Holiday by Laura Mitrick
Finding Magic at the Lake
Michigan has long been known as the Winter Wonderland state, and for me, that name couldn’t be more fitting. As the youngest of five, the holidays were always lively, loud, and full of energy. Each winter, we’d head to our lake house in Sister Lakes, zipping down snowmobile trails, laughing through wipeouts, and warming up at the local pub before returning to the beautiful chaos.
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At home, my mom transformed the living room into wrapping central—Bing Crosby on the record player, cocoa on the stove, Santas everywhere—while my dad hunted for the “perfect” tree, even if it leaned a little. And through it all, our dog Jackson jingled along in the backseat, antlers and all, for every adventure.
Those snowy escapes and cozy memories didn’t just shape my holidays—they inspired my path. The magic I felt at the lake is why I became licensed in Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois—to help others find that same sense of wonder in the places that mean the most to them.
Festive Fun from Chicago to Michigan
I’m a huge dog person—literally. I own a Mastiff, so when I say “big dog energy,” I mean it. The holidays just aren’t complete without my pup in the mix.
From snowy strolls to pet-friendly spots, here are some of my go-to winter hangouts where dogs aren’t just allowed—they’re celebrated. So pack the festive antlers and bring your four-legged friend along. Everything’s better with a wagging tail.
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Chicago Favorites:
Montrose Dog Beach (Lakeview) – Let your pup romp along the lake before the big meal.
Park & Field (Logan Square) – Heated patio, fire pits, and a warm welcome for dogs.
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Michigan Favorites
Warren Dunes State Park (Sawyer) – Towering dunes and snowy trails—perfect for outdoor adventuring.
Greenbush Brewing Co. (Sawyer) – Winter ales + outdoor heaters = the ultimate dog-friendly brewery stop.
Winter Getaways in Southwest Michigan
Make it a weekend with these local holiday stays—some even owned by our clients!
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Dwell Vacation Homes (Harbor County) – Design-forward rentals for groups up to 48.
@dwellvacations
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The Everly Cottage (Union Pier) – A charming retreat curated by Alaina Kaczmarski from The Every Girl.
@theeverlycottage
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Meadow House Michigan (New Buffalo) – Bold design meets holiday comfort curated by Summer Thornten Chicago interior designer.
@meadowhousemichigan
Insider Pick: Don’t miss Post Boy in New Buffalo—a new restaurant must for cocktails and incredible eats.