Winter is here again. As this issue goes to press, the snow has not yet fallen—which gives me a romantic take on this season that I’m all too happy to share. I’m already pining for the slower season of life: cooking my favorite comfort foods, gathering with friends and family, tucking in early with the sun and feeling the first fluffy snowflake hit my tongue.
If you need any more encouragement to embrace the season, look no further than our cover star, Marine on St. Croix resident and trailblazer Ann Bancroft. You won’t find Bancroft balking from the cold. She’s pushed through temperatures as cold as 70 below on her way to the North Pole and has an inspiring story to share. Her best tip for enjoying cold days? Bundling up and finding the magic in your own backyard—oh, and eating a candy bar.
This is our giving back, entertaining and wellness issue—so within these pages, you’ll find stories of heart and excitement. Don’t miss Daniel Huss’s conversation with Gary and Richelle Jader, a couple in Hudson, Wisconsin, who are giving back to neighborhood kids by responding to their letters to Santa. Then, hear from a local breast cancer survivor who found a path to healing through a Lake Elmo medical tattoo artist.
We’re also excited to share that 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of St. Croix Valley Magazine, an exciting milestone we’ll celebrate with some special throwbacks in our upcoming April/May issue. Have an update to share? Reach out to zoe@localmedia.co.
See you in the new year!
