The Mall

It's my orientation day at my adventure filled new job, and I am about 3 hours early. Luckily there is no shortage of amusements in the Mall of America, and there is free internet access literally at the doorstep of the cafe. I got to see the pics of my hat. Isn't it just the best? I am so freaking proud. Okay, think of something else...

I didn't mention that my first morning in Minneapolis I managed an early whirlpool soak. Thank god for motels that are easy to sneak into! I am not using names, as I keep having visions of someone from headquarters tracking me down and charging me for all these nights in the parking lot. Or installing tighter security, all thanks to me.

Hotels seem to be the spot of choice for my nights around here. There are about 40 within a block of the mall. I guess if you come to Minneapolis, it's for the mall, right? And if not, your choice of hotels would kind of push you into the mall anyway. All roads lead to the Mall...

I went for a run around Lake Harriet this morning, on advice from Kari. And I found the Troll Tree! You know how some trees have little hollows right where they meet the ground? Well, someone put a tiny little medieval door with a lock on one, and now kids (and weirdos like me) leave little treats and notes to the troll. The day I was there, I saw a flag, basketball eraser, hard candy, and something in a little white bag stuck way into the hollow of the tree. I left a few Bertie Bott's every-flavor jelly-beans, and a note asking for a safe and fun trip. Let's hope the troll likes them. I ate the sardine and grass flavored ones myself, so hopefully he won't get any surprises and hold it against me.

There should be more attractions like that. Little shrines, everywhere. I have the feeling they are everywhere, I just don't know where to look. So let me have it, everyone. What's your favorite magical spot out there? Or silly spot? Anywhere in the nation, I want to see it.

I got my first mail yesterday. I can't believe how great it felt! I got letters, and presents, and fun stuff all around. I sat in the car and read and laughed for an hour. The post office guy definitey thought I was nuts. When I gave my name, he said, "Oh yeah, we've been waiting for you". The town probably only had 100 people in it, and no one recognized my name; they were definitely confused as to where I was going to come from.

Brainerd was not really exciting. A few Paul Bunyan things, I don't think I even got out of the car. But the drive to it was fantastic. The woods around the Mille Lacs area are amazing. At this time of the year they are every color you can imagine, and some you can't. Everyone told me I was nuts to come to Minnesota in October, but it's 70 degrees and I can't imagine the "fall color drives" in New England being any more amazing. I am so freaking lucky.

On to the Adventure!

Comments

[CINDY]

I CAN'T WAIT TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR JOB. ANY FUN PEOPLE?

[Wayne Mann]

When you get down that way, I think the neatest little town in the nation is Eureka Springs, Arkansas. But try not to get there during major holidays between Labor Day and Memorial day. Spring or fall is best! BUT, plan on being there for a few days! You'll need that long to see everything! And if you want, I can fix you up with some people there to show you around. However, if possible, the more notice of approximately when you will be there, the better to arrange it, and I am not referring to months, but weeks.

[Blake]

Where exactly is the "troll tree"? I've looked for it several times but can't find it. Is there a landmark, cross street, or something nearby?

Thanks!