Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL is a guide to living like a local and will help you discover local favorites.
Help Me Make Minot Monday Even Better
Hi friends and happy Minot Monday! Today is a unique edition of Minot Monday. Instead of sharing one of my personal favorites or tips for living in Minot–I’m seeking advice from you.
Even though Practically Canada is only just now waking up to summer fun, I’m already thinking of the months to come with my eyes on fall and even (don’t say it…) winter. In order to bring you (both locals, transplants and newcomers) the best content on what Minot is really like and cultivating positive vibes about living here–I need your input. Here’s what I’m looking for. I’ll bullet point them here, and go into a little more detail below.
What do you love about living in Minot?
What do you wish you would have known before moving to town?
Where are your favorite places in town (or within a short drive)?
What has been challenging about living here (the windchill doesn’t count)?
Are you a small business or maker in town? I want to hear about you!
What small businesses do you adore?
For Locals/Experienced Minotians
If you are a local or have lived here a while, you’ve heard the belly aching. It’s not a new story that people are forced to move here and before they even give it a chance they already decide they don’t like it because it’s too cold or the town is too small.
You and I both know Minot is a great place to live. Yes, the winters are cold–but our town is amazing! I love being a welcome wagon to new folks moving in. And (you know) I’ve made it my personal mission to shift the tide of negativity toward Minot.
Here’s how you can help.
Tell me your favorite things. Your favorite places to shop, small businesses, eateries, activities, features of town, etc. Tell me the things you look forward to each year. Or about your friend who crafts and sells her wares. Or anything else you wish someone with a bad attitude about Minot would consider before deciding they don’t like it here.
For Transplants
Whether you are brand new to Minot or have lived here a while, this is what I want to know from you:
What do you love about Minot? Tell me the hidden (or not so hidden) gems that have made life here pleasant. Tell me the things your family looks forward to and the places you frequent. What places/people/businesses/makers do you wish you would have discovered earlier?
Now tell me about challenge you’ve had in adjusting to life in Minot and advice for newcomers. Remember, this is a positive, constructive space. How did you over come the struggles? What helped? What do you wish you knew before coming? Or what do you wish you would have owned?
All that and anything else you think is relevant to someone who will be calling Minot home for the first time.
For Businesses and Makers
Do you sell something locally? Do you offer a service? Are you a shop that is part of the beautiful patchwork of the Minot small businesses scene?!
First of all: THANK YOU! Our array of amazing, talented, and creative small businesses and makers are in my top five favorite things about Minot. Seriously, you play a huge role in making our community so, so special.
Next. Let’s work together to make sure more of Minot knows and loves you. I’m seeking small businesses and makers to collaborate with. I’d love to talk to you and come up with something creative. I’ve already got some ideas brewing–now I just need you to partner with!
For Newcomers
If you’ve just moved to Minot–or have plans to relocate, I also want to hear from you. What have you heard about life in Minot? Tell me what has you excited. Nervous? What recommendations are you looking for? What questions do you have? Where are you finding helpful information? (I’d love to pass those resources along too!)
Minot is happy to have you. And I’m aiming to help you love your time here. And so is BeLOCAL–our hearts are aligned in helping newcomers adjust to life in Minot and thrive like locals. I’d seriously love to hear from you.
How to Get in Touch
Now, I’ve asked for all this information and you’re wondering how to tell me your thoughts. Easy. You can comment on this post. Or email me. Message me or comment on Instagram or Facebook. Or stop me in the street if you happen to see me around town. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Remember to share this post with others you think would have something to contribute. And as always, join me on Facebook and Instagram to be part of a community striving to live with intentionality and positivity. Have a great week!
Today’s Minot Monday post–all about a road trip from Minot to Rapid City–is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL is a guide to living like a local and loving our town. For more getaway ideas see here.
In Custer State Park en route to Little Devil’s Tower
For this edition of Minot Monday we are headed on a road trip! If you live in Minot you simply must put a trip to Rapid City and the Black Hills on your to-see list.
