Cow Cuddling Near Detroit: Why Cuddly Coos Farm in Swartz Creek is Worth the Drive
There’s a small farm about an hour outside Detroit where time slows down, stress melts away, and two of the most irresistible Highland cows are waiting to meet you. Welcome to Cuddly Coos Farm, and yes, you can cuddle them.
If your idea of a perfect Michigan weekend involves something a little unexpected, a lot wholesome, and genuinely good for your soul, keep reading. Cuddly Coos Farm in Swartz Creek is the kind of place Metro Detroit didn’t know it needed. Once you’ve been, you’ll wonder how you ever went without it.
A Family Farm Built on Love (and Really Good Vibes)
Tucked away at 9348 Seymour Road in Swartz Creek, just over an hour from Detroit and a quick drive from Flint, Lansing, Ann Arbor, and the surrounding suburbs, Cuddly Coos Farm is a small, family-owned operation. These are real people who genuinely adore their animals and have built something special.
Every session here is private and by appointment only. There’s no crowd, no chaos, no rush. Just you, the countryside, and two extraordinarily fluffy cows. For anyone living the Metro Detroit hustle, that alone feels like a gift.
Meet Pip Pip and Cheerio
Let’s get to the stars of the show.
Cuddly Coos Farm is home to two mini Highland cows, and they are the kind of animals that make you stop scrolling, put your phone down, and just be present, which, if you live in southeast Michigan, might be the rarest thing of all.
Pip Pip is a stunning black and white Highland cow. He’s striking, loves to lick, and completely unforgettable.
Then there’s Cheerio, a warm, golden-tan beauty who lives up to every bit of her cheerful name. She has a way of leaning into you like she’s known you her whole life, and honestly? You’ll feel the same way almost instantly.
Highland cows are a Scottish breed celebrated for their calm, unhurried temperaments. They don’t spook easily, they move with quiet confidence, and they have an almost meditative energy that rubs off on everyone around them. Spending time with Pip Pip and Cheerio isn’t just adorable, it’s genuinely calming in a way that’s hard to explain until you’ve experienced it yourself.
What You Can Book
Cuddly Coos Farm keeps things beautifully simple with two core experiences. Both are worth doing. Here’s what to expect from each.
Cow Cuddling Session — 30 Minutes
This is your introduction to the good life. Thirty minutes of one-on-one time with the Highland cows, brushing, leaning in close, soaking up their calm energy, and letting the outside world completely disappear.
It is wonderful. It is peaceful. And it goes way too fast.
Seriously, the 30-minute session is pure joy from start to finish, but you will absolutely look up at some point, realize your time is almost up, and feel a very specific kind of mild grief about it. Pip Pip and Cheerio are that charming. Come prepared for that moment.
Cow Spa Session — 1 Hour
If the cuddle session is a taste, the Spa Session is the full meal. You get a whole hour to bathe the cows, brush out their stunning coats, blow dry them, and give them the full pamper treatment they absolutely deserve.
If you’re trying to decide between the two sessions, go with the Spa. Book the cuddle session another time. You will not regret giving yourself the full hour, even if it still won’t feel like enough.
Why Cuddling Cows Is Actually Really Good for You
This isn’t just a fun outing (though it absolutely is that). There’s real science behind why people leave Cuddly Coos Farm feeling genuinely lighter.
Calm animal interaction has been shown to lower cortisol, the stress hormone your body produces when you’re overwhelmed, overscheduled, or staring at Metro Detroit traffic. Time with gentle animals also triggers the release of oxytocin, the bonding hormone linked to feelings of warmth, connection, and calm. It’s sometimes called the “cuddle chemical,” which feels extremely appropriate here.
Highland cows are especially well-suited for this kind of experience because of their naturally slow, steady temperament. They’re not reactive. They’re not loud. They breathe deeply, move gently, and seem entirely unbothered by everything, and that energy is genuinely contagious.
There’s also something powerfully grounding about being fully present with a large, gentle animal. You can’t half pay attention. You can’t multitask. You are simply there. Which, for a lot of us, is harder to find than it sounds. For anyone managing anxiety, burnout, or just the relentless noise of everyday life in southeast Michigan, time at Cuddly Coos Farm is the kind of reset that actually works.
Who Is This Perfect For?
