Lakes. Fish. Lakes. Cornfields. Lakes. Boats. Lakes.
Land of 10,000 lakes. Possibly more. They range in size from easy to jog around to drive for most of a day along Lake Superior — a portion of this mighty lake’s, not containment. Lake Itasca enjoys the official designation as the headwaters of the Mississippi River.
Our family visited this state often. Our family would roll down the windows to enjoy the scent of linseed oil as we crossed the bridge into our favorite small city for shopping. Relatives lived in Minneapolis and introduced the “farm kids” to fine museums, parks, and theater.
Farming. Mining. Manufacturing. Minnesota is important in all of these areas. Visitors can expect a warm welcome — but don’t be in too much of a hurry. The descendants of the hardy Scandinavian and German settlers insert pauses and make leisurely conversation. Enjoy the Great Outdoors in the North Woods — or cozy up with a companion at a music festival.
We’ve made a turn on our tour of the United States. It’s time to follow the west bank of the Mississippi River.