zz fawn

Seasons Greetings!

2011-12-23T12:39:00.000-08:00

SEASONS GREETINGS from Sleeping Fawn Resort and Campground

December 2011

Ahhh, the chilly air is here once again. It’s that time of year for celebrating with family and friends and to share memories of years past, and planning ventures for the years ahead.

The biggest joy of the area this year was the “opening soon” banner that went up in January at the Emmaville store. Being closed for over 2 years sure made needs more difficult for simple items like gas or milk. New owners Mike and Melinda Spry have eyed this place for some time, and with a lot of hard manual labor put into it this place looks spectacular!

Sleeping Fawn Resort had a very hot and humid July in the mid 90’s that went on and on and on for days. The lake was well used to keep as cool as possible. The kayaks and paddle boats continue to be a big hit with guests, along with the Shuffle Board court, updated with new cue sticks and score board. Then in August both Ellen and Joe were able to take a weekend off to celebrate the Wedding of Granddaughter/niece Katie and Jack Berning. The Wedding was a real joy and we wish them the best. Finally, our late summer into Fall ended up being very dry and continues to be with just a trace of snow on ground.

Meanwhile, wildlife abounds! This early Spring Ellen had complained of a bear enjoying our bird feeders and can of seed. I found it hard to believe until I was drawn to noise outside the house at night and finding a black bear scooping seed from the can for over an hour. I tried capturing photos but with little luck due to the darkness. Secondly, one of our Seasonal RV’ers, John came back from Park Rapids to tell us he saw a Cougar cross the road by Emmaville – another improbable story, as it was the first I had heard of a sighting. Then two days later Cabin guests from Fargo arrived and said a cougar was on the driveway of the resort, and again multiple sightings by resort guests happened throughout rest of August. Sadly, no photos were captured and even with the visit of conservation officer, there was no success in tracking the cat. The deer were quite active this summer as well, one fawn in particular was very curious of guests and enjoying all of resort plants and blooming flowers. So far, however, it has been a quiet Fall and Winter. Stay tuned: possible sightings of a baby loon? The loons did nest this year but without the success of a baby loon to raise. Let’s hope for better results next year.

This off season, Joe has enjoyed working at the Emmaville store as a cashier of the store and waiter in the café, wherever and whenever needed. When not working, Joe has been attending BSU Hockey games, visiting with friends and family and also helping out with his brother Jon along with Kevin and their new venture of a Hardware Hank store in Battle Lake, MN. As a reward for his hard work, Joe is planning for a warm destination vacation for sometime this winter.

Ellen continues to drive bus for the Heartland Express of Park Rapids, transporting the disabled. She has routes twice a week. Ellen has been keeping active by walking daily on the resort grounds or in town. She did manage to get away for a bit, enjoying a bus tour to the East Coast of Cape Cod this Fall. Ellen has been spending quality time with friends and family this Fall and plans to do more this winter season.

We recently lost my father, John, to cancer. We hope this holiday season brings peace and joy as we remember all those who cannot be with us.

Don’t Forget! The Resort Photo contest is coming to an end this December 31, 2011, and photos to be launched on the newly updated website for all to view, with winners to be announced shortly after. Good luck and thanks for all the great photos!

Wishing you all the best in 2012.

Joe and Ellen (LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! TO VIEW CONTEST PHOTOS!)

apologies

2011-12-16T11:19:00.000-08:00

We want to apologize in the lack of blogs this Fall/Winter.

We are working on a new website that is user friendly with todays technology including smart phones, and the blog will still be a part of it along with facebook. The roleout should be next week, so keep posted.

Also I will be posting the contest photos at that time for all to view!

Very excited here, hope you are too!

oh and yeah....like us, on facebook!

Joe and Ellen

nice catch

2011-09-04T07:08:00.000-07:00

Bobby W. of Lonsdale, MN. landed this nice Largemouth Bass in viewing pleasure of beach guests. The Bass leaped out of water trying to spit the bait from its mouth with no success. Bobby let the Bass free for others to enjoy.

fish photos

2011-08-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

more fish photos for viewing.

Bass photos

2011-08-28T08:16:00.001-07:00

Some of the bass caught during the month of August.

spotted fawn

2011-07-18T15:32:00.000-07:00

Mark and Camille, seasonal RVer's in site 12 had a fawn hanging around the backyard of their site. They mentioned it was around for couple days just chillin. This photo is entered in the ZZFAWN photo contest.

