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Tag: Minneapolis

The Thrive Minnesota Event

Thrive Minnesota Event at ModernWell, Minneapolis

One night while trying to fall asleep with a million thoughts racing through my mind, I had an idea. As I thought about my work and how the hospitality industry has navigated the pandemic, I wondered what I could do differently to help. Then I thought, if I’m thinking about this, maybe others are too. Perhaps I could host an event bringing Minnesota hospitality experts together with Travel Bloggers, Influencers, and Content Creators to learn from each other. In my stupor, I mumbled, I will call it Thrive Minnesota. One minute after my idea blossomed, fear moved in and crushed it.

Say yes to life

The following day, as the idea was still simmering in the back of my mind, I read a quote. It said Say Yes to Life (see full quote below). It moved me. Those four words pushed me out of my comfort zone. I decided to take a step forward and call one hospitality expert to measure interest.

So, I called Ann Kirby, Vice President, Hospitality Minnesota. I nervously shared my idea, we got disconnected a few times, but then- she said YES. My first yes! Her yes, pushed me to reach out to Stephanie March, Senior Food Editor, Mpls.St.Paul Magazine. Stephanie responded with another yes! I’ve worked with Stephanie before and love that she is a champion for small businesses. From there, my passion was ignited and a domino effect started. I contacted Shelby Stahl, Marketing Manager, Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau and Courtney Ries, Senior Vice President, Destination Branding & Strategy, Meet Minneapolis. Both were on board! The Thrive Minnesota Event was born.

Speakers from L to R – Stephanie March, Ann Kirby, Shelby Stahl, and Courtney Ries

The Importance of Hospitality

The speeches kicked off appropriately with Stephanie March raising a glass. A poetic cheers- that we are all connected and touched by hospitality. “Sometimes we don’t realize the importance of something like hospitality until it’s gone”, says Stephanie. It was an important reminder of all the ways hospitality touches our lives. It’s where we eat, sleep, connect, find ourselves, let go, make new connections, discover adventure, explore, and where family and friends gather to celebrate life.

Each speaker brought a new point of view that was valuable, building off each other’s words of wisdom. Ann Kirby talked about how the industry offers lifetime careers from accounting to management and not just summer jobs. Shelby Stahl and Courtney Ries helped attendees understand the process of travel bloggers working with tourism companies and the best approach. Courtney was open about the recent challenges that Minneapolis faced. She reminded us that we can share our experiences even if they are not perfect. We discussed how George Floyd impacted the world, the changes that Minneapolis is making, and how the city is coming back. We found a lot of common ground and I think it was nice for all of us to have a space to discuss life and everyday struggles. Community coming together.

Amazing Giveaways

A HUGE thank you to all of you for the generous donations.

Jamie Tatge, Leisure Hotels & Resorts, offered two night stays at Pier B Resort Hotel and Cove Point Lodge.

Julie Burton, Founder & CEO of ModernWell, gave one FULL MONTH co-working space, Shelby Stahl, Marketing Manager, Bloomington Convention & Visitors Bureau, donated a fantastic Mall of America behind the scenes package, North Mallow donated a yummy cocoa package, and Pearson’s Candy donated a ton of Salted Nut Rolls! The tables were full of Salted Nut Roll bars, and everyone loved being able to take some home.

Thrive Minnesota Recap

ModernWell, a collaborative space in Minneapolis, offered a festive setting with floor to ceiling windows, cozy couches, and warm lights. Little Ember Co. mobile sauna set up in the parking lot with lights, lounge chairs, and a bonfire – and a Deane’s Kombucha keg at the ready. Number 12 Cider employees greeted attendees at the entrance with a taste of their best Legacy Holiday Cider. We savored charcuterie from Bacio, baked goods from Honey & Rye Bakehouse, cheesecake cupcakes from Muddy Paws Cheesecake, and the best hot chocolate and gourmet marshmallows from North Mallow.

Minnesota Makers Market

Attendees also enjoyed a small MN Makers market. Sheri with Hartwood Floral offered a gorgeous array of wreaths and fresh flowers. I love her work because it’s like walking through nature, truly wild. Laura with Wood and Weiher brought her incredibly scented candles that she puts her love into and creates scents for every season. Jodi with Women & Veteran owned, Allvane CBD, shared CBD for people & pets that is THC-Free and 100% USA grown.

We learned and we connected. At the end of the night, my heart was full.

I was nervous, especially about speaking in front of the group but I did it. I won’t forget this night and that I stepped out of my comfort zone, made new friends, and connected with old – true what stirs your soul moments.

