Illuminated after 21 Years

On my walk, a re-lit Grain Belt Beer sign added warmth against a grey sky. The sign had been dark for twenty-one years.

Farewell, Queen of the Sky

Watched a 747-400 make this low pass then a farewell lap at MSP before landing, the end of 747 passenger operations by any American airline. I have fond memories of Northwest Orient’s “wide cabins in the sky” taking us from MSP to Tokyo Narita and points beyond.

St. Paul Art Deco

Explored St. Paul’s City Hall and County Courthouse Art Deco building. The lobby is a war memorial. At the base of the huge statue, Vision of Peace, five Native Americans are depicted smoking a peace pipe.

It’s Older Than Me

Walked across the Mississippi to Dinkytown for corned beef hash at Al’s. This 14-stool diner is older than me.

Monday Morning Coffees

From under the duvet, I hear the daily grind. Dwight is edging towards his workday. It’s time for my daily incantation: “OK Google, what time is it?” “OK Google, turn on National Public Radio” “OK Google, turn on bedroom lights” “OK Google, bring coffee” OK, I don’t ask Google to bring coffee. I stick my… Continue reading Monday Morning Coffees

University of St. Thomas

Cycled in shirtsleeve weather past a vaguely ecclesiastical entrance to the athletic field at the University of St. Thomas.

A Sporting House

November 2017. I look out from our Minneapolis Mill District apartment. Ahead, I see St. Anthony Falls, the only significant waterfall on the Mississippi. A hydroelectric plant, established in 1882, still generates enough power for thousands of homes. Minneapolis grew up around these falls. Across the river I pick out the Pillsbury “A” Mill. Completed… Continue reading A Sporting House