Today actually got off to a good start. I was sad to say goodbye to Andrea and Anna, but was excited about going to The Mall of America. And the day got even better when I saw signs for Laura Ingalls Wilder Information. I loved the Little House on the Prairie books and TV show, and couldn’t help but pull an impromptu detour to find out more. It took a while, but the signs finally led to a building in Menomonie, Wisconsin. There they had what appeared to be hand drawn maps and mimeographed brochures that led you to all the Little House sites in six states! I knew I’d never make it to the Mall if I tried to get to one of the sites today, so I’ll get up early and try to find one tomorrow.
Wrong choice. I should’ve blown off the Mall. Yes, it’s huge. Yes, it has all sorts of cool, different stores, like a great photo archive store, but I have a whole room full of craft stuff back home that I never do anything with and will need to get rid of when I move to the city, so I didn’t even let myself go in. It also has all the normal stores. In fact, the only thing I bought was from the Nordstrom Rack, and I could’ve done that in Framingham, Mass!
I really just wasn’t in a shopping mood. It would’ve been better if Nick was there – he would’ve loved it. Or if some of my girlfriends were with me. Or if I had money to blow. I kept thinking how I’d much rather be at a Minnesota Vikings or Timberwolves or Twins game or a concert or show – just not shopping! (I think there really might be something wrong with me…) The one highlight was that I did finally get my manicure and pedicure while I was there. My feet are much happier now. After that, though, I gave up. I knew I was just going to wander aimlessly and get even more tired and grouchy so I left. My apologies to all the women of America for letting you down. Just couldn’t be Shopping Queen today.
So yes, this blog entry has the world’s shortest slideshow. Guess I just had to show that I actually went to Mall of America, that there’s a full amusement park in the middle of it and let you all see how the boys of Minnesota spend their time (last pic). That made me laugh.
I suppose they can’t all be good days, right? One dud day out of seven ain’t bad. I think tomorrow will be better, so long as I get some sleep… Oh – and as soon as I got to the motel I turned the TV on and Little House on the Prairie was on. It’s a sign!
Amy's America 
Amy, I’m enjoying following your travels and try to catch up at lunch when I have a few minutes to myself. The Mall of America…I took my niece there a few years back when she was 15….she’s 19 now and still refer to that trip as awesome and she can’t wait to go back. I agree with you, it was interesting to see the expansiveness of the mall but shopping all day when the world beckons is too much. Hope today’s a better day! Travel safe – Marilyn
Just wanted to let you know that I’m really enjoying following your blog – I’ve got a nice ritual down where I sip my mug of tea and catch up on your adventures!
And I am a fellow Laura Ingalls Wilder fan, so I’m all for you pursuing that and posting more pictures. Have fun!
I’m so glad Joyce! I’m trying to get into my groove on the posting side – and it usually involves a cup of tea too! 🙂 Am off momentarily to follow Laura’s trail a bit…