I’ve talked a lot about progress at Acorn House on Instagram. However, I haven’t posted any progress here on the blog. If you follow on Instagram or Facebook (which you totally should so we can be friends) you’ve seen images of progress and lots and lots of story clips about what’s been going on. Today I’m sharing the first piece of the remodel I completed: our linen closet. It might sound lame, but I think I can sell you on the idea. Read on for my easy, real-life, linen closet organization ideas.
When I moved into Acorn House Derek was away for months on work. I was tasked with settling into a major project house with an 18 month in tow. The house had been vacant for several years. Before that, it had been flooded and haphazardly repaired. Before that, the second floor had been converted to an apartment–virtually untouched since the 1960s.
I found myself in a tricky and overwhelming situation. Our personal belongings (read: all our worldly possessions and furniture and comforts of home) were still at our previous home in South Dakota. I had moved a load of “essentials” up to North Dakota. A list that included a dining table, beds, the couch, linens, meager kitchen supplies and a TV.
Overwhelming Disorganization
As I looked around my heart sank. I had a growing knot in my stomach. Here I was alone, with a dirty house in complete disrepair. It seemed like a good idea when we bought it, but the reality was completely overwhelming. Nearly every inch of the house needed some kind of attention. Whether a complete overhaul, or just basic repair–no matter where my eyes settled I saw work to be done.
The biggest, most pressing struggle for me at first was the house’s tremendous lack of storage space. There is one small linen closet on the main floor. When I moved in, it the space was nearly unusable. For me, disorganization makes an overwhelming situation much worse.
My parents came to help me get settled. While in town, my dad and I put together a simple, but oh-so-effective linen closet. It’s hard for me to describe the impact this very quick project has had on me.
Having a place that could supply me with clean towels, fresh sheets and easy-to-find first aid supplies was a true gift. On my dirtiest, messiest days I could open the door and glimpse something pretty and finished. As bigger project started (and mishaps occurred) I found solace being able to look into my single, organized space.
The Linen Closet Points Me to Jesus, Seriously.
I tend to see everything as an anecdote of spiritual matters. So let’s go on a quick tangent. My small, peaceful closet bring the old hymn Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus to mind.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.
Heb 12:1-2a
See, in the midst of the chaos, overwhelming tasks and unforeseen obstacles–I can still come back to this one, completed space. Opening the door and breathing in the smell of clean linens and essential oils calms me and reminds me to be positive and intentional. Progress is being made. Projects will get done. We prayed over the decision to buy this house and God led us through the front door.
In the same way, no matter what is happening around us, God has given us the strength we need to persevere in the race set before us. We can fix our eyes on Christ and be refocused on what matters. The chaos, overwhelming tasks, obstacles and unhappiness all grow dim in light of His grace.
Easy, Realistic Linen Closet Organization Ideas
My linen closet isn’t going to go viral on Pinterest. For how much I love it, you’d think it might be prettier. Honestly, in person–it is prettier than in photographs. But it still won’t compare to the perfectly staged types you’ll see online or in home magazines. My closet might not be cover-photo-worthy–but it’s easy, realistic to maintain and doable for everyone.
I love this space because it is finished, polished and perfectly utilitarian. It houses lots of items and I know where each and every one lives. My closet is small, but I believe use of space is much more important than square footage.
Here are my seven best tips for creating a linen closet you love.
1. Eliminate
First, only organize the things you actually need and use. Eliminate unneeded and unnecessary items. How many towels do you really use? Washcloths? Bottles of lotion? Sheet sets?
Toss, donate, recycle or upcycle items that you are hanging on to but never use. Keep things you use and need. You’ll be surprised at the facelift this simple step will give your space.
2. Find a Fold That Fits Your Space
Next, it’s time to make sure the items you are keeping fit in your space. Find the folding style that best fits your space. In our previous Minot house I had a very deep, but very small linen closet. Rolling towels instead of folding them was best for that space.
In most of my other linen closets, this fold style has been best–it only takes a couple seconds. Here are other options for finding your best fold.
3. Fold Sheet Sets Together
This is a game changer. Learn to fold sheets well and fold entire sets together. You’ll never be looking for misplaced pillowcases again. Better yet, you’ll never have a pile of wadded up fitted sheets clogging up your closet.
This video from Marie Kondo shows my preferred method for storing sheet sets. But Martha also has great ideas here.
4. Create a Simple Storage Plan
Originally, in my closet there was only one shelf positioned too high to easily access sheets and towels. My dad and I installed a simple shelving unit to solve the problem. My solution uses hang rails and wire shelves. Be sure to secure shelves to studs to be sure they can hold enough weight.
No matter what solution you come up with, plan it out so you’ll be able to reach the things you need. If your space is deep, consider installing drawers to prevent items from being lost in the back of the closet. If it’s shallow, shelves will be your best friend.
5. Use a Storage Tower
There is almost always space for a storage tower. It doesn’t need to be huge, but it will help you. This is the best way I’ve found to keep medications and first aid supplies organized.
6. Make Things Look Neat With Storage Bins
Keep like items together in bins. Usually, these are things that are small and get lost, or aren’t often needed. In my closet, I use bins to organize lotion/hair products, first aid supplies, wash cloths, travel toiletries, essential oils and nail polish.
Within some of the bins, I use zippered pouches to store subcategories of items. I hold travel toiletries, guest toiletries and essential oils in the yellow striped bin, but each is in it’s own pouch to keep things neat. I hate sifting through lots of loose items to find a particular thing.
Putting items together keeps them at hand when you need them, but decreases visual clutter.
7. Pretty Extras
You’ll be more apt to keep your closet neat if its also pretty. I painted the walls a dark teal (it looks almost black in photos). The dark color makes the space feel more fresh than the dingy white.
Treat yourself to pretty storage containers. Get towels and sheets you love. Use items you already have on hand to make your space pleasant to look at.
Easy Linen Closet Organization Ideas : Conclusion
I hope this gives you some ideas–and some hope for your own space. When many things feel out of control and overwhelming, claiming and taming a small space can be empowering. How do you organize your storage spaces?
