Bike ride to Harriet Island.

In the morning I took a lovely bike ride to Harriett Island.  Lots of other families, individuals, etc were also there.  The day was in the 70's with a strong wind.  At Harriett Island there was an Irish Fest, no photos.  I walked aroud and checked everything out.  I really enjoyed the cooler temps.

35 W bridge

The long awaited 35 W bridge that replaced the one that buckled last year is finished. It was actually done last week. We were able to go across it on Sunday. It has four lanes on each side with different sensors throughout the bridge to discover any problems. They said this bridge was constructed to last 100 years. I believe it was built in a record 11 months. I did not realize that this bridge was so close to the Metrodome.

Lake Superior

While we were at Duluth we were able to see two 1000 ft ships going out to the Lake. They are enormous. The wind was cold and stiff. There was white caps of the lake with swells of about 5 feet near the shore.

Glensheen Mansion

Ed and I decided to escape for a day and went to Duluth. One of the places that we visited was the Glensheen Mansion. It was beautiful with 3 floors and to much floor space. I cannot imagine living in such a place. It is located about 2 -300 feet from Lake Superior.

Renaissance Festival

Today Ed and I went to the Renaissance Festival located near Shakopee. We have not been there for years, so it was time for a visit. The characters behavior has toned done a lot since the days of insults as you walked by. That was the part I really did not enjoy. We walked the whole place and saw two shows, one the washing wenches and two swordsman. Both were funny and had clean language. The weather was warm, in the 80's and humid but a nice breeze. Ed picked up his 2008 to display and I just enjoyed all the sites. Pottery seemed to be the big seller. It did not seem as busy as the last time we were there which was very nice. So it was a nice time to end the summer.

Minneapolis Aquatennial

Milk carton boats before the race. There are more photos, but I think you can get the idea. the boats are made primarily of milk carton and jugs. Some boats have 3,000 milk cartons in them.

Minneapolis Aquatennial

Minneapolis Aquatennial

There was also a regatta on the north side of the lake with Downtown Minneapolis in the background.

Minneapolis Aquatennial

Milk carton boat races

Minneapolis Aquatennial

Milk carton boat races.

Minneapolis Aquatennial

Milk carton boat races.

Minneapolis Aquatennial

sand sculptures

Minneapolis Aquatennial

All geared up for the canoe ride on Lake Calhoun.

Minneapolis Aquatennial

Today, Dad and I went to the Aquatennial. Yes, we played hooky from church. We watched the milk carton boat races, saw sand sculptures and took a canoe ride on Lake Calhoun. The weather was great, sunny, blue skies with a temp of 85 degrees with little humidity. We were able to find a parking spot close to Lake Calhoun where all the festivities were held. Following is a bunch of photos that I hope you will enjoy.