WALLEYE?!?

2011-07-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

With little to no success the night before, today 07/07/11 during the afternoon Elliot, Mark and Blake all took the boat out to try their luck at fishing again. Luck paid off, Elliot landed this rare but beauty 27.5", 7+lb walleye! Yes thats right folks, a Walleye (Rare for Stocking Lake known for its Largemouth Bass and Northern Pike.)

And to kick it all off it was caught on a plain hook with a night crawler.

Photo contest entry

2011-07-06T11:31:00.001-07:00

Hannah, age 15, of Ramsey MN took this photo from the window of cabin 2. It has been entered in the Photo Contest!

Enjoy.

Hvidsten Family Reunion

2011-06-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

The Hvidstens have celebrated their 19th reunion this past weekend with picture perfect weather, and have been a part of Sleeping Fawn since 07. We look forward to their 20th reunion in 2012!

This picture is also entered in the 2011 photo contest here at Sleeping Fawn.

Great catch......

2011-05-21T18:27:00.001-07:00

Jacob of Swanville MN is smiling from ear to ear after landing this nice 33.5" northern Pike today, needless to say he and his dad are back in the boat fishing for more.

hungry bear

2011-05-08T08:47:00.000-07:00

2 nights ago Ellen picked up after a bird feeder mess, assuming it was a bear that came along to snack on the seed, it even broke the weld to the bird feeder pole.

Last night I captured photos of the bear as it returned for another round of snacks. The pictures are not great as the lighting was not bright enough without me using flash.
One of our seasonals is a welder and happen to have his equiptment here so he was able to weld the bird feeder pole back together.

Resort industry loses a leader (click here for details)

2011-05-05T07:16:00.000-07:00

For those of you who got to meet Karl or have golfed on the 9 hole course just down the road from us at Evergreen Lodge.

Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.

Where is Spring?!?!?!

2011-04-19T18:21:00.000-07:00

Okay, this weather is getting real old real fast. We just received 5"-6" of snow last Saturday and it isn't melting very fast!!!!!! Even the Robin is at the suet feeder (bottom photo, hard to see)since it can't reach the frozen worms hiding under the snow.

FYI- The ice out last year was March 29th, its April 19th and I see no sign of ice out anytime soon.

I'm Frustrated, can you tell?

Ha Ha

Day at Capital

2011-03-20T10:16:00.001-07:00

Sorry for slacking with the blog status.

I enclosed some photos taken at the State Capital in late Feb.

We belong to Congress of MN Resorts group, they help us lobby bills in the capital. We just want to make sure they understand our concerns and how bills can effect our business/livelyhoods and also to educate them on bills that just plain ol don't make sense.

Every year we wear something that draws their attn, this year it was green foam fish hats...I think it worked.

Enjoy.

St Cloud Sportsmen's Show

2011-02-09T12:52:00.000-08:00

Come see me at the Show.

I will be volunteering my time to promote the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.

SHOW:
ST CLOUD SPORTSMAN SHOW

LOCATION:
ST CLOUD CIVIC CENTER, 10 4TH AVE S, ST CLOUD MN 56301

DATE/TIME:
FEBRUARY 11-13

11TH-12NOON TO 9PM (I volunteer)
12TH-10AM TO 8PM (I volunteer)
13TH-10AM TO 6PM (director volunteer, I will not be there)

hope to see you there!
Joe

Brave deer.....

2011-01-27T13:10:00.000-08:00

Ok, if this deer is going to enjoy snooping in the garage, at least change the oil to the car thank you.

Nope its not the Avon lady knocking, it would be a daily routine of deer coming up on the deck and parading around like they own the place.

EMMAVILLE OPENS DOORS!

2011-01-24T16:54:00.001-08:00

At last the doors officially opened at Emmaville on Jan 22! The place was packed with snowmobiles over the weekend wishing owners Mike and Melinda the best.

Newly improved Gas pumps are now working, featuring both unleaded and premium unleaded fuels.

Store offers a small staple supply of grocery needs, coffee, pop and snacks, and a beer bar with a huge flat screen tv to watch the games!

Cafe is still under construction and with a goal of opening May 01....

click on link for blog updates.

