Minnesota is home to more than 10,000 lakes, so we take fishing pretty seriously around the Twin Cities. There are so many fishing destinations and dozens of species, so it's easy to see why our area is one of the top freshwater fishing destinations in the country.

The key to a great fishing trip is planning and preparation. That's why having a good bait and tackle shop on the way to your favorite fishing destination is so important. Here is a quick list of some of the best bait and tackle shops around Minneapolis and St Paul where you can stock up on gear.

Calling all quilters—and fans of quilted items! March 19th is National Quilting Day, a holiday created to honor the ancient tradition of quilting and to promote its continuation in this modern era. The Twin Cities are proud to be the home of many wonderful quilting shops. If you've been focused on looking at Minneapolis homes for sale or Saint Paul homes for sale, then consider taking a break to visit one of these awesome quilt stores in the Twin Cities. 

1. Knit & Bolt: 2833 Johnson St. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
   Knit & Bolt is an independent yarn and fabric store that opened in 2017. The store sells a lot of indie-dyed fabrics, perfect for creative quilting work. You can find wool, cotton, alpaca, and linen yarns.

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.

• Truly… - 2175 4th St., White Bear Lake, MN 55110
  If you're a lover of all things wonderfully simple, then you'll truly love your experience at Truly…. Their boutique shop shares their love of fashion from independent designers with their guests, offering a unique selection of jewelry, paper goods, knitwear, accessories, and more. Whether you want to wear it, write it, carry it, or happify your life, Truly… has it waiting for you.

As writer and environmentalist Bill McKibben so eloquently stated, the ideal holiday is the one you decide to make as a reflection of your values, desires, affections, and traditions. Enrich your personal holiday by starting a new tradition with one of these festive activities around Minneapolis homes for sale. 

• Pick out a Live Christmas Tree at Bob's Famously Fresh Christmas Trees - 1632 Como Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108
  Few things will get you in the holiday spirit quicker than selecting your own live tree at Bob's Famously Fresh Christmas Trees. Bob has been organically growing native species of trees on his farm near St. Paul homes for sale for more than 30 years, so you're assured of the finest quality no matter which one you pick. His friendly staff will offer you a cup of hot cider and make sure your tree is securely loaded before you leave. Beginning the Friday after Thanksgiving, Bob's will be open 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. seven days a week until supplies are gone.