Cycled a loop north of downtown Minneapolis with a friend. Here at Victory Memorial Drive, a monument honors the sacrifices of Hennepin County residents during both World Wars. Flags across Minnesota are currently lowered in remembrance of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, who was assassinated ten days ago.
Category: Living
First-world problem: a whining sound
A video showing a whining sound at this bathroom vent can reach 75 decibels helped to get our building’s management company to own the problem. The extraction fan is on the roof and should be silent in our home. The air is controlled by a motorized damper which makes no sound when open. Parts of the roof fan will be replaced. Over the years we’ve found this circa 1995 sound meter to be useful when addressing noise issues.
A utilitarian space gets a makeover
At the end of our steamy walk, two artists were putting the finishing touches on a geometric mural, its design inspired by shapes found in local historic landmarks. This softens a utilitarian side entrance to our building. Our main lobby and common areas regularly feature themed art shows by local artists. The art remains on display until the next show, and we have the option to purchase pieces.
Favorite summer activities
Despite temperatures in the high 80s, we enjoyed a relaxed bike ride down one side of the river to Minnehaha Park, returning on the other. We stopped at Loons Coffee for a cuppa and to pick up freshly roasted beans. Curiously, an out-of-season theme of small Christmas trees and a poinsettia was emerging inside. Still, folks were enthusiastic about sharing their favorite summer activities.
A cup of kindness at Pow Wow Grounds
Popped into Pow Wow Grounds, a Native-owned and operated coffee shop surrounded by one of the largest urban Native American populations in the country. When I ordered my coffee, the young barista ran a card on a string through the payment terminal causing it to display an unexpected “$0.” Noticing my confusion, he pointed to a sign and explained, “No charge for coffee for elders.” I accepted graciously.
Bonhomie at Falling Knife
Cycled over to Falling Knife Brewery with friends who live in our building. Good conversation flowed in the taproom.
A space where thoughts drift
During a random bike ride, I found myself at the Walker Art Center and stopped for a tasty lunch. Afterward, I sat alone in James Turrell’s Sky Pesher, feeling calm under the opening in the ceiling that frames the sky. It brought back memories of another Turrell room in Kanazawa, Japan, at the lovely 21st Century Museum of Modern Art—where, come to think of it, I also had a fine lunch back in April. Happy thoughts.
Did Lunds & Byerlys miss the memo?
When I stopped by L&B for some groceries, it appeared they hadn’t read the memo from the federal government. This is a business we happily support.
A sad day in Minnesota
The Minnesota Orchestra’s season finale began with reflective words, Elgar’s deeply emotional “Nimrod,” and a moment of silence.
A soaking day
It’s a grey damp day, best for hunkering down. After rinsing, I’ll hot-soak these dried beans, then freeze half. I’m poking around the freezer for ideas for a bean dish for dinner tonight using the other half of the beans. So far, a ham shank and mirepoix are lined up. Fresh garlic, bay leaves, and cumin should punch up the flavor. Brown rice and stir-fried Swiss chard will balance the meal.