St Paul Sportsman Show

2011-01-12T07:02:00.000-08:00

Come see me at the St Paul Sportsman's Boat, Camping and Vacation Show this Thursday through Sunday!

I will volunteering part time at the Park Rapids Chamber of Commerce booth

LOCATION: RIVERCENTRE ST PAUL MN

DATES: JAN 13-16,2011

HOURS: 13TH 2PM-9PM
14TH NOON-9PM
15TH 10AM-9PM
16TH 10AM-6PM

unsure of my scheduled hours, but hope to see you there!

chick on link for coupon to show

play time

2011-01-10T08:59:00.000-08:00

One of our Seasonal RVers came up over the weekend to check up on their camper and enjoyed the weekend in the Winter cabin.

Allen and Tera let me test out their new toy! wow what fun that was.

I also did some snow shoeing, that was a good workout. The deer were roaming the lake as well.

crazy snow!

2011-01-07T10:19:00.000-08:00

While enjoying New Years in Mpls, I came home to almost 17" of snow! Mom, who stayed home kept me up to speed on the snowfall while I was gone, I was finding it hard to believe what she was telling me. Our neighbor attempted to clear a path for Ellen to get in and out of the driveway but was only able to make a path wide enough for the width of the car. I attempted to widen the road but it was to hard on the Ranger so I called the local plowing company and they arrived with the big guns! A highway truck with plow eased its way through the resort pushing the snow off to the sides. Sadly I tried to get a picture of the highway truck and plow that came through but he was gone faster than I could snap a decent picture. After the plow came through with its swipe, i was able to plow open the parking spaces and clear out the back area getting ready for any future snow.

Anycase we definatey have snow now, bring on the sleds!

Holiday Letter

2010-12-27T17:59:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays from Sleeping Fawn Resort

December 2010

Looking back on the past year we have enjoyed the wonderful weather brought upon us for the summer (despite scares of tornados in the Spring just to the south of us in neighboring towns including Wadena). We also had incredible Fall weather, a wonderful array of colors. We have already had an early snow and an ice freeze-- it’s going to be a very long winter.

Highlights of the season include nesting loons with 2 successful chicks.
All seasonal RV sites have been filled in our campground including the additional 6 sites added in 2008.

Some of our docks got a face lift: the U-shape dock got a scrub, prime and paint job on the frame and some of the older boards got replaced, cleaned and stained. We also placed a new boat launching dock which includes a bench-- thanks for the many compliments! We look to continue to make more improvements to the docks ready for Spring 2011.

New pontoon motor was purchased late Fall ready for the 2011 season. This upgrade will make for a quieter and more enjoyable cruise around the beautiful Stocking Lake.

Largemouth Bass fishing has been a huge success for all this year, with at least 5 of them reaching over 5 lbs. in size. Northern count was down. The pan fish were still a bit small but are showing growth year after year. We are biting our nails waiting for the generous size of crappie and sunfish to return. Over all it was a good year for fishing.

Nature trail continues to be a work in progress, new signage to be put up soon throughout the trail.

Finishing touches are in place for the newly remodeled laundry room/beach bathroom ready for use in 2011. This space will also include a small library of reading material and board games.

Emmaville store will be re-opening Winter 2010! After arriving home from a trip this Fall, Joe noticed a welcoming sign reading “re-opening soon!” Hopefully it will remain on course to be open by New Years. We sure have missed it!

Downtown main street phase one re-opens. With great success the Main Street project is right on schedule with the most important phase of project completed. Don’t worry they kept the center street parking! Phase 2 to start in early Spring.

Is Ellen working again?!? After retiring from driving school bus in the northern suburbs of MN, Ellen took on a PT job driving a local bus transporting adults with disabilities.

Joe plans on working Winter months at 3M Wonewok and he also hopes to continue doing small drywall projects when able to do so. Joe will be kept busy at home working on a couple cabin improvements throughout the off season as well.

Vacations- Nashville bus tour for Ellen, family trip to Ireland last March was a blast, 40th b-day to California for Joe last March was also a great time, Joe explored Utah National and State parks in October with friends - a must see, Ellen will be visiting her granddaughter in Texas this coming January and Joe is planning for another warm trip before Spring arrives.

