Well, three days in and the effects of water have already hit.  Hours from arriving in Minneapolis to the arms of great family friends, I was informed that the water had broken of a family member.  She gave birth to a beautiful baby boy in what was a “water birth” where the mother was partially submerged in water.  The baby is passed into the water where it is found to be more natural as the baby is used to the warm, fluid conditions, much like the womb.  You learn something everyday, hey!

To the other end of the scale, where today, after sharing a meal downtown, only blocks away a tornado hit.  No catastrophic damage was done but a huge amount of rain and thunderstorms have passed through in the last day.

It has been a huge trip across the Pacific but arriving to great family friends and their warm hospitality has been amazing.  I will miss it and cherish it for the moments of frustrating “portage” and cold nights ahead (I got informed what if meant to “portage” by a 12 year old today and I was told it’s pretty easy with a canoe – don’t know about a 360 kg wooden boat).  Don’t know what Brett’s got planned with that but tomorrow I will find out with the big reunion.  Can’t wait.

Many thanks to the Nylander, Jones, and Deming family for their love and support which is priceless.

Cheers,

Magnus

Congratulations to new Mom Sarah, new Dad Scott (middle 2nd row) and another grandchild for Nan Judy Nylander

See you later Alligator

Saying farewell to the family