Last week I needed to go down to Rapid City to do some maintenance on our rental property. I thought it would be fun to give you some inside tips for if/when you decide to take a road trip from Minot to Rapid City. Because, let’s be honest. If you are living in Minot you are in the perfect location to explore the Black Hills region over a long weekend. The drive down is a reasonably short. The scenery is beautiful. There are so many things to do you’ll leave wanting to come back. And you’ll head back to Minot refreshed and exhilarated.
If you have recently relocated to North Dakota, take advantage of your new location. Explore what this region of the country has to offer. Previously when we lived in Minot, coming down to the Black Hills was our favorite quick trip. I’m convinced it can be your favorite trip too!
Now–let’s all keep in mind that I am not advising anyone to hop in their cars and take a vacation at this moment. Please use common sense, adhere to the latest CDC guidelines, practice social distancing and most importantly, do what you think is right for you and your family. These ideas can be kept for the future.
Where is Rapid City?
Main Street Square, Downtown Rapid City
Rapid City and the Black Hills are in western South Dakota. From Minot its about a 6.5 hour drive. Yes, to an outsider that might seem like a long drive. But in North Dakota it’s not too far at all. I typically allow 7 hours for driving and a meal and gas stop.
Tips for a Road Trip From Minot to Rapid City
Spring Creek Trail
When we road trip from Minot to Rapid City, we prefer this route. Usually we stop at the Powderhorn Restaurant in Lemmon, SD. It’s quirky, basically half way and the food is always good.
If you’ve taken shorter drives in North Dakota, you know that there aren’t many amenities outside of towns. On a longer road trip like this be sure to fuel up before leaving Minot. Then take advantage of gas stations (and food/toilets) along the way. Proper stops are few and far between.
Cell service and data become spotty on the drive. Take a back up map or copy screen shots of your route, just in case signal drops off.
Things to See in Rapid City and The Black Hills
If I listed all the things to do and see in this region, this post could go on forever. Instead I’ll give you some links from the official visitor guides and a list of my favorite things. This is a family friendly area and there are tons of things for all travelers to do.
No trip would be complete without taking in the Black Hills via hiking. Trails are everywhere and range from easy (I just took a great hike with a three year old) to strenuous multi-day journeys. Below are a few of my favorite places to hike. Here are 10 more great hikes. And here is an abundance of information on Black Hills trails.
Mount Rushmore (the museum is fascinating–and if you go, you better get a scoop of Jefferson Vanilla. If you don’t you’ll be missing out your whole life.)
My Favorite Things to Eat in Rapid City and the Black Hills
Mount Rushmore
Good food is everywhere. One thing I love about this region is that there is so much to do, your trip won’t be centered around food. But you’ve gotta eat sometime, so you might as well make it good. Here’s a full list of Rapid City eats and Black Hills eats.
Like I said, if you find yourself living in Minot take advantage of your proximity to this scenic and historic region. If you are living in Minot for only a short time, you may never get a chance to explore this region with such ease. For other road trips remember to check out these ideas from BeLOCAL. Great getaways within an easy drive are just another reason to love life in Minot.
For more Minot Monday posts see here. If you would like more encouragement, and to join a community of people aiming to live intentionally and see the good–I hope you’ll join us on Facebook and Instagram.
As Minot steps into summer I’ll be sharing some of my favorite warm weather activities with you. Today, I’m talking about the Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot. Much of this information can be found at the zoo’s website. I’ve compiled it here alongside my personal experience.A big thanks to BeLOCAL Minot for partnering with me to make Minot Mondays possible.
Summer in Practically Canada
Summer brings out a whole new set of funtivities in Practically Canada (AKA, Minot.) We start to come out of our winter cocoons of dinners in, church potlucks and game nights. Instead we venture out into the endless daylight to enjoy parks and ice cream and gardens and hikes.
The Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot is a great small town zoo. It’s a great zoo for our community and a wonderful resource for a city the size of Minot. It’s a perfect place to take a walk and enjoy the perfect North Dakota summer weather. Don’t fall into the trap of negativity by comparing it to a zoo in a bigger city like Omaha, Colorado Springs or Dallas. Those zoos are great–but Minot isn’t a metropolis. We are blessed to have a zoo in town to enjoy!