With another great year behind us, we have so much to look forward to for 2011.
Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday and a safe, joyful New Year!

Joe and Ellen

BUSTED!

2010-12-14T17:22:00.001-08:00

This 6 point buck was enjoying lunch at the bird feeders yesterday. He hung around for a while....although there is still a couple more weeks before muzzle loader hunting season is over...We shall see if he continues to come back to the bird feeders.
Last week we were able to snap a photo of an 8 point buck (bottom photo)also hanging around the feeders, been keeping an eye out for him too.

seeing double

2010-12-12T16:39:00.000-08:00

It has been common to see a Pileated Woodpecker enjoying the suet feeder, but lately we have noticed two Pileated Woodpeckers after the tasty treats.

oh deer.....

2010-12-10T07:33:00.000-08:00

We have been overtaken by the deer. The numbers are much higher than last year at this time. We have counted 15 at one time. Ellen spotted a 6point buck in the group, I was unable to capture a photo of him as he was camera shy. You will notice they are taking comfort to the area, lounging around enjoying the quiet moments. Ellen was startled to find one creaping its way onto the deck. Brave lil guys.

I am also happy to report that the crippled deer we call "gimpy" is still around and within the photos. We were informed by our neighbors of a doe with a front leg injury back in 03, they wanted us to try and spare the doe during deer hunting, which we have. Gimpy has a new injury to her back leg, not as severe but she still holds her own.

Winter is here

2010-12-09T08:44:00.000-08:00

Park Rapids Christmas tree lighting kicked off last week, most stores on main had goodies and drinks for all to enjoy. It was a very cold night.

First measurable snow

2010-11-24T11:57:00.000-08:00

I was going to take pictures of the lake ice as it froze over, but then it started snowing and snowing and snowing, we ended up with close to 6" of fresh snow.

photos taken Monday 11/22

and its snowing again today 11/24

First snow of 2010

2010-11-14T07:39:00.001-08:00

We woke up to about an inch of snow today, nothing compaired to the twin cities which reached a foot or more in areas, so we will not complain.

EMMAVILLE IS BACK !!!!!!

2010-11-08T13:03:00.000-08:00

What a nice treat to come home to after vacationing in Utah.
Emmaville is offically re-opening. Be sure and keep tabs on the new owners by checking out their blog at www.emmavillestore.blogspot.com

Future Boss?

2010-11-06T09:33:00.000-07:00

The Dahlagers from Granite Falls sent me this photo of Cody, one of their sons.

I have a feeling he could be a good replacement for running the resort if and when I retire...haha, just a thought.

Fall randoms

2010-09-26T08:07:00.000-07:00

Another round of Kayaking before dusk.

Calm waters, perfect weekend.

Guests enjoying the views from bench on the new dock.

Kayaking in the Fall

2010-09-25T11:46:00.000-07:00

Both Roger (resort guest) and I went out in the Kayaks to enjoy the Fall colors on the calm quiet Stocking Lake.

Wonderful treat!

2010-09-02T18:44:00.001-07:00

Our guests from Frazee came up for their annual visit to Sleeping Fawn and even brought us a bottle of wine....Thanks Ladies!

Big Bass!

2010-08-29T07:50:00.000-07:00

Andrew of Omaha NE, caught and released this 20 1/8" Largemouth Bass! Andrew was fishing out of the peddle boat and said it was quite a challenge to bring in but had a blast doing it.

Family moments

2010-08-22T09:02:00.000-07:00

The Merrells on their annual visit to Sleeping Fawn.

Largemouth Bass are biting!

2010-07-30T08:06:00.000-07:00

Brothers Ron and Roger hit the lake the other night, I tagged along hoping to land a few myself, sadly I caught two but unsucessful to get them to the boat. Both Ron and Roger had big grins on their faces after a great night of casting.

Loon photos

2010-07-29T08:07:00.000-07:00

One of our Seasonals, Monty from Fargo shared a few photos of the loons with their babys as they are growing through the season.

One Largemouth Bass!

2010-07-17T06:24:00.000-07:00

Stanley of Tabor,Iowa landed this beauty...A 20" Largemouth Bass.

Stanley informed me he caught two at that size and had his best bass fishing season over the many years coming up.

King of the raft.......

