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Care for the whole you, in Waconia
At Premier Women’s Health of Minnesota-OBGYN West, we’re passionate about delivering high-quality care for the whole you. Our team includes primary care and ObGyn, all under one roof. Discover expert care for pregnancy. Choose from a range of GYN services when you need them. Move toward healthy with services that include weight management, PT, and mammography.
The Health & Wellness Issue
For many of us, this time of year is full of possibilities. It presents us with a reset, new horizons, and goals to pursue.
For me personally, it’s a time of excitement and long-lasting improvements for sure! January marks a new chapter in my life as my first official publication hits your mailboxes. I love everything the Waconia area has to offer and know the community can continue to grow and prosper immensely. My unwavering mission with Waconia City Lifestyle is to foster this growth by supporting the community in any way I can. I look forward to meeting as many of you as I possibly can in the coming weeks and can’t wait to get involved.
We approached this issue of Waconia City Lifestyle from a mindset of not supplying quick fixes to check boxes in the short term but valuing what is sustainable over the long haul. We wanted to provide inspiration for making lasting, realistic, long-term improvements to your physical, emotional, and mental health.
When it comes to anything in life - business, finance, food, home, and personal health – it’s not what you do some days that move the needle - it’s what you do MOST days. For better or worse!
For instance, taking a vacation every day would be financially and practically unfeasible, but taking a trip a few times a year is doable. Having a beautiful steak dinner with a few cocktails and creme brulee every night for dinner isn’t best for your health, but doing so once in a while might be fine!
It’s not the sometimes choices we make, it’s the most of the time choices.
So plan the vacation AND work to establish more regular rest in your work week. Join a fitness community or gym AND enjoy that dessert you’ve been wanting to try at a local restaurant. It’s not what you do some days - it’s what you do most days that will lead to a more peaceful, filling, and fabulous year.
Here’s to you! We’re rooting for you.
MATT SHAEFFER, PUBLISHER
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Matt Shaeffer | matt.shaeffer@citylifestyle.com
MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER
Amy Janzen
EDITOR
Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily McKeever, Lutie Ronglien, Kendra Johnson, Mel Boban, and Jen Fortner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Landmark Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler Learn
Winter Wine Lodge
city scene
1: Congratulations to Bethany on winning the D.E.A.R. Day Basket of Waconia! 2: Ready to shop at this year’s 17th annual D.E.A.R. weekend in Waconia. 3: WCCO and Kare 11 came out to feature this year’s D.E.A.R. Day! 4: The Brass Hat’s Christmas Movie Bar was the perfect place to get cozy this holiday season. 5: ‘Twas the season for good company and great wine! Guests enjoyed A Very Vineyard Chrismas at Schram Vineyards. 6: Llamas were just one of the highlights at The Spirit of Winter at Sovereign Estate. 7: It’s always a magical time at Lola’s Lakehouse’s Jingle Bar!
The Grater Good Just Got a Whole Lot Yummier!
Are you hosting a winter get-together? Interested in taking inspiration from The Grater Good and making cheese boards in the comfort of your own home? Do you just love cheese? Stop in at The Grater Good’s new Cheese Barn where you’ll find gourmet crackers, honey, and jams as well as The Grater Good apparel, DIY charcuterie supplies, and of course CHEESE! Check out their social media accounts for Cheese Barn hours.
Your Boat Club Ticket Giveaway to the Minneapolis Boat Show
Join Your Boat Club at this year's Minneapolis Boat Show, January 23-26 at the Minneapolis Convention Center! Come check out the latest tech, brands, and models, and chat with Your Boat Club to get all your questions answered and find the perfect way to get out on the water this summer! Email info@yourboatclub.com for FREE tickets to the show! Just mention this Business Monthly, and they will email you the tickets. Come see what’s new at Your Boat Club!
Ready, Set, Smile with Award-Winning Care at Brush Dental
Congratulations to Brush Dental for winning Best Dentist and Best Orthodontist in the 2024 Best of the West Lakes Area! Now that we have your attention and are talking about quality, compassionate dentistry, here’s your reminder to start the New Year by taking care of your oral health–and who better to visit for all your needs than Brush Dental? Visit them online to get more information today! brushdentalstudio.com/
Photography by The Grater Good
Photography by Your Boat Club
Photography by Anna Ko Photography
“Chestnut
Pictured: Bryan Haasken
Happy 2025!
