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Jamie Blotske and husband, Chet, have three small children and happily call Billings their home. She is extremely passionate about the great outdoors. She is a graduate of MSU-Billings with a bachelor's degree in Outdoor Adventure Leadership. Her family is currently in pursuit of hiking in all 50 states, and you can follow along on the family blog (thebackpackingblotskes.com) or Instagram (@thebackpackingblotskes).  

Billings’ Sushi Staple: NaRa

Family was evident upon walking into the doors of NaRa at 10am on a Saturday, as the restaurant was preparing to open later that day.

Five Day-Trips to Bid Farewell to Summer

The end of summer is always bittersweet. While we look forward to cooling temps, fall colors, and the return of routine, letting go of the longer days, warm sun, time with our kids, and the endless fe...

Love and SONshine Ministries: Giving Hope to Teen Moms

Love and SONshine Ministries is dedicated to providing homeless teen moms a safe place to call home, as they navigate their newfound life in motherhood. Sisters Heather Petty and Heidi Williams knew t...

Dip into Paradise at Yellowstone Hot Springs

With multiple ways to rest, renew and recharge, Yellowstone Hot Springs offers a unique, one-of-a-kind soaking experience for travelers near and far. The water is rich in minerals, the pools are set a...

Senior Photography: Tips for Better Senior Portraits

A senior photography session is an important milestone in a high school student’s life. Having quality images to reflect back on is a timeless keepsake for both the individual and their family members...

Date Night Done Right: Staying In

While going out on a date night is always a great option, consider staying in. During this season for sweethearts, make plans today for a romantic night in with a recipe for “love”! 

Vacation Planning Starts… Now!

The anticipation of a vacation is *almost* just as thrilling as the actual vacation. Efficient travel planning is essential to a successful vacation, and the sooner you begin this process, the better...

Gardiner, Montana: More Than a Gateway

With the holiday season behind us, the winter months can often be long. There isn’t much to look forward to as we wait out the snow and extremely cold temperatures. Making plans for a winter escape co...

Breaking Bread: The Gift of Social Eating

The act of communal eating is universal, whether in feasts or everyday meals. Our culture sees the value and importance of breaking bread with one another. It is a simple way of bringing people togeth...

Real Estate Realties: The Truth Behind Today’s Market

Billings, Montana, is a desirable place for many to call home, so the real estate market is thriving. With that being said, the market in the magic city has its fair share of challenges as the busines...

Local Golf Legends: Leslie Spalding & Marcus Drange

The game of golf is one for the ages, as it has been played for centuries. Both men and women have found huge success in the sport. Local golfers, Leslie Spalding and Marcus Drange, are two of the bes...

Golfing with Grands: Bonding Over Tee Time

The game of golf is a sport for all ages, making it an ideal way to spend a summer day for both the grandparent and grandchild. Two local grandpas have found that to be the case and their grandsons wo...

Brunch: The Home Edition

Whoever decided to combine breakfast and lunch was brilliant! Brunch is a fun outing for many but doing brunch from home can be just as much fun, it not even more. Let the creativity flow as you follo...

Fitness Today for a Better Tomorrow: It's Never too Late 

Life is busy, and time is short. Establishing a priority list and setting healthy boundaries is something we all struggle with from time to time. But one thing is certain; without our physical health,...

The Perfect Pair: Orangetheory Fitness & Nékter Juice Bar

For Billings' locals, look no further than Orangetheory Fitness and Nekter Juice Bar. The neighboring businesses are the perfect pair, as you can stop for a heart-pumping workout followed by a freshly...

Pickleball 101: Basics for Beginners

Pickleball just so happens to be the fastest-growing sport that you may never have heard of! Best described as a mix of racket/paddle sports (think tennis, ping pong, and racquetball), it’s a fun, soc...

Billings Food Trucks: Find Your Flavor

Billings is no stranger to the food truck scene. There are some seriously sensational menus scattered throughout the Magic City. Following right in the footsteps of this flavorful fad, Billings is ste...

Fly Fishing: Beyond Beginner's Luck

"In Montana, there are three things we are never late for. Church, supper, and fishing."
-Paul Maclean, 'A River Runs Through It'

Escape the Ordinary: A Romantic Getaway at the Yonder Yurt

The sun isn't the only thing heating up this summer! what better way Wo celebrate your loved one than by whisking them away for a unique and unforgettable romantic getaway?

The Magic City’s Secret Garden 

Located on Washington Street, DanWalt Gardens is in the city but secluded enough by nature to feel as though you are not.

Cooking Up Comfort with Sophie's Kitchen

Sophie's Kitchen, which opened its doors in November 2019, is taking comfort food to the next level.

Meet the Chef: The Midway Grill and Brews

Meet Aaron Zitar, executive chef at The Midway Grill and Brews.

Simply Local Travel Series: Send off to Summer

As summer winds down, you might be wondering how to end things with a bang. As we wrap up this summer series, we've got a few more ideas for you!

Simply Local Travel Series: Natural Wonders

The Backpacking Blotskes explore 3 of their must-visit Natural Wonders in this edition of the Simply Local Travel Series.

Top 3 Mountain Hikes With Kids

While hikes with tykes require more work, strength, and determination, the reward outweighs it all!

Simply Local Travel Series: High in the Sky

Check out our 3 picks for this month's edition of the Simply Local Travel Series!

Walt Disney World: Where Dreams Come True

When planning a trip to the most magical place on Earth, who better to take advice from than Walt Disney himself? “First, think. Second, dream. Third, believe. And finally, dare.” ~Walt Disney

You’ve Got a Friend in Me: Celebrating Friendship

A friend turned family is a treasure and just as a chest box full of gold, rubies, and gems is extremely rare, so too is a friend as described.

Ice, Ice Baby: Hike to Frozen Palisade Falls

Just when you think that a waterfall couldn't be any more magical, it freezes. Experience this awe-inspiring beauty at Palisade Falls.

Family Themed Costumes

Fun family-themed costume ideas for Halloween!

My Baby and a Backpack

A mom's thoughts on sending her "baby" to school.

End of Summer Escapes

With the school year approaching, a quick escape is a great way to say good-bye to summer and hello to fall! Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend stay, Big Sky Country offers the best of the best in l...

Camping with Littles

Camping with littles? Don't do it. Ha! I'm just kidding...
All jokes aside, camping with toddlers is work. Without a game plan, they will take your cake, eat it, and throw the crumbs in your face.

Adventure in the Magic City

Adventure awaits in our own backyard! Discover Billings' best trails.

Labor, Delivery & COVID-19

Labor, Delivery & COVID-19: Giving birth during a global pandemic

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