2010-07-15T07:58:00.001-07:00

The traditional Hagen family and friends raft wars! I somehow get talked into this event....hmm, was great fun...I won but still have yet to get the photo to place on here to prove it?!?!

volleyball fun

2010-07-11T08:43:00.000-07:00

The Hagens family and friends of Hanley Falls MN camp here every July 4th week....They enjoy a many rounds of volleyball, I was able to play a few select games.

July 4th cookout

2010-07-09T09:53:00.000-07:00

We held our annual July 4th holiday cookout in our new garage, just enough room to place everyone inside, although the weather was great, made it easier to visit.

Paul and one of his sons, Michael (pictured) along with a few other seasonals helped grill up the burgers.

Was a great time! Looking forward to next years!

heavy rainfall overnight

2010-07-06T09:13:00.000-07:00

with rainfall on the evening July 3 measuring from 4-5" overnight we had major washouts on the driveway.
Everything is back in order. whew

Rons turn

2010-07-06T08:52:00.000-07:00

Ron ( a seasonal rv'er)was all envious of Joels Bass he caught so He decided to go give it a try. Ron caught 8 fish that morning and another 12 in the evening...couple photos of rons catch and release. Caught towards end of June.

Joels big catch

2010-07-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

Yeah this was Joels big catch (a repeat guest from resort)so not me, Joe...haha

Joel caught this 18" largmouth bass right off the dock towards the blue floating raft behind him in photo!

Joe's big catch

2010-06-25T11:21:00.001-07:00

well, ok how about not so big catch...I had an hour of free time to cast a line, results were one largemouth bass. The eagles were sure out though. Maybe they wanted my catch and release?

baby loons!

2010-06-25T07:21:00.000-07:00

I finaly captured a few photos of the new loons to the lake, they hatched the second week of June...Growing up quickly!

family reunion

2010-06-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

Hvidstens family reunion, 4th year!

update to Upland Nature walk

2010-06-07T13:32:00.000-07:00

Tom and Nona (frequent guests of ours insist on helping with projects around the resort for a couple days of their stay and one of the projects we have been focused on is the new nature walk in the wooded northern corner of property. This Spring Tom, Nona and myself (Joe) have tackled the trails hump that runs down the middle of the trail, so Tom mentioned using the tractors box car on back to level the trail down. After measuring tractor to see if fit through the tree line we decided to give it a shot. And wow, with success the tractor leveled the trail beautifully! Tom was able to capture a photo of me doing the easy part of driving while they were behind raking/leveling and removing roots.

Looking forward to continued improvements to this project.

Joe

memorial weekend random photos

2010-05-31T12:34:00.000-07:00

campfires! lake shots! pontoon cruise! and loons, who could ask for more.....

Sign of Spring, Turkeys!

2010-03-25T13:59:00.000-07:00

The deer are stand offish for the bird feeders since the wild turkeys took ownership.

I think they are ready to move in

2010-02-24T07:33:00.001-08:00

The deer have been around the resort all day, and if you look close enough, they are bedded down in the snow in the background....a deer hunters dream. haha

ice fishing, Bass photo

2010-02-06T09:41:00.000-08:00

Sorry for my delay in posting, but here is the Largemouth Bass caught and released by Mr Bendix of Fairmont, MN. back in mid Jan.

Ice fishing

2010-01-22T18:06:00.000-08:00

Well ok, probably doesnt look like fish in the first picture but I fed the deer while the fishermen were on the lake.

They have had good luck on Thursday. They caught a few northerns, one of them at 11+ pounds, 33" (pictured) and also a wonderful large mouth bass, not pictured, but coming soon.

Fishing was down Friday, will try again tomorrow...will keep you posted.

Feeding time......

2010-01-13T13:18:00.000-08:00

Ellen felt guilty watching the deer beg for food all morning and decided to feed them just a bit earlier than normal.

Chirstmas Eve snow

2009-12-30T19:44:00.001-08:00

We had close to a foot of fresh heavy snow fall over the holidays.

The snow is still sticking to the trees as of 12/31, hoping it stays around a while.

Looking forward to snow shoeing

Feeding the wildlife year round.

2009-12-26T18:35:00.000-08:00

Its that time of year again. We feed the deer once the snow covers the ground and always after hunting season. This year I took a few photos of the deer (2 spike bucks) before I headed out of the Holidays.

