I’ve been here in Minneapolis since Saturday visiting my cousin, Erin, and her fiancé, Andrew. I’m so grateful they invited me to stay with them as I would not have gone through the state of Minnesota otherwise. It’s so cool here! Why didn’t anyone tell me before? Here’s why I think it is so:

The Bridges: I love bridges; we don’t have many in Utah. With the Mississippi river there are plenty to be found here in Minneapolis. Erin took me to Stone Arch Bridge my first night in Minneapolis.

2. The Food: Erin took me to The Anchor Fish & Chips; we waited outside with our beers for 30 minutes (perfect temp) then ordered fish & chips (of course) which were de-li-cious! There was one BIG fillet of fried fish that was so moist and tasty you had to lick your fingers after EVERY bite. Lard . . . mmmmmmmmm!

3. Lakes: This should go without saying . . . Sunday morning Erin, Andrew, and I walked around part of Lake Calhoun. It was the next to last day people could have their boats on the water so it was busy with people taking their last rides and collecting their water crafts. It was surprisingly 80°+ so snow cones were a must as we sat by the water’s edge.

4. Trees: It is absolutely picturesque to be in Minneapolis while the leaves are changing; the streets and lakes are surrounded by a strong saturation of color. It’s hard to look away.

5. Halloween!: Let’s be honest, it’s great to be anywhere that celebrates Halloween. I hope I find wonderful Halloween festivities wherever I end up that day.

6. Art: There are theaters for just about every neighborhood and wonderful displays of art to view on the street and in buildings. I didn’t realize how prevalent the arts are here, but I know I didn’t even scratch the surface of what could be found.

I could go on and on from the awesome recycling/compost programs Minneapolis runs to the 2 hour Amazon (that’s right – two HOURS) shipping options (I’d never leave the house again). Visit BEFORE it gets cold – nobody wants to be in 2° weather, but also visit after it’s done being hot (ugh, humidity). If you’re a delicate temperature flower like me then come in the fall time – you’ll wonder why you didn’t experience it sooner.