Most importantly, I hope you’ll remember that Jesus, more than an organized closet, will bring calm to the storms going on around you. And maybe, next time you see a happy, finished space in your home you’ll remember me and my silly linen closet anecdote.
Last, remember to join me on Instagram. I’ll be saving my linen closet details to highlights so you can see how I fold my towels and sheets. If I can do it, so can you.
Thanks for joining me. Today I’m sharing a topic that’s been on my heart for many months. This seems like the ideal time to finally put the proverbial pen to paper and write it down. I’m talking about the difference between happiness and joy. Too often we use these words interchangeably. However, the Bible shows us that there is a real and important difference between happiness and joy.
Unhappiness Is Easy
There’s a lot to be unhappy about right now. We are living through unusually hard times. Work looks different. School looks different. Relationships look different. Worship, ministry, connection, and routine all look different and unfamiliar right now.
Unhappiness is easy. And happiness is an easy goal to set–but not an easy goal to achieve. It’s so easy to say, “I just want to be happy…” Or, “I’d be happy if…” (I’m very guilty of the latter.) All too often things come up and get in the way of our happiness. Because happiness is tightly tethered to what is happening around us, happiness often rests on things out of our control.
Given the fallen state of our world and an often engrained sense of entitlement, unhappiness and discontentment can be the state we naturally gravitate toward. Unhappiness is something we commiserate over together. It brings us together, it’s common ground where otherwise there might be none.
I’m sure you’ve seen this happen. A group doesn’t know what to talk about, so they pick a safe topic–something everyone despises. Then one person offers up a terrible experience. The next commiserates and adds his own “one up” on the terribleness. And so it goes. On and on and on.
I call this negative camaraderie. It’s a social trap I truly loathe. But an easy trap to fall into nonetheless.
Unpleasant and Unideal Circumstances
I’ve faced a lot of unpleasant circumstances in the last year. Things that caused grief, pain, fear and anxiety kept coming up. (But don’t they always, and isn’t this true for all of us?) Because of this I’ve spent months simmering on the difference between joy and happiness.
As many of you know I spent many years grappling with cyclical depression and anxiety. I finally allowed God to penetrate that stronghold in my life about five years ago. Since then, I’ve seen a miraculous shift in my life. It’s taken a lot of time to heal and practice living in a state of victory over anxiety and depression, but slowly–this has become a new, normal pattern for me.
Over the last year as obstacles and unwelcome news cropped up I keenly noticed a distinct separation between my happiness and joyfulness. And friends, let me assure you–I’m nothing special. If God can draw this line in my heart, He can draw it in yours too.
The Week I Discovered the Difference Between Happiness and Joy
One instance in particular makes this difference so clear.
If you follow along on Instagram (and you totally should, because then we can be even better friends) you might remember that horrific week I spent in Rapid City getting our AirBnB transitioned to a long-term rental. (If you missed it, you can watch the whole saga in my Instagram Highlights.) Alone with an 18 month old, over the course of the week I was met with a mouse infestation, a huge waste leak in the basement, yellow jackets living in the walls, snakes under the deck, issues with the moving van, and a horrible smell that turned out to be poop stuck in a plunger.
Day after day a new, unpleasant circumstance arose. But every day my heart was calm, unshaken, capable, still fully focused on Christ and able to tell of His goodness. I saw humor in the circumstances and understood on a new level exactly what Proverbs 31:25 can mean about “laughing at the future.” No fear of what terrible situation (or smell) the next day would reveal–only the ability to have joy and peace. Because my joy is no longer harnessed to my happiness.
Let me attest. There is a difference between happiness and joy. In today’s unpleasant circumstances it’s more important than ever to claim victory and claim joy.
The Difference Between Happiness and Joy in the Bible
The Bible tells us that joy is a natural product of a life lived in the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Too often, I talk to fellow believers who tell me they are struggling to feel joyful. It’s not happening naturally. Are they doing something wrong in their spiritual walk?
There may be lots of things clogging up our joy tube. For a long time, mine was stuffed with lies. (Read about my journey with lies here.) But part of the problem may have to do with our etymology–they way we understand words.
I think we (we means me, too) too easily interchange the words happy and joy in our thinking and speech. We shouldn’t exchange these words lightly, because there is a difference between the two. Let’s take a look at what the Bible has to say.
The Bible has a lot to say about joy. The word “joy” is translated 182 times throughout Scripture. Meanwhile, the word “happy” only shows up 15 times. I believe that Scripture is God-breathed and therefore, each and every word is important and intentional. Since “joy” in used so many times, we can surmise that joy is important to God and He has a lot to tell us about it.
While the Bible doesn’t have a specific verse that explains the difference between happiness and joy, reading the verses where these words appear teaches us to differentiate between the two.
1. The Biggest Difference is Circumstance
The key difference between happiness and joy that I discovered is the circumstances in which each word is used. Happiness is usually used to describe a circumstance, or correlates to an event that has yielded positive results.
Greek and Hebrew words used in Scripture translated into our English “happy” are closely tied to circumstances as well. Their definitions encompass meanings like pleasant, agreeable, prosperous, benefit, blessedness, to make glad, to be glad, pleasing, and fortunate. (You can find out more by using the interlinear on these verses.)
So the LORD God appointed aplant and it grew up over Jonah to be a shade over his head to deliver him from his discomfort. And Jonah was extremely happy about the plant.
Jonah 4:6
Joy is God (Spirit) Generated
While happiness is an emotion that can be evoked by good fortune, joy is generated through a much more reliable means: God Himself.
You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound. In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.
Psalm 4:7-8
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Gal 5:22-23
Unlike happiness, which rests on a shifting surface of circumstance, joy rests on God. When we trust God’s promises and hope, we can experience His joy in all circumstances. When joy from God is our goal, we can stand in peace and contentment, even during the days that bring tears to our eyes. If happiness is our goal, our bodies and minds will wear out from pursuing something that doesn’t last.
Joy Is Not Restricted to Pleasant Circumstances
While “joy” can be used in happy, pleasant circumstances, its meaning is richer. Typically, if it has to do with an event, it’s an event recognizably brought about by God.
