I have a large tote full of fabric liners for Longaberger baskets.
Each liner is $6 plus shipping. Payment can be made through Paypal, Square or Venmo.
Elevate Your Next Adventure With Guided Travel
Dreaming of a globe-trotting adventure but dreading the planning? The allure of seeing the world is strong, but the logistics can be overwhelming. From booking flights and hotels to navigating unfamiliar streets and deciphering cultural nuances, independent travel requires a significant time investment and a knack for problem-solving.
While some travelers embrace the challenge of crafting every detail of their trips, a guided tour with a reputable company like EF Go Ahead Tours can transform your vacation from a logistical headache into a seamless and unforgettable experience. Here’s why opting for a Go Ahead tour might be the perfect choice for your next adventure:
1. Eliminate the stress of planning
Let’s face it: planning a trip, especially an international one, can be stressful. Researching destinations, comparing flights, booking accommodations, and coordinating transportation can quickly become a full-time job.
EF Go Ahead Tours takes the burden of planning off your shoulders. Their experts handle everything from finding just-right flights and arranging comfortable hotels to securing priority admission to top cultural sites and coordinating all ground transportation. All you need to do is show up at the airport, and let the adventure begin!
2. Benefit from insider access and local expertise
EF Go Ahead Tours offers a depth of experience that DIY travel often lacks. Their tours include:
- Dedicated Tour Directors: These experienced professionals serve as your on-the-ground resource, offering insights, recommendations, and assistance throughout your journey. Need the best baguette in Paris or a local’s secret spot in Rome? Your Tour Director has you covered.
- Local Guides: In each destination, local guides with in-depth knowledge provide fascinating perspectives, bringing historical sites and cultural experiences to life.
- Unique Experiences: Go Ahead specializes in delivering immersive experiences you might not easily find on your own. Imagine rolling your own pasta in Rome, stomping grapes for port wine in Portugal, or staying on castle grounds in England.
- Skip-the-Line Access: No more waiting in long queues at popular attractions like the Vatican or Colosseum! Go Ahead often secures priority admission, maximizing your valuable sightseeing time.
3. Enjoy the companionship of like-minded travelers
Traveling with a group can be an incredibly enriching experience. Go Ahead Tours provides the opportunity to connect with other culturally curious travelers and form lasting friendships. Sharing incredible moments with newfound companions can make your trip even more memorable.
4. Experience peace of mind with unrivaled support
EF Go Ahead Tours prioritizes traveler safety and well-being. They offer:
- 24/7 On-Tour Support: If unforeseen circumstances arise, you have access to a dedicated support team around the clock, according to EF Go Ahead Tours.
- Trip Protection Options: Safeguard your investment with flexible cancellation coverage and medical benefits, says EF Go Ahead Tours.
- Health and Safety Protocols: Go Ahead works with suppliers who adhere to local health regulations, implements regular coach sanitization, and schedules visits during off-peak hours when possible.
5. Value and affordability
While some may assume tour travel is always more expensive than DIY, packaged tours can offer excellent value, often bundling accommodations, transportation, and activities at a competitive price. Go Ahead Tours has over 60 years of experience in crafting carefully curated itineraries that offer value and unforgettable experiences. They also offer flexible payment plans, making your dream vacation more accessible.
Ultimately, the choice between a guided tour and independent travel depends on your personal preferences. However, if you crave the ease of having all the details handled, the enrichment of expert guidance, the camaraderie of group travel, and the peace of mind that comes with comprehensive support, an EF Go Ahead Tour might be the ideal path to your next unforgettable adventure.
If you would like to join me for a guided tour of Ireland in March, 2027, go to https://groups.goaheadtours.com/tours/annette-ireland to learn more and register.
Navigating Foreign Roads
Planning an adventure abroad and dreaming of exploring off the beaten path? If driving is part of that plan, then an often-overlooked but crucial document, the International Driving Permit (IDP), should be on your packing list.
An IDP is a small, booklet-style legal document that translates your US driver’s license into multiple languages, making it understandable to authorities in other countries. It must be carried along with your valid domestic driver’s license when driving in a foreign country that requires it.
