This week I get to tell everyone about my home state, Minnesota. It’s one of my favorite places-
and not just because it's where I'm from! I think lots of people think it's just cold there and there's a lot of farmland, but there is SO much more to it
than that!
Lake Harriet
I love the fact that there
are over 10,000 lakes of varying sizes and shapes. Where I used to live in
Minneapolis people spend lots of time walking around the lakes, swimming in
them, boating, water-skiing, fishing, picnicking near them and feeding the
ducks. While there are thousands of lakes, one of my favorites is Lake Harriet.
When we lived there, my mom and I liked to walk around it every chance we got.
It wasn't a far walk from our house, so it was almost a daily thing. Of course,
going “up north” to visit the lake where my family has a cabin is always a ton
of fun, especially in the summer. Walking along the dirt roads with my grandma, picking raspberries, and learning to water ski are some of my fondest
memories of being up and away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The only
bad part about going “up north” was that, until a few years ago, we didn’t have
indoor plumbing. I didn’t mind using the well and pumping water to brush my
teeth, but the outhouse is something I am glad to have said goodbye to for
good. We still have our cabin, and I look
forward to going back there this summer. I can’t wait for Fairday to join
me!
Yes lakes are fabulous, and so is all the exercise and outdoor activity,
but being indoors can be pretty cool too. One of the things people know about
Minnesota is that we have the largest mall in America. The Mall of America is
pretty amazing, though I didn't do all my shopping there. With 400 stores it
could keep serious shoppers busy for a long time. Besides all the shopping there's an aquarium, an amusement park,
Legoland and all kinds of interesting attractions to keep you entertained, and
out of the cold. I have to say that I
love the roller coasters there and think everyone should try them if they get
the chance to visit.
When it comes to
winter sports we have a lot of states beat! I learned to ice skate when I was
only three. With so many places to show off your skills some of my best
memories are skating with my friends at the park at the end of our street. Some people think Minnesota is too cold, but
I loved spending time outside sledding
and having snowball fights. My older brother loves to go snowmobiling and has
even ice fished!
Minnesota is so
special, but what makes it truly an outstanding place is the friendly smiles
you get as you walk down the street and the hellos you hear from everyone, even
strangers. There is lots to explore, see, and enjoy in my home state! You betcha you’d like it!
Has anyone else been
to Minnesota? Have you seen any of the lakes or enjoyed a pop (soda) in the
Mall of America? We’d love to hear your thoughts.
~L