However, in times of unhappiness, joy is still present. This is especially clear in the letters from Paul. Paul often wrote while enduring hardship, or to groups who were facing hardship themselves. Yet his letters are full of verses regarding joy.
A Christian’s ability to experience joy, even amidst a trial is one of our greatest tools of evangelism and pointing the world to God’s goodness and truth.
Great is my confidence in you; great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort; I am overflowing with joy in all our affliction.
2 Cor 7:4
Joy Has an Overflowing Quality
In the Bible words translated to our English word “joy” have meaning that indicate an overflowing quality: to sound a glad alarm, to sing praise, rejoice, exultation, extreme gladness. The type of inner happiness that can’t be held in.
Scripture is full of verses about “shouting for joy,” “singing for joy,” “making a joyful noise.” While happiness can be soaked up quickly, joy exudes and pours out.
Sing for joy to God our strength; Shout joyfully to the God of Jacob.
Psalm 81:1
Claim Joy
There are other differences (and similarities for that matter) between joy and happiness. But this is a start. My point is this, let’s not make happiness our goal. When we hold that goal up to our very big God–who has saved us, redeemed us, defends us and is going to set all things right again–happiness seems like a small goal. God is not going to guarantee our happiness right now.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
Instead He assures us that we can overcome unhappiness with our joy and peace intact. He supplies and resupplies joy for us. Isn’t that a better goal, and a bigger miracle, anyway?
Dig in for yourself. Here are the uses of happy in Scripture and here are the uses of joy. What can you learn? How can you be cultivating a heart of joy, instead of a heart longing for happiness?
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL is a guide to thriving and loving your local community. Today I’m sharing my five favorite walking trails in Minot, but you can see more about parks and trails here.
I think it’s safe to say our schedules and routines are all looking a little different right now. Due to the global pandemic, schools and work are happening remotely, group gatherings are put on hold and we are all asked to observe social distancing rules. It’s a hard adjustment to make, especially for a busy, community-driven town like Minot. In all the hardship and disruption and disappointment, there are many blessings to be found here in North Dakota.
First of all, social distancing is required as the weather is turning. While we need to keep our distance, individuals are still being encouraged to get outside and enjoy fresh. Second, our state is big and beautiful–we are fortunate to have natural space to spread out. Third, people here are dang nice and our state government is doing a heck of a job staying ahead of this crisis.
These past few weeks, I’ve been especially grateful to wake up each morning in North Dakota.
Minot Monday is going to look different the next few weeks as we ride this out. But just because the “usual” stuff (classes, restaurants, events) aren’t looking usual right now, doesn’t mean we can’t find things to celebrate about our town.
My Favorite Walking Trails in Minot
Today I’m going to share five walking trails in Minot where you can get some distance and fresh air–and watch spring’s magic take over on our stickly, frost-weary trees.
**At the time of writing individuals are asked to practice social distancing and individual responsibility. Isolation mandates are not in place and parks are still open. To help flatten the curve and slow the spread, avoid using public play spaces/restrooms, carry hand sanitizer and keep your distance from others. Please abide by day-to-day recommendations from our state. You can see them here.**
Gideon and I walk almost daily at Oak Park. Even during peak “crowded” days in the middle of summer there is plenty of space. We walk the walking trail in a big loop around the park and through Camp Owetti. (Quick tip for navigating the trail through Camp Owetti–stay straight for a longer loop.) A highlight for Gideon is reading the walk-by book put up by the library.
The Bison Plant Trail may be my favorite walk in town. It’s wooded and rural and feel very removed. The 3 mile path is easy to follow and I’ve never seen it crowded. To get there drive SW on 52 toward Logan. The turn off on River Bend Rd is near an old KOA campground. If you get to Bell Elementary (when headed from Minot) you’ve gone too far.
Minot to Burlington Trail
The Minot to Burlington Trail is great for walking, biking, and (my favorite) rollerblading. The trail is straight through 5 miles. A round trip would be 10 miles total. The trail starts at the intersection of the 83 Bypass and 4th Ave NE in Minot and continues to Burlington. Although the trail follows a fairly busy road, it’s set away from the street, paved and goes through a beautiful part of the valley.
The Woodland Trail is a packed dirt trail with lots of loops and options. It’s perfect for a walk that feels remote while still being in town. I’d say this is Gideon’s favorite walk. It’s quiet, the path is well packed and easy to walk. The trees are thick and there is no traffic noise. Basically, it’s serene.
To get there take the 83 Bypass South. Just past the entrance to the Bark Park/Jack Hoven park you can turn onto a frontage road that will lead you to the trail. You can see a large “Woodland Trail” sign from 83. If you are headed south and come to 52, you’ve got too far.
The Bark Park Trail
The Bark Park Trail is an easy, paved path perfect for walking, roller blading and biking. The path leads past the Bark Park, past the woods that make up the Woodland Trail and through the golf course. Part of the trail is currently closed, but most of it is still open and it makes a great walk. To get there take the 83 Bypass south. Headed south, you’ll turn left onto 7th Ave SW/25th St SW. Signs are pretty clear.
Whatever your schedule looks like these days, I hope you’re able to get out and enjoy some fresh air as the ground thaws. For more trails and parks see here in BeLOCAL. Be safe. Stay healthy. Wash your hands. Limit your errands. And have a great week.
Today, we are all in for a treat. With help from a local expert, I’ve rounded up 25 board games to play during social distancing.
Right now all of our schedules are being interrupted. Social distancing can have benefits–like spending extra time at home and getting those pushed aside to-do lists finished. But it also has its downside–like extra time at home and having nothing else on the agenda except the to-do list.
It’s hard, there’s no denying it. But this also presents us with an opportunity to connect with others intentionally and get creative with the ways we spend our energy. In my opinion there is no better way to do that than with well picked board games!
On Instagram earlier this week I asked if you all would rather have a round up of board games or books to pass your time and you all overwhelmingly requested games. So that’s exactly what I’ve got for you today. I pulled in my local board game expert, Shar for this one. Shar is a game guru (also a plant and cat guru and overall good person to know) and helped me put together this list of great games with something for everyone.
