball. Normal.
I think when one is grieving, the upending of normal is what we are most discombobulated with, and what is most missed.
So here’s to 2026…new year, same you. It may be just what you and your loved ones need. Now pick up your underwear.
EILEEN MADSEN Publisher of Chapters Newsletter
“Turning the Pages through Grief”
Your Airway Matters
If you or your child struggle with poor sleep, mouth breathing, headaches, jaw pain, or chronic fatigue, the airway may be the missing piece. Our modern, airway-focused dental practice treats patients from infancy through adulthood, helping improve sleep and breathing by supporting healthy facial development and function.
Gabrielle Cohrs
When is it Time to Seek Therapy for Depression or Anxiety?
We all experience moments of sadness, stress, or worry and these emotions are part of the human experience. If you have a whole day where you feel down or on edge, that’s OK! Listen to your body and mind. It is not lazy to rest.
However, when those feelings become persistent, unmanageable, or begin to interfere with daily life and relationships, it might be time to consider additional support. Stigma can make people hesitate to reach for therapy; recognizing when to seek help is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of awareness, courage, and self-care.
One of the clearest indicators that therapy might be beneficial is when everyday tasks start to feel unusually difficult
Pay attention if:
• Getting out of bed or starting the day feels exhausting
• You’ve lost interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Concentration and decision-making feel harder than usual
• You feel emotionally flat, numb, or disconnected
If these symptoms last longer than two weeks, you may be experiencing more than simply a “rough patch.” Support can make a meaningful difference.
Anxiety is a normal part of human experience; anxiety can be loud or subtle, physical or emotional
Signs that your anxiety may benefit from greater support are:
• Your mind races or spirals into worst-case scenarios
• You often feel “on edge,” tense, or unable to relax
• Irritability or restlessness is becoming your norm
• Your worries interfere with sleep or drain your energy
There are many tools you can gain through therapy, like grounding techniques, cognitive reframing, and mindfulness. All help reduce symptoms.
Depression and anxiety can impact the people around us. Often the most painful part of experiencing depression and anxiety are the negative effects it can have on the relationships that are most important to us.
Therapy may be helpful if:
• You’re withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities
• You notice more conflict or irritability in relationships
• You feel disconnected even when you’re with others
• Loved ones have expressed concern about your mood or behavior
Mental health struggles often show up physically, especially in children and adolescents. Therapy may help if you’re experiencing:
• Frequent headaches, stomach issues, or muscle tension
• Changes in sleep—either too much or not enough
• Appetite changes or unexplained weight shifts
• Persistent fatigue despite adequate rest
These symptoms are your body’s way of saying something needs attention.
Seeking therapy doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means you’re choosing to invest in your well-being. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like yourself, reaching out is an act of strength. With the right support, healing and clarity are possible; you don’t have to navigate the journey alone.
Kelly Simmons Mending Roots Therapy
FERTILITY CARE
HOPE BEGINS HERE
You may not know that, for healthy couples, it can take up to 12 mont hs to conceive.
Conception doesn’t always happen right away. If couples have been trying without success, it can be challenging in many ways.
Know that you are not alone. Fertility issues occur in 15-20% of all couples. Fertility services are a means of helping you realize your dream .
Here are some of the most common questions we receive on fertility care.
When should a person seek fertility services?
For women with regular periods and ovulation, fertility care is advised after trying to conceive for 12 months. That said, women with irregular periods or those over the age of 35 are advised to seek fertility care after 6 months of trying.
In addition, reproductive assistance is available for same-sex couples and single women who wish to start a family.
What does the first visit look like?
In the first visit you will meet with a nurse to obtain a general and reproductive health history. Then you will meet with a fertility specialist to form a plan to rule out barriers to conception.
To diagnose fertility issues, lab studies are typically performed along with imaging of the reproductive organs. Lab tests identify levels of reproductive hormones including estradiol, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). The male partner’s sperm is also analyzed.
What does a fertility treatment plan entail?
Every fertility treatment plan is personalized, because every couple and every pregnancy is different. The woman’s cycle guides treatment, and most couples can expect 2-3 visits per month. All treatment cycles are closely monitored with ultrasounds, lab testing that includes same-day results, and face-to-face meetings with your practitioner.
