Golden Valley Travel Guide

Yep, on this trip we were lucky enough to be present for the first snow. Even snow-hardened Minnesota kids are excited to play in the first snow of the season. Sadly, I was sick and only took photos away from the kids, not wanting to spread my germs to them.

There are four Doolittle's in the Minneapolis area. They are a semi-eligant steak house, rotisserie and grill. My family has gone there for many years, slightly pampering themselves on special occasions or when they simply felt they deserved it.

The large wood tables and decorations on the walls (old aviator themed at the moment) give it a comfortable, unpretentious feeling. The kitchen is partially visible through a large door and open counter, but the wood fired rotisserie with the plump chickens and other meats roasting is right in front for everyone to see.

Favorite Dish: Obviously you cannot go wrong with any of the rotisserie options, but I would recommend the rotisserie sirloin before the chicken, it is quite delicious. If you prefer fish, one of the daily specials that made the permanent menu is a very tender steel head trout presented on a bed of spinach.

Yes, more cat snuggling. It's not that often that I get to massage Violet. From what I'm told, she's generally stand-offish. Not that *I* saw!

Luggage and bags: For a family vacation, I simply used my roll-aboard TravelPro. Perfecto for a long weekend!

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: Down coat, sweaters, pants, socks, hat and some ear-pops. A little later in to the season and I'd pack my snow-boots. Don't wear them on the plane, because they're too much of a pain to take off and on through the security lines at the airport.

Toiletries and Medical Supplies: Nothing out of the ordinary... toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, etc.

Photo Equipment: For this trip, I simply had my Nikon Coolpix digital camera. 35mm would be fine, too, but I didn't bring it this time.

Camping/Beach/Outdoor Gear: Dress for the cold!