Game Categories
We broke our quarantine game list into 5 categories:
Classics
Great for 2 players
Easy to Learn
Strategy Games
Gams for People Who Don’t Like Strategy Games
There is some overlap in the games and I’ll denote it along with the description. All descriptions of games come from official manufacturer’s descriptions. All games must be playable with less than 10 people and in a no-contact environment.
Classics
These are games that have been around for a long while and are good for a wide range of players. For players who are intimidated by new games or players who just want to expand their repertoire into the realm of classics–these are a great fit.
(2 players, good for folks who don’t like strategy games)
**In my opinion everyone should learn to play backgammon!!**
Backgammon is one of the most popular board games. Is a two players game where the pieces, also known as stones, are moved counter clockwise in a horseshoe fashion along triangular tracks, also know as points. Backgammon is one of the oldest and best board games and is believed to have been in existence since the time of the Pharaohs. Backgammon is a game that combines elements of strategy and luck.
(2+ players, easy to learn, good for folks who don’t like strategy games.)
It’s fun, it’s challenging, it’s exciting, it’s Sequence! Play a card from your hand, and place a chip on a corresponding space on the game board. When you have five in a row, it’s a Sequence. Learn to block your opponents or remove their chips, and watch out for the Jacks – they’re wild! With a little strategy and luck, you’ll be a winner.
(2+ players, good for folks who don’t like strategy games)
Players use skill and strategy to create stacks of sequentially numbered, ascending cards (2,3,4…) until they have no more left to play. Once everyone is dealt their own personal stockpile of cards, play begins by drawing from a central pile and building up to four “build” piles. The first player to deplete all of his or her Skip-Bo stockpile cards is the winner!
Stratego is the classic game of battlefield strategy that has sold over 20 million copies worldwide. For over 50 years, Stratego has thrilled strategy game fans by inspiring them to challenge an opponent and attempt to lead their army to victory. Two players command Napoleonic armies and devise plans to deploy troops, using strategic attacks and clever deception to break through the opponent’s line and capture the flag!
(2+ players, good for folks who don’t like strategy games)
It’s really no surprise that Rummikub is so popular – it has all the elements that make a great game: it’s easy to learn and fast moving, it’s different every time it’s played, it combines luck and strategy, and it changes quickly so every player has a chance to win until the very end. Players take turns placing numbered tiles in runs and groups, rummy style. The ‘board’ continually changes as players adjust the tiles on the table. Be the first player to play every tile on your rack to win.
Two Player Games
These games are great for two players. Perfect for playing only in the family.
Played within a medieval walled city, Cathedral is a top notch strategic game of power and position where rivals strategically battle to place all of their buildings on the gaming field and lay claim to their territory. Two rivals battle to gain the most territory, using strategy to position their castle building pieces and block their opponent’s moves. The player who is the best at outmaneuvering the other will claim the victory.
Morels, a strategic card game for two players, uses two decks: a Day Deck (84 cards) that includes ten different types of mushrooms as well as baskets, cider, butter, pans, and moons; and a smaller Night Deck (8 cards) of mushrooms to be foraged by moonlight. Each mushroom card has two values: one for selling and one for cooking. Selling two or more like mushrooms grants foraging sticks that expand your options in the forest (that is, the running tableau of eight face-up cards on the table), enabling offensive or defensive plays that change with every game played. Cooking sets of three or more like mushrooms – sizzling in butter or cider if the set is large enough – earns points toward winning the game. With poisonous mushrooms wielding their wrath and a hand-size limit to manage, card selection is a tricky proposition at every turn.
7 Wonders Duel takes the game play and excitement of the original and adapts it for one-on-one battles. Take control of your civilization and decide to invest in science, military or prestige. Two New ways to win will keep you on your toes and watching every move your opponent makes. If you fail to build defenses your capital city may be destroyed, but ignore technology and your people may be left in the dark ages. It’s a constant tug of war.
(2 Players, cooperative, great for folks who don’t like strategy games)
Work together to play tricks and move through the forest. Use the special abilities of the characters to exchange cards with each other, let your teammate follow with any card regardless of suit, and more. Win as a team by collecting all the gems, but be careful to stay on the path and not get lost in the forest!
Inspired by the medieval fortress in southern France of the same name, Carcassonne is a tile-laying game in which players fill in the countryside around the fortified city. As the map grows, so does the opportunity for players to disrupt each other’s plans. With its simple yet rich game mechanics and tiles that can be configured into numerous combinations, Carcassonne appeals to beginners and veteran gamers alike.
Easy To Learn
These next games are perfect to introduce to new players. They’re easy to learn and teach, simple to play and lots of fun for a variety of players.
Dominoes with a Kingdom building twist! each turn, connect a new domino to your existing Kingdom, making sure at least one of its sides connects to a matching terrain Type already in play. The game mechanics for obtaining the tiles is clever: the order who of who picks first depends on which tile was previously chosen. Make sure to secure tiles with crowns- these royal treasures help to multiply the worth of your Kingdom at the end of the game! the game ends when each player has completed a 5 x 5 grid, and then points are counted based on number of connecting tiles and crowns.
Explore and conquer the different terrains, and develop the best and richest territories for your people. Scour lands full of wheat fields, forests, grasslands, swamps, mines, and towns, diversifying your kingdom’s riches along the way. Tax the lands wisely to fund the construction of your towns, pick the buildings you erect carefully, and try to win the Queen’s favor – all while making sure your plans aren’t foiled by the Dragon’s flame. Make sure to strategize and acquire carefully, as others are also competing for the same lands, a stake in the riches, and the heart of the Queen!.
(2+ Players, easy to learn, good for folks who don’t like strategy games, good for kids)
In card game SKYJO the goal is to collect as few points as possible over the course of several turns as after every round every player’s points are counted and added to his score. As soon as a player reaches 100 points or more the player with the fewest points wins. Collecting the fewest points means to look for low or even negative numbers. Further excitement is added by several special rules, which for example make it possible to remove several cards (and with it points) from the game – this can lead to unexpected turns. This motivates daring decisions that might even come back to bite, if the other players can counter faster than expected.
