We just visited the FREE Schubert Club Music Museum in St. Paul, Minnesota, and I have to share about it! Okay, picture this: your kids are happily banging out rhythms on a big gamelan (don’t worry, they’re supposed to), twirling around under a giant tornado of instruments hanging from the ceiling, and then, somehow, you’re […]
A Hidden Midwest Gem: Lost Island Waterpark & Themepark in Waterloo, Iowa
A Hidden Midwest Gem: Lost Island Waterpark & Themepark in Waterloo, Iowa If you’re looking for a tropical escape or a theme park adventure without leaving the Midwest, Lost Island in Waterloo, Iowa is calling your name! Just 3 to 3.5 hours south of the Twin Cities, this destination includes two parks—a waterpark and a […]
Disney-Pixar’s Elio Explores the Galaxy—and the Human Heart (Review)
We just saw Disney and Pixar’s Elio and it was absolutely GREAT! My teens and I had the opportunity to see Elio before it was officially in theatres and it was one of the best Disney Pixar movies I’ve seen. Spoiler-free review: This film truly was out of this world—in more ways than one. We […]
Introducing the Frugal Mom Favorite Dozen at Duck Donuts in Woodbury! (& Save 10%!)
I’m so excited to announce something sweet and special: I’ve partnered with Duck Donuts in Woodbury, MN to create my very own “Frugal Mom Favorite Dozen” — a custom box of donuts designed with families in mind! Whether you’re grabbing a treat for a weekend brunch, a birthday, or just a fun surprise for the […]
From Seafood to Sunsets: Our Favorite Honeymoon Meals in Gulf Shores
My husband and I married in August 2023 and went on the most amazing honeymoon to Gulf Shores, Alabama the following January. It was the perfect escape from Minnesota winter, and we enjoyed so many great attractions, activities, and of course, beaches while there. One of the biggest surprises during our honeymoon in Gulf Shores […]
Road-Tripping I-35: Hidden Gems Between Duluth and the Twin Cities
Stops Worth Slowing Down For From Duluth to Minneapolis/St. Paul If you’ve ever driven the familiar stretch of I-35 between Duluth and Minneapolis/St. Paul, chances are you’ve zoomed right past some incredible places without even knowing it. But tucked along this well-traveled route you’ll find surprising museums, rugged state parks, cozy cafés, and rich Minnesota […]
Discovering Lanesboro, Minnesota: A Small-Town Getaway with Big Charm
Why Lanesboro, Minnesota Should Be Your Next Small-Town Escape Have you been to Lanesboro, Minnesota? If not, you’re missing out on one of the sweetest small-town getaways in the state. Tucked away in the scenic Root River Valley, Lanesboro is a hidden gem that’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to slow down and […]
Central Park in Maple Grove: A Must-Visit for Families
Central Park in Maple Grove: One of the Best Playgrounds We’ve Visited Now that my kids are teens, we’ve been to an abundance of playgrounds over the years—and Central Park in Maple Grove still stands out as one of the best. After even just our first visit here in 2016, it made a lasting impression. […]
Healthy Family Dining at Mill Valley Kitchen (& Kids Eat Free on Sundays!)
Twin Cities families! If you’re looking for a place to take the family for a wholesome, delicious meal without breaking the bank, you have to check out Mill Valley Kitchen in St. Louis Park and Rochester. We went there recently on a Sunday night, and it was such a win for everyone. Why do I […]
A Teen’s Take on Disney’s Frozen at Children’s Theatre Company
Disney’s Frozen is now on stage at the Children’s Theatre Company in Minneapolis, and wow, it’s a magical experience for fans of all ages! This production is based on the 2018 Broadway adaptation of the popular 2013 animated film, bringing Arendelle to life with stunning costumes, new songs, and deeper character development that goes beyond […]









