Those who have experienced the relaxed atmosphere at a cabin “up north” know that there is nothing quite like those perfect moments spent with family and friends those summer days and nights.
I am lucky enough to have a great friend who owns and generously shares such a place. Fondly referred to as “Beaver Camp” (due to its proximity to the home of the Bemidji State University Beavers), the cabin Deidre and her husband Mike Lubarski built is a true labor of love. Labor because: they did most of the work themselves, with the help of friends; love because: it incorporates both their combined interests as well as their wish for all who visit to have a completely fun-filled stay. Deidre would laugh loudly at such a lofty description, preferring “Party Place” to any other name.
Any visit to the cabin, no matter how short or long, whether holiday-laced or a mere midweek getaway, is a party; Deidre always sees to that. The cabin itself, its witty design enhanced by Deidre’s artistic talents, has personality that beckons and provides an inviting, cozy feeling. A saying painted on a valance in the cabin promises, “Big Fun in a Teeny Tiny Place”; it does indeed deliver, though the cabin never feels too small.
The anticipation begins long before our arrival, as my good friend (and former job share partner) Julie and I return to our on-the-way-to-the-cabin destinations. Our journey to the cabin has taken on some traditions of its own: coffee and a treat, a stop at the outlet mall, and the Royalton Dairy Queen all may find their way onto our agenda. We always forget to check when we left or our miles driven, always guessing at our arrival time, but no matter. Deidre is always there to greet us, often in costume, always with refreshments in hand. As we drive the last highway to the cabin, we hope that each sign is the one for the quaint local winery, the last landmark before our turn onto the cabin’s drive.
As we glimpse the cabin’s cheerful red shutters, the anticipation builds; what will she be wearing? Not just what she will be wearing, but what hint it will give of the visit’ activities. She may be wearing a Mrs. Cleaver 50s housewife dress, her hair pulled back and her lips painted bright red, her swimsuit (a two piece she maintains she is far too old to wear, but doesn’t care and wears it anyway), or in winter, maybe an elf costume? Let the party begin; the outfit usually gives a pretty good clue as to the weekend’s activities and of course, refreshments. With an energy level that inspires pure envy in Julie and me, Deidre provides delicious meals (which she insists on never repeating) and seasonal beverages, activities, and of course, crafts.
We have been fortunate enough to visit during each season, each with its own character. Summer at a cabin on the lake in Minnesota is fairly obvious in its benefits, but each season has something wonderful to show and tell. In every season, our anticipation is always rewarded by the great time we have at Beaver Camp. The music is loud and the laughter is louder as we re-convene at the place that reminds us: to stay still (for a moment), to watch the sky (morning and night), and most importantly, to spend time with good friends in an inspired, beautiful place.
Deidre carefully prepares her traditional morning caramel latte and poses by the cabin with daughter Nina
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