One of the things I appreciate most at the Roosevelt Park Zoo is that they are constantly improving (at least since I first moved to Minot in 2012.) The community has rallied around this resource to raise money to improve dated habitats and offer lots of valuable community education (for adults and littles) all year long.
I always like the zoo. But now that I have a little who loves animals, I’ve realize just how special it is to have a zoo right here in our back yard.
Zoo staff is working hard to keep things clean and safe during the COVID-19 era. Facilities are clean and things are regularly wiped down. There are hand sanitizer stations available near the petting zoo. (The “petting” portion was closed during our visit.)
You can bring snacks into the park. But staff asks that you do not bring disposable straws and lids inside. (I just learned that naughty squirrels like to dig them out of the trash and place them in animal enclosures.) There are benches throughout the park and a few tables near the concession building, but no “official” picnic shelters–so just keep that in mind when you pack up to come.
Pro Tip: Keepers and staff told me that many animals are fed and enclosures cleaned shortly after opening. This is a prime time to see animals active and interacting with staff (and to ask staff questions.) Gideon and I arrived at 10:30–which gave a good opportunity to see lots of morning activity.
Strollers and wagons are welcome in the park. You can also rent a wagon at the gate.
On our inaugural trip we spent about two hours exploring and watching the animals. This allowed us to walk the whole zoo and revisit our favorite exhibits again before leaving.
For a list of things that may be closed or limited access see here.
What Kind of Animals Are There At Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot?
This summer Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot is celebrating 100 years since it first opened! It’s grown since 1920 and is now home to more than 200 animals.
New big-cat habitats are under construction. A new lion habitat recently opened. As I said earlier, the zoo is working hard to continue offering an excellent experience into its next century.
Gideon and I love seeing the giraffes and primates. Those were animals he was excited to revisit.
Tell Me About Admission. Is a Membership Worth It?
Full admission prices are here. However, I’ll give you my personal opinion on this:
If you are a mom of a little who likes animals, you should become a zoo member. Admission is totally reasonable ($9.50/adult during the summer, $5.50/adult in winter.) Kids have lower admission and kids under 3 are FREE!
An annual zoo membership is $45 for an individual or $75 for a family (other membership options with additional perks are available. See here.)
A little math will tell you, it won’t take long for a membership to pay off. We’ve already used our membership twice and they just opened on May 9!
A membership takes pressure off of needing to spend a “whole day” at the zoo to make admission “worthwhile.” You can come and go as you please and only stay 30 minutes if your kids have a melt down. It’s great and I highly recommend it. Additionally, members get discounts on classes that happen year round–another great investment.
Glad you asked. The answer is “a lot.” The zoo continues to be open (weather permitting) with limited hours. They also offer classes for all ages throughout the year. I’ve heard AMAZING feedback about the Zoo Tots classes from other moms in town.
The zoo is only a short drive from anywhere in Minot (like most things in Minot.) It’s just east of downtown off of Burdick, as you head to the fairgrounds. The parking lot is at the entrance of Roosevelt Park.
Because the zoo is attached to Roosevelt Park, it’s a perfect place to have a day’s worth of adventure. The park has a nice walking trail, beautiful gardens and a nice playground. Roosevelt Park Pool is also located there and will be opening for the season May 31.
Get Outside
I hope you’ll get outside this week and enjoy the start of a North Dakota summer. More on the zoo and other fun summer activities is here at BeLOCAL. What other places do you love to explore in nice weather? I’d love to hear from you. Comment below or join the positive-vibes community, committed to loving where they live by hanging out with me on Instagram or Facebook. Have a great week!
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL is a guide to living like a local–and aims to help you thrive in Minot. For more road trip ideas see here. For parks in town see here and here.
Before moving to North Dakota I didn’t give much thought to this state. Honestly it was a place I wasn’t sure I’d ever get to, let alone spend years living here. Even after moving into North Dakota, it took me a while to get under the surface and really start enjoying the special things that make life here so great. Things that you can’t find just anywhere.