(2+ players, easy to learn, good for folks who don’t like strategy games, good for kids)
Shadows in the Forest is a thrilling, immersive play experience that brings a distinctive twist to game night – you play it in the dark! One player moves the LED lantern around in search of Shadowlings, mysterious creatures who avoid the light. The lantern illuminates the forest and trees, casting real shadows on the game board. The rest of the players work together, strategically moving their Shadowlings to stay out of the light in this innovative board game for kids and families.
(2+ players, easy to learn, good for folks who don’t like strategy games, good for kids)
Five Crowns is a five suited rummy style card game. This award winning, classic game is a quick favorite for both avid and casual card players. Five Crowns features a unique double deck that contains 5 suits: spades, clubs, hearts, diamonds, and stars. This special deck makes it easier to arrange your entire hand into books and runs. The rotating wild card keeps players on their toes The game begins with 3 cards and 3s are wild, the next round has 4 cards and 4s are wild and so on ‘til the Kings Go Wild Make the right combinations, be the first to go out, then watch players scramble as they get one last chance to cut their losses Five Crowns is loved by everyone, easy to play anywhere and a game that you’ll want to play again and again.
(2+ players, easy to learn, good for folks who don’t like strategy games, good for kids)
Designed for ages eight and up, this four-player adventure is an action-packed game of mystery that’s ideal for sleepovers, family game nights, and anytime kids feel like playing in a land of strategy and imagination. Players must find all of their objects and characters while moving carefully through the constantly changing maze, and be the first to make it back to the starting square to win.
Strategy Games
These games take a little longer to learn and have more strategy involved. Perfect for fans of Catan, Ticket to Ride, and 7 Wonders.
Players take on the role of ancient Egyptian architects. Over six rounds, they try to transport stone blocks to end up in the most valuable positions at five construction sites, while thwarting their opponents’ efforts to do the same. To win the game and be named the greatest architect, you must get your blocks to the right place places, in the right order, at the right time.
Plot, scheme, and deceive as you build fantastical cities in Citadels, Bruno Faidutti’ s classic game of card drafting, intrigue, and cunning characters. In Citadels, two to eight players must shrewdly draft characters and use their abilities to create the most lavish, profitable city possible.
Hustle and bustle in the bazaar district of Istanbul: merchants and their assistants are hurrying through the narrow alleys attempting to be more successful than their competitors. Good organization is key: wheelbarrows have to be filled with goods at the warehouses and then swiftly transported by the assistants to the various destinations. The goal of the merchants is to be the first to collect a certain amount of rubies.
You take in the role of one of the masked Lords of Waterdeep, secret rulers of the city. Through your agents, you recruit adventurers to go on quests on your behalf, earning rewards and increasing your influence over the city. Expand the city by purchasing new buildings that open up new actions on the board, and hinder—or help—the other lords by playing Intrigue cards to enact your carefully laid plans.
As you advance through Games 1-7 of Harry Potter Hogwarts Battle, you will reveal progressively more challenging adventures and unlock new secrets on your journey to save Hogwarts from the Dark Lord.
**I like this one because it’s a very challenging cooperative game, and not all players need to be HP fans to enjoy the game.**
Non-Strategy
The final category is perfect for players who don’t want to read a long instruction booklet or think too hard about their plays.
The teams compete to see who can make contact with all of their agents first. Spymasters give one-word clues that can point to multiple words on the board. Their teammates try to guess words of the right color while avoiding those that belong to the opposing team. And everyone wants to avoid the assassin.
Ever imagined you were a bean farmer. Sure, who hasn’t. You got your Red beans, your green beans, your black-eyed beans, your coffee beans. But where to plant them. In this card game, smart sowing lets you reap big rewards. Plant The beans you do want, and trade the beans you don’t want to the other players. Adding to the realism of the game, The one who ends up with the most money wins.
(2+ players, easy to learn, non-strategy, good for kids)
Qwirkle combines the game play of Dominoes and Scrabble and is the perfect combination of skill and chance! This easy-to-learn, yet challenging game for children and adults will have all generations on the edge of their seat!
(2+ players, easy to learn, non-strategy, good for kids)
Can you turn “dog” into “log”? You can with Upwords! In this high-stacking word game, players place tile letters onto the game board to create new words, or stack and build on top to change existing words. When it’s your turn, easily place your letters by rotating the lazy Susan game board in your direction. Earn points for words a single tile high and points for letters underneath – the higher you stack, the higher you score! If you form two or more words in a single turn, you’ll earn even more points.
(2+ players, easy to learn, non-strategy, good for kids)
A sprawling country estate filled with unusual weapons, good hiding places, and craven killers. Killers like you. The object? To kill Doctor Lucky. The obstacles? For one thing, all your friends would rather do it first. For another, Doctor Lucky is aptly named.
**It’s kind of like reverse-Clue. This is one of Derek’s favorites.**
Happy Playing!
There you have it, 25 board games to play during social distancing. Remember to wash your hands before and after play. But most importantly, have fun! (PS, for even more games check out the ones I recommended in the 2019 gift guide.)
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. It’s an awesome guide to living like a local and loving life in Minot. If you haven’t checked it out yet, you totally should. All thoughts in this post are my own.
Derek always gets me the best gifts. I guess that’s what happens when you have lived with someone a long while and been best friends a long while before that. He knows my favorite gifts don’t come in jewelry boxes or in the form of the latest technology. To date my favorite gifts from him have included: a wall-mounted pencil sharpener, new headphones for listening to audio books, a two-player bocce ball set, and (most recently) a wheel thrown pottery class from the Minot Adult Learning Center.
In high school I took all the art classes our small school system offered. Each year I excelled at drawing, multi-media, art history and painting. But when the annual pottery unit rolled around I really started to struggle. The whole thing was very frustrating–because ceramics was what I most wanted to be good at. When it was time to put clay on the wheel things literally fell apart for me.
In my entire high school career I only ever got one piece successfully off the wheel. Ever since, I have wanted a second chance. I’ve longed for renewed instruction, and another chance to spin up a bowl or a mug.