A treatment plan can include an oral medicine to trigger the female body to produce the hormone – FSH – to stimulate egg growth. Once the follicle has reached maturity, an injection of a pregnancy hormone is given to induce ovulation.
How do patients navigate the emotional side of fertility treatment?
Fertility treatments can affect more than your body; it can deeply impact your emotions, relationships, and sense of self. Fertility care practitioners and nurses can offer you support, compassion, hope, and understanding. There are mental health providers that specialize in fertility care. They can help process stress, grief, and uncertainty. If you ever feel overwhelmed or anxious, please reach out to our fertility team, as emotional support is an important part of your overall fertility care.
LARISSA HALVORSON APRN, CNP Mankato Clinic Fertility Care
GALEN BECKEL PA-C
Mankato Clinic Fertility Care
Buy Now, Pay Later Credit Cards vs.
What Women Should Know Before Clicking “Checkout”
If you remember the days of Kmart’s layaway program like I do, then you’ll feel right at home with the new modern version sweeping the financial world—Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL). It’s like layaway, but flipped: you get the item now and pay for it over time. BNPL is gaining popularity fast, especially among younger women and college students who want flexibility without the hassle of credit card interest. But before you jump in, it’s worth understanding how BNPL compares to traditional credit cards—and which option truly fits your lifestyle.
What Is BNPL, Really?
BNPL is like a mini personal loan that lets you split a purchase into smaller payments—usually four installments over six to eight weeks. You can opt in at checkout or sign up with services such as PayPal, Klarna, Affirm, or Afterpay. It’s fast, often interest-free, and doesn’t require a credit card swipe.
Say you’re buying a new laptop for work or school. Instead of dropping $800 upfront, BNPL lets you pay $200 now and spread the rest out over time. As long as you pay on schedule, you won’t owe a penny in interest.
How BNPL Works (With a Real-Life Example)
Let’s say Natasha wants a new phone. It’s $800, and she’s not keen on racking up interest with her credit card. At checkout, she chooses BNPL and pays $200 right away. The remaining $600 is split into three bi-weekly payments. Natasha gets her phone today and pays it off gradually—without interest, assuming she stays on track.
BNPL vs. Credit Cards: What’s the Difference?
Both options let you pay over time, but they work differently:
• BNPL: Fixed payments, short-term, often interest-free. Great for one-time purchases.
• Credit Cards: Flexible payments, revolving credit, rewards, and stronger protections—but interest can pile up if you don’t pay in full.
Let’s say you’re buying a $1,000 computer:
• With BNPL: Four payments of $250, no interest if paid on time.
• With a credit card: You can pay $100/month, but interest may apply if you don’t pay off the full balance.
JENN FAUST Vice President, Treasury Management Officer Pioneer Bank
Age & Eligibility
You typically need to be 18 or older to use either option. Some BNPL providers require you to be 21. You must provide valid government-issued ID and personal details for account setup. Many BNPL providers perform a soft credit check or review your payment history while others like PayPal’s Pay Later do a quick approval without impacting your credit score.
Signing Up
BNPL is usually instant—you’re approved at checkout. Credit cards take a bit longer, and you’ll wait for the physical card to arrive. But credit cards often come with perks like cash back, travel rewards, and fraud protection.
Interest & Fees
BNPL wins on simplicity—no interest if you pay on time. But miss a payment? You could face late fees or even collection notices.
Credit cards offer a grace period (usually 21 days) before interest kicks in. But if you carry a balance, interest adds up fast. Some cards will also charge an annual fee.
Building Credit
Credit cards help build your credit score if used responsibly. BNPL? Not so much. Most BNPL providers don’t report to credit bureaus— unless you miss payments and end up in collections.
Purchase Protection
Credit cards offer fraud protection, dispute resolution, and extended warranties. BNPL? Not so much. If something goes wrong with your purchase, you might still be on the hook for payments until the issue is resolved.
Final Thoughts
BNPL can be a great tool for short-term purchases—especially if you’re confident you can make the payments. But credit cards offer more flexibility, better protections and the chance to build your financial future.
So whether you’re buying a new phone, booking a trip, or just treating yourself, take a moment to ask: Is this purchase better suited for BNPL or a credit card?
And remember—whatever you choose, make sure it fits your budget, your goals, and your lifestyle.
