
With the holidays right around the corner, we know how difficult it can be to find the perfect gift for those you care about. Chain and online stores are okay, but avid shoppers know that the real gems are at the mom and pop shops. Grab a gift for everyone on your list and shop 'til you drop at these local boutiques around downtown White Bear Lake.

September is Honey Month and we believe that everyone in the Twin Cities should celebrate the oh-so-sweet gift our local bee hives provide. Honeybees are far from pests; in fact, we have honeybees to thank for much more than just honey. These insects forage for nectar which then transfers pollen from plant to plant. This pollination process fertilizes each plant and enables them to bear fruits. Simply put: without honeybees, many major crops like apples and avocados would cease to grow. Show your love of honey and appreciation for honeybees by picking up a batch of local honey from one of these places around the Twin Cities.

You really don't need an excuse to eat ice cream, but since July 1 marks National Creative Ice Cream Flavors Day, it's the perfect chance to indulge in an out-of-the-box flavor.
The Twin Cities and their surrounding areas have many local ice cream shops that are worth a stop for a sweet treat. If you're looking for Minneapolis homes for sale or St. Paul homes for sale, or if you already call this area home, try a new flavor at one of the following ice cream shops.

Many people looking at Minneapolis homes for sale are excited about getting an opportunity to personalize their home and yard to make it truly their own. Just one of the reasons a yard is on the top of almost every buyer's list is gardening. It's a popular hobby and an excellent way to add beauty and function to your outdoor space.
Choose the type of garden
Decide whether you want an herb, vegetable, or flower garden. If the idea of having fresh herbs or vegetables to cook with excites you, opt for those. If you would rather have some color in the yard or don't have enough sun for the vegetables you want, opt for flowers instead. Do you want your garden to bed to be directly in the ground, raised bed, or a container garden? Herb gardens can often be planted in smaller spaces or containers if that is a better option for you. You'll also want to consider the maintenance and space requirements as well.

When we're showing Minneapolis homes for sale one of the selling points about the area is the cultural diversity it offers, especially when it comes to dining options. The Twin Cities are home to plenty of authentic Mexican restaurants where you can celebrate Cinco De Mayo.
Although this year will be much different from what we're used to, you can still order takeout and have your own mini celebration at home. When you head out to pick up your food, you can also drive around and check out the curb appeal of some of the beautiful Saint Paul homes for sale.
Not sure where to go? Here are a few of our favorite local Mexican restaurants that are currently offering takeout and delivery options.