After my return from holidays I was able to capture a couple shots of the Pileated Woodpecker that lingers around the resort all year round. (click on image to view larger size)

The grass is growing!

2009-11-19T18:32:00.000-08:00

A couple of our Sept. guests, Tom and Nona insisted on helping (as they always do) Ellen and I clean up the 2 remaining seasonal RV sites in our expansion to the RV park. We all did a lot of leveling, raking, removing of rubish and I was fortunate to find a window of opportunity to lay down grass seed, plant some trees and bushes back in late Sept. Low and behold the grass is already coming through, and does it look great or what!

So, with that in mind, if you know any eager campers seeking a Seasonal site in a quiet and comfortable setting surrounded by nature...tell them to look no further than Sleeping Fawn. We have 2 sites left.

storage garage, Part 2

2009-11-12T13:57:00.001-08:00

With Temp's in the mid to upper 50's last week, we were able to place a coat of stain on the siding with Joe on his stilts, he focused on the upper siding and Ellen did the bottom half of siding, also painted the soffits. All that remains is a couple more coats of stain and the peaks with shakes! what a relief to have this project checked off the list.

Progress on storage garage

2009-11-12T13:38:00.000-08:00

With the Not so great October weather behind us, November has been a terrific month to work on our outside projects. Both Ellen and I sided the storage garage and finished the soffiting work as well. All that remains is the peak which will contain shakes, that will be put up sometime at end of month. We still have to stain and paint most of unit.

SNOW?!?! on Oct 10th, 2009

2009-10-10T07:45:00.000-07:00

Yes, sad to say about an inch of snow fell overnight, its very slippery out and it is starting to snow again as I type.

I am going to remove the docks from water now. sad.

Northern caught off the first couple casts!

2009-10-01T09:24:00.000-07:00

One of our wonderful guests, Tom- caught this nice 31", 7+ lb Northern on a 4lb test line.

btw- look at the lake shot in back ground too...isn't that amazing! Sorry Tom, Nona did such a good job taking the photo....

The Northern was released.

Northerns are biting!

2009-09-05T06:44:00.000-07:00

Randy Meyers of Nelson, MN landed a few nice Northerns during their family visit. Here's a few photos he shared with us. A 31" Northern Pike and a 36" Northern Pike.

Foggy morning at Sleeping Fawn

2009-08-28T06:05:00.000-07:00

Its that time of year where the fog runs thick through the woods and hangs heavy on the lake.....perfect weather for campfires!

photos compliments of Bob and Mary Lou, one of our seasonal RV'ers.

....more Bass!

2009-08-23T11:47:00.000-07:00

last couple photos, yes even I get to catch a couple in my spare time...

All caught and released.

Bass Frenzy photos continue!!!

2009-08-23T11:30:00.001-07:00

round two of photos, caught and released ....Bass ranging in size from 1 to 4 pounds.

Get ready- Largemouth Bass Frenzy!!!!!!!

2009-08-23T11:19:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few great Largemouth Bass photos taken by guests...caught and released through Aug.
more photos coming!

Littrell's part 2

2009-08-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

Family photo gathering time, along with a few other fun photos!

Littrell's vacation at Sleeping Fawn (origional owners to property)

2009-08-18T11:21:00.000-07:00

We were welcomed by the origional Owners family - The Littrell's, and many generations of family members, once owners of property before it was even a resort back in the early 50's.
The Littrell's spent the first week in Aug at Sleeping Fawn Resort. Marilyn Littrell is the Daughter pictured below shows proof that she can still land a nice Northern from the lake (caught and released)...she and other family members up have many fond memories of Sleeping Fawn Resort and the area as well, and was blessed to be back and hoping to be back real soon.

Look for a group shot and more details to be added soon!

Visit from Larry of LHR Images...part 2

2009-07-08T16:08:00.000-07:00

Larry of LHR Images added more to his blog about his stay at Sleeping Fawn Resort, take a few moments to check it out. Click on title to view his Blog.

visit from Larry with LHR Images

2009-07-01T19:16:00.000-07:00

I met Larry of LHR IMAGES back in Jan at the Rochester Sportsman Show. Larry professionaly photographs landscapes and wildlife. I asked Larry to visit the Resort and capture a few photos. So far so good, Take a look at his work and wonderful photos of Stocking Lake and Sleeping Fawn Resort. (click on title for link to Larrys blog and view resort photos)

more shared photos.....

