7/2

  We spent this beautiful day with families of various sorts. One forgets how lovely Minn can be in the summer: 77 degrees, cool breeze coming off "the lake," and four clouds in the sky. Then there are the winters.
  We attended a celebration for Linda's aunt Bell in Detroit Lakes. Lotsa people (many of whom we did not know) and lots food (yes, this is Minnesota). We won a valuable trophy for having traveled the farthest. There was supposed to be a seed spiting contest, but apparently it fizzled because the seeds were too sensitive. Linda told a story about her aunt and won another priceless token of success.
  Duane & Al watched the Twins blow a 7 run lead, which was really exciting.
  We also managed a short trip to "the lake" (East Battle, that is) to see Al's gang. Flashback - We drove up the other day as dark clouds piled up in the southwest. We had but a few showers and arrived unscathed. Al's sister, who left the cities several hours later, was caught in a horrific hail storm. Her shiny car is now pocked from bow to stern. Did I mention lovely Minn summer days?
  We judged the annual Battle Lake rib cookoff. It was rough duty but somebody had to do it. Al's bro, Robert, won the accolade and now has bragging rights for the next year. His emotional acceptance speech brought tears to our eyes.
  Some of our relatives are somewhat odd. We know that is hard to believe, but it is so. It could be something to do with the mosquitos.