The full quote that helped change my direction:

Let go. Say yes to life! Be daring. Dance to your heart’s desire. Unfurl your wings and fly. Cast aside conventions and restrictions. Tune in to the rhythm of life. Laugh. Explore. Go beyond your predictable behavior. Sometimes life is messy and chaotic, and that’s okay. Leave the dishes; run outside in the sprinklers. – Denise Linn

The next idea that you have – do it – share it – and say yes to life.

Thank you so much to everyone for being there and your support! Cheers!

©Tracy Blowers

December 17, 2021
Review – A Christmas Carol

The cast of A Christmas Carol, Photo Jenny Graham

A Christmas Carol at Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, Minnesota

When I turned onto 2nd Street in Minneapolis, as I’ve done hundreds of times, my eyes unexpectedly filled with tears. Seeing the Guthrie Theater’s bright lights shining again, feeling the familiar feeling of excitement, and at the same time, the rush of emotions of what we all have been through filled my heart. It was a big lump of hope in my throat. It’s been 616 days since the Wurtele Thrust Stage went dark, and she is back.

Above Photos Tracy Blowers

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, adapted by Lavina Jadhwani, directed by Joseph Haj at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, runs through December 27, 2021. Do you ever wonder what might have been or what could be? A Christmas Carol reminds us that every passing moment is a chance to change or shift our circumstances.

Ebenezer Scrooge is stuck in a miserable cycle. He’s isolated himself, believing that he is happier when he is alone until this Christmas Eve when three ghosts visit him. One from the past, present, and future. The spirits show Scrooge through memories and realities what will happen if he stays on this course and doesn’t open his heart. As each spirit takes him on a journey, Scrooge begins to see clearly, and shows a desire to transform.

Isa Guitian (Belle), Clay Man Soo (Young Scrooge) and Matthew Saldivar (Ebenezer Scrooge), Photo Jenny Graham

For the first time since 2010, the Guthrie updated the production including new scenic, costume, prop, lighting and sound designs. We really enjoyed this adaption and the updates. It felt right. Simplified and scaled down, like an ease back which highlighted the story even more. The warm mood of the lighting (Yi Zhao), the intricate costume design (Toni-Leslie James), and the talented cast narrating the story as they moved seamlessly around the stage had me mesmerized. There is still wonderful singing including Christmas carols, dancing, humor, ghosts flying, and startles. Scenic Designer (Matt Saunders) did an amazing job adding a fresh view into the world of Scrooge. Speaking of Scrooge, we thought Matthew Saldivar, filled the shoes perfectly, and his comedic timing is fantastic.

Kurt Kwan (Ghost of Christmas Past) and Matthew Saldivar (Ebenezer Scrooge), Photo Jenny Graham

Ultimately, Scrooge realizes that sharing his life with others is what brings him joy. I think that is what overwhelmed my heart when I turned down 2nd Street. There was a time of isolation but we are coming back together as a community.

Regina Marie Williams (Ghost of Christmas Present), Matthew Saldivar (Ebenezer Scrooge), Lily Birkholz (Tiny Tim),
John Catron (Bob Cratchit), Photo Jenny Graham

“It is certainly true of this ghost story of Christmas, which reminds us each holiday season that we are not just responsible for ourselves but also for our neighbors.” – Joseph Haj

You can buy tickets to this timely holiday tale HERE.

Remember, keep searching for what stirs your soul. ❤️

November 14, 2021
Pizza Farm Twin Cities Minnesota
Pizza Farm Twin Cities Minnesota

To celebrate my birthday, we did something that I’ve wanted to do for a long time; we reserved a spot at one of the Twin Cities Pizza Farms. We chose Two Pony Gardens in Long Lake, Minnesota, only 20 minutes from Minneapolis. It was such a magical afternoon!

Two Pony is a farm that practices, encourages, and teaches organic gardening methods. When you get close to the farm, the road turns to dirt, and just a little further is the start of the driveway. There you find an adorable farm stand that is stocked daily with honey, jelly, tomatoes, garlic, gourds, pumpkins, flowers, and more. The farm’s main crops are dahlias and heirloom tomatoes.

At Two Pony Gardens, there are three different areas to reserve your spot and enjoy your pizza; Farm House Front Yard, Sumac Hill, and Tailgater’s Meadow. We booked Tailgater’s Meadow. It’s a great spot to spread out, lounge, play catch, sit in the spirit tipi, or walk the trail. It’s not too far from the front yard and an easy walk to pick up your pizzas.
Halloween and Fall Twin Cities Weekend Adventure Ideas

Each reservation is for two hours allowing time to enjoy the farm. We loved walking around the farm and meeting all the animals. Especially the farm cat, Rocket and dog, Oak. I could have played with Oak and Rocket all day. This place, the animals, and the pizza is my definition of heaven.
We ordered the seasonal pizza made with apples, sausage, sage, and cheddar. It was so fresh and delicious! We brought music, but it’s so rare that we get to enjoy the quiet; we were loving it and never turned the music on. The farm is incredibly peaceful. Two Pony just has that something special about it, it’s a feeling, a comfort. I couldn’t have asked for a better afternoon.

