There is a reason why so many people are choosing to live in a log cabin in the wilderness of northern Michigan. The allure of a simple yet rustic lifestyle in a scenic country setting is just too tempting to resist.
Located a short drive from the Canadian border, the city of Detroit Lakes prides itself on being a little slice of the famous North Country. The downtown area is a picturesque collection of log buildings, each one decorated in a uniquely Americana fashion.
It is said that the area was first settled by Irish-Americans, and that the name ‘Detroit’ is a portmanteau formed from the initial letters of the names of two men who founded the city – Patrick and Michael Dugan. It is also home to the famous ‘Blue Ribbon Trail,’ a scenic route that connects the city to nearby Mackinac Island, across the strait. The trail is open all year round, and offers fantastic ocean views, as well as the unique opportunity to see a Blue Heron every now and then.
Perhaps what makes Detroit Lakes, MN special is its welcoming, small-town atmosphere. The population is a little over 6,500, and around half of those live in the downtown area. Many of the residents are also avid boaters, so the city is a hub for water sports enthusiasts. The residents are friendly and inviting, and will make you feel right at home. Just check out a homes for sale Detroit Lakes MN.
Quiet Place To Live
Quiet streets, large yards, and country living are the staples of a typical suburban home. Not so in the case of the Miehls’ home in Detroit Lakes. David and Linda Miehls moved into their 2.5 acre lot in the city in 2005, and have never looked back. The couple decided to live in the country for a variety of reasons – mainly because they wanted their five children to have space to play in the yard – but also because they were fed up with the noise and congestion of the big city. Quiet suburban living suited them just fine, and they have remained in the area ever since.
“Before we purchased the property, we were a regular family who spent our summers in the city, but once we were settled in the country we realized how much we missed going to the lake. We have a beautiful view of the bay area from our backyard, and it really is the quiet, relaxing place we wanted for a vacation. We also like how close the city is – only 20 minutes away – if we really need to go somewhere,” Linda says.
Friendly Neighbors
One of the draws of suburban living is the ability to walk to the store to pick up a loaf of bread or to visit a nearby restaurant. Sure, you may have to walk a little farther if you want to buy some milk, but it’s still manageable. Not so in the case of the Miehls’. They have a couple of neighbors on their street whose children they have taught to say ‘hello’ and ‘please.’ They also regularly host game nights with their friends, inviting other homeowners in the area to join the fun.
Family-Friendly
Another huge bonus of suburban living is the fact that it is family-friendly. The Miehls have five children, ranging from 4 years old to 14 years old. They want to be sure their kids have fun but also learn some manners. ‘Miehls Family Table’ is their answer. The kitchen is an open layout where everyone can come together for family dinners, with room for the kids to either set up their own stations or join the adults around the table. There is also a formal dining area off the kitchen with seating for up to twelve people.
“We wanted something that would be a celebration of family and friends coming together to cook, eat, and enjoy each other’s company as much as possible. It’s also a place where the kids can show off their cooking skills too,” David says.
Countryside Living
Finally, there is the beauty of rural living. This is a place where you can literally put down roots. The Miehls have done just that – they have planted flower gardens, built a fish pond, and placed chickens and ducks around their yard. They have also become quite the avid hunters, bringing in a variety of game including wild turkey, pheasant, and deer. The whole family hunts together, with the Miehls even inviting other families in the area to join them at their annual ‘Turkey Trot’ to celebrate the season.
“I love the country life. I grew up on a farm in central Wisconsin and absolutely adore being back in the country. It’s so peaceful and quiet. We recently bought a couple of acres in Plum Creek which we plan on settling into in the next few years,” David says.
There are many benefits to suburban living in the country, and the Miehls have found a way to combine all of their favorite things into one lovely package. With a little bit of creativity and some elbow grease, you too can have your own slice of paradise in the middle of nowhere. So, if you’re looking for a new way to unwind and relax, why not give it a try?