Honestly? Everyone. But if any of these sound like you, move this to the top of your Michigan bucket list:
- You want a unique date idea near Detroit that’s actually memorable
- You’re planning a girls’ trip or birthday outing in Michigan
- You need a mental health day that doesn’t involve a screen
- You’re looking for family-friendly activities in Genesee County
- You want a day trip from Detroit, Ann Arbor, or Lansing that feels worth the drive
- You’ve seen Highland cows on your feed and thought I need to meet one, because you do
Cuddly Coos Farm also offers Mobile Minis, where they bring the cows directly to your event, birthdays, weddings, graduations, you name it. Highland cows at your wedding is, objectively, the correct choice.
Plan Your Visit
Address: 9348 Seymour Rd, Swartz Creek, MI 48473
Swartz Creek is a straight, easy shot up I-69 from the Metro Detroit area, about an hour from Detroit, 30 minutes from Flint, and under 90 minutes from most of southeast Michigan. It’s absolutely worth the drive.
Conclusion
Cuddly Coos Farm is a small place doing something genuinely special. It’s a family-owned Michigan farm where two beautiful Highland cows, Pip Pip and Cheerio, are waiting to completely win you over.
The 30-minute cuddle session will leave you wanting more. The hour-long Spa Session will leave you wondering why you don’t do this every weekend. And either way, you’ll drive home feeling better than when you arrived, which is the whole point.
Book your session at cuddlycoosfarm.com. Go for the hour. Bring someone with you or go solo!
Have you visited Cuddly Coos Farm? Share your experience in the comments! And if you’re searching for things to do near Detroit, unique Michigan day trips, or farm experiences in mid-Michigan, you just found your new favorite answer.
The Faithful: Women of the Bible. Free Coloring Page & Scripture Inspiration
The highly anticipated Biblical Event Series, The Faithful: Women of the Bible, starring Minnie Driver, Natacha Karam, and Jeffrey Donovan, premieres Sunday, March 22 (8:00–10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX and unfolds as a three-week television event culminating on Easter Sunday, April 5. Episodes will also stream the next day on Hulu.
Filmed on location in Rome and Matera, Italy, this landmark series brings to life the stories of women from the Book of Genesis, exploring themes of faith, hope, perseverance, and God’s guidance. Through moments of waiting, trust, brokenness, forgiveness, and redemption, the series invites viewers to see Scripture passages with renewed understanding and compassion.
Meet the Women of Faith
Each episode follows the journeys of five women:
- Sarah (Minnie Driver) — learning to trust God’s promises even when hope feels impossible
- Hagar (Natacha Karam) — discovering that God sees and cares for the forgotten
- Rebekah (Alexa Davalos) — wrestling with family, purpose, and the consequences of choice
- Leah (Millie Brady) and Rachel (Blu Hunt) — sisters navigating love, identity, and God’s blessing
These stories remind us that God works through imperfect people to accomplish a story far greater than any one life, a story that ultimately points forward to hope.
Anchor Your Soul in Hope
Inspired by the themes of the series, we created a free coloring page featuring the message:
“Hope Anchors the Soul” — Hebrews 6:19
This printable is a creative way to reflect on Scripture and meditate on God’s promises. Whether you’re having a challenging day or just need a moment of calm, coloring and journaling can help anchor your heart in hope.
Scripture Inspiration for Women
While using the coloring page, meditate on these uplifting verses:
- Proverbs 31:25 – “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
- Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
- Psalm 46:5 – “God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.”
- Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
- Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
These verses anchor us in God’s promises and offer encouragement for women navigating life’s challenges.
How to Use the Coloring Page
- Reflect – Meditate on Hebrews 6:19 while coloring the anchor illustration.
- Color – Engage creatively while practicing mindful reflection.
- Journal – Write prayers, thoughts, or insights inspired by Scripture.
- Share – Gift it to a friend, family member, or small group to encourage faith and hope.
- Download Here
Watch, Reflect, and Discuss
Pair your coloring time with watching The Faithful: Women of the Bible. Use the episodes as a conversation starter about faith, perseverance, and God’s faithfulness across generations. The journeys of Sarah, Hagar, Rebekah, Leah, and Rachel remind us that hope is active, resilient, and anchors our soul — just like the coloring page illustrates.
