Welp, Willie did it. He made it to the final month of his year-long bucket list, having completed all twelve items. We decided to make the final stop a local one, Sapsucker Farms in Mora, MN. Despite its relatively close proximity to home, Willie had never visited Sapsuckers. So, on March 3rd, 2024, we decided to change that. Sapsucker Farms is a favorite of my local friends and family. For starters, it is out of town maybe 5ish miles on a dirt road in the middle of nowhere. Definitely a small-town girl’s (or guy’s) vibe. Between the food trucks, classes, and music, there is always something going on at Sapsuckers. And if you end up there on a day that there isn’t a food truck available, they will cook you a Heggies Pizza (also made in Minnesota). A certified organic farm, Sapsuckers is best known for its fresh hard apple cider. With several flavors to choose from, from a simple juicy apple to an exotic cayenne pepper, there is surely something nearly everyone will like. I highly recommend getting a flight if you’re a first-time customer so you can try a little bit of everything. Sapsuckers sells other farm fresh products as well, including but not limited to maple syrup, honey, and eggs. With plenty of seating both indoors and out, Sapsucker Farms is a true gem tucked away in my little town.
Willie is blessed beyond words to have completed his year-long bucket list. He could not have completed this amazing journey without the strong support of our loved ones, a few of whom accompanied us to Sapsuckers in March. We made precious memories that my heart will treasure long after he goes to the Rainbow Bridge. While he is no longer following a monthly calendar, we are trying to go on as many adventures as we can while he is still kickin’ some of which include a Saint Paul Saints game (see 100 Dreams section), some fall camping trips, and plenty of lake days! Willie’s bucket list, just like his life, taught me so many things. Maybe someday, I will even blog about all of them. The biggest lesson though was how important it is to treasure each moment, because life is so fleetingly short. So, find your tribe and spend as much of it as you can making memories that put the biggest dang smile on your face.