After we finished eating, I sat in the spirit tipi for a while, connecting with nature, and relaxing. Then we took a hike around the property.

The pizza season is over but make sure to add this to your Minnesota bucket list for 2022! We had the best experience. The staff was above and beyond. We also had the opportunity to have a long conversation with the owner, Lisa. Don’t you love those people that you meet, and you can instantly have a deep conversation? That was Lisa. She’s a gem and offered so much insight.

Lisa – thank you for sharing this amazing space and food with all of us!

Remember to support and eat local.

For many birthdays, I didn’t really do what I wanted. I said yes to things that weren’t good for my soul.

This year, I stirred my soul. ❤️

If you’re looking for another quiet getaway close to the Twin Cities, check out Whitetail Woods Regional Park.

©Tracy Blowers
October 30, 2021
Best Pumpkin Patch In Minnesota
Minnesota Pumpkin Patch

Looking for one of the best pumpkin patches in Minnesota? Head south of the Twin Cities.

We took a beautiful morning drive from Minneapolis to New Prague to find ourselves the perfect pumpkin.

Barten Pumpkins is a lovely family-owned property. There are pumpkins, squash, gourds, corn stalks, straw bales, custom displays, games for the kids, and plenty of space to run around and enjoy nature. Plus, it’s a perfect spot to grab some fall photos.

I fell in love with this sign. 😉

Minnesota Road Trip

New Prague is an easy drive from the Twin Cities and would make a great day trip with the addition of exploring the town of New Prague. You can also have a picnic by the lake at Cedar Lake Farm Regional Park which is part of the Three Rivers Park District. Both are on our bucket list for next time.

Admission and parking are always free at Barten Pumpkins.
Life is short, never stop exploring. ❤️ It’s good for the soul to get out and go on an adventure.

Sometimes, we take for granted what is right in our backyard or close to our homes.

If you’re looking for another great park in the Twin Cities to hike and see fall colors, check out Bryant Lake Regional Park. This park is also part of the Three Rivers Park District.

Enjoy the new season!

©Tracy Blowers
September 13, 2021
Luxury Picnics In Minneapolis Minnesota
Luxury Picnics in Minneapolis

I love the luxury picnic trend because it’s a relaxed and intimate way to get together with friends in the beautiful outdoors.

Recently, I attended a luxury picnic alongside fellow travel bloggers, photographers, writers, and content creators at B.F. Nelson Park, located on the historic Mississippi riverfront. Miko Picnics, a new local company, set up this gorgeous luxury picnic.

Until this event, many of us only knew each other through Instagram, and this was our first time meeting in person! That, together with this incredible setting, made for a night to remember. Not to mention connecting, laughing, sharing stories, and bouncing ideas off each other. It was a great night of women building up women.

These delicious and pretty charcuterie boards were created by Board at Home – Minnesota.
RachCakes Vegan Baking made these yummy cookies for the event. Her vegan treats are fresh and made to order.

Sip and Bloom provided a floral arrangement class. The class was so fun; I highly suggest checking them out! We enjoyed working on a creative project and having something to bring home to remember a fun summer night.

Thank you to Shelby (Marketing Manager for @BloomingtonMN) and Sara (Planet with Sara) for planning a great event and bringing us together.

Did you know this area is actually part of a National Park – learn more here: Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.

Life is short, never stop search for what stirs your soul. ❤️

©Tracy Blowers
September 10, 2021
Parks in Minneapolis Minnesota

Parks in Minneapolis Minnesota

One of the best things about living in Minnesota is all the parks in our hometown Minneapolis. In fact, did you know that Minneapolis features 180 park properties?!

This sunrise skyline view is from Bde Maka Ska park. The lake is the largest in the chain of lakes and has three beaches. The park is 518 acres with a 3.1 mile loop for pedestrians. We love walking and running around this lake in every season. It’s the perfect distance with nature views, neighborhood views, and the skyline. If you want to add distance, you can keep going around the chain.

The full chain of lakes covers 1555 acres with a total of 14.81 miles of pedestrian trails along with 15.27 of biking trails.

The lakes include Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet and Brownie Lake.

There are endless activities: Concerts, Boating, Fishing, Volleyball, Archery, Tennis, Grilling, Ice-Skating, Cross-Country Skiing, Playgrounds, and more. You can see all the amenities by clicking HERE.

This area is definitely one of the highlights of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Make sure to visit and take it all in!

Read more about another one of our favorite parks in Minnesota – Bryant Lake Regional Park.

©What Stirs Your Soul Media

January 5, 2021

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