Cheers to fresh starts and new things in a New Year. In 2025, though, instead of adding to my soul-crushing to-do list, I’ve decided to be controversial and get rid of something this year. Something big.
Life Minded
I broke up with my smartwatch. We are done. And I don’t think we are ever, ever, ever getting back together. I have always been a watch person. Even in high school, I loved a good watch. I had a Fossil watch with a pretty mother-of-pearl face, a giant black and white watch during the color-blocking trend that covered a good portion of my arm, and a Swiss Army with a red leather strap. I had a few Swatch brand watches in candied pastel colors. Then I moved to big, chunky, waterproof sports watches that displayed time and date and glowed in the dark. I set my morning alarm on those and thought it was very fancy. Then smart watches took over the market, and I took a tentative step into all the things they could offer me beyond telling time.
I have never even owned the fanciest smartwatch. You know the ones. At the birth of the fancy smartwatch craze, several of my family members thought I should get one. They all had them. In fact, they weren’t sure how I
was going to survive without tracking all the things it tracked. Somehow I survived. I got by just fine with my ‘moderately intelligent’ model. I missed out on the initial ‘cool’ factor my friends and family experienced. Calling one another from their wrists. Answering texts and calls from me on their wrists. Competing with each other to burn calories, meet step goals, and close rings. They could order things with a few taps and listen to music through the tiny, tinny speaker. They were living the lives the Jetson’s cartoon had predicted for us. Admittedly, it all looked cool. The problem is, I didn’t like it. Not a bit.
The first thing that happened was my watch was always set to “accept text messages” when I exercised. In case my children needed me. There is nothing like enjoying the peace of a yoga class while receiving a silent yet alarming all caps message-WE ARE OUT OF WAFFLES. I don’t know if this constitutes a crisis in your family, but here it’s a sign of end times. But this
is not information I need to know in real-time. This crisis can wait a hot minute. A hot yoga minute.
I also don’t need the metrics because I have zero interest in studying myself. I’m well aware if I have or have not exercised. My jeans let me know. I will always choose the kouign-amann instead of the kale, so no need to log it and have my watch shame me. And the sleep. I’m crystal clear about if I haven’t slept well the night before. If I haven’t, I will let the world know, and I’m not at all nice about it.
Twenty five years ago my husband and I got matching watches. I have no idea why — like on the old game shows where you could win his and hers with a trip to Toledo. They are beautiful, but all they do is tell time. I had to take mine in to get a new battery. I’m keeping it in a drawer on standby, just in case.
Peace to you and yours in 2025. The year will go by fast. I plan on enjoying the time without checking on it very much. On my newly naked wrist now sit multiple bracelets. They alert me to absolutely nothing. New Year’s bliss.
Minded
COLUMN BY JEN FORTNER
Jen Fortner is a freelance writer who enjoys asking friends and strangers far too many questions. She spends her spare time sitting in inclement weather watching youth sports, traveling, cooking, and searching for the very best baked goods. She lives in the Southwest Metro with her husband, three children and the most spoiled dog.
HEALTHY LIVING STARTS IN THE HOME
ARTICLE BY KENDRA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY LANDMARK PHOTOGRAPHY
How Highmark Builders is designing spaces that inspire fitness, wellness, and an active lifestyle
As we jump into the new year, many of us will also be jumping into New Year’s resolutions. And while living a healthier lifestyle is a resolution many of us make every year, 2025 could be the year we finally accomplish it with the help of Highmark Builders.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, office space was a must in the home. That trend has shifted to active spaces such as workout rooms, sports courts, saunas, steam rooms, and more.
“Home fitness rooms have become a staple just as much as home offices have,” says Kelly McDermott, Senior Interior Designer at Ruby & Suede, a subsidiary of Highmark Companies. “People have come to appreciate the flexibility to be able to work out from home on their own schedule.”
