Staggered off the highway I35E into St. Paul  and into the loving arms of Michael,  Lynette and Noel.  Friends for nearly 20 years (I think) Lynette appeared like a character in a King Arthur story, a large red parrot on her shoulder.  She is like no one else.  She is gargoyles and fairies and fantasy and creativity and talent and generosity.  Still has the long, long hair I remember and the ready giggle.  Michael was more enthusiastic  than I remembered probably because of the car.

Seno pulled a terrible stunt.  Once shut off he wouldn't start again.  We had a real comedy routine with Michael doing the "pop the clutch" trick while we pushed.  We were joined by what appeared to be a fraternity group of guys across the street.  Lynette said to me,  "Alyce,  you couldn't just calmly come for tea or anything could you?"

The governor's mansion  is  only 2 blocks from here--it's the one Jesse Ventura moved out of and has pissed off most  of Minnesota and I can see why.  Supposedly if the mansion  isn't occupied then the deed says that it has to be torn down.  This can't possibly be!  Nobody could tear down this beautiful old building.  Garrison Keillor lives on Lynette's street and maybe  I'll see him today.  Hey, it could happen....  There is a massive street fair and 200,000 people are expected to be on Grand Avenue today so that's right where we're  headed!

Noel, bless his heart, examined Seno and some how has come up with a solution to his balky problems and has promised to teach me how to hot wire a car!

I asked Michael, what's the difference between Minneapolis and St. Paul and he replied, "Minneapolis likes to think it's New York--the 
Mini-Apple.  St. Paul doesn't care."

Also,  if it is possible, please  move the Vermont photos (Janet, German Shepherd, Sal Army, photo window) to Vermont page.

And  how's the sign project coming?  Do you think it is going  to be 
possible?  And if it doesn't  cost any more, silver or gold paint shows up even better than white.

I am supposed to leave St. Paul today and begin my WESTERLY direction AND it is quite cool (what a relief!) and also quite rainy (not sure what will really happen today).  Stay safe and stay well.  I hope Michael has sent you the parrot photos.  Captions for them--it is me and Lynette and the bird's name is Tinker and is very much a LIVE bird.