That’s why I started writing the Minot Monday posts. To help others acclimate and start thriving in Minot more quickly than I did.
One thing I’ve come to love about North Dakota is the opportunity to explore nearly-forgotten places. Yes, I’m talking about our plentiful ghost towns. These places have an indescribable eerie beauty you have to experience to fully understand.
North Dakota ghost towns are plentiful and spread all across the state. Visiting a ghost town makes a great day trip outing (see more day/weekend trip ideas here from BeLOCAL). It’s also fun to stop at one along the way if you are headed out on a road trip. Exploring North Dakota ghosts towns is also a perfect activity to partake in while we continue to observe social distancing rules. You can’t get much more distanced than visiting a town that has been abandoned.
Finding North Dakota ghost towns is pretty easy due to some great resources and people who are passionate about sharing this style of history.
Ghosts of North Dakota is the absolute best resource for finding ghost towns. On their site you can search for a town by name and learn the history of the place you intend to go.
Ghosts of North Dakota also has a Google map with a pin in each ghost town. This way you can get driving directions as well.
The closest ghost towns to Minot are Tagus, Ruso, Bergen, Balfour and Kief. (Personally, I really like Balfour.) From Minot getting to a ghost town will take 30-60 minutes. This is a bit of a drive, but a short one according to North Dakota standards. The drives are scenic and part of the fun of finding these places.
Know Before You Go
These were taken inside the church in Balfour. So many things looked like the congregants has just been there and walked away.
Before you go visiting a North Dakota ghost town, here are a couple things to keep in mind.
Pack snacks or lunch. Driving out into the North Dakota country side is beautiful, but food is scarce. Plan to take car snacks or a picnic lunch if you’ll be getting hungry.
Fuel up first. Again, there isn’t much between towns in North Dakota. Be sure your car has enough fuel before you set out.
Take bug spray. Remember how we talked about ticks last week? Tall grass and country paths are prime tick territory. Remember your bug spray and use it. Also…remember to check for ticks–actually just reread the tick post.
Wear good shoes. This is not a good time for sandals or cheap flip flops. Wear something sturdy with closed toes.
Take a camera and a car charger. You’ll obviously want awesome photos, duh. But signal can be shotty in these places, so be sure to remember a car charger so you don’t get stuck in the middle of nowhere with a dead phone.
Be respectful. While these are “ghost towns,” some still have a handful of residents living there. Abide by signs, be kind and respectful toward structures, pick up your litter, these are places for everyone to enjoy.
I hope you’ll go out and explore a North Dakota ghost town this summer. Be safe and let me know how you like it! Remember to join me on Instagram and Facebook for more Minot fun and lots of intentional, encouraging living. And please, help keep AmyAllender.com up and running. If you like what you read, remember to share with your friends!
Back in the fall I heard a friend speak about hospitality at MOPS while visiting South Dakota. At the time, I had just closed on Acorn House and it was a hot mess. There would be no formal dinner parties or baby showers at my house for quite some time. But her message challenged and encouraged my heart.
The Christian hospitality that the Bible calls us to isn’t about having a perfect home. The Bible tells us hospitality runs deeper than hosting parties or having “enough space” or “the right kind of house” for guests. It’s a heart attitude that looks outward and reaches those around us. It’s an attitude that is an overflow of the gracious hospitality God has extended to us by welcoming us into His household.
So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household,
I’ve been ruminating on this post since October. As I’ve prayed over hospitality these past months God has reshaped the way I see being hospitable. I’ve learned that hospitality is something anyone can practice, no matter what the condition of their house.
Defining Hospitality
This definition of hospitality from John Piper has stuck with me since the fall and it’s come to be a motto in my mind.
As far back as you want to go in the history of God’s people, one of the God-appointed duties of the righteous was hospitality—by which I simply mean the willingness to welcome people into your home (or your apartment) who don’t ordinarily belong there.