Highmark Builders recently helped one family remodel their home to add a spacious workout room and outdoor sports court to match the family’s active lifestyle. With a remodel, the team at Highmark Builders was tasked with finding ways to maximize the room’s space to accommodate a spacious workout room with abundant natural light, equipment, and open space.
The most challenging part, according to Kelly, was laying out all of the equipment. Instead of running cords from one end of the room to the other, they placed several outlets on the floor to hide the cables from each machine.
They were also tasked with matching the modern architecture of the existing house to the new workout room, which resulted in beautiful curved ceilings and large glass windows. Everything in the room was commercial grade with durable rubber flooring in the weights area and specialty hardwood floors outfitted in the areas with machines.
“The workout room creates an inspiring space that you want to be in that is exciting to get up and go workout in,” Kelly says.
In addition to workout rooms, the team at Highmark is seeing an increased interest in sports courts and saunas.
Sports courts — basketball, tennis, pickleball, squash, and more — are especially popular among young, active families, according to Sandy Mahoney, Project Development at Highmark Builders.
And with the right conversation and collaboration, a sports court can be incorporated to best fit your family’s needs. For example, Highmark Builders has completed sports courts that open up to an entertaining space while others are closed off from the home to create a secluded sanctuary space.
Saunas and steam rooms, like sports courts and exercise rooms, can be incorporated into various areas of the home depending on your family’s needs.
“We’ve actually done a fair amount of saunas. Sometimes, they are incorporated into the workout room or into a bathroom. And I think that certainly is part of living a healthy lifestyle,” Kelly says.
If you’re considering adding a workout room, sports court, or sauna to your new construction home or remodel, it’s important to know how you want to use the spaces and what aspects are most important to you.
“Incorporating exercise and a healthy lifestyle into your home — you can do it at different investment levels. You could carve out a small space in your home without a significant investment or do an addition and really blow it out. It’s something that almost any family can do by creatively re-inventing spaces,” says Sandy.
To make good on those New Year’s resolutions, consider making your home a healthy place to live. The team at Highmark Builders is prepared to help you achieve your goals and give you the home that will help you live your best life. https://highmarkbuilders.com
R E V A M
WARD R O B E
It’s January, and everything feels a little new (and cold) except for your wardrobe. As you pour new life into your overall wellness, how about doing the same for your closet, you know the one, with the same t-shirt in every color? After all the holiday indulgences, you’re not the only winter couch potato who could benefit from some soft new duds, unique color combinations, and a ton of versatility. As you begin your style reset journey, consider looking ahead to the next season and incorporate a few up-and-coming trends to stay ahead of the curve. Once you’re ready, slip on your dated outerwear and stroll down West First Street, where you’ll find a charming period-style home and inside, Nice Shirt Co. You’re after cozy, cute, stylish, and new, and that’s exactly where this enchanting boutique shines.
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER BUILDING A HAPPIER, HEALTHIER WARDROBE WITH NICE SHIRT CO.
“Nice Shirt Co. started in my home studio out of a genuine need for high-quality, comfortable Wildcat apparel. I wanted to create clothing that not only fit well and felt incredibly soft but also held up beautifully wash after wash,” Brook Struck, owner of Nice Shirt Co., shares. “My goal was to ensure that the screen printed design wouldn’t crack or peel, so people could truly enjoy and feel proud wearing our pieces over time.” Since opening its doors in 2022, Nice Shirt Co.’s range of offerings has expanded along with its dedicated loyal following. “We now carry jackets, sweaters, slippers, and so much more because we believe in offering items that people can work into their daily wardrobes effortlessly.”
The belief that a healthy wardrobe is one filled with pieces that make you feel comfortable and confident in your own skin is on full display at Nice Shirt Co., where
every piece is chosen with care and purpose. “It’s about having a few go-to items that fit well, have a soft touch, and make you look and feel your best,” Brooke says. And she’s onto something because, for 2025, multi-functional pieces that can seamlessly go from the gym to the office or a night out will be popping up everywhere. “We’re bringing in cozy essentials this month, including a super-soft open-front cardigan that we’re so excited about. You can relax in it or layer it over an elevated printed tee or a simple blouse for a busy day at work.”
