I had the opportunity to go up to Duluth this past weekend and spend some time with one of my good friends from high school, Jess. Jess and her husband, Matt, flew up from Chicago last week so that he could go on a fishing trip with her dad and some other guys, including his dad who had flown in from California. While they were out fishing, Jess spent the time with her mom, sisters, mother in law and other women in her family. On Monday, I had the chance to drive up the North Shore with Jess, her mom, her mother-in-law and another high school friend of ours, Gina. I have done this drive dozens of time, but it really is nice having someone along (Sharon from California) who has never been there before…you really do stop and take the time to appreciate where you are. 
We stopped by Gooseberry Falls for some hiking and then went to the Rustic Inn for a great lunch (including amazing pie). Afterward, we drove up to Split Rock Lighthouse for awhile. I’ve visited Split Rock a number of times, but can honestly say I’ve never taken the time to watch the little informational video or take the guided tour. I mean, it isn’t the Acropolis or anything, but it really is an interesting place! 
For example, before a road was built connecting the towns on the North Shore, the only way the caretakers or their families could leave or get supplies was by boat…and by lifting them up the 160 or so feet from the bottom. Also, at one point, Duluth, MN was the world’s busiest port of ships carrying iron ore. Who knew?! The temp was only 56 degrees up there, so, definitely a little chilly, but still worth the visit. 
In addition to our explorations on Monday, yesterday we went out for brunch with my mom at Hell’s Kitchen, which is located in Canal Park. Duluth unfortunately doesn’t boast too many good breakfast spots, but we were pleasantly surprised by this place. Black and red decor is a little dark for the morning, but the food is tasty, and I’d recommend it if you’re looking for breakfast while you’re in town. Let me also suggest that if you have any tourists spots in your town that you’ve never visited or haven’t really investigated well, you should stop by…kind of fun to learn more about your city.
In addition to seeing Jess and her family, I also had the opportunity to stop and visit with my friends Hal and Anna who were in town from Seattle. I don’t think I had seen them since last summer, so it was great to catch up with them while they were up at Hal’s parent’s cabin. One of my favorite things about Minnesota is being able to go out and visit people ”on the lake.” Any lake…so lovely. 
