Minneapolis :: Day 02

 
 

Buckle up for a crazy fun day! 

 Last week, Cole moved into his new house that he’s sharing with 8–9 other guys, depending on the day. Most of them are on the soccer team, too. After living on his own for a year—and loving it—this is going to be quite the change. But I have a feeling he’s going to have a blast. The team had soccer practice in the morning, so we dropped Cole off at training and walked around campus while we waited for him before continuing on with our day. 

After practice, we dropped our car off at the hotel and took a Lyft to the Minnesota State Fair, where we met Mel + Leif, who were in town visiting Finn for the weekend! Rosie joined us later, too. I don’t know anyone who enjoys a fair quite like they do, and they were the best guides, which was very much appreciated. This fair is like no other I’ve ever been to. It’s MASSIVE! There were so many little things I probably would have passed right by if it weren’t for them. Like the Space Tower, where we got to see just how huge the fair really is. And the Butterfly House. And Ye Ole Tunnel—the original Tunnel of Love and the oldest attraction at the fair—which they insisted we do before we left. It ended up being quite hilarious. “Take a relaxing boat ride in a dark tunnel—and see some kitschy vignettes while you do.” 

We also got to watch the parade, which included the University of Minnesota Marching Band, and ate some really yummy food. We started with a pork chop on a stick -- a smart protein choice and absolutely delicious. The best bite for me, though, was the Hmong corndog! But we really only had one dud. The rest of our fair food choices were really good.

And, of course, there are the animals! We didn’t make it into every barn, but the goats are some of my favorites. We also saw the Miracle of Birth Center, which was something I’d never experienced before. Baby animals are too adorable. The fair was SO much fun. I really hope we make our way back there someday! 

 That night, we all surprised ourselves by rallying and heading out for a pre-birthday celebration! We went to Tullibee for some delicious cocktails and aquavit—a first for me. Seriously, the day couldn't have been any better.