Here's our southeast Minnesota cabin retreat. It's an Amish-built log cabin that our entire family enjoys, and it's quite an improvement over the mouse-infested modified farm building we previously called "the cabin."

It's a perfect getaway! No electricity or cell service allows us to spend time reading or playing games or just enjoying the outdoors.

The cabin has gas lights and a propane apartment-size cook stove, along with some solar-powered items. A loft provides a wonderful hangout for the kids while a propane-powered heating stove provides warmth and a soft glow on a cold winter night. It's Bestemor's (that's Norwegian for "grandmother") favorite spot! A composting toilet outhouse completes the simplistic getaway.

We're now on the third generation of family who enjoys getting away to the wonderful southeast Minnesota hills.

Kyle Wolfe, Owatonna
SEND US YOUR ICE-FISHING HOUSES! Cabin Country wants to celebrate your cold-weather hideouts this winter, everything from ice-fishing houses to cozy winter cabins. Send your story and photos to cabins@startribune.com or submit online at www.startribune.com/hideouts.