While often referred to as an “international driver’s license,” it’s not a standalone license but serves as a companion to your regular license. It’s essentially a recognizable translation of your existing driving privileges, enabling you to legally drive in many foreign countries where your domestic license alone might not be sufficient.
Why is an IDP important?
- In many countries, an IDP is legally required to drive. Driving without one could result in fines, legal complications, or even deportation.
- Major car rental agencies often require an IDP to rent a car, especially in countries where it’s legally mandated.
- If you encounter law enforcement, the IDP’s translations can help bridge language barriers and facilitate smoother interactions, particularly in situations involving accidents or traffic violations.
- It acts as a recognizable form of identification, especially in countries where your domestic license might not be readily understood or accepted by local authorities.
- Having an IDP allows you to confidently and legally navigate foreign roads, giving you peace of mind throughout your journey.
How to get an International Drivers Permit
In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) are the only two private entities authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs. You can apply in person at an AAA branch or by mail, and online at ITA Office.
You’ll generally need:
- A completed application form.
- Two passport-style photos, signed on the back.
- A valid U.S. driver’s license (or a photocopy if applying by mail). Must remain valid for at least six months beyond your IDP’s effective date.
- The required fee.
Apply not more than six months in advance of your desired effective date.
Once an IDP is issued its typically valid for one year.
For travelers with a US driver’s license, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required in a number of countries. Check with the local authorities or the embassy of the country you plan to visit to see if an International Permit is required.
Important Note: Even if a country technically accepts a US driver’s license, some car rental companies may still require an IDP to rent a vehicle. It’s always best to check with the local authorities or the embassy of the country you plan to visit for the most up-to-date information on driving requirements.
Before your next international driving adventure, take a moment to ensure you have the necessary documentation. Obtaining an International Driving Permit is a simple but important step to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the roads less traveled.
Safe travels!
Day Trip to Cannon Falls, Minnesota
My husband, Erik is a military collector. Last weekend there was a military show in Cannon Falls, Minnesota just south of the Twin Cities metro area.
We decided to travel to Cannon Falls for a day trip to check out the show and the town.
Cannon Falls is a town with a population of about 4,200 residents and has a wonderful little downtown area.
At the military show, there were about 30 vendors selling and trading patches, uniforms, knives, and personal documents from families of soldiers. If you are a collector of military memorabilia, you’ll want to check out the show next year.
After attending the military show, we decided to check out antique stores in the area.
The first one we went to was Countryside Antique Mall located just off of Hwy. 52. It has over 50 dealers and two floors of antiques and collectibles.
Visit their website here: http://www.csamantiques.com/
The second antique store is Antiques on 4th in downtown Cannon Falls. This store is smaller but still has lots of antiques and collectables. Currently, there is a nice selection of cow bells that I was drawn to as I just returned from an amazing trip to Switzerland and Austria.
Link to their Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/canfalls/
While your in town, make sure to have lunch at Nick’s Downtown Diner. The staff is friendly, and the food is amazing.
This cute little diner is open just for breakfast and lunch. The day we were there, they closed at 2:00pm. You may have to wait for a table as they are busy and do not take reservations.
Breakfast is served all day and the special of the day was stuffed French toast. Although, stuffed French toast sounded amazing, we both decided to have lunch.
Items on the menu you must try are fried potato salad, jumbo tater tots, and the Award-winning chili.
Fried Potato Salad – baby red potatoes, onions, and a spicy cream sauce.
Jumbo Tater Tots – hashbrowns, cheese and seasonings coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection.
Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cannonrivercatering
11 Gifts for the Man in Your Life
Disclaimer: I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links in this post. I appreciate you helping my small business. All images are from the selling company and not my images.
It’s almost Father’s Day! Time to start thinking about what to get for the man in your life. Whether that’s your father, husband, son, or significant other, below are 11 unique gifts your special man will love!
1. Longaberger Skin Care
I know what you’re thinking!
My man doesn’t use skin care products. Well, he has skin, doesn’t he? Why should women be the only ones taking care of their skin?
Longaberger’s large skin care basket set has everything your man needs to keep his skin clean and soft. The set includes a cleaner, eye perfecting solution, hyaluronic serum, face shrub, moisturizer, night cream, purifying mask and a beautiful, handcrafted basket. Smaller sets available as well.