High performance is also the name of the game for the year, with pieces that go the distance while also feeling chic and current. You’ll want to make room in your rotation for the longline high-neck padded vest that Brooke will have front and center in the shop, perfect for a classic legging
A new year, new closet refresh has never been more fun, comfy, and sweet than at this cozy shop in downtown Waconia. It’s your one-stop shop for intentional designs, handpicked selections, and heart, and that never goes out of style. https://www.niceshirtco.com/ and boot combination or your favorite slim-straight denim and loafers. Eco-conscious fabrics and eco-inspired colors will also be plentiful this year. Look no further than the luxurious organic cotton blend hooded wrap and classic cotton crew neck in ballet blue that’ll be on the apparel rack titled, well-made staples that make you feel great every time you wear them.
“Locally designed, printed apparel and curated goods + a charitable mission” represents Nice Shirt Co.’s core message, so it’s only fitting that size inclusivity is something of great importance there. “We carry sizes extra small to three extra large in most items because we want everyone to find something that fits and feels great. Our goal is to help everyone build a wardrobe with key pieces that can easily elevate their everyday style, and we’re here to help them achieve it!”
“IT’S ABOUT HAVING A FEW GO-TO ITEMS THAT FIT WELL, HAVE A SOFT TOUCH, AND MAKE YOU LOOK AND FEEL YOUR BEST.”
What’s New in Waconia
CHALLENGE YOURSELF TO A HEALTHY
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
It’s 2025. You did it! Look at you go! As you celebrate this shiny New Year, don’t forget to give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back for all the ways you’ve grown and what you’ve accomplished in 2024. Yes, you had fun, but you also worked hard… and it shows. It’s time to start fresh and gear up for another trip around the sun, and that can mean different things for different people. January is often referred to as Resolution Season… quitting bad habits, getting more organized, starting a workout routine, and so on. Maybe you’re saying to yourself, “Hey lady, I just finished up a pretty *fill in blank* year, give it a rest. “Or maybe you’re thinking, “Yeah, I could use a new motivation to hold me accountable.” Our empowering fitness community is one lunge-length ahead of you with revitalizing, attainable challenges you will dominate. We know what you’re capable of.
CRUSHER CROSSFIT - CRUSHER NUTRITION SMALL GROUP: BUILDING FOUNDATIONS FOR LASTING RESULTS
If you’re eager to push your limits and learn what consistency really means, connecting with a small group of dedicated and supportive individuals at Crusher Crossfit might just be the spark to get you moving. Ditch shortcuts and commit to meaningful change with focused meetings, personalized nutrition reports, and tailored macros in a program designed to get you on track—and keep you there. If you’re ready to get to work, contact Coach Amber. amber@ crushercrossfit.com.
SAFARI ISLAND COMMUNITY CENTER - NEW YEAR’S FITNESS BINGO
Throughout January, you can play bingo and get healthy and fit! Pick up a free bingo card at the Safari Island front desk
and get playing! Covering those squares will not only push you out of your comfort zone and help you create new healthy habits, but for every bingo you get, you’ll earn one entry into the prize drawing, and a blackout will earn you five!
SHAPE IT UP FITNESS - SWEAT SOLO PROGRAM
Kickstart your new year by challenging yourself to swing into the studio and complete every energizing weekly workout posted on Instagram. They’re also challenging members to come to class 12 times in January or, in combination with Sweat Solo workouts, to be in the running to win a Lululemon belt bag. To find out more, check out https://shapeitupfitnessmn.com/
SHE IS FIERCE - 50 STRONG
Join She is Fierce founder Erica Hoese and her empowering movement rooted in physical and mental well-being for 50 Strong. If you’re interested in a fitness journey with a supportive small group, weekly check-ins, nutritional guidance, and more, this exclusive women-focused program is for you. And there are a few surprises! Throughout your journey, you’ll unlock five essential rules that’ll guide you along this life-changing path and put you in the running to win an awesome prize. For more information or to register, visit https://sheisfiercemn.com/50strong
SHRED WITH SHANNON - SHRED THE OLD: HEALTHY HABITS RESET
Start the New Year strong with a 6-week nutrition challenge designed to help you build sustainable, healthy habits…one week at a time! Each week, you’ll tackle a new goal—from boosting hydration to meal prepping, balancing your plate, and reducing added sugars, these manageable steps will start easy
“If you’re eager to push your limits and learn what consistency really means, connecting with a small group of dedicated and supportive individuals at Crusher Crossfit might just be the spark to get you moving.”