But finding an open community class has been much harder than it seemed at first. We’ve lived in six different communities during our ten-year marriage and never has a wheel thrown ceramics class lined up with our schedule (or been available to me.)
Ceramics Through the Minot Adult Learning Center
I’d all but given up when Derek revealed that this year for my birthday he had enrolled me into a wheel class offered through the Minot Adult Learning Center.
The class I took was offered in five courses. Three nights were spent learning technique and building. The last two nights were spent prepping our pieces for the kiln and glazing.
While the pieces I made are not worthy of high praise, the instruction was phenomenal, the other participants were a joy to be around and I had a lot of fun. And I learned a lot too!
Each night of building focused on a different technique (I excelled most at making plates…even though I wanted to make a good bowl more than anything in the world.) After a time of set up and instruction, participants were free to practice building as many pieces as time would allow. I typically only turned out 2ish pieces per class, but others (some who had taken the class before) could turn out many more in a single night.
I loved that supplies were unlimited for use and that the class size was small enough to allow questions to be thoroughly answered and one-on-one help from the instructor when needed.
This was my first time taking a course from the Minot Adult Learning Center and it was a wonderful experience. If you are thinking about taking a class (or teaching–they’re always looking for good instructors!) here are some things to know.
Get the Course Flyer Early
New classes start in the fall, winter and spring. Get the course offerings early from their website so you can check your schedule well in advance.
Sign Up Promptly
Some classes fill up fast. (The wheel thrown pottery course always sells out.) If you know what you want to take sign up early. Don’t risk losing your place. For example, Derek signed me up the day registration opened through the Minot Adult Learning Center. Within two days the class was full.
There Are All Kinds of Classes
Classes aren’t just limited to arts and crafts. The community education program offeres courses in technology, art, wellness, and community enrichment. Their technology courses include classes in PhotoShop, Canva, and using Google apps. Art classes include drawing, painting, ceramics, and rosemaling. Wellness courses include all kinds of fitness classes (including Zumba and aqua aerobics.) And community enrichment includes things like retirement planning, book clubs and drawing social security.
In addition to these classes the Minot Adult Learning Center also offers GED prep, English courses and college/career prep.
Most Classes Have a Fee
Most classes have a fee to cover instruction and supplies. I think the cost is reasonable (especially for the fitness classes–they usually end up being about $4/class!!) However, some offerings are free and open. Check their website and schedule for details.
If you are looking to get out and try something new, I hope you’ll keep the Minot Adult Learning Center on your radar. For more on places to take classes here in Minot check out this post. And be sure to check out BeLOCAL’s listings of places to volunteer, get involved in sports/fitness and take in the arts around town.
**Please note: At the time of writing classes at the Minot Adult Learning Center have been temporarily suspended following a recommendation by Governor Burgum. Updates as to when classes will resume will be available on their website and social channels.**
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL is a guide to living like a local and your should totally check it out.
Happy Minot Monday! Today’s post is all about resources for kitchen cabinets in Minot. If you’re in the market for cabinets or a kitchen remodel is on your horizon, this is going to be a good post to bookmark. Even if you aren’t, it’s still a good post because you’ll get a sneak peek at my {nearly} finished kitchen remodel.
If you follow along with me on Instagram (which you should, because we have lots of fun over there), you know I’ve been busy remodeling my kitchen. Things got a jump start in there after most of the upper cabinets fell off the wall in the fall (read about that ordeal here.) After that, we put our second floor remodel on hold and tackled the first floor living spaces instead. The kitchen, dining room and living room are all intertwined, so it’s been chaotic and messy in our most lived-in rooms. Needless to say, I’ll be happy to put this one behind me.
Finding Our Kitchen Cabinets in Minot
Working on an old house presents lots of challenges. Derek and I take a “restoration-without-making-a-time-capsule” mindset when it comes to changing things in an old home. We aren’t out to create a museum piece–perfectly authentic to the time period of the house. However, we do try to be respectful of the original design. When all is said and done, we hope the house looks like it’s “always been that way.”
A major challenge for us during the kitchen remodel was finding cabinets that we loved and also stayed within our budget. We spent about a month visiting with different retailers and designers around Minot until we finally put in an order.
All in all, I have nothing negative to say about any of the places we visited. At the end of the day though, we had to decide which retailer best fit our vision, budget and personality.
The following list is not totally comprehensive, but it contains many of the places in town that provide kitchen cabinets in Minot. Like I said, if you’re in the market, this is a good list to bookmark. Hopefully it’ll help you as you start your search.
Minot Lumber & Hardware
I’ll start with Minot Lumber. Ultimately, this is where we purchased our cabinets. Minot Lumber came to our attention as a cabinet dealer late in our search, but I’m so glad we checked them out. Here are some of the things that we love about working with them:
Super nice staff
FREE design consultation and renderings (we were sent 3D renderings of our layout before placing an order). The designer I worked with was so knowledgeable and tweaked our design several times to get it just right.
Multiple cabinet lines available (at different price points)
They also deal countertops (we purchased those too), hardware and accessories.
Helped us stay within budget. This is what really sold me on buying from Minot Lumber. Our designer took lots of time to work with me on small ways to trim the cost of our cabinet order. (For example, ordering a stock color, getting cabinets in common sizes–even though everything “can” be customized, doing our own install, etc.)
No overselling. I’ve never been pressured to buy something more extravagant than what I needed. Our designer listened to me and respected my vision–never pressuring me to buy something fancier than what I wanted.
We have had a great experience with Minot Lumber. There were a couple hiccups with our order–but those were on the distributor’s end. The staff at Minot Lumber has been quick to help and get things right.
Scherr’s Cabinets & Doors
We were so impressed by the staff at Scherr’s. Everyone was so kind and helpful. To us, the most impressive part about Scherr’s business is that everything is custom made and created right here in Minot! This is truly a business of craftsmanship. The biggest set back for us ordering from Scherr’s was timeline. Because everything is made-to-order there’s a bit of a wait. Here are some great things about Scherr’s.