2009-06-16T08:15:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple photos taken a week after memorial.
Wayne from Ramsey caught and released a couple nice largemouth Bass.

more Memorial photos

2009-06-11T07:13:00.000-07:00

Tom and Nona working hard on the new nature walk. Needles are being placed on the trail.
Also Tom and Nona took a couple photos of visitors at their feeders.

And also mixed in the photos is a shot of the resort out from the lake.

click on image to view full size.

Memorial weekend photos

2009-06-11T06:50:00.001-07:00

Here a re a few photos taken by the Lang's over the Memorial weekend stay.

Enjoy

Northern Pike are plentiful this Spring.

2009-05-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

A group of guys up for a fishing weekend had no trouble finding the Northern Pike.

Here is a sample of their catch.

At last, progress on the garage.

2009-05-09T14:20:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend of May 1-3, my friends Steve and David came up from the cities to help with the framing of the garage. I must say we worked from morning till night and I am exhausted!
Thanks Steve and David for all your help.

Garage material has arrived!

2009-04-25T14:16:00.001-07:00

Although behind schedule, the garage material arrived last Wed. The garage will be erected over the first weekend of May, thanks to the help of my loyal friends.

I will be siding the garage throughout the Spring and early summer months.

Planting trees on Earth Day

2009-04-23T07:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I planted pine trees for Earth Day!

The ICE is GONE!!!!!

2009-04-20T20:09:00.000-07:00

The ice was blown apart today thanks to high winds and rain. All I can say is bye bye ice, hello water! The Ice out is about 10 days ahead of last year and looking back it was an Avg. ice out to date. From the way the weather was earlier, I thought for sure it was going to be a delayed ice out.....

And 2 Loons have already paid a visit to the lake. I love the sounds of the Loon.

lake ice out update

2009-04-20T19:58:00.000-07:00

My computer had been acting up for the last few days so I was unable to load up photos. These photos were taken the last few days and wanted to get them posted.

As you can see the ice would shift throughout the day.

Enjoy

Lake ice out update

2009-04-16T16:46:00.001-07:00

As you can see, still plenty of ice on the lake, although the ice is turning darker- i'm thinking it will be broken up by next week!

snow and lake report

2009-04-13T09:36:00.001-07:00

Per request of Seasonals, updates to grounds and lake.

The lake is still completely frozen. Normal ice out is April 15-20th, Im thinking this will be sometime on 20th to end of month.

We still have snowy / icey conditions in the campground area where the sun can't get to it. This should be gone by end of week if weather continues to be mild, but rain is in forcast.

Patiently waiting!!!!

Eddie Rousseau at Bemidji State

2009-04-05T07:29:00.000-07:00

I went to Bemidji State to listen to my friend Eddie Rousseau give a motivational speech to the college students at Bemidji State presented by the Bemidji State Rotaract Club. The gathering was well attended. The 1 hour speech went real well.

Eddie Rousseau is an Ultra Marathon runner and motivational speaker.

March snow storm

2009-03-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

Last day of March ended with an 8" snow storm, just after almost all the snow melted away from the nearly 3" rainfall just a week ago.
You may notice a couple photos showing deer, they have been active this year.

Our first rain of 2009

2009-03-23T13:27:00.000-07:00

We had our first rain last night and into today. I took a photo of the rain gage this morning with a reading of 1-3/4", and it still is raining, we are at 2" so far today. Snow is melting fast and all heading to the Lake, with more rain and snow in forcast for days to come...I will keep you posted.

Puerto Vallarta vacation Part 3

2009-03-22T13:54:00.000-07:00

Few more Ocean and infinity pool shots!

Puerto Vallarta vacation Part 2

2009-03-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

few more photos to share.....

Puerto Vallarta vacation Part 1

2009-03-21T15:46:00.000-07:00

A much needed vacation was in order for Joe....here are a few photos of the trip.

Joe and his friend Jacob stayed at DREAMS Resort and Spa in Puerto Vallarta....highly reccommend it!

Day at the Capital

2009-03-01T07:14:00.000-08:00

The members of CMR "Congress of Minnesota Resorts" met with Legislators over a 2 day period to go over some concerns with Resort issues.

