Not sure where to begin....
Perhaps the drive. We set out with FOUR children on our way to a place we'd never been. Emily mentioned to take 55 West the whole way and I must say....taking 55 the whole way gives you a new appreciation for Minnesota and all of it's beauty. Annandale is the cutest town. We had such fun at the local brewery, and drove past some amazing horse pastures, nature preserves and my husband even took a run in a nature preserve! There's something for everyone here.
Emily and AJ's lake house is literally "a slice of heaven." The love they poured into this home is apparent the minute you step foot in the door. It is bright, beautiful and filled with the most loving touches that you could ever imagine. We traveled with FOUR children ages 12, 9, 6 and 6 months and it is near IMPOSSIBLE to find arrangements that will entertain all while the adults can have a few minutes of actual respite. WELL. We found it here. This is the first time in forever we have been able to sit while our children entertained themselves with magnatiles, the lily pad, arcade, amazingly selected games and puzzles, fun TV channels, and then they literally put themselves to bed reading books. We were all at PEACE. My husband and I enjoyed so much watching the stunning sunsets. The bed linens and mattress felt heavenly. The kids couldn't have been happier with their cool beds and EVERYTHING we could have ever needed for our newborn and our older children were all there. The home is filled with the most loving details. I forgot a couple of toiletries but they were all there for guests to use.
The house itself is absolutely gorgeous. They updated with the most incredible touches and it was just so bright and beautiful. From the ship lap (LOVE!!!) to the windows, furniture, DOCK, bright windows, kitchen needs, toiletries....baby gear, the list goes on and on and on. It was more than we could have ever hoped and are just so grateful they have opened their hearts and hospitality to allow others the chance to experience this type of rest and beauty. SO COMPLETELY GRATEFUL FOR OUR STAY! Thank you AJ and Emily!!!