Les Cheneaux Culinary School Review: A Hidden Culinary Gem in Northern Michigan
There are meals you enjoy, and then there are meals you find yourself describing to strangers weeks later.
My Valentine’s Day dinner at Les Cheneaux Culinary School in Hessel, Michigan, fell firmly into the second category. If you’ve been searching for a truly special dining experience in Michigan, something beyond supper clubs and steakhouses, this intimate culinary school tucked along the waterfront of the Les Cheneaux Islands region deserves a spot at the top of your list.
What Is Les Cheneaux Culinary School?
Most people driving through the Upper Peninsula don’t know this place exists. That’s exactly what makes it special. Les Cheneaux Culinary School is a working culinary institution located in the charming waterfront village of Hessel, Michigan. But it’s far more than a cooking school, it’s a gathering place for serious food lovers in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
It’s the kind of place that quietly punches above its weight, bringing globally-inspired technique and restaurant-quality menus to a part of Michigan most people only visit for the scenery.
(Spoiler: the food is worth the drive on its own.)
The Valentine’s Day Tasting Dinner: Course by Course
I attended the Valentine’s dinner, which was a five course tasting menu, and every single dish was better than the last.
Here’s what we had, and what made each course memorable:
Tom Kha Kai — Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
I’ve ordered Tom Kha Kai at Thai restaurants, and nothing has come close to this version.
The broth was silky and deeply aromatic, It’s the kind of soup that makes you slow down. You don’t rush through it.
Soba Salad — The Dish I’m Still Thinking About
Nobody walks into a tasting dinner expecting the soba salad to be the most memorable bite of the night.
This soba salad changed that for me. The textures were ideal: light enough to feel refreshing between courses, satisfying enough to stand alone. It was simple. It was perfect. I’ve thought about it since.
Pork Belly Bao — The Best Bao I’ve Ever Eaten
I’ll say it plainly: this was the best bao bun I’ve ever had. The bun itself was pillowy and airy with a faint sweetness. Every element in the bite balanced richness, softness, and a bright finish that kept it from feeling heavy. For a dish that sounds simple on paper, the execution here was extraordinary.
Poached South African Lobster Tail — Quiet Elegance
The main course arrived with no fanfare, and it didn’t need any. Poached South African lobster tail, buttery, tender, and perfectly cooked. Poaching preserved the lobster’s natural sweetness in a way that high-heat methods rarely do. This dish was refined and restrained, letting world-class seafood speak for itself.
It was the kind of course you eat slowly because you don’t want it to end.
Lemongrass Posset — A Perfect Finish
Dessert closed the evening with a lemongrass posset. Silky, aromatic, and just the right amount of indulgent. The citrus and lemongrass were present without being sharp, and the creamy texture felt luxurious without sitting heavy. It was a thoughtful way to end a meal that had taken you through bold, layered flavors all evening.
Why Les Cheneaux Culinary School Is Worth the Trip
What separates a great restaurant meal from a great culinary experience is intention. At Les Cheneaux Culinary School, every detail of these curated dinners feels considered. The progression of courses, the sourcing of ingredients, the way global techniques are applied without feeling out of place in a small Michigan waterfront town.
The atmosphere is intimate and warm. The chefs are genuinely talented. And the setting, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Les Cheneaux Islands, makes the whole evening feel like a special occasion even before the food arrives.
For anyone visiting the Upper Peninsula, this is one of the most underrated dining experiences in all of Northern Michigan.
Coming Up: Memorial Day Weekend Dinner
If you missed the Valentine’s dinner, the next opportunity is just around the corner. Les Cheneaux Culinary School is hosting another curated tasting dinner during Memorial Day weekend, and early word on the menu sounds just as impressive. These events fill up fast, the intimate format means limited seating. If you’re planning a trip to the Les Cheneaux area or looking for something special this spring, reserve your seat early. Register for the Memorial Day Weekend Dinner.
Where is Les Cheneaux Culinary School located?
The school is located in Hessel, Michigan, in the Les Cheneaux Islands region of the Upper Peninsula.
Is Les Cheneaux Culinary School open to the public for dining?
Yes, their curated tasting dinners are open to the public and held as special events throughout the year. Seating is limited.
Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes. These events sell out quickly. Check their website for upcoming dates and booking information.
Is it worth visiting just for the food?
