Solsite Co. Creative

Author: Tracy Blowers

  • Terce at Theatre Elision

    Terce at Theatre Elision

    Featured photo by Jolie Morehouse Olson

    A MUST SEE!

    Terce (pronounced ter-chay)

    a practical breviary

    by Heather Christian

    through May 17, 2026

    I’m going to get straight to the point. Don’t miss this show! It’s a fierce celebration of the caregivers and makers in all of us. It is for anyone who appreciates the feminine, nature, and the process of living and growing through it all. It’s the story of our lives beautifully sung in 60 minutes. A wild song and dance to honor our souls. Go and enjoy an hour to feel…laugh, cry, and just be with all that is given and all that is taken. I want to go back to the forest.

    New York City award-winning composer, librettist, and artist Heather Christian, reimagined 9am mass, in the most brilliant way. In a way that women can see themselves and each other. It’s church for the feminine soul. ❤️

    Twin Cities Theater – Terce at Elision Playhouse

    The cast is incredible! There’s approximately 25 cast members singing, dancing, and playing instruments. Every cast member brings something special and they work together in an amazing rhythm, almost as if they are one.

    TICKETS HERE

    Photo by Jolie Morehouse Olson

    There’s moments in life when you know you are witnessing something magical, that is what happened for me as I watched this amazing group perform Terce. It was healing like giggling with your girlfriends or singing at the top of your lungs while driving with windows down.

    “Standing here as the river bed

    and holding all the language spoken.

    Watching all the double speak,

    and keeping time inside my body.”

    From Terce: a practical breviary by Heather Christian

    Terce reminded me of seeing ‘The Great Comet of 1812‘ by David Malloy in NYC, in that I felt immersed in the show. As if being in my seat I was playing my own role. Truly an unforgettable experience.

    Every seat is close, intimate, and excellent.

    Photo by me as I stepped into the theater.

    As the show started and the woman walked out on the stage, I got the chills. It’s such a powerful start and scene. Each covered in a veil, then another woman lifts their veil and they are free. They look into each other’s eyes and hug. I cried.

    We are always stronger together.

    “I grasp it only for a moment and in bliss

    I understand how everything is all at once

    in mercy and in love

    and then I lose it.”

    From Terce: a practical breviary by Heather Christian.

    This was my first visit to Theatre Elision. I have heard so many wonderful things and I couldn’t wait to check it out. It’s a cozy spot with great space to relax with friends before a show. They offer a few snacks like popcorn, chips, and bars. Plus, coffee and drinks. I really loved that I could hear the cast rehearsing! It gets you even more excited for the show.

    “And if you harden,

    you’re apt to break.”

    From Terce: a practical breviary by Heather Christian.

    Go, love, and connect, so that you don’t harden.

    Terce will live on and grow in my soul.

    Terce is 60 minutes in length with no intermissions.

    Elision Playhouse, 6105 N 42nd Ave, Crystal, MN 55422

    TICKETS

    ©Tracy Blowers

  • Jackson Lake Lodge – Breakfast Cruise – Grand Teton National Park

    Jackson Lake Lodge – Breakfast Cruise – Grand Teton National Park

    Jackson Lake Lodge is located in Grand Teton National Park. A full-service hotel with incredible views and activities for the whole family. Our favorite experience was the Jackson Lake Scenic Breakfast Cruise. The boat departs at 7:15 a.m. from Colter Bay Marina so it’s the perfect opportunity to capture some sunrise photos!

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    The cruise takes you out on Jackson Lake to Elk Island surrounding by breathtaking views of the Tetons. As the boat docks, you can smell the coffee brewing and the pancakes cooking.

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    You are greeted by a fun and friendly staff. The food is ready as soon as you arrive. Pancakes, scrambled eggs, trout, potatoes, bacon, sausage, fresh fruit, and yogurt. And you can go for seconds! They don’t miss a beat; everything you need is at the tables. Once you finish eating, you can explore the island.

