December 2019

The December holidays help us renew our focus on giving to others, whether that’s around a laden table or via a local volunteer organization. Find inspiring—and delicious—stories in the magazine this month.

The East Metro Miracle League provides an opportunity to play baseball for kids ages 3 to 18 with cognitive and/or physical special needs. The integrated teams play on the specially designed Miracle Field at HealthEast Sports Center, and players are matched as needed with a volunteer buddy.

 

Woodbury Parks and Recreation hosted its popular spring tea party in April at Central Park.

 
The skyline of Yokohama, Japan.

When it comes to family vacations, the paths not typically taken can lead to the most interesting and fulfilling excursions.

 
A girl looks out a plane window on a family vacation.

Traveling with kids doesn’t need to be a crying game.

 
Christine and John Schlitz, owners of the Lake Elmo Inn

The Lake Elmo Inn has been serving up holiday traditions for more than 30 years.

 
Kids celebrate at the Woodbury rec department's New Year's Eve Family Celebration at HealthEast Sports Center

This family-friendly New Year's Eve party wraps up with plenty of time for a full night’s sleep before continuing the party on New Year’s Day.

 
Children sing and dance during Aspire Music Academy's Holiday Spectacular.

Aspire Music Academy hosts holiday performances this month.

 
70-year-old goalie Kim Newman stands in net.

Longtime Woodbury resident Kim Newman undoubtedly qualifies as one of the oldest goaltenders in the State of Hockey.

 
The feet of a baby born at Woodwinds Hospital in Woodbury

With so many options, new Woodbury parents are spoiled for choice from labor to postpartum care.

 
A mother, father and daughter review their family holiday photos

Up your holiday family photo game with these tips from Alissa Coddington.

 
Woodbury photographer Alissa Coddington

Woodbury photographer Alissa Coddington specializes in custom portraits and headshots.

 
Baked mac and cheese

If you need a little comfort-food inspiration this season, check out these time-tested recipes from members of Woodbury Magazine’s editorial staff and advisory board.

 
Michael Brocker and Mark Hargis at the annual Woodbury Prayer Breakfast

The Bill Hargis Person of the Year Award is given at the Woodbury Prayer Breakfast each year.

 
A spread of heart healthy foods, arranged in hearts.

Winter is the most dangerous season for the development of cardiovascular diseases.

 
Jenny West, caregiving and aging community educator at FamilyMeans. One of Woodbury's many volunteers

In this season of altruism, we shine the spotlight on a handful of Woodbury neighbors who give their all to giving back.

 
Jason Wheeler at Dart Escape, his Nerf gun arena and virutal reality playground.

Dart Escape offers a Nerf gun arena for kids and adults, as well as around 50 virtual reality games.

 
A row of Christmas trees at a Christmas tree farm in Woodbury

The University of Minnesota Extension's horticulture experts offer a few tips for picking the perfect tree this year.

 
A new puppy sits under a Christmas tree.

Welcoming a puppy or dog into a family is a big responsibility. Being prepared will get everyone off to a good start.

 
A woman drinks water to keep her hair, skin and body healthy during winter.

This weather wreaks havoc on our bodies (especially our skin and hair) in sometimes unexpected ways.

 
Rhonda Habel flexes at UpLift Guided Fitness in Woodbury

UpLift Guided Fitness member Rhonda Habel's fitness journey can be summarized in one word: restarting.

 
A couple brings wine and presents to a family Christmas gathering.

My mother and stepfather were wonderful cooks. They are the reason I love spending most of my time in the kitchen, even when there’s nothing to cook. Leaning against the kitchen counter is my default position. When I showed up at their house, I’d join in the chopping, stirring and tasting.

 
Margaret Wachholz's tartan tablecloth

There are so many things to do this time of year: concerts, work parties, entertaining—an exquisite yet exhausting sensory overload. So, it’s not a bad idea to stop and collect ourselves over a beer or a coffee.

 
The main entry of Barnes & Noble Woodbury.

This spring, Barnes & Noble moved its Woodbury location from the original Woodbury Village spot to a new store at CityPlace with a much smaller footprint.