Absolutely. The Valentine’s dinner was one of the best meals I’ve had anywhere, not just in Michigan. The Les Cheneaux Culinary School Restaurant opens Friday, June 19th for the season and I cannot wait to check it out.
10 Midwest Getaways to Melt Away the Winter Blues
Winter in the Midwest can feel long and gray, but the right getaway can make all the difference. From cozy small towns to scenic winter landscapes and vibrant cities, these Midwest winter getaways offer the perfect escape, without breaking the bank.
Whether you want snow covered charm, relaxation, or indoor culture, here are 10 of the best winter getaways in the Midwest.
1. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City is magical in winter. Think snowy Lake Michigan views, cozy wineries, quiet downtown streets, and seasonal events.
Best for: cozy vibes, wine tasting, winter walks
2. Door County, Wisconsin
With fewer crowds and snow-covered shorelines, Door County becomes peaceful and romantic in winter. Many inns and shops stay open year-round.
Best for: cabins, lakeside views, winter relaxation
3. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago shines in winter with world-class museums, theater, restaurants, and a stunning snowy skyline—especially along the lakefront.
Best for: city escapes, food lovers, culture
4. Galena, Illinois
This historic town feels straight out of a Hallmark movie in winter. Expect charming streets, cozy inns, and rolling snowy hills.
Best for: romantic getaways, small-town charm
5. Frankenmuth, Michigan
Known as “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth is cozy and festive all winter long. With charming shops, indoor attractions, and famous comfort food, it’s an easy winter escape.
Best for: festive vibes, comfort food
6. Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota
The Twin Cities embrace winter with heated skyways, great dining, museums, and outdoor skating trails for those who love cold-weather energy.
Best for: urban winter fun, arts, food
7. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Lake Geneva offers cozy resorts, winter hiking paths, spa experiences, and beautiful frozen lake views.
Best for: spa weekends, couples, relaxation
8. Saugatuck, Michigan
Quieter in winter but still charming, Saugatuck offers lakeshore walks, art galleries, and cozy stays with fewer crowds.
Best for: peaceful winter walks, art lovers, relaxing weekends
9. Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is an underrated winter getaway with jazz history, barbecue, museums, and fewer crowds during colder months.
Best for: foodies, culture, weekend trips
10. Duluth, Minnesota
Duluth in winter is dramatic and beautiful. Frozen Lake Superior, snowy cliffs, and cozy lodges create a memorable cold-weather escape.
Best for: winter scenery, adventure, photography
Why Midwest Winter Getaways Are Worth It
Winter travel in the Midwest often means fewer crowds, lower prices, and a slower pace. These destinations prove that you don’t have to escape the region to escape the winter blues, you just need the right setting.
9 Analog Hobbies to Replace Your Screen Time This Year
If you’re craving a slower pace and less screen time, analog hobbies are a beautiful place to start. These offline activities help you stay present, creative, and connected without notifications or endless scrolling.
1. Needlepoint
Needlepoint is rhythmic, calming, and deeply satisfying. It’s perfect for quiet evenings and lets you create something tangible with your hands.
2. Taking In-Person Classes
Whether it’s pottery, cooking, art, or a language class, learning in person builds real connection and keeps you fully engaged in the moment.
3. Sending Snail Mail
Writing letters, postcards, or thank-you notes adds intention to communication and turns everyday thoughts into meaningful keepsakes.
4. Hand Embroidery
Hand embroidery is a slower, more detailed craft that encourages focus and creativity, ideal for unwinding without a screen.
5. Knitting or Crocheting
These classic fiber arts are repetitive, meditative, and practical. Bonus: you end up with something warm or giftable.
6. Reading Physical Books
There’s nothing like holding a real book. Reading offline improves focus, reduces eye strain, and feels far more immersive.
7. Baking from Scratch
Baking engages all your senses and rewards you with something delicious. It’s grounding, creative, and wonderfully screen-free.
8. Gardening
Whether it’s a full garden or a few potted herbs, gardening connects you to nature and teaches patience and care.
9. Puzzles
Puzzles improve concentration, give your hands something to do, and are perfect for evenings when you’d normally reach for your phone.
Replacing even a small portion of your screen time with analog hobbies can help you feel calmer, more creative, and more present in everyday life. You don’t have to quit screens you just have to give yourself better alternatives.
Fashion meets Food 