Willingness to welcome people into your home who don’t ordinarily belong there. Over the months I’ve come to expand this definition to “Willingness to welcome people into your life who don’t ordinarily belong there.”
This view of hospitality is freeing. It doesn’t require party planning, cooking skills or being chronically neat. God desires our willingness to welcome others. (1 Peter 4:9) To welcome them into our home, our activities, our church, our lives. This is hospitality.
The Bible exhorts us not to neglect hospitality. (Hebrews 13:1-2)It goes so far to tell us to seek out opportunities to be hospitable. (Romans 12:13) Hospitality is something we should be on the offensive about–looking for ways to put it into practice, asking God for the strength and renewal we need when being hospitable doesn’t sound appealing.
Practicing Unconventional Hospitality
Since moving in, we’ve had a new roof put on, the garage structure beefed up, foundation cracks repaired, new supports dug in the basement, the furnace fixed, an emergency water heater issue resolved and lots of cabinet and appliance deliveries. This is not to mention the many contractors who have come to give bids and assess projects.
In short, our house has seen a lot of people in it who don’t ordinarily belong here. Rethinking hospitality has helped me not waste these opportunities. Instead of mourning the fact that my house isn’t ready to welcome my friends, I can be hospitable and welcoming to new people–who aren’t usually in my path. What a sweet opportunity God has given us!
A Newer, Sweeter View on Hospitality
When I began to reconsider my view of hospitality, I realized I didn’t need a perfect house or a well stocked kitchen. I only need a willingness to be welcoming and God to help me be aware of opportunities around me. The new military wife in town, those endless contractors, my friends–I could humbly practice hospitality before them when I laid aside my pride and desire for a bigger, better space. After all, yearning for something more than what I have is called coveting. Being shy, ungrateful, believing I should have something better that what I do have is called pride. And using either as an excuse for not allowing God’s love and grace to be displayed in my life is called disobedience. It’s a lazy excuse and it’s wrong.
There is no time better than right now to be loving, welcoming and hospitable to those around us. With social distancing in place, this can be a challenge. But you are creative and great. Satan would love for us to be isolated right now–vulnerable to lies. So we need to fight more than ever to connect and be hospitable. We need to be safe, but we must also fight the urge to overlook those in our path.
I pray over the people who come here. During breaks, I make conversation and I am genuinely interested in their lives. I like to make coffee and offer snacks. I want everyone who comes into my home, town or church to know that they are welcome, they belong, they are valuable. Derek and I also pray that God’s love would be seen in the atmosphere and actions within our walls. Sometimes its not the dinner and game nights of my dreams, but it is hospitality–and I believe God won’t waste it.
Christian Hospitality Has Eternal Ramifications
When we give hospitality a more sacred definition than “party planning” we see that Christian hospitality has eternal ramifications. For example:
The hospitality of Aquila and Pricilla in Acts 18 allowed Paul to minister and teach in Corinth.
In Acts 16 a jailer brought Paul and Silas to his home where he washed their wounds and listened to them. He and his whole house believed and were saved that night.
Jesus’ always made His teaching and message open for all. He welcomed anyone who would come to Him. This is hospitality.
In our culture hospitality with an eternal impact happens when we invite someone into our lives and demonstrate God’s grace through our actions and speech. It happens when we share our testimony over coffee. It happens when we ensure that others feel welcome to join activities that edify our faith.
One of the most important places Christian hospitality takes place is inside the church. Becoming a Welcoming Church does a fabulous job of expounding on how eternally important it is that our churches extend hospitality. (My personal view on this book and 7 other great non-fiction Christian reads are here.)
Real World Examples of Christian Hospitality
As a person who has moved more times than I would have liked, I’ve felt the happiness of being accepted and trusted. I’ve felt the deep pain of shallowness that implied I didn’t belong.
The highs and lows of these experiences are why I’m so passionate about helping others feel like they belong: in my church, in my home, in Minot. The things that have helped me feel most welcome haven’t been extravagant. It’s been things like:
A new friend trusting me to babysit her kids while she ran an errand
An invitation to a small group at church
Getting invited to serve at VBS
An invitation to a “lake” day with a group of friends who’ve been doing it together for years
Hospitality that gets to the heart says, “You belong.” “There is room for you in our circle.” “You’re valuable.” “I can’t wait to see how you can contribute.”
