Minnesota Pride, sort of

I guess I'm a Minnesotan. Or am I? Do I really have to claim a state? My driver's license says I'm a resident of the Land of 10,000 Lakes. My birth certificate says I was born here. I drive around a vehicle that has a Minnesota license plate. Ew.

Despite the relief of coming home to a place that smells likes Christmas rather than trash, it has been harder to embrace my new home than I imagined. Some people in my new neighborhood could use a lesson in manners and a time-out..."Don't even think about coming out of your room until you have picked up all of the trash you threw in my yard and you have something to say that doesn't involve the f-bomb." I feel the same way about some people in this country, but that is for another blog.

As I'm getting ready to move into this place, to be someone's wife, to really dig in the ground and plant some roots, there are things that I am beginning to appreciate; my new neighbor, Mike, always stops to ask about wedding plans and our bike rides, give me advice about living in an urban area, and always accepts our invitations for some beer and conversation. My friends are making it easier too; Emily from high school has quietly forced me into some new knitting projects, and Emily from college helps me dream about home improvements. My newest Emily in Korea sends emails and facebook messages to let me know she misses me. And MY Emily, related by blood, had her first day of school last week. She can tell me all about it in person in one month, when she walks down the aisle as the flower girl at our wedding. (The 'in-person' part is the most exciting for me.)

This summer contained birth, death, marriage, and divorce. Some of these things are by choice, others are not. I choose to be a part of this neighborhood, to plant flowers and my heart in this state. It will take some patience (like when I have to explain to a nice lady that Korea, is in fact, a developed country and comfortable to live in) but I am committed. Watch out North Minneapolis, Meredith Bird chooses to love you.

Levi, the smallest and newest nugget

Brandon's bride

Nuggets

The oldest nugget