The jars and bottles of the skin care are a dark color with a simple white label. No pink or frilly labels. So when his buds come over, they’ll never know that it’s his skin care products. The basket is handcrafted in Dresden, Ohio and comes in four color options (Whitewashed, Light Grey, Pale Grey, and Light Brown).
The entire set (basket and skin care products) are made in the United States.
If you would like more information about the other products available through Longaberger, click the link in my bio: www.onamission.bio/annettelindquist
2. Try The World
Try The World is a subscription service sending gourmet foods from around the world. It’s like going on a vacation without having to pack!
Starting at $29, your special person will receive mouth-watering snacks delivered to his doorstep. Or for $49, he will receive ingredients, drinks, and snacks each month.
Past boxes have included meatballs and dumplings from Sweden and tapas from Spain.
3. Hammock
Who doesn’t like to lay on a hammock on a beautiful summer day!
This natural rope hammock is perfect for a lazy summer day. Hang under your favorite tree or attach to the available hammock stand.
4. Fifth & Cherry Cutting Board
Fifth & Cherry cutting boards are handcrafted in the USA from 100% responsibly sourced cherry wood and steel reinforced so they will last a lifetime.
Anyone would feel like a chef when they’re using a Fifth & Cherry cutting board!
Each cutting board comes with a lifetime warranty that includes complimentary refinishing for life! Every cutting board is numbered so when you send it to be refinished you know you are getting the same board back.
Two sizes are available: 14″ and 18″.
5. Longaberger Wine
Is he a wine drinker? If so, he’ll love Longaberger’s wine! It’s made with the highest quality grapes selected from the top vineyards in California.
Available in Merlot and Chardonnay.
Variety of barware is also available through Longaberger.
6. Harley Blueprint
If your man is a Harley Davidson enthusiast, why not get him a framed Patent poster of a 1919 Harley to hang on his garage wall?
Poster comes in a variety of colors and sizes. You can purchase just the print or have it framed for an additional cost.
7. Leather Musk Candle
Give the gift of scent this Father’s Day! This black glass jar from Party Lite is filled with a Leather Musk scented candle. Leather musk is a blend of leather, sandalwood, musk, rose, and bergamot. Burn time is approximately 60-65 hours.
8. Swiss Army Knife
Every man needs a good Swiss Army Knife! This wood collection is made from walnut that is very durable.
9. Weather Stations for the Home
Whether (no pun intended) he likes to know how much rain fell or is a home meteorologist, you’re sure to find the perfect weather instruments for him at Wind and Weather.
10. LEGO Set
The kid at heart man in your life could reminisce about bygone days while putting together this 2,207 piece VW Camper Van. Of course, if he is not into retro vans or camping but instead love Star Wars, LEGO has a set for everyone.
11. Cocktail Smoking Kit
Complement his whiskey, bourbon or scotch with a smoky favor using this Cocktail Smoking kit. Includes white oak smoker top, stainless steel mesh guard and 4 oz. of culinary smoking fuels.
Choosing any one of these products will make it a wonderful Father’s day for your special man.
Thanks for reading,
Annette
Treats and Sweets
In January 2022, I took the training requirements to become a Minnesota Cottage Food Producer. This means that I can make certain foods in my home kitchen and sell them. There is a limit as to the amount you can sell each year, what products you can sell, and how they are delivered. You can find more information at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture website.
One of the conditions of the Cottage Food Producer registration is the items cannot be shipped. Therefore, they either need to be picked up at my home (Oakdale) or delivered to you (additional fee). I will also be participating in several craft/vendor shows throughout the year. Like my Facebook page Annette Lindquist Designs to be updated on where I’ll be during the year.
All products are made to order and in small batches. I prefer to have a 1 week lead time, however, rush orders can be accommodated on a case by case basis.
Contact me at: contact@annettelindquist.com or 651-757-8485.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION – MORE INFORMATION TO FOLLOW
Working on recipes to add more selections to the lineup!
Current Menu
Cookies – $15/dozen
Soft Sugar with frosting
Oatmeal Raisin
Peanut Butter
Chocolate Chip
Soft Molasses
Cupcakes – $15/dozen
White
Chocolate
Red Velvet
Toffee – $15/0.5 lb.
