We've been in Grand Forks for a week. We didn't mean to stay that long, but our campground space at Grand Forks Air Force Base is so nice and quiet we just couldn't leave. The very large spaces use to be either from an old mobile home park or old WWII housing. The base is going through a transition. I think it will be closed at some point but for now it's changing from a KC-135 refueling/tanking base to a UAV (Unmanned Aerial vehicle) base.
There are dedicated walking and biking paths and a natural area that grows the grasses and plants of what use to be the prairie in this area. Somebody has done a good job of making areas on this base that the service members can enjoy and maybe even forget that they are on a base.
Grand Forks, ND is a small town of 50,000 and across the river, East Grand Forks, MN seems a little smaller. The Red River flooded in 1997 and they had to bulldoze many of the buildings. They have since made a beautiful park, with a walking/biking path along the river on both sides. There's also a wonderful State Campground right in town, just above the river on the Minnesota side. It has large spaces, full hookups and cost $24. a night. To read about the flood and the park, check this out. http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/red_river/index.html
We will be heading out on Sunday. We are going to Duluth, Minnesota where Chris' mother was born. She has always wanted to go and see Duluth after hearing the O'Brien family stories for so long. We're not sure where we will stop for the first night, but should make it to the Duluth area by Tuesday. We plan on driving north along Lake Superior to see the sights. If anyone has any suggestions on where to go and what to do, please send them to us. Thanks!
By the way, Pilot is doing much better. He has loved being at this base. He's been able to go off leash and is very happy with the cooler weather. He hates hot weather as does Chris, so they are both pretty happy about being this far north.
We'd like to hear from those of you that read this blog. We'd like to know how our family and friends are doing and what is happening in their lives. Keep in touch.
Hi Chris, Alex and Pilot,
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you're having a good time. If you're reading this then I've successfully posted a comment (finally). Hey Chris, have you driven the rig yet? I think the prairies would be the ideal place to learn!
Love the blog,
Kelly, Rocket and Mojo
HI, I'm supposed to have my first lesson on Monday. Wish me luck. Chris
ReplyDeleteHey you guys, if you go through Ardoch, ND, you will see a grain elevator that says MONDRY GRAIN on it...It is the ruin of Zack's grandfather's old grain elevator...I have been to Grand Forks -- in December! It was the coldest cold I've ever experienced. Zack's grandparents are buried there in Ardoch.
ReplyDeleteAnd oh, enjoy Duluth! Zack and I will be there in a few weeks for his cousin Heidi's wedding. I hear Duluth is heaven in August. :)
ReplyDeleteHi Chris and Alex
ReplyDeleteThis is Sarah, Kate Rawley's mom. We met several years ago. I saw your note on Kate's blog. I was not aware of this huge change you have made and have been fascinated reading your blog. We too have made a huge lifestyle change but choose a bit of a different way to express it. I hope you will find your way to the Rocky Mts and we could share an evening talking about your travels! Have fun in Vermont. Give Sarah and Aaron big hugs for us!
Sarah