Since 1992, Minnesota Pork Inc. (DBA MPI Farms) has built a legacy of excellence in agriculture. What began with constructing and managing our own hog facilities quickly grew into a comprehensive operation—including livestock transportation and multi-state production across Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming. Today, we specialize in providing innovative agricultural services to some of the world’s leading livestock producers. With decades of hands-on experience and a commitment to quality, MPI Farms continues to drive the future of modern farm management.
From the ground up, MPI Farms delivers reliable, resultsdriven agricultural solutions. With decades of experience and a hands-on team, we support farmers and producers with services tailored to every stage of the operation.
Our Services Include
• RESOURCE APPLICATION
• TRANSPORTATION
• FACILITY MAINTENANCE
• DEMOLITION
• CONSTRUCTION
• DRAINAGE INSTALLATION
• CUSTOM FARMING
• GRAIN HANDLING
HAVES Must
1. Custom-Built Windows
Transform your home with beautiful, custom-built windows that fit your style and space perfectly. Renewal by Andersen of Mankato can replace your old windows. Take advantage of our special offers and call us today!
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2. Love your Body this Valentine's Day Basin brings the relaxation of a spa to your home. With a refreshing line of sweetly scented bath bombs, scrubs and soaps that will help relieve your daily stresses. Scents range from Serenity or Electric lemonade and even Florida Sunshine, something to fit every mood. You can find Basin products at your Mankato Hy-Vee’s.
Hy-Vee | hy-vee.com
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Mankato Riverfront
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3. Scrubs, Medical Supplies & Accessories
Shop our large selection of medical equipment and supplies including stethoscopes, compression stockings, scrubs, scissors and more! C&S Supply has a great in-stock selection of quality uniforms & footwear. Special orders also available at no extra charge.
C&S Supply
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4. Custom Hearing Protection
At Personal Hearing Care, we understand that earplugs are not a one-size-fits-all solution. We provide a variety of options designed specific to your situation whether they are for music, hunting, swimming, sleep, or industrial work. Let's safeguard your hearing and schedule an appointment today.
Personal Hearing Care
400 S 3rd St. | St. Peter, MN 507.508.6951 | personalhearingcare.com
5. Red Light Therapy Bed
The Body Concepts Red Light Bed delivers powerful red light therapy in just 15 minutes for only $20—or go all in with 30 days of unlimited sessions for $129. Designed to support muscle recovery, circulation, skin health, and overall wellness, this quick treatment fits perfectly into your routine.
Body Concepts LLC
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6. American Legacy Prairie
A Rug That Checks All the Boxes. Cozy? Yep. Classic? Always. Durable? You bet. Our American Legacy rug from Capel is a longtime fave for a reason—and it’s waiting for you at Blinds & More. Blinds & More Window Coverings 507.380.5019 blindsandmore.org
7. Infinity ® by Marvin® – Proudly installed by Lacina Siding & Window’s Inc.
Enhance the look and feel of your home with Infinity® by Marvin®. Made of Ultrex® fiberglass, Infinity windows are 8x stronger than vinyl and 3x stronger than Fibrex. EverWood® is an engineered wood grain interior finish that looks, feels, paints, and stains like real wood but without the maintenance. Replacing your windows is a decision you only want to make once. Sold exclusively by Lacina Siding & Windows, Inc. Call us today for a free in-home consultation from one of our home improvement experts.
Lacina Siding & Windows, Inc.
Your Friends In The Business
2104 N. Riverfront Dr. | Mankato, MN
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8. Dance Party
Looking for a unique and fun birthday party idea? Throw a dance party at Dance Express! Let your child and their friends experience music, dancing, games, and fun to keep everyone moving and having a blast! Dance Express
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OUR SERVICES
REACH YOUR HIGH POINT
good and honest people. Whether you're buying, selling, or managing farmland, we guide you through one of life’s biggest financial decisions with expertise and care.
Each property is unique, demanding customized strategies for successful sales. High Point Land Company relies on exceptional marketing tactics and a wide network of contacts to ensure properties are sold effectively. You can trust us to deliver top-notch service at every step of your sale process.
a great job for you as our client is our highest honor. This takes much more than a single agent to showcase your property to the largest audience le. This is why we are d by a highly skilled, full time ting, leadership, and team of land agents with national exposure and expert land knowledge. You can trust us to deliver top-notch service at every step of
BRYCE BRUNZ | MINNESOTA LAND SPECIALIST 507-382-6669 | 28 S Broadway, Wells, MN
CONNECT WITH THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS
THE POWER TO CHANGE!
