July 2010

Alli Linn, Annie Hakes and Ashley Keul have a lot in common.

The three friends and roommates love to shop for different items at thrift stores in Mankato and across the region, enjoy hanging out at St. Peter and Mankato establishments, and pretty much just live to have fun.

But the one thing that originally brought them together and keeps the bond strong is River Rock Coffee in downtown St. Peter. Without it, all three say this unique friendship never would have evolved.

I grew up in a small town in Indiana with limited restaurant choices other than McDonald’s or Pizza Hut.

With summer in full swing, Faribault mothers get creative in finding activities for the kids.

The bell rings for the final time and school is out for the summer. The kids are overjoyed, but mothers may be left wondering how will they ever keep their children busy during the long summer hours.

Girlfriends gathered with five Faribault women — with children aging in range from 3 to 21 — to get their thoughts on summer activities that will keep kids entertained, involved and responsible. Ideas stemming from their own childhood experiences, to sports, to family activities were discussed, providing offerings that will surely inspire moms throughout the region.

At age 12, most young girls are floundering through their pre-teen years, not even giving consideration to a future career. Not so for Webster resident Victoria (Kasten) Tecken.