Locally made
Completely custom
All their cabinets are frameless–which gives you the most access and space to the inside of the cabinet boxes
Loads of door options
Staff will help you design your layout
Staff will help trim your budget (for example, you do painting/finish, they explain install, etc)
See more on their FAQ page to learn about their offerings.
Souris River Designs
Souris River Designs is my recommendation for anyone wanting a fairly hands-off approach to a remodel. While the other retailers also offer installation resources and design resources–Souris River offers especially high quality design services. Their show room is gorgeous, and full of options and accessories. If you don’t consider yourself a semi-savvy DIYer or designer this is my recommendation for you. Here are some perks we liked:
Huge, inspiring showroom
Beautiful 3D renderings of your project
Designers on hand to help with every step
Offer counters, tile, backsplash, hardware, sinks, accessories, contractors, etc all in house
It’s a one-stop-shop for a remodel if you want to outsource your project
Big Box Stores
We have two “big box stores” for kitchen cabinets in Minot. Both have cabinets in stock that you can buy and take home today. Both have custom order cabinets available. Our experience with both places was positive. Here’s a little more about what we likes about each regarding custom cabinet orders.
Free design consultation and layout help (the design center is usually pretty quiet when I’m there, so you can get in and out quickly.)
Printed designs with basic 3D rendering
Several cabinet lines and lots of colors/door styles available
Sometimes they have sales on cabinets (note the store’s military discount does NOT apply to cabinet purchases)
Sinks, hardware and everything else you need is in the same store.
I hope this helps! Starting a remodel (especially a remodel of the heart of your home) can be intimidating and overwhelming. Hopefully, having a few recommendations from a friend who has already done some leg-work will take the edge off. For more recommendations that feel like they came from a friend, remember to check out BeLOCAL! Have you ordered kitchen cabinets in Minot? Where’d you get them? Do you have other businesses to recommend?
Happy Minot Monday, everyone! Today I’m answering the burning question: What is lefse? And why the heck is it such a big deal? Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL helps newcomers to live like locals–check them out.
Most do not envision North Dakota–or Minot— as a cultural hub. But let me tell you, the culture and traditions can be as thick as pudding around here. And it doesn’t get much thicker than the weird allegiance and allure folks around here have toward lefse.
What is lefse? Glad you asked. Let me tell you. But first, as always, a quick side-anecdote.
Our Introduction to Lefse
When we moved to Minot the first time back in 2012, we were just starting to feel settled when the Norsk Hostfest rolled around. If you want to sound like a local, just call it the Hostfest. You can either say “host-fest” or “hoost-fest” and not look like an idiot. (For more on the Hostfest and other annual happenings, see the listings here in BeLOCAL Minot.)
Since we didn’t know what to expect or what it was all about, we did what any good tourists do: ask the locals.
Everyone (and I do mean everyone) told us the best part is the food. “You’ll love it!” they said. “You have to try the aebelskivers,” they told us. “Be sure to save room for rømmegrøt, it’s my favorite.”
And over and over and over, we were reminded not to forget the lefse. We heard so much about the lefse, it was on our definite list of things to do at the Hostfest.
When we asked our friends the question, “What is lefse?” We got a variety of answers. To sum it all up would be something like this: It’s a flatbread thing, made from potatoes. We roll it up and eat with butter. We all eat and love it, especially around holidays and if you want to fit in here, you’ll love it too.
Confusion
So we got the lefse.
And it was okay.
But we were left feeling like we were missing something. As if everyone was in on something that we didn’t quite get. (A lot like how the character Ben Wyatt doesn’t understand the hype about Li’l Sebastian on Parks and Rec.)
I mean, come on. To our novice, non-Norwegian tongues, it tasted like nothing more than a tortilla with a lot of butter and cinnamon/sugar on it. We didn’t get it.
Appreciation
But as the years went on, something shifted. Gradually, lefse became more and more important to us. I became interested in it. I didn’t just want to eat it, I wanted to make it. And a couple times each year (namely Thanksgiving and Norwegian Independence Day) I had a hankering for it.
As I gave in to my inner desire to conform to all things native North Dakotan, lefse took hold of my heart.
And that’s the thing. Lefse is a big deal to the locals. It’s a tradition that is deeply engrained in life here. So much so, that even a friend who rarely cooks or bakes–and doesn’t even like potatoes–still owns all of the required tools for making it. It’s another weird and wonderful quirk of this place I love so much.
Making Lefse
I had dreams of learning to make lefse. Sadly those dreams never came to fruition while we were living in Minot. However, just over two years ago while we were living in Rapid City, our friend Ben came for a visit and taught us to make lefse.
Ben comes from a family of very talented bakers–especially in the bread realm. His family typically does a big annual lefse making day. They run multiple griddles, have several people rolling, and turn out enough to last through all the major holidays–Thanksgiving, Christmas and Norwegian Independence Day.
In hindsight, I think this is what makes lefse so special. It’s not necessarily about the taste or it’s splendor, but about the nostalgia it stirs. Lefse is holidays. It’s time with family and a recipe that has been used for as long as anyone can remember. That’s what we didn’t get the first time we had it. We had no history with it–and truly that’s what gives it its great flavor.
Over the weekend Ben and I got together again for a lefse making extravaganza. And I knew it would be the perfect Minot Monday post.
What is Lefse?
Okay, okay. I realize I haven’t given you a straight answer.
Lefse is a traditional soft Norwegian flatbread. It is made with potatoes, flour, butter, and milk or cream. It is cooked on a large, flat griddle. Special tools are used to prepare lefse, including long wooden turning sticks and special rolling pins with deep grooves.
Lefse is a lot like a tortilla, but it’s base is potatoes, not flour or corn.
How do you eat lefse?
Good question. According to the Internet, there are lots of ways to eat lefse. I’ll only tell you how people around here eat it. You have three options.
Slathered in butter and rolled up.
Slathered in butter, sprinkled with sugar and rolled up.
Slathered in butter, sprinkled with a sugar-cinnamon combination…and rolled up.
I’ve only had it served slightly warm or a room temperature. No utensils required–like eating a taquito.
What do you need to make lefse?