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    Then back on the boat for a relaxing ride to the marina.

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    We highly recommend taking the breakfast cruise! Honestly, I wondered if they would be able to pull off good food on the island, and it exceeded my expectations. It was a treat eating breakfast outside surrounded by such grand views! Jackson Lake Lodge is a class act, and this was a fun, unique experience.

    ©Tracy Blowers

  • Explore Local Together Episode 4 – Minnesota National Parks

    Explore Local Together Episode 4 – Minnesota National Parks

    Welcome to Explore Local Together Episode 4! If you’re visiting from the podcast, thank you for listening. If not, please join us! At Explore Local Together, we share local gems in Minnesota, the Midwest, and Road-Tripping the USA. Below, you will find links throughout the blog post to click and listen to the podcast while you read.

    LISTEN to the podcast

    Minnesota National Park Systems

    On Episode 4, we’re talking about the Minnesota National Park systems, including the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and Voyageurs National Park. We love National Parks and we’re thankful for these protected areas in Minnesota and across the country. (Did you know there are over 400?!) You can explore pristine beauty, experience pretty much every kind of recreation, and learn about everything from the wildlife to history.

    Voyageurs National Park – Photo Credit: NPS/Mark Miller – Park Ranger

    National Park Week is in April every year and runs special events for a week. It kicks off with a free-entry day and is followed by nine days of celebrations, each with a theme. Additionally, this is a great way to learn more about each park and about the National Park Service’s programs to preserve natural and cultural heritage and provide recreational opportunities. You can join the fun in person or online at nps.gov.

    St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

    The river was Minnesota’s first to be designated in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, managed by the National Park Service and designated in 1968. The Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway includes the St. Croix and Namekagon rivers and makes over 200 miles of clean water among wild and scenic beauty. From the heavily wooded banks, bluffs, cliffs, and pinnacles, and ever-changing landscapes, there is so much beauty and wonder to take in. 

    St. Croix National Scenic Riverway Things To Do

    Exploring the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway also includes the St. Croix Scenic Byway, State Parks, hiking, and historic towns with plenty of local gems to discover. Of course, this is what our podcast is all about and we have some other great blogs for you to explore. Read more about Taylors Falls HERE and find our St. Croix Valley itinerary HERE.

    HEAR Amy Frischmon with Taylors Falls Boats’ Interview

    Taylors Falls Boat Tours

    Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours offers authentic paddlewheel excursions on the St. Croix 7 days a week, May through October. Cruises are a great way to see the river and include a narrated tour of the history and rock formations. There are family-friendly tours throughout the day but our favorite is the sundown cruise. The Boats include the Taylors Falls Queen and the Taylors Falls Princess, both featuring enclosed lower levels and open upper decks to enjoy the fresh air and views.

    Tip: Go early and hang out on the Red Rock Patio, where you can enjoy a charcuterie board and wine while taking in the views. You can also order ahead and have the food waiting onboard. Plus, watch their calendar for live music events!

    The third week of April is also National Volunteer Week. If you’re interested in getting involved in preserving the St. Croix, check out the Wild Rivers Conservancy.  Their mission: ​​a thriving watershed, forever accessible, scenic and wild.

    Voyageurs National Park

    Voyageurs National Park is in Northern Minnesota near the Canadian border, with over 218,000 acres (40% is water!) and also borders the million acres of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. 

    Voyageurs National Park – Photo Credit: NPS/Mark Miller – Park Ranger

    Hear Park Ranger, Mark Miller’s Interview

    Voyageurs National Park offers something for everyone including canoeing, camping, fishing, hiking, houseboating, shopping in surrounding towns, birding, photography, and is a Dark Sky certified park. This park is special because you can truly escape the crowds and spend time alone among nature if that’s what you choose. There are many ways to enjoy this treasure of a park.

    Here is a list of Voyageurs Hiking Trails.


