James is a patient, kind, funny, family man with a wonderful moral compass. In his younger years, he moved around quite a bit with his parents, a brother, and sister for his dad’s job. His family learned to rely on each other which nurtured his strong value of family. He earned a journalism degree from the University of St. Thomas and spent the early part of his career writing for newspapers and a magazine. The Sheriff in Sherburne County liked his work as editor of the local paper and asked him to apply for the Community Services officer position which was unlicensed. After four years of community outreach and public relations he knew he wanted more and went back to school to become a licensed officer. He served 10 years on the road patrolling, and 10 years as a school resource officer. Lots of stories and experiences came out of his law enforcement career which has helped put life into perspective. His stress reliever has always been biking. As of the last few years he can be found pedaling the mountain and single-track trails all over the US. James is the calm adventurer who likes to “wing it” when a problem arises followed by a really terrible dad joke.

Donelle was born and raised in Albert Lea, Minnesota with her parents along with two sisters. Some of her favorite memories include spending summers on Lake Koronis, “up north”, where her family caretook a property. The tiny cottage they stayed in was near the town where her grandparents and other family members lived. Her early stories lovingly revolve around times with them. She attended Luther College and earned degrees in Health and Communications. She put those degrees to work in healthcare and a not-for-profit before she and James relocated to central Minnesota. That move from Rochester was really our first “Is this what we want” moment and involved a paper wall map and darts. No kidding. Donelle is an energetic force who loves to train and improve … well, anything. She earned a Master’s Degree in Education specializing in Training and Human Performance Improvement as she is always striving to learn more. Twenty years in her own training and consulting business set her up well for her roles in a few organizations before landing at a healthcare system prior to the start of our journey. Donelle is the planner, organizer, and strategic overthinker who is working on “being still”. The phrase, “it’s good enough” will cause her eye to start twitching.

Our sweet and sassy rescue husky mix has shared her enthusiasm, cuteness, and lots of fur since we adopted her April 2020. Thankfully, she only requires two walks a day rather than the 9-mile bike rides of her puppy days. She is ready and willing to “tell us” when she wants something or just wants to be left alone. She has been a wonderful travel companion who easily goes with the flow.