Getting Started With Christian Hospitality
Now it’s your turn. How can you start extending hospitality? There are lots of lonely, hurting people out there right now. And in the current circumstances “traditional” hospitality can be tricky. Here are some questions to pray over to get you started.
What has helped you feel a sense of belonging in a new situation?
What has caused you to feel unwanted in a new situation?
How can you welcome someone who isn’t “ordinarily” in your life?
Who is present in your world right now that isn’t “ordinarily” there? How can you help them feel welcome?
What activities can you include someone in?
Who would you like to know better?
How can you encourage someone to use their gifts?
How can you connect with others right now?
Thanks for joining me again today. I’d love to hear how you are practicing hospitality or how hospitality has been extended to you in a creative way. Comment here or connect with me on Instagram or Facebook. For more on hospitality I highly recommend this article.
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL is a guide to living like a local and thriving in Minot. Tick season runs from April 1-July 1 and today I’m talking all about North Dakota ticks and how to remove ticks. Don’t let ticks stop you from enjoying the season. For ideas on parks check this out–for day/weekend trips look here.
Summers Here Are {almost} Perfect
I always tell folks moving to Minot that the “summer is always worth the wait.” It’s true. There is nothing better than a North Dakota summer. Days are long. Daylight hours are extensive. Although the locals complain about the “humidity” those of us from basically any other state will hardly detect moisture in the air. Crops stretch out across the fields as far as the eye can see. Parks, lakes, community, events and long days spent outdoors make this coming season sublime.
However, nothing is perfect. There are a couple drawbacks to living in a place with such a great summer. Namely ticks and mosquitoes. We’ll chat about mosquitoes a little later. Today we are going to talk ticks.
I’ve talked with lots newcomers who are (unpleasantly) surprised by ticks upon relocating to Minot. While it is amazing that anything living outdoors can survive the winter, ticks come back every year with persistence.
There have been years that I’ve lived in Minot and not had to pick off a single tick. Other years, I’ve picked off more than my fair share. Either way, it’s best to be prepared. As the catchy opening songs to one of my favorite 80’s sitcoms says, “You take the good, you take the bad, you take them both and then you have the facts of life.”
Realistic Precautions
I’ve got a lot of information in this post. The point is not to scare you into wearing tall socks over long pants and baseball caps all summer. Rather, This is information to help those new to the area–or new to an area with lots of ticks.
If you’ll be deep in the forest, by all means, take the upmost precautions. If you’ll be walking through tall grass or spending a day at the lake, just be sensible. Use common sense and appropriate preventative measures. In my experience, most ticks can be prevented with bug spray, socks, closed toe shoes and a quick tick-check before getting the car to head home.
Where Are Ticks in North Dakota?
True, North Dakota isn’t lush with forests. Traditional hiking trails may not be abundant…but we do have ticks. And they are plentiful this time of year.
Ticks love wooded and grassy areas. As with most creepy things, they like the dark and are less likely to be found in bright, sunny spots. In North Dakota, they are notorious for living along lakes–a North Dakotans favorite summer pastime. They are also common on trails (even those in town) and in taller grass near fields (I used to always pick up ticks when I did photography in the countryside).
Ticks favor taller grass, so lawns are usually safe, but the edges of a property may make a good habitat for them.
Prevention First
The best way to avoid needing to pick off (or out) a tick is preventing them from crawling on you in the first place. Ticks are notorious for living in grassy areas along our trails, lakes and fields. If you are going to be spending time outside be sure to use bug spray. Spray your feet, ankles and legs well, as this is a prime zone for a tick to climb on.
If you know you’ll be trudging through tall grass wear long pants and closed shoes. A hat will protect your head and hair. And speaking of hair–if yours is long braid it or put it up if you know you’ll be in a place that may have ticks.
At outdoor events (like fireworks displays, airshows, movies/music in the park, etc) remember to bring a chair or blanket to sit on.
