Headwater of the Mississippi River

While in Minnesota, my friend, Sharon Smith, drove us north of Brainerd to visit the headwaters of the Mississippi River. The headwaters flow from Lake Itasca at  Itasca State Park. Depending on which list you consult, the Mississippi River is either the third or fourth longest river on our