Back to Basics

So, here's something you probably don't hear every day:
For our summer vacation we went to North Dakota and Minnesota...(yep, we went to the ota's...)

Trust me, every time I say that -- like Lucy -- I got some 'splaining to do. Long story long: both my folks are from N. Dakota, and we went back for a family reunion. Then we went to Minnesota, for some time on a lake, and to see my Dad's side of family.

So, obviously, we had a blast -- swimming, waterslides, tubing...late nights with cousins we never get to see...

Beyond all the pure fun, was the impact it had on me: the opportunity to see the roots I don't often see, and to understand where I came from, and who I am. A couple of my take-aways:

• there was an overwhelming # of my direct cousins and relatives who have found their way --like me, and my sister - into a Communications related profession (PR, Govt. Relations/Affaris, etc.)...Not just a couple people in these roles...MANY...very interesting.
• Just the quality of folks, perhaps short on flash, but long on substance...
• Seeing the inherent commonality of family-- both my mom and her siblings; and my dad and his...Amazing to see that regardless how different people's lives, occupations and experiences have been, that among family there is something that binds...

So, amazing trip -- enlightening, educational, encouraging.

Best of all, saw the worlds largest Pelican and Buffalo... beat that on your fancy island vacation.