And don’t forget about your dog! Some of the most horrific tick stories I’ve encountered have had to do with picking ticks off the pup. Be sure to use bug spray on your dog if he’ll be joining you at the lake or on the trail. And treat any pet that goes outside with medication to prevent fleas and ticks, like Frontline. (Ask your vet for specific recommendations for your pet.)
Checking For Ticks
Before we talk about how to remove ticks, let’s talk checking. If you’ve been outside in a place you suspect ticks may be lurking, it’s important to check yourself, pets and children.
Give everyone a once over before getting in the car. Run hands over your clothing and use a mirror (or check each other) to be sure no ticks are clinging to your back or places you can’t see. Run your hands over your dog to feel for bumps. The sooner you can remove a tick the better!
Once you’re home examine your body (and kids’ and pets’ bodies) closely. Use a full length mirror and be sure to check your hair, joints
If prevention doesn’t work, chances are you’ll need to remove a tick this spring or summer. This really gives me the heebie jeebies, even just writing about it. But it’s better to know now than panic later. Actually, it’s best not to panic at all. The keys to tick removal are getting the whole tick out (not leaving the head under the skin) and getting it out as soon as possible.
The “Right” Removal Method
The CDC recommends using fine tipped tweezers to remove a tick. Read details of getting a tick out with tweezers here. Experts agree that this is the best and safest method for removing ticks.
The Right Tweezers
Regular household tweezers will likely get a tick out just fine. But sometimes ticks can be tiny! To be fully prepared, pick up a pair of fine tipped tweezers. The fine points can get closer to the skin and make removal cleaner, less likely to leave the head embedded. Keep a pair in your car or bag, just in case.
Other Methods
It seems like everyone has their own “trick” for getting a tick out. However experts warn against using many of these methods. Dish soap, nail polish, matches and petroleum jelly are all involved in alternative removal methods. You can try them at your own risk, but know that removing a tick with good tweezers is tried, true and safe. (Even if it is nausea-inducing to think about.)
How to Remove Ticks from a Pet
Removing ticks from pets is similar to removing them from a human. Again, use tweezers and get as close to the skin as possible. Remember to check your pet thoroughly (including sneaky places like paws, eyelids, and in the ears). For reference, here is an article about removing ticks from pets.
Enjoy the Season and Be Safe
The point of this is not to cause you to live in fear. Just be aware and take appropriate (but not over the top) precautions. If you pick up a tick this spring/summer it’s not the end of the world. It’s just one of those things that make you North Dakota tough, like the locals.
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. In today’s post I’m sharing 10 Ways you can support small businesses during quarantine. BeLocal has great listings of local businesses and is an awesome guide to living like a local. Check it out!
Happy Minot Monday, friends. It seems like everything has been turned upside down since a global pandemic was declared in March. Even now as states consider “reopening” many communities (including ours) have a long road back to “normalcy.”
In Minot, we are lucky to have an amazing network of creative, innovative, small business in our town. Shopping local is easy here, because there are so many fun places and nice people to support. I love the small businesses that make life in Minot so sweet. Even in “normal” times I encourage others to support them. But now, in the face of shut downs and reduced business, it’s more important that ever to intentionally shop small and support local shops.
How You Can Support Small Businesses During Quarantine
Here are 10 ways you can support small businesses during quarantine. Please note: Minot has too many great small businesses to list all in one post. Check out BeLOCAL for additional listings to explore. And know that I’m not trying to play favorites…I just want to get some ideas in your head and small business shopping on your mind. Also, please observe the most recent Covid-19 precautions (North Dakota’s are here) and continue to practice social distancing and good hygiene to prevent the spread of the virus.
Order Take Out
Minot is full of great restaurants. Nearly all of them are offering takeout, delivery, curbside pick up or call-ahead ordering. When you find yourself in a cooking-at-home rut, treat yourself to dinner “out.” As a special treat some restaurants are offering extra hours (Charlies–usually only open through lunch–has added dinner hours!)