With Almonds
Without Almonds
Caramel Puffed Popcorn
Rice Krispy Bars
Banana Bread
Spicy Crackers
Birthday Tradition
When I was a kid, my family had a birthday tradition. It was when it was your birthday, you got to pick what we were having for dinner.
I continued that tradition with my kids. Sometimes they pick having their favorite homemade meal, other times they picked a chain sit down restaurant.
As a kid, my pick every year was Clark’s Submarine Sandwiches. I remember when we sat down to eat them, I was always the first one done eating!
Have you ever had a Clark’s submarine sandwich?
If you haven’t, you missed out. Unfortunately, they are no longer in business. They had the best bread and seasoned oil EVER! I have not been able to find a sub sandwich that comes close to how delicious they were.
I recently found Beano’s Original Submarine Dressing at the grocery store. So I thought I would give it a try.
It’s good, but not the same as the oil from Clark’s.
So I’m still on the hunt!
Did your family have any birthday traditions?
Georgia On My Mind
Each summer I drive from Minnesota to Hudson, Wisconsin to buy a box of Georgia peaches from Tree-Ripe Fruit Co.
Picked in Georgia and trucked overnight so they’re fresh. When you first get them they are firm and you need to leave them sit for a day or two.
Let me tell you, it’s difficult to not bite into one of them immediately!
They’re delicious! However, it’s way more peaches than my family can eat before they go bad.
So, this summer my husband pitted, sliced, and froze them in individual snack bags. Each bag contains one peach.
These bags are the perfect snack on a hot summer day. They are like little peach popsicles!
This morning I sliced them into small pieces and put them on top of my Oikos Triple Zero Greek yogurt. A little summer flavor as the weather gets cooler.
Longaberger hardwood maple cutting board and vitrified pottery bowl can be found on my Longaberger business page – www.longabergerfamily.com/annettelindquist
Enchilada Rigatoni
If you want a quick meal to make, this is it. You brown ground beef and dump everything else into the pot. This is a recipe that I adapted from the Pillsbury One-Pot Enchilada Rigatoni recipe. My family likes a little more ground beef and corn so I doubled those ingredients.
Enchilada Rigatoni
Easy one pot recipe with only a few ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Lean Ground Beef
- 1 can Mild Enchilada Sauce 19 oz.
- 1 can Evaporated Milk 12 oz.
- 1 box Rigatoni Noodles uncooked
- 2 cans Corn with Red and Green Peppers 11 oz. each
- 3 cups Water
- 2 cups Mexican Cheese Blend shredded
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, brown the ground beef. Do not drain.
- Add all the other ingredients (except the cheese). Heat until boiling, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered (stirring occasionally) for about 15 minutes until the noodles are done. Do not drain.
- Stir in cheese.
- Top with tortilla chips, if desired.
Notes
This recipe was adapted from the Pillsbury One-Pot Enchilada Rigatoni recipe.
Cheeseburger Pie
This is a quick and easy meal to make after work. The original recipe says it feeds 5, however, with my family it only feeds 4. There is very little carbs in this meal.
Cheeseburger Pie
Quick and Easy Meal
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs. Ground Beef
- 1 Onion
- 2 cloves Garlic grated
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese grated
- 1/2 cup Bisquick (TM)
- 1 cup Milk
- 2 Eggs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Spray 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray.
- Cook beef, onions, and garlic until meat is brown. Drain.
- Spread in pie plate and cover with cheese.
- Stir remaining ingredients with a whisk until blended. Pour over cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
Notes
Adapted from the Betty Crocker recipe.
DIY Lavender Relaxing Spray
Disclosure: I receive a small commission if you purchase something through the links in this post.
Lavender relaxing spray can be used at bedtime to help you enjoy a more restful night sleep. The spray is extremely easy to make with only 3 ingredients.
The first ingredient is lavender essential oil. Lavender promotes relaxation and is believed to treat everything from anxiety, fungal infections, allergies, depression, insomnia, and nausea. When used before bedtime, studies have shown that lavender oil can help you fall asleep and improve your overall quality of rest.
I used Sunleaf Naturals Lavender Essential Oil.
