Four States In One Day!

We set off this morning, bound for Ohio! Along the way, we drove through parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and into Indiana this evening.

As we were making our way through Wisconsin, we happened to stop in Edgerton, Wisconsin where we discovered a wonderful store which combines two of our favorite things: wine and cheese! The Wisconsin Wine and Cheese Chalet has some terrific cheeses and wines produced in the Dairy State!

Driving through Chicago was an interesting part of the drive today - even close to 9:00 p.m. there was a lot more traffic than we're used to seeing!!!

Monday afternoon in Aiktin (MN)

The gray skies are hanging over Aitkin County today, but fortunately the rain is taking the afternoon off.

After a few errands this morning, it was time to enjoy a drive in the nearby countryside. We made an afternoon stop at The Beanery. We enjoyed listening to some of the Aitkin United Methodist Church choir members who were enjoying coffee and fellowship following a time of singing at one of the area senior care centers.

Sunday at the Finnish Lutheran Church

We made it to Beaver Township in eastern Aitkin County, MN this morning with plenty of time to spare. We really enjoyed the quiet of this rural setting and eagerly awaited the arrival of the faithful coming to worship. It was nice to be able to help the early arrivals in preparing the sanctuary for worship (the church meets on the 1st & 3rd Sundays of the month, March - October).

As folks arrived for worship, we were greeted with enthusiasm, what with our Finnish last name! Everyone (except us) spoke at least passable Finnish and were happy to hear of our visit to the Old Country (in August 2006). With last names like Akura, Ahonen, Liikala, Ulvi and Maaki, we fit right in!

After the service, we drove toward Moose Lake and then on to Barnum where we enjoyed a fabulous dinner/lunch at a local eatery, "Big Louie's." Making our way back to the cabin, we enjoyed the stunning autumnal display with bright colors set off against the dark green of the pines.

Saturday Afternoon in Aitkin County, MN

After lunch at the Aitkin UMC bazaar this afternoon, we set out on a relaxing drive in rural Aitkin County. Along the way, in the eastern edge of the county, we found the Finnish Lutheran Church (in Beaver Township). We looked around the cemetery but didn't see any Alkula's! Tomorrow we'll visit the church (which meets the 1st & 3rd Sundays each month) for worship, wonder if it will be in Finnish!?!

A bit farther along found the Kalevala Park (named after the Finnish epic poem). It was fun seeing these reminders of Finnish heritage here in Minnesota! At the park, there was a former Finnish Lutheran Church, The Suomalainea Kirrko, where a wedding was taking place. The scenery was simply beautiful. Even on a cloudy day with patchy drizzle, the trees put on a terrific show.

It's a "Bazaar" Saturday in Aitkin (MN)

With the rain taking the morning off, we headed into town to visit the Aitkin United Methodist Church's Fall Bazaar. There was a lot of energy in the church with the chilly weather addng to the ambience of the event.

There were baked goods of every sort, locally produced honey, knitting, baskets (filled with supplies for teachers, coaches, dads, new moms, etc.), a "Grandma's attic" and much more.

We don't know what else is in store for today, but we're sure it will be amazing! Yea, God!!!

Still Raining in Minnesota!

The rain that began falling yesterday continued through the night and has been steady all day here in Aitkin. Certainly does lend itself to creating that autumn feeling! We do feel sorry though for those who will be attending high school football games tonight!

Enjoying the quiet of the cabin this morning, we are now enjoying the ambience of The Beanery this afternoon. Tonight, we are thinking of returning to The Beanery for an evening of wine and song (with Roland Trenary).

We are looking forward to this weekend, lots of local events to enjoy before we head to Ohio next week.

It's raining, it's pouring!

The warm and sunny weather of yesterday has given way to a steady rain and chilly October 1st. We are spending the afternoon at The Beanery, surfing and enjoying watching the world pass by the sole traffic light in the county! We are meeting friends Leon & Judy for supper at Rossalinni's (home of the best pizza pie west of Chicago) in a bit.

This is Belinda's birthday month - send your birthday wishes to her at gbalkula@yahoo.com today (her birthday is October 30th, she was a treat, not a trick).

Hope you and yours are ready to enjoy October as much as we are!