    Photo Credit: NPS/Mark Miller – Park Ranger

    PLAN YOUR VISIT and recreation.gov

    Adopt a Rescue Dog – Ruff Start Rescue

    We are partnering with Ruff Start Rescue and Best Friends Animal Society to feature one adoptable dog each month. We are passionate about rescue dogs and have two of our own, the Explore Local Together mascots, Allen and Carol. 

    Meet Ace Odin!

    Ace has been in rescue since May 2022. He is a Mixed American Staffordshire Terrier and American Bulldog and is a little over 3 years old. 

    He is all about the good vibes—treats, lap snuggles (he’s convinced he can fit on any lap even though he weighs 96 pounds), family car rides, and yard shenanigans. He loves relaxing, walks, playing with toys and chewing on bones. He’ll do best in a home with older kids (maybe above 10) and is not the biggest fan of cats. He has lived with dogs in the past and have done well.

    Do you think Ace could be the pup for you?! Visit Ruff Start Rescue HERE plus check out their volunteer opportunites.

    Let’s Explore Local Together!

    This website contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. We appreciate your support!

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    ©Explore Local Together

  • Let’s Get Your Headshots Done!

    Let’s Get Your Headshots Done!

    Portrait Photography and Branding Photo Shoots in Minneapolis, Minnesota

    I meet you where you are.

    My friend Judy is releasing a new book and needs a headshot for the back cover. We met for lunch and completed multiple portrait options in 15 minutes.

    Natural Light Photography

    Your headshot portrait doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. Of course, natural light isn’t for everyone. It depends on your goals and how you plan to use it. That is why I offer customized packages tailored to your needs.

    I captured Joey’s headshots at the beautiful Centennial Lakes Park in Edina, Minnesota. I love this soft winter light.

    When Hailee needed new headshots, we took ten minutes away from an all-staff meeting and knocked them out.

    Jody and her team needed a quick photo for their holiday card. We met at a convenient location near their office.

    When True Colors Financial needed updated photos, we took advantage of a nice summer day.

    Please reach out with questions.

    To see more of my work, visit my GALLERY.

    Let’s do this!

    ©Tracy Blowers

  • Poplar River Condos At Lutsen, Minnesota

    Poplar River Condos At Lutsen, Minnesota

    Content Creation Photo Shoot

    Winter on the North Shore in Minnesota

    The Poplar River Condos at Lutsen photo shoot was amazing for multiple reasons. First, I spent time in an incredibly beautiful location with one of my favorite people. Sitting on the private deck in the crisp air with Lutsen Mountain behind us and Lake Superior in front of us was a top ten moment.

    Keep us in mind to capture your story!

    Two girls sitting on a deck on the north shore in the winter
    Photo by Sara Taylor

    Second and more, the sub-zero temps allowed Mother Nature to put on a show for us. We got bluebird skies, sea smoke, crashing waves, and one of the best sunsets that I’ve ever seen. The sunset was so bright and colorful. It seemed to last forever in the North Shore’s never-ending sky.

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    Lodging on the North Shore in Lutsen, Minnesota

    Poplar River Condos at Lutsen are something special. You know how sometimes it’s hard to put an experience into words; it’s a feeling, a vibe. That is Poplar River Condos.

    Location, location, location. Poplar is located at the base of Lutsen Mountain. Just 20 miles southwest of Grand Marais and 8 miles northeast of Bluefin Bay Resort (your stay includes access to Bluefin’s activity program). In the winter, the moment you turn into the property, you can see Lake Superior in her grandeur. Once you arrive at your condo, each unit has a unique and beautiful nature and Lake Superior view.

    My favorite feature of the condos is the windows and the abundant natural light. It feels like you are connected to nature even while staying cozy by the fireplace. And what a sight to wake up to!

    You can choose from one-bedroom to three-bedroom options when combining the units, offering something for everyone. Each unit has a private deck, kitchen or kitchenette, fireplace, and access to trails and Lake Superior.

    🐾🐾 Some of the Poplar River Condos are pet-friendly!