History of the League of Women Voters
The League of Women Voters (LWV) grew out of 80 years of protest. In 1890, the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) was formed with the sole purpose of securing the right to vote for women. When this goal was achieved in 1919, NAWSA merged with the National Council of Women Voters to create a new organization, the League of Women Voters of the United States. Referred to as a “mighty political experiment,” it aimed to help newly enfranchised women exercise their right to vote.
On March 24, 1919, the Minnesota legislature granted the women of Minnesota the right to vote for presidential electors. Then, on October 29, 1919, the Minnesota Suffrage Association dissolved and became a branch of the national League of Women Voters for the purpose of completing full enfranchisement of women and increasing the effectiveness of women’s votes in furthering better government.
On the twenty-fifth anniversary of the League of Women Voters, an article in the former New Ulm Review recognized Solveig (Mrs. A.B.) Gislason as the founder of the New Ulm League of Women Voters. Charter members were Mrs. Albert Ascher, Mrs. A.E. Eggers, Mrs. Andreen, Mrs. J.C. Engel, Mrs. Hugo Schnobrich, Mrs. E. G. Lang, and Mrs. Carl Fritsche.
In 1964, the LWV published a booklet entitled “Your Brown County” giving citizens information about county government.
In 1986, the 50th anniversary celebration of New Ulm’s League was attended by Joan Growe, who was a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives from 1973 to 1974. She then served as the Secretary of State of Minnesota from 1975 to 1999. Known for her work encouraging voter participation, her 24-year tenure was the second longest of any secretary of state in Minnesota’s history.
The 80th birthday of the LWV-NU was commemorated on March 3, 2016, with a celebration at The Historic Lind House.
Now, early in our second century, the strength of the League of Women Voters continues to grow with increasing membership and the grassroots development of new chapters across the country.
Who Is the League of Women Voters?
The League of Women Voters of the United States (LWVUS) is a nonpartisan, grassroots nonprofit dedicated to empowering everyone to fully participate in our democracy.
The League of Women Voters New Ulm Chapter is involved in a variety of voter registration and public education activities. Since its inception, the LWV-NU has sponsored public question and answer forums with candidates for local school board, county board, city council and legislative elections.
The League works for a more inclusive democracy in which all Americans, regardless of gender, sex, race, ability, or party can see themselves represented in our government.
They work to:
Expand voter access
Fight voter suppression
Remove money from political campaigns
Create fair redistricting laws, and
Conduct safe and fair elections
Additionally, we promote social and economic justice through our positions on health care, the environment, immigration reform, and the census.
“Empowering Voters” is a program of the League of Women Voters – New Ulm, a trusted source of nonpartisan voter information, serving New Ulm and the Brown County area.
Membership is open to men and women who share the organizations goals.
If you are interested in defending democracy and empowering voters, consider joining. The League of Women Voters of New Ulm meets at 9 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month at Christ the King Lutheran Church in New Ulm. All are welcome. To learn more, visit newulm.lwv.org or follow their Facebook page.
From left to right: Theresa Keaveny, Ruth Ann Webster, Linda Heine.
The Jonathan Zierdt Cancer Fund
Providing valuable services to cancer patients and their care givers as they experience a cancer journey. Gifts to the fund support the Caring Box program. A box of love that contains a warm blanket to ease chills due side effects from treatment, an award-winning cancer fighting cookbook with recipes to ease nausea and rebuild nutrients in the body, a journal and a gift card.
PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION.
“Regardless of who you are or what you do for a living or where you come from, it doesn’t discriminate. We all kind of go through it.”
— DWAYNE “THE ROCK” JOHNSON
Excellence in Motion
Time to get moving!
The first step is easy. It’s OrthoEdge, the award-winning collaborative effort between River’s Edge Hospital and the Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic. This combination has resulted in a level of care that truly impacts people in a positive way and drives a higher quality of life.
Choose with Confidence, Choose OrthoEdge
• Close to home
• Over 7,500 successful hip, knee and other orthopaedic surgeries
• 250 years of combined orthopaedic surgery experience
• River’s Edge Hospital is a DNV-GL Healthcare Certified Orthopedic Center of Excellence
• OFC providing orthopedic care to the area since 1957
