North through Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota

We had a great time visiting with my cousin Carolyn, her husband John and their two sons Riley and Dylan. They live just north of Chicago in a gorgeous home on three beautifully-landscaped acres. Our time with them was short. We saw a bit of downtown Chicago and a couple special exhibits at the Science museum. 

whopping crane

Next stop was Baraboo, Wisconsin where all 15 species of cranes reside at the International Crane Foundation. It was wonderful to see those beautiful birds, but the tour was slow and painful.

From there we drove by the quintessential farms of Wisconsin with their big barns, tall silos and green fields beneath cloud-studded blue skies. We spent the next couple days sightseeing in Minneapolis and St. Paul. 

Hiawatha and Minnehaha

A highlight in Minneapolis was the part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway that runs by the lakes (Harriet, Calhoun and of the Isles). Separate walking and biking paths twine around the lakes for miles, and the beautiful, majestic homes lining the opposite side of the road completed the idyllic scene. It seemed like everyone had poured out of their homes to enjoy the beautiful weather.

St Anthony Falls and Dam

Minneapolis

It was interesting to see the Upper St Anthony Falls Lock & Dam and learn about the mills that had used the falls to advantage. 

inside capitol

The following day we saw some sights in St. Paul, including the capitol.

St. Paul's Cathedral

AAA designates the Mall of America a gem. To us it was just a big mall with a lot of shops and an indoor recreation area with rides, which must be a blast in winter. In summer it seemed depressing and weird. The Lego creations at the Lego store were awesome.

airway beacon & Indian mound

All these creations are made of lego.

Neptune had a big time climbing the trees next to our campsite. Plato got up enough courage to run to his “safe” spot, the picnic table, and watch.

We’ve been gone 8 days. It seems much longer.