As mentioned, you’ll need some special supplies if you want to make your own lefse. Honestly, it’s better to have a friend who already owns the stuff. If you live in North Dakota, you probably won’t have to look too far. It’s seriously crazy how many people we know who personally own their own kit. (If you want to invest, here’s a kit.)
Otherwise, you’ll need:
A lefse griddle.
A cloth covered pastry board.
Lefse sticks–used for lifting and turning
A grooved rolling pin and sleeve.
A potato ricer.
At least two linen dish towels–I call these church kitchen towels.
What’s the process?
First, you make the dough. (There are a million recipes out there, here’s a link to one at Sons of Norway–it seemed most appropriate.) Then let it chill over night.
Set up your griddle and pastry board. Get the griddle hot and thoroughly flour your board and pin. Flour is key in lefse making.
Next, you’ll roll out some dough. Ben–my resident expert uses 1/3 cup at a time. He says his mom can roll a perfect circle. Mine, however were always pretty misshapen.
Once the dough is circular and thin (we say thin enough to see the writing on the pastry board through the dough), lift it up with a lefse stick and place it on the griddle.
Let it cook on one side, then turn it with the lefse stick. Once both sides are slightly browned remove it (with the lefse stick) and place it on the dish towel. Cover it with the second towel to keep the moisture in.
Once you are done, you can eat them or store them. To store them, fold each piece in quarters and put them in a gallon zip bag. Then keep them in the fridge or freeze them.
Can I just buy it?
Yep. Grocery stores around here carry lefse. No shame in skipping the process. But you should really make some local friends so you can have the homemade variety at some point.
Conclusion
Now, when someone asks, “What is lefse?” You’ll have all the information they ever wanted to know. The love folks around here have for lefse is deliciously weird and quirky. Which is what makes it so darn great. Have a great week!
Happy Minot Monday, all! Today we’re setting aside lists and laws to dive into a delicious world of anecdotal bliss. No recommendations (okay, well maybe one)–just a look inside a quirk of North Dakota living. Today a new chain restaurant is opening in town. Anywhere else this would be only mildly exciting. Not here. Here in Practically Canada the arrival of chain food is cause for celebration and throwing all logic to the wind. Don’t believe me? You obviously weren’t here when Sonic opened. Read on to see what I mean.
Things Move At A Different Pace Here
Sometimes I allude to the fact that North Dakota is a place all its own. It’s a magical land that seems to transcend space, time, seasons and trend.
Derek and I joke that in many ways North Dakota runs about 8-10 years behind the rest of the country. I don’t mean that in a negative, “aren’t-they-a-bunch-of-bumpkins” kind of way. I love it here and I wouldn’t have it any other way. This is a place where church potlucks reign supreme, salads only have lettuce in them 70% of the time, and roller blading is a very acceptable pass time.
Things move slower around here.
When we moved here the first time in 2012, the 2011 Flood was still fresh in minds across the city. Things were being rebuilt, but because of a boom in construction and oil, it was hard to staff the “minimum wage” jobs. Fast food places closed early because they didn’t have enough employees. (Those same places were paying their employees more than what I made at my first job out of college…like $12-15 to work at McDonald’s!)
At the time, I worked part time as a fitness instructor. In my senior (as in 65+) class I’d hear the ladies comment on how much the town had changed since the flood. “Really, how?”
“Oh, you know–there are all these chain restaurants now. And new stores. It’s crowding things up. It was better before.”
Oh, really? At the time there was only a scant smattering of fast food joints and chain restaurants in Minot compared to every other town I’d ever lived in. Those comments gave me a crucial look into the minds of North Dakotans.
Things change slowly…and any change is a big deal.
That Time Sonic Opened
Flash forward a year.
It’s summer and the highly anticipated, much awaited Sonic has finally opened. Several days after the grand opening I thought I’d stop in for a quick Happy Hour drink. Wrong choice. The line to get in is miles long. A parking attendant tells me it’ll be at least an hour to get in. Bye.
Things continue like this for weeks. Finally, in the fall I get my slush.
Then there was that time Long Horn Steakhouse opened. Derek and I knew from experience trying to get in to a “fancy” new restaurant would be a terrible idea for at least a month. About two and a half months after their grand opening we decided to give it a try. “Would you like to put your name in? It’s about a two-hour wait?”
This past summer Slim Chickens opened and needed parking attendants for weeks just to keep things in line.
Every other fast food opening I’ve witnessed has been a similar tale.
I’m telling you, talk of new chain restaurants in Minot is a big deal. News articles run and there’s a buzz all over town. From church lounges to the customer service desk at Menard’s (let’s me honest–that’s my entire scope) small talk moves away from the weather and the wind to, “Do you know when _______ is going to open? “Have you heard we’re getting a ________ on North Hill?” “Have you been to ______ yet?”
It brings us together in a unique way. For natives it’s a taste of something exotic–the Sonic shake you had on vacation that one time. For imports, it’s a taste of familiar–the Panera soup you like to have when you’re sick.
Culver’s Grand Opening
Today a new chain opened. This one happens to be my very favorite of fast food, the pinnacle of quick eats: Culver’s.
Gideon and I got to Culver’s today less than an hour after the doors opened. The drive thru was only 5-6 cars deep and inside we were at the counter in a few minutes. It only took about 10 minutes to get our food (to-go…due to a certain toddler being very sleepy.)
By the time we left, the
drive thru was wrapping around the building. Suddenly that “prime”
parking spot by the door looked more like a trap. The drive thru wait was not
blocking us in. Exiting the lot took longer than pulling in and getting our
food.
My best guess is this will be the last time I have a Butter Burger for quite some time, while we wait for the hype to die down. But at least I feel like I’ve done my job best to be a “real” North Dakotan–and gotten in on a new chain on opening day.
And if you want to live like a local you’ll need to start thriving on the excitement that new chain restaurants in Minot can bring.
It’s all part of the charm. It’s something to do and something to look forward to. I really love living in a place that knows how to get excited–even about the small stuff.
But God bless us if we ever get a Chick-fil-A. That will be madness of an indescribable magnitude.
What chain restaurant would you wait way to long for?
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