“Start the New Year strong with a 6-week nutrition challenge designed to help you build sustainable, healthy habits… one week at a time! Each week at Shred with Shannon, you’ll tackle a new goal—from boosting hydration to meal prepping, balancing your plate, and reducing added sugars.”
and gradually increase in difficulty, giving you a solid foundation for lasting habits. By the end, you’ll have a set of routines to keep you feeling great all year. For extra accountability, recipes, and weekly prize opportunities, join the Facebook group and connect with others in the challenge! If you’re ready to strive for new habits in 2025, go to https://www.wellnessliving.com/rs/catalog-view. html?k_business=571843&id_sale=2&k_id=3416237
SNAP FITNESS - MYZONE BELT UTILIZATION
This wearable technology gives live feedback on heart rate, effort, and goals reached during a workout in the club. From January 5th through February 15th, you’ll earn points for every minute you work out in key heart rate zones that build muscle and burn body fat. Or perhaps the Club Attendance challenge is more your speed. For every workout completed in the club for the same period, your name will be entered to win one of three giveaways: A Snap hoodie and swag bag full of goodies, two free personal training sessions, and a $50 gift card to a local business of your choice. Visit https://www.snapfitness.com/us/ gyms/waconia-mn?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=yext to join.
STAY In, WORK OUT
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
What if we told you that you could burn off a little fruitcake and a whole lot of eggnog while staying perfectly cozy at home? Winter in Minnesota definitely presents challenges for staying active. What will work for you? What do you need? Your feet go where? As the holiday hangover commences, we thought it was time for some inspiration, a little nudge to help keep that heart pumping when all it really wants to do is sit and binge-watch The Office. We talked with Grant DeWitt, Head Cross Country and Track and Field Coach at Crown College, about home workouts and why it’s not really about the exercise but more about finding what aligns with you and your lifestyle, making it easier to confidently show up for yourself day after day.
WHAT ARE SOME KEY EXERCISES THAT CAN BE DONE AT HOME?
It’s easy to access 10-20 minute bodyweight exercises at home, but it can be very challenging to follow
Grant DeWitt, Head Cross Country and Track and Field Coach at Crown College
“THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS TO HAVE grit AND CONSISTENTLY show up.”
through and actually DO those workouts. I’d recommend finding the simplest routines that require no equipment and then committing, at first, to doing that routine 1-3 times a week. Luckily, some apps offer free video routines where you can select the workout type, duration, and emphasis. I would recommend the Nike Training Club. The nice part about an app like this is that it demonstrates the sequence and then coaches you through the movement to help you improve. Once you’ve found one you like, try building it into your schedule a few days a week!
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE CARDIO WORKOUTS THAT CALL FOR LITTLE TO NO EQUIPMENT?
As a former track and cross country athlete, I am biased toward running as my favorite cardio. There are so many trails to explore in this area, especially in places like Carver Park Reserve or the Dakota Rail Trail. Running is simple, can be done at any pace, is a great way to socialize with others, and you don’t have to look amazing or have perfect form. The most important thing is to have grit and consistently show up. Other easy cardio workouts include jumping rope, walking stairs, and bodyweight HIIT exercises.
WHAT ARE SOME ROUTINES SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS VERSUS ADVANCED ATHLETES?
Often, beginners who want to start working out more will end up doing too much too soon and feel extremely sore or hurt themselves. My advice is to space out your workouts and ensure that what you start with is doable. For example, a person training to do a 5k but hasn’t run in years would likely not be able to run a full 5k without stopping – they would need to slowly build up their stamina. The biggest difference between beginner and advanced athletes is the amount and intensity of training and the consistency. Advanced athletes are typically prepared for intense workouts 5-7 times a week, while beginner athletes might aim for less intense workouts 2-4 times a week.
WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST BENEFITS OF MAINTAINING A ROUTINE DURING THE COLDER MONTHS? HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO STAY COMMITTED?
A great way to stay committed to working out during the winter is to get plugged in with other people. Whether that means joining a gym, showing up to a workout class, or joining an online community where you work out together, meeting with people and gathering to do an exercise is one of the best ways to hold yourself accountable and avoid burnout. There are so many options across the West Metro area, so try out different gyms, studios, leagues, or classes and find what’s best for you. You can also try picking up a new sport, like snowshoeing or Nordic skiing, during the winter. Carver Park Reserve in Victoria has groomed Nordic trails that would be a great option for trying something new.
HOW CAN PEOPLE EASILY SET GOALS AND TRACK THEIR PROGRESS WHILE WORKING OUT AT HOME?
One of the best ways to set goals or track progress is by signing up for competitions or creating some with friends, family, or co-workers. Even the friendliest competition will help you push yourself to improve. Once you’ve identified an area you’re passionate about, set a realistic benchmark for how much improvement you’d like to see in a certain amount of time.
The best workout is the one that aligns with your life. Use Grant’s tips to create a winter routine that keeps you moving, motivated, and feeling good — even on the chilliest days!
New Year, New Budget
MASTER YOUR FINANCES IN 2025
ARTICLE BY LUTIE RONGLIEN
Did you spend too much over the holidays? Did the kids’ gift lists get a bit carried away? Ready for a fresh financial start?
Martin Cole, Certified Financial Planner with Thrivent Financial in downtown Waconia, has some tips for those of us who may have some buyer’s remorse after the holidays.
“If you overspent over the holidays, it’s important to pay off high-interest credit card debt as soon as possible,” Martin says. “Interest rates can be 15-20% or higher. Prioritize future spending to focus on paying off these debts.”
Martin also recommends that to prevent this from happening next time, set a budget for gifts and set aside money each month. This way, you can pay cash for gifts next holiday season.
If you’re shocked looking at your credit card statement, or even if you’re feeling pretty good about your holiday spending, Martin can help you get in better financial shape. Here are some recommendations to get you started:
SAVE
“Some think that in order to save, you need to invest large amounts,” Martin says. “This isn’t true. You can start investing with as little as $50 per month. The most important thing is to start saving. Then, as your budget allows, increase this amount over time. Once investment momentum starts and your accounts are growing, it’s easier to increase your investments.”
PRIORITIZE
Prioritize spending so you’re spending less than your income.
“Spending $15 per day going out to lunch during the work week or $5 for a coffee every day can really add up over time,” Martin says. “It may not seem like a lot, but over a month, this can add up to $300. In a year, that’s $3,600.”
BUDGET
Set a budget so you don’t overspend and go into debt. Track your spending so you’re conscious of where your funds are going.
“This way, you can direct your funds toward your most important financial goals,” Martin says.
CHANGE YOUR HABITS
Get in the habit of saving every month.
“Some people save whatever is left over at the end of the month,” Martin says. “Treat yourself as a priority and save first. Then spend what’s left.”
PREPARE FOR EMERGENCIES
Have an emergency fund of three to six months of income set aside.
“If there’s a large unexpected expense,” Martin says. “Your emergency fund allows you to pay for this with cash instead of putting it on a credit card.”
And speaking of credit, Martin urges you to maintain your credit score by making your payments on time.
“Generally, a score of 750 or more is considered a good score,” he says. “Check your credit score on an annual basis.”
BE READY FOR THE UNTHINKABLE
Be prepared for the what-ifs by having enough life, disability, and long-term care insurance so that you have it if you need it.
“If there’s a premature death of a spouse or other family member, this can significantly impact your finances,” he says. “In the event of a disability, your income could stop or be greatly reduced, which can also harm your financial health. Disability income insurance can help protect your income.”