The next ingredient is witch hazel. Witch hazel is a shrub native to North America. It is widely known for its ability to ease inflammation and soothe sensitive skin.
The last ingredient is distilled water. Distilled water is water that goes through a distilling process that removes impurities along with all the minerals. You should always used distilled water with your essential oils, especially in a diffuser.
Distilled water can be purchased at grocery stores, drug stores and mass market retailers like Target and Walmart.
The only other thing that you’ll need is a fine mist spray bottle. I used one that I already had, however, they can be found on Amazon.
- Add 1 cup distilled water to the spray bottle.
- Add 2 teaspoons witch hazel.
- Add 12-15 drops of lavender essential oil.
Shake well and spray in your bedroom before going to bed each night. Keep out of direct sunlight.
Celebrating Women Makers and Artisans
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you use the Amazon links. Thanks!
In honor of International Woman’s Day yesterday, I thought I’d share 5 of my favorite woman artisans on Amazon.
Click on the image to view more information and to purchase.
Wunderkid Cards
A portion of each card sale goes directly back to the young artist who created it.
Garage Girls Jewelry
Jewelry for the girl who likes off-roading.
Art of Plants
Hand bent wood sculptures.
BYKET
Hand embroidered cosmetic bags and coin purses
The Yarn Kitchen
Felted plant holders
To see more amazing work by women artisans, click here: Celebrate Women Makers & Artisans
How to Wear Treasured Brooches
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you use the Amazon links. Thanks!
Do you have a few of your Grandma’s brooches in the back of your jewelry box? Do you love them, but know you are never going to wear them as a brooch? Do they remind you of her, but you’re afraid you will lose it?
Well, by the end of this post you’re going to be able to take them out and wear them as a statement necklace!
My first pin was this Mary had a little lamb pin. I don’t remember when I got it or who gave it to me. To be honest I don’t even remember ever wearing it. I just know that it has been in my jewelry box since I was a little girl.
This flag pin was given to me by my grandmother when I was in my early teens. I’ve worn it a couple of times in the last few years mostly on patriotic day like Memorial Day or Veterans Day.
I remember when stick pins were all the rage. You know the ones where you only see the embellishment and the end of the pin with the cap on it. Like this Teapot and tea cup pin.
These are a couple of pins that I wore during the 90s.
Diamond ring because what girl doesn’t like a BIG diamond ring?
The computer pin was always on the lapel of the suit jacket that I wore to work. At that time I was a computer trainer so it fit with my profession. You can definitely tell I worn it a lot.
I also have pins that were given to me by my kids throughout the years. Don’t you just love the handmade bug pin? 😊
I always have had a love of vintage jewelry and have lots of pins. But like you, I don’t really wear them.
My collection really grew when I had a booth at an antique store where I specialized in vintage jewelry. During that time I bought jewelry from estate sales, garage sales, thrift stores, auctions and online.
Besides items that I sold, sometimes the bags of jewelry also contained some broken pieces. I didn’t want to throw them away, so I started to restyle the broken components into new pieces of jewelry.
Here’s a couple of pieces I’ve created. You can shop for restyled pieces that I’ve made in my shop: Annette Lindquist Designs Shop. Check back often, as I add new pieces regularly.
Okay, here is what you’ll need to turn your Grandma’s brooch into a statement necklace.
You’ll need a brooch converter. They come in horizontal and vertical depending on how your brooch sits when you wear it.
Because of the size of the converter and the length of the pin, you will also want to place a rubber ear nut on each side of the converter. This will keep it from moving around on the pin.
And of course you will need a chain.
Place one ear nut onto the pin, then convertor, and lastly the other ear nut.
All that’s left is to put a chain into the converter. You are now ready to wear your Grandmother’s treasured brooch!
Now go dig out those treasures and wear them!
The items used can be purchased using the Amazon links below.
Disclosure: I may receive a small commission from any purchase. There is no additional cost to you.
Got Pills?
The weather in Minnesota is finally getting warmer, so it’s time to pack away the sweaters.
Before I do that, I like to take the pills off of them.
Previously, I had a sweater shaver that was battery operated. The problem with it was that it never seemed to have enough power to work effectively.
So this year I found an electric one. WORKS much better.
This is the one that I purchased.
This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission. Thanks.
