This week we bring you missives from glorious Gaylord, Michigan!Our great friend Mr. Paul Beachnau (or as we like to call him, Paulie B) is back to share everything he loves about his hometown, including cool things to do downtown during the holidays. Paulie is the director of the Gaylord Tourism Bureau, so trust us when we say he knows what he's talking about. He's also a major fan of winter. Yes, winter! Gaylord lies in the "snowbelt" of Michigan, which makes it an ideal destination for winter adventures across the northern lower peninsula. Paulie shares some tips on making the most out of your time in Gaylord.Christy Walcott from the Gaylord Tourism Bureau loves to eat, just like we do. She joins us and shares new spots to nosh at as Gaylord's culinary scene grows. You'll still find old favorites like Bennethum's Northern Inn and The Alpine Tavern welcoming guests with classic menus and warm atmospheres. But now you'll also find breweries, authentic Mexican and German spots, sushi and bourbon bars scattered across downtown. Christy's passion for Gaylord always shines through.We have updates on the fast-approaching winter ski season because ski hills are already making snow and will be open before you know it. Gaylord is home to two ski resorts, the historic Otsego Resort and Treetops, known as Michigan's Most Spectacular Resort. This family-friendly spot is the ideal place for both new and experienced skiers, with over 1500 acres to explore. This year, the resort is offering a new way to learn how to glide down the hills with ease. Barry Owens, general manager at Treetops shares how "terrain-based learning" works, and why you might want to give it a try.And yes, we WILL talk about winter rafting.....which is one of the COOLEST pure Michigan things you can do outside in the cold.....and something that will definitely have you EMBRACING WINTER. If you know, you know how very cool this activity is, and why you really should give it a try in Gaylord. We'll also talk about other ways to get on out there and really learn to love the cold, from snowshoeing to extreme tubing.To get more information and to help plan your next visit to the Gaylord region, check out:https://www.gaylordmichigan.net/Follow John and Amy:Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/behindthemittenTwitter at @BehindTheMittenInstagram at @BehindTheMitten