Minneapolis Flashback

The first week of September, Lee and I stopped for a couple of nights in Minneapolis.  We met my aunt and cousin at the Mall of America, just like we did last year, and it was lovely to see them again.  Lee was thrilled for other reasons.  I think the Mall of America might be his favorite place in the whole country.  This is somewhat strange, because Lee doesn't really like to shop.  Go figure.

In the center of the mall is a huge theme park:

Near one entrance is a Lego store, with giant Lego models.  The helicopter below is life-sized, to give you an idea of scale:

Last summer when we visited the Mall, there were several closed storefronts on the first level.  It was encouraging this year to see that all those places are now filled and open for business.    This was an indication to me that the economy is improving in the region, very nice to see.

The Mall has three full floors, all encircling the theme park.  I noticed signs posted by the Mayo Clinic in several places.  They create a course for walkers, and indicate mileage.   Lee and I walked all three floors, and I can tell you it is great exercise.