The Happy Gnome has recently become our favorite spot to have lunch. When Rob's brother Dan came to visit us a few weeks ago, Rob put together a list of places that had awesome beer selections. We stopped by The Happy Gnome for lunch and loved it so much that we were back again the next day for dinner. They have a huge selection of beers and quite a few hard ciders, as well, but it's the burgers that keep us coming back. Any burger that comes topped with pulled pork is fine by me. The adorable neighborhood and the fact that their mixed greens salad is so good that sometimes I actually want it instead of fries helps, too.

I always get a Bloody Mary and the Angus Cheeseburger without a bun or cheese, and Rob gets a beer and the Game Burger, which is bison and elk and comes with lingonberry mayo. Everything is good.

   

My Bloody Mary garnishes didn't make the photo opp--see a complete picture here.

The Happy Gnome

498 Selby Avenue

St. Paul, MN 55102

Food 5/5

Service 4/5
Atmosphere 5/5
Prices & Specials 3/5
Paleo-Friendly 5/5

I can't remember the last time I went apple picking in the fall. It's something I always want to do and never get around to, so this year, when we're together in Minnesota without many plans, we decided to go. It was a chilly Saturday morning and we stopped by our new favorite coffee shop for some almond milk lattes to to before driving about thirty minutes east to Afton Apple Orchard in Hastings, Minnesota.

It was kind of dreary and cold out, but we listened to my autumn playlist on the way and by the time we got there I was practically giddy with excitement. If all the cute, bundled up kids and the hayride out to the orchards weren't charming enough, the petting zoo stationed by the apple cider press really sealed the deal.

I had the best time. Good coffee, beautiful autumn weather, a romantic stroll through an apple orchard, and a couple of llamas. I don't ask for much, but I managed to get it all in one morning.

  

Just popping in to say hi and that I'm still hanging out with my mom until her flight leaves early on Tuesday! My cousin and my aunt are off later this afternoon, but it's been a fun few days of catching up and showing them around. It's been chilly and grey these past few days, but I can't really complain--this is some of my favorite weather, and having familiar faces around has been so nice.

I hope you had a lovely weekend, too.

PS My poncho is new and it's from Jigsaw London! Stay tuned for details in an outfit post later this week.