Road Taken Author’s Retreat: 2-bedroom cottage in North Ephraim with WiFi, AC

Krista and Corey, both Wisconsin farm kids, bought this cottage after Corey’s father passed away at 69, reminding them to cherish life’s moments. Corey’s family used to visit Door County after milking cows in Manitowoc County. They would pick cherries, grab a quick lunch, and rush back for evening milking. Krista first visited Door County with Corey when they started dating. She grew up on a dairy farm in Omro, where Knigge Farms became the first U.S. farm to milk cows with robots in 2000 (check out Knigge Farms on Facebook for tours, just 2 hours south).

The couple made several property improvements themselves, starting by removing a tree that had pushed into the foundation (guests can use the stacked firewood from that endeavor for a bonfire!). With help from friends and contractors, they lifted the house, poured a new foundation, replaced support beams, re-roofed, removed asbestos, insulated, added siding, and even added a bedroom and back porch. They kept the charming oak hardwood floors and quaint vibe of the cottage and also transplanted Krista’s favorite Hostas from Mukwonago and are constantly battling deer and rabbits to protect them. 😉

Passionate about food, they admire Door County’s culinary talent and enjoy a good meal with friends. One of their side gigs involves delivering Hoard’s Dairyman Creamery cheese from Fort Atkinson to select Door County restaurants, offering the chance to meet local proprietors. Krista and Corey also served on the Alice in Dairyland Door County Host Committee, connecting with residents and business owners to showcase Door County’s agriculture and tourism to candidates competing for the role of Wisconsin’s agricultural ambassador.