The day at the Capital is done annualy.

Some photos didnt turn out well, but you get the idea...haha

Invaded by Deer!!!

2009-02-24T07:13:00.000-08:00

In the last few days the deer population has exploded at the resort. I have counted 22 deer arriving daily for a very small hand out of corn, the guests this winter are in for a real treat!

I captured a few photos of the deer in action.
(click on image to see original size photo)

Day at Itasca State Park snowshoeing.

2009-02-17T18:47:00.000-08:00

My friend Jake and I spent the afternoon a couple weekends back snowshoeing in Itasca State Park. The temp was in the mid 30's, bright and sunny....what a perfect day for snowshoeing!

pictures from Rochester Sports and Vacation Show

2009-02-12T06:46:00.000-08:00

Here a few photos of the booth I worked at for the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber. The Sportsman and Vacation Show was in Rochester MN a couple weeks back.
Thanks to those who were able to stop by and say HI, it was great to see you all...

I will not be volunteering any more shows this year, but be sure to stop by St Cloud, Fargo, and Minneapolis Sports Shows to get great stuff and the 2009 Park Rapids Lakes Area guide!

Sleeping Fawn makes TX newspaper!

2009-02-10T07:36:00.000-08:00

Our Guests the Kieltyka's from Gatesville TX spent Christmas at Sleeping Fawn Resort.
While driving from TX to MN they took many photos for a contest heald at school featuring a stuffed toy armadillo named "Chucky". Contest was to see who would travel the furthest distance with Chucky, Hunter ended up winning the contest!

Congrats Hunter!

Karl Stroming- He will be remembered always....

2009-02-06T10:35:00.001-08:00

(click on paragraph to view in larger format)

Our neighbor Karl Stroming will be missed deeply.

Rochester Sports and Vacation Show

2009-01-30T09:18:00.000-08:00

Hi All-

I am down in Rochester MN working at the Sports and Vacation Show.

I am representing the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.

If get a chance, stop by and say hi!

Its this Friday- Sunday at the Mayo Civic Center.

I will post pictures upon my return
Joe

brrr- its cold out!

2009-01-27T09:29:00.000-08:00

I took a photo of our thermometer today and it read 30 below.....it sure feels like it too!
This was the temp the last two mornings.

I took this photo three days ago reading 19 degrees below, and I thought it was cold then...haha, was I wrong.

Celebrating New Years at Sleeping Fawn.

2009-01-09T07:06:00.000-08:00

A nice return to Sleeping Fawn for Tom and Nona this New Years 09. Celebrating their second New Years in a row at the Fawn seems to be a new trend for them.
I think they are enjoying the peace and quiet of the resort along with all the deer that come visit while they stay. Do you blame them....
Tom and Nona were nice enough to share a few photos of their stay.

Thanks Tom and Nona!

White Christmas

2009-01-06T07:43:00.000-08:00

The Kieltyka's of Texas spent the Christmas Holiday at Sleeping Fawn Resort.

Driving up through a blizzard in Nebraska and many snowy and windy conditions through the Dakotas and Minnesota.
Once arrived they unpacked the car and the two girls, Sammi and Hunter trampled through the knee high snow having a blast, they couldnt get enough of the snow.

They were nice enough to share a few sliding photos with us.

Dispite the cold conditions they all had a wonderful and white Christmas.

frosted trees

2008-12-30T10:36:00.000-08:00

few photos of frost captured on trees .

let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

2008-12-18T12:43:00.000-08:00

14 inches of snow fell last weekend from a winter storm out of the Northwest, I was in Milwaulkee during the storm so I missed out, but now I am plowing the driveway for the Guests arriving to use the winter cabin this coming weekend for Christmas.

Stocking Lake ice update, oh.... and the deer.

2008-12-03T13:58:00.000-08:00

I had a request from John in TX. He said I was slacking in my ice reports on the lake.
Well here I am with an update. The lake looks the same, I am walking on it but no report of any measurable snow yet.

The deer have been arriving daily to eat the corn placed by the cabin for them. I see up to three deer at a time so far, sometimes five.

frozen tundra

2008-11-23T11:36:00.000-08:00

Stocking Lake has frozen over as of about a week ago. Now we just need to play the waiting game for it to freeze safe enough to walk on.