Welcome, dear Readers, to our travel and outdoor living issue. I must admit, these pages are chock-full of stories and ideas that inspire a sense of adventure—I hope they inspire you as much as they do me.
As I planned this issue, I found myself reminiscing about past vacations and scrolling through new locales on social media as a way to escape the winter chill. I’m often inspired by travel bloggers, including Minnesota’s Lizanne Dooner (@lizannelately on Instagram), who has been documenting a cross-country RV trip.
Closer to home, local photographer Joseph Shoemaker, a frequent contributor to our Focus on Woodbury photo contest, continues to capture the beauty of daily moments and faraway places alike. In this issue, Shoemaker shares his story of discovering his photography style and how he explores international destinations, capturing the vibrant energy and atmosphere of countries around the world.
Now, adventure doesn’t always require a passport—sometimes, it can begin right outside your back door. In these pages, we also explore ways to create a paradise of your own. I have been thinking about how to make my small backyard—bordered by woods and featuring a compact patio—feel more like home. A raised garden bed may be in my future, though I have yet to decide what to grow. If you are dreaming up your own outdoor retreat, Green Oasis shares ideas and inspiration to help transform your space into a haven.
Whether you’re planning your next getaway or reimagining your outdoor space, I hope this issue encourages you to embrace the season ahead. And if you have suggestions for what thrives in a full-sun raised garden bed, I’d love to hear them; after all, this is my first growing season in Woodbury, and I’m eager to dig in. Here’s to fresh air and making the most of life—wherever you are.
See you next month,
—Hailey Almsted
