Trips between CO and MN

On the way to Minnesota, we stayed at the Fairfield Marriott in Lincoln, NE. Then, on the way home we camped at Mormon Island State Recreation Center near Grand Island, Nebraska. Camping instead of hoteling saved us about the cost of one tank of gas, which is considerable at this time. Mormon Island is a great location for travelers, just off of I-80 at exit 340 North (see photo below). People seemed especially helpful and friendly. We felt really lucky to avoid the thunderstorms in the distance. Watching fireflies was a treat. The Maggiolina sleepers were more effected by the campground noise and sticky weather than the van sleepers.

Grandma and Grandpa

As always, one of the highlights is eating Grandma’s meals. This time, we had loads of strawberries we picked at Pine Tree Farms in White Bear Lake to eat (see photo below). Grandpa fixed up Uncle’s “antique” Schwinn bikes for riding. Also, he engineered the removal of the canoe from the garage. Finally, Grandma detected and Grandpa re-attached a piece of plastic to the bottom of our van. We feel so fortunate for all their special treatment.

Event to Remember

• picking 12 lbs. of strawberries at Pine Tree Farms in White Bear Lake
• snail shell gathering and swimming at Snail Lake Beach
• riding bikes to Ken’s Market for treats and just riding through the neighborhood
• canoeing at Lake Johanna
• playing our keyboard and visiting the neighbors and performing a “concert”
• new Nickelodeon theme at Mall of America
• Anniversary date of Thai food and a movie
• Hot dogs, corn on the cob, and s’mores cooked on an open grill in the backyard
• Wall-E movie
• watching the Williams sisters dominate Wimbeldon
• playing tennis at Mounds View High School and at the park off of New Brighton along the power line path
• Watching fireworks with Grandpa over White Bear Lake with an awesome finale

Leaving

After saying farewell to Grandma and Grandpa, the van was filled with complaints of leaving too early. Just another sign that this trip was very special and memorable.