Don’t limit yourself to only thinking of fast food or casual dining. Explore finer dining options too. For example, Elevation(one of my personal favorite eateries) is offering a limited menu, updated twice each week for curbside pick up. Their website is linked above, but they also post announcements on their Facebook page.
Take Home Projects
It’s a bummer not to be able to craft at your favorite DIY-centric shop. It’s also a bummer to be stuck at home (an especially big bummer for kiddos.) What if I told you you could still enjoy some of your favorite crafty classes and break out of the at-home blues? (For more on Minot’s craft classes and DIY shops see this big list!)
Cool, right?
Some of our most creative shops are offering take home projects or instruction! This is the perfect way to support local and unleash your own creativity. A few fun examples:
The Foundry–take and bake projects and take-home crafts
Fiber Basket–Virtual knit/crochet nights and sharing free patterns
Get Coffee (or smoothies) & Take a Walk
Minot’s caffeine scene is flourishing and our coffee shops are still open and serving. As the weather turns, this is a great time to grab a coffee, tea or smoothie and take a long walk.
Make a Shopping List or Take Advantage of Curbside Pick Up
I think we can all agree this is not a time for loitering or browsing. (Which is unfortunate…because I really miss aimless wandering in shops just to get out of the house and look at pretty things.) However, many of our small businesses are open for business with limited hours or curbside pick up.
Instead of going to a big box store for everything on your list, explore small local options instead. Chances are you’ll find someone open who can tick an item off your list.
Gourmet Chef–hours and curbside pick up, also doing weekly “garage sales” which seem so fun
Shop Online
Shopping online is a great way to support small businesses during quarantine. Even if a shop has closed its doors for the time being, most of our small retail shops are offering online shopping. The Market On 4th has their wares and plant sales online, and also hosts live shopping events on Facebook. We have small businesses in town that offer everything from shoes and clothes to interior items and art supplies. Before you order from a big chain online, look local first!
Recreate Date Night at Home
It’s hard not to be able to go out for date night, but with a little creativity, you can have a great date night at home. My favorite idea is dinner and a movie. Order something delightful in (see above), get a movie (rent from Video Magic–they are offering curbside pick up), pick up movie concessions from Oak Park Theater (open for popcorn and candy from 3-7pm)
Buy Gift Cards
It might be hard to imagine right now, but this season will come to an end. Show support for business and organizations (even those that can’t operate right now) by buying gift cards next time you need a gift.
A gift card to the theater (or summer theater), movies, symphony, or a retail shop is a great way to keep local businesses afloat and be a great giver.
Interact on Social Media
Interact with your favorite businesses on social media during social distancing. Like their pages, share their content, comment on posts, enter giveaways (lots of these are happening and they are SO COOL!) This type of encouragement is invaluable to small businesses. Let them know you’re rooting for them, miss them, and that they haven’t been forgotten.
Support Small Businesses Online
In addition to getting social on social media, use this time to give your favorite small businesses a positive review. If you’ve had a great interaction (during quarantine or before) leave a review on Facebook or Google. These first hand accounts from customers go a long way to support small businesses during quarantine.
If You See Something Cool, Share It!
When you come across something cool, creative or innovative one of our small businesses is doing tell your friends! Let everyone know about your great experience or how much your kids loved your take-home project. When you enter a giveaway, share it on your page too. And remember to say “Thank you” to those staffing our small shops to keep our town lively and unique even during this difficult season.
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.
Renew your zeal for the Bible with three days of exclusive devotionals! Interesting and relevant writings and reflection questions will remind you why the Word of God is so awesome. You'll learn a lot and you'll leave excited to know God more and grow deeper in your faith.
Your kick-start is on the way!
You've always dreamed of reading the Bible in chronological order. Now you can!
Getting my printable PDF plan is easy. It's not fancy, but it does fold easily into a bookmark, so you can keep it close by and easily see what's coming next. I hope you find it as useful as I do.
**Remember to check your PROMOTIONS FOLDER. Even if your confirmation comes to your normal inbox, the actual download may come to that pesky promotions folder instead!**
