Mark, Linda, Emily and Anna

When I arrived at the house of Mark, Linda, Emily, and Anna on Saturday night I felt right at home and it’s been a great first few days. I first heard from Mark early in the summer when I first started making serious progress on putting the trip together. Mark is the Director of Marketing at Century College and was on MSU’s website at work when he came across my story months ago. He didn’t hesitate to contact me and offer to host me when in Minnesota. Since then Mark and I have been in touch regularly and I’ve been very excited for this stop in the trip. Mark has shown a lot of enthusiasm and support from day one. It’s been great!

Linda works out of the house doing planning and logistic stuff for companies. She has also been great. Mark and Linda have both been very accommodating and kind. Linda was even able to pick us up after a flat tire today before we went to the Xcel Energy Center. Emily is the older daughter who is 15 and Anna is 12. They are both full of energy and great to be around. All four of them make such a great family, there always seems to be laughter as they joke around with each other and a close-knit family.

It’s a cozy house here in White Bear Lake. I feel comfortable and right at home. There is no doubt that I’ll be in touch with the family for years to come and be lifelong friends. What a great family, easy to talk to with lots of good casual conversation.

It’s going to be a fantastic week!