The Forks Are Still Grand

I got home tonight from a weekend with friends and family in my hometown, Grand Forks, North Dakota. In case I had any doubt, I was reminded that yes, my family is still crazy--especially my WAFF ("Weird Aunt From Florida"), Candy--in the best possible way. Saturday night the family convened at Grandma's place for hotdish, and we laughed so hard, my stomach actually hurt. This family doesn't pull a whole lot of punches--and they sure do love to talk (and laugh) about death! And medical stuff (phlegm, wounds, etc.). Fun! On Sunday, Mike and Renee had us over for a cookout. Our challenge became to get a picture of friend-of-the-blog Michael. (Throwing hot dogs does not deter us!) We played Shanghai/Shangri-La and Skip-Bo, and I was able to show off my fabulous game-playing skills. The way I did that was by letting other people win. On Monday (Memorial Day), Brenda and I both paid tribute to our grandfathers by visiting their gravesites. (The last time I was in Grand Forks was for Grandpa Tack's funeral in March 2005.) We had lunch at LaCampana (always a favorite spot of mine), and that night we went out with our moms for our traditional Girls' Night Out. This time around we went to the Eagle's Crest, where I enjoyed a walleye sub (not something you usually find in Chicago), and we celebrated Mom's birthday with wine and ice cream before heading back to Barb's house. Tuesday I spent the day with Mom, Candy, and The Grandma-nator. We made a trip to Widman's for Chippers and other treats. Mmmmm..... We also drove by the buffalo farm. That night, Brenda, her boyfriend Chris, and I had dinner and drinks at the Green Mill. I don't know when I've had so much food in such a short amount of time.... But it was all worth it. It really was great to see everyone again, and I enjoyed my relaxing stay at The Oasis with Brenda. The time always just goes by too quickly.....