10 Winter Wonderlands for Retirement

It's said there are two seasons in Minnesota: winter and road construction. But seriously, unlike some states to the East (I'm talking about you, Maryland), MN knows how to handle snow, and 1/2" of snow won't close the entire school system. After a 6" overnight snowfall, we drove through unplowed streets to go out to brunch. By the time we drove home, most of the streets were plowed.

Throughout the winter, enterprising people will jog, ski, snowshoe, skate, and even ride bikes (though a bit dangerous). There are even local classes on dog-sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. A few of the more acclimated folks jog wearing shorts. On a sunny 32-degree day, I'm no longer wearing a winter coat, only a fall coat. At 46 degrees, we opened all the windows to get some fresh air.

In our 10 months here, we've experienced summer, fall, and winter...soon to be spring.

p.s. The Mpls skyway system is mostly convenient and a nice view but it won't get you everywhere, so plan your route ahead of time, and better bring a coat anyway, in case Target decides to lock their skyway doors earlier than their posted times and you have to walk outside.

Happy wintering!

of MN 11:58AM February 15, 2011