Mashup Monday:  A random-mix of places I love. No rhyme, no reason

Northern Brewer  For the beer geek in all of us. As a “small shop,” they are kind of big (St. Paul, Minneapolis, and Milwaukee), but they used to be small not so long ago. Everything you need for making your own home brew (or wine).

Art Scraps The best second-use of industrial leftovers, donated collections (maps, fabric sample books, old National Geographics), and other would-be garbage. The ultimate source for making art with kids. 1459 Saint Clair Avenue, Saint Paul

On’s Thai Kitchen My new favorite Thai food. 1613 University Avenue West, Saint Paul

Wet Paint My candy store. Paper, pens, paints – all the usual stuff you’d find in an art supply store—one on steroids anyway. Where I go to buy my arty kid all his gifts (he shops himself at Art Scraps). 1684 Grand Avenue, Saint Paul

Minneapolis American Indian Center  The Woodland Indian Crafts store carries locally made beadwork and greeting cards as well as bead supplies. While you’re shopping, stop in for lunch (Monday-Friday) at the Wolf’s Den Circle Café. 1530 East Franklin Avenue, Minneapolis

St. Paul Corner Drug  Yes, this is a pharmacy, but they stock all of life’s little needs:  candy, greeting cards, phosphate sodas, and great advice. 240 South Snelling Avenue, Saint Paul

Borealis Yarns   A truly sensual collection of yarns that their website doesn’t do justice too. Free classes, too.  1340 Thomas Avenue, Saint Paul

Quinn Violin Didn’t you always want to play the Cello? You can rent one from $34 a month or buy one and all the necessary accoutrements. 1081 21st Avenue, Southeast Minneapolis

Chatterbox Pub Great food and video games from my childhood:  Atari, Nintendo, Frogger, etc. 800 Cleveland Avenue South, St Paul

Highland Nursery Plant magic anytime of the year. 1742 7th Street West, Saint Paul

The Day by Day Café Breakfast all day – score a table in the library or patio if you can. To-die-for caramel rolls. Read their history; I like that they hire people in recovery. We all need a leg up once in a while. Cash or check only. 477 7th Street West, Saint Paul

Ax-Man Surplus Stores ‎ Self-declared “surplus heaven,” which it truly is. 1639 University Avenue West, Saint Paul

Tune in tomorrow for a West Metro spotlight, you might be surprised.