Summer

I was never the most avid traveller, but this past year has proven to be quite contrary to be my normal patterns. David has really helped me with that. I realize that I absolutely love what traveling does to my soul. I love how when I see people from other places in the country, or the world, I am inspired. Food culture is especially exhilarating to me.

Living in Minneapolis feels like a constant vacation at times; people here are not as fast-paced as people in CA or NY. I'm learning, here, that things can get done and that success can be reached without ripping your soul apart and neglecting your family.

On the flip side, I miss SF terribly. I miss how adventurous people are in the Bay Area. You could see the personality of communities in the food that they create. Sadly, food in Minneapolis absolutely pales in comparison to food in SF, Napa, NY, and LA. It seems that everyone here eats a lot of meat and potatoes... and the height of their "Mexican" food is... Chipotle.

Granted, there are a few nice places here like 112 Eatery, Capital Grill, Picolo, Cave Vinn, and Bar La Grassa.. but I am spoiled, and I complain that these restaurants are 1. ridiculously priced 2. pretentious 3. not even THAT great 4. so far apart from each other and hidden. I'm used to entire neighborhoods full of great eateries that neighbor each other (ie. Cheeseboard, Gregoires, and Love at First Bite @ North Berkeley.)

This summer, I was fortunate enough to satisfy my appetite in SF (twice), LA, NY, and Chicago.

Almost every day, David and I tell each other how thankful we are to be here. At the same time, we tell each other how we cannot wait to move back to the Coast.

I am thankful. So thankful. So so so thankful for my life.