    It’s been a long time since I spent time on the shore in the winter. To my surprise, I can’t recommend it enough! It was such a cozy and relaxing stay. Plus work-wise, the internet worked great. Treat yourself to a change of scenery and enjoy.

    Thank you for having me, Poplar River Condos! I can’t wait to visit again. ❤️

    For more adventures on the North Shore, see below for the best stops when driving from the Twin Cities, things to do on the Gunflint Trail, and hear an interview with Bluefin Bay’s marketing manager, Katie.

    Best stops along the North Shore in Minnesota
    The Gunflint Trail – North Shore, Minnesota
    North Shore & Grand Marais Minnesota

    ©Tracy Blowers unless otherwise indicated

  • Jesus Christ SUPERSTAR Rocks the Stage

    Jesus Christ SUPERSTAR Rocks the Stage

    Jesus Christ Superstar at Ordway Center for the Performing Arts in St. Paul, Minnesota, now through December 28, 2025.

    *featured above photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade includes Jack Hopewell (Jesus) and the North American tour company.

    Jack Hopewell (Jesus) with the North American tour company of Jesus Christ Superstar.
    Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.

    Wow! The Olivier Award-winning production of Jesus Christ Superstar is both exhilarating and conflicting. My body wanted to dance while my mind felt frozen in the weight of the story. The story is set in the final weeks of Jesus Christ’s life, told from Judas’s perspective.

    From the moment the show starts with the squeal of the electric guitar and the cast’s dramatic entrance from the side doors, the audience is locked in. It has the feel of an electric stadium concert mixed with rock opera musical. I had never fully listened to Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s famous score until the show and am now a fan. Did you know that it was the 1971 Billboard Album of the Year?

    Elvie Ellis (Judas) with the North American tour company and Faith Jones (Mary) of Jesus Christ Superstar. Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.

    Jack Hopewell (Jesus) fills the theater with emotion, giving a full understanding of Jesus’ love, pain, and the last days of his life. His voice resonates through the theater, especially the high notes, sending chills up your spine. Opposite Jesus, Elvie Ellis (Judas) creates a perfect push-and-pull, emoting how deeply conflicted Judas was about his decision. The intensity between them is palpable. Every time Faith Jones (Mary) takes the stage, it is a breath of fresh air and comfort through the chaos of Jesus and Judas. Her voice is so beautiful and magical. It’s like a warm, needed hug.

    The whole returning touring cast was all star! The confidence and ease on the stage seemingly working and moving as one is incredible to watch. I loved the simplicity of the set design, one building with windows into the soul of the stage. The windows are strategically used to highlight different actors and scenes including the guitar player and orchestra. A large cross laying, almost as if it fell through the building, is very powerful.

    Jack Hopewell (Jesus) with the North American tour company of Jesus Christ Superstar.
    Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.

    The end and cruciifixion was difficult for me to watch, given everything going on in the world. Sometimes it feels like we haven’t evolved. Group mentality, not knowing the whole story and believing half truths from unreliable sources, judging, when will it stop?

    I love when a production makes you you feel a plethora of feelings while at the same time being so entertaining. You will be swept away into the music and the story. And hopefully all of us walk away wanting to share more love, respect, and understanding.

    This is the Regent’s Park Theatre London production and a replica of the show will launch its international tour across Asia next year. Another production will return to London’s West End this summer, playing at Palladium Theatre.

    What to do before a show at the Ordway Center for Performing Arts

    The holidays are truly magical in and around the Ordway. The Ordway is decorated to the hilt so beautifully with a bright red tree for you to grab a photo in front of, along with a selfie station. Plus, an incredible piano player sharing festive holiday tunes. Savor a drink, take a picture, and enjoy the views of Rice Park!

    Follow Twin Cities Theater Bloggers on Facebook and Instagram for everything theater in the Twin Cities!

    discover. inspire. connect.

    ©Tracy Blowers unless otherwise stated

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