Ready to get financially healthy in 2025? Set up an appointment with Martin (the first one is free!). You can get as little or as much help as you want. He has 25 years of experience in financial planning, so he’s ready to help clients at all levels of income and phases of planning. Call the office at 952-999-7686 or email at martin.cole@thrivent.com
“Some think that in order to save, you need to invest large amounts. This isn’t true. You can start investing with as little as $50 per month. The most important thing is to start saving.”
Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
smart SWEETS
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste, oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JANUARY 11TH
Winter Wine Lodge
Schram Vineyards | 12:00 PM
Experience the magic of winter at Schram Vineyards' Winter Wine Lodge! Every Saturday features a different theme with vendor partners, music, special attractions, and wine and food to fit every theme. Enjoy different wine-tasting experiences on Saturdays at 12pm or walkup wine tastings with no reservation required. Themes include Cuddle Fest with Goats, Aprés Ski, Fire and Ice, Wine and Cheese, Cupid’s Market, and Red, Red Wine and Chocolate! https://www.schramvineyards.com/winterwinelodge
JANUARY 13TH
Full Wolf Moon Hike
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum | 5:00 PM
Come howl at the Full Wolf Moon during this special snowshoe-after-dark event at the Arboretum. Rent a pair of snowshoes and explore the Arb's beautiful trails under the glow of the full moon for a truly magical winter night. After your snowshoe adventure, warm up around a bonfire and roast a marshmallow (or two!) Get tickets and more info: https://arb.umn.edu/fullmoonhikes
JANUARY 18TH
January Craft + Makers Market
ENKI Brewing | 2:00 PM
Mark your calendar for the January Craft + Makers Market at ENKI Brewing on Saturday, January 18, from 2-6pm! Sip a craft beer and come browse a great selection of locally made goods from talented vendors in the events room. It’s the perfect way to shop small, support local makers, and enjoy a cozy afternoon. Don’t miss it!
JANUARY 21ST
Kids Day Out! Sledding, Pizza Lunch & Swimming
Chaska Community Center | 9:00 AM
Escape cabin fever this winter, grab the kids, and head to the Chaska Community Center for Kids Day Out! Kids ages 6-13 can enjoy the perfect winter day with a slew of fun indoor and outdoor activities. Sled down the hill and then come inside for hot cocoa, crafts, a pizza lunch, and swimming! For more details: activekids.com/chaska-mn/water-sports/swimming-classes/kids-day-out-sledding-pizza-lunch-and-swimming-2025
JANUARY 23RD
Minneapolis Boat Show
Minneapolis Convention Center | 2:00 PM
Welcome to a water-lovers paradise at the 2025 Minneapolis Boat Show! Head to the Minneapolis Convention Center January 23-26 and check out the latest boat brands and models. The best in the industry will be there to answer all your questions and help you find the perfect way to get out on the water. There will also be nautical activities and attractions for the whole family to enjoy.
JANUARY 25TH
Frozen Fairway Open
Lake Waconia Regional Park | 12:00 PM
Don't miss the Waconia DandyLions annual Frozen Fairway Open! On Saturday, January 25, hop on the course anytime between 12-2:30pm for nine fun holes of snow golf. They'll supply the tennis balls, you supply your golf club of choice: hockey stick, broom, tee-ball bat, or golf club! Along with golf, there'll be music, food, and a Best Dressed Team contest. Learn more: facebook.com/waconiadandylions/
Your Boat Club:
We boating! are
These late-model, meticulously maintained fishing boats, ski boats, and pontoons have served our members well. Most of our boats have been in service for only three years and are regularly detailed and refurbished. It is simply time to replace them with brand-new models and find them a new home!
The average age of our fleet is 1.5 years old- meaning our members- and you- get to experience the newest boats in the market. Because our boats are in service, they are cared for better than the average boat.
Especially after the initial depreciation, boats tend to hold their value extremely well. If you are considering buying a boat, why not eliminate the risk of overpaying and save all of that expense?
When it comes to your family’s next great adventure, you can trust Your Boat Club. With decades of experience and an unmatched love for boating, you can rely on us. We are boating! Find out more at www.YourBoatClub.com/buy-a-boat today!