Growing up, I was never particularly one for summers at the lake—though Minnesota offers thousands of them (literally, of course!), I preferred my time to be spent cozied up with a book on the patio or gathering with friends and family around the bonfire. These quintessential summer memories parade around as some of the best I have.
As an adult, I’m still keen on my fonder memories, but I much prefer a day boating along the St. Croix River or Lake Elmo to the previous. Summers also include an annual trip to the Northwoods of Wisconsin for a celebratory Fourth of July weekend, hiking in one of Minnesota’s many local and state parks or—my passion discovered during COVID-19—making plenty trips around town to different greenhouses and nurseries to fuel my houseplant collection.
During the pandemic, many people have discovered a new hobby, passion or lifestyle. For Woodbury High School graduate Madison Sosa, her newly-discovered passion for delicious superfood bowls led her to open Woodbury’s own Nautical Bowls franchise. When you read Sosa’s story and more about the nautical-themed brand, your mouth will water for a taste. Read the story on page 42.
Also in this issue of Woodbury Magazine, writer Staci Perry Mergenthal chats with former Woodbury resident Luciana Verhoye Passeri, M.D., on the creation of her slow-fashion footwear brand, Passeri. She says, “Our vision is to inspire and empower people to live consciously, recognizing all people have the power to live their best lives by unwaveringly embracing their natural gifts and talents.” Read Passeri’s story on page 34.
Whether it’s sails up or campfire s’mores, I hope you enjoy the warmer months just as much as I do, readers.
I’ll see you next month!
-Hailey Almsted
