What better way to spend a day!

State Parks are one of my favorite day activities. It's only $25 dollars for an annual state park sticker - practically free! Last weekend the 4 of us (Jon, myself, Brianna and Eko) headed to Banning State Park to meet up with Jeff, Shelley and their kids for a new adventure. It was a little gloomy out and misting, but it wouldn't be an adventure without a little challenge.
Jeff was gracious enough to lead us on the self-guided walk through the historic Banning Sandstone Quarry.

note the marker number (7 of 17 on a 1.8 mile hike)

Banning is on the Kettle river. Had I been more experienced (or even tried kayaking before) I would have considered kayaking down the river, but for now we just watched more experienced individuals travel down the rapids. Eko was the only one to take advantage of the river - drinking not swimming. Eko is much more enthusiastic about walks this year than last. He likes to explore and be right out in front. Notice him nosing around to see what the kids are looking at.
We had a really good afternoon and would recommend Banning to anyone who might be looking for a little something to do - I know Brianna had an excellent time!

Mr. Minnesota

If you are a living breathing Minnesotan you certainly have heard the news already. But here is a fine article by an ESPN writer in case you haven't.

Funny, 'cuz I thought ESPN only covered two markets...They must have pulled out Wikipedia to double check Minnesota actually existed!

Jeff had the amazing opportunity to snap a picture with Joe at the State Fair in 2008.  (Ok, so Joe was feeling a little cardboardy that day, but still...!)

Kentucky White Grass

The Twins hosted a Target Field Open House this weekend so Jeff, Micah, my dad and I went downtown and meandered around for a few hours Sunday afternoon. We looked around, sat in various seats, heard stories from ushers and other Twins fans, and had the thrilling opportunity to relive the final innings of game 163 on the jumbo..., neigh, the megaginormous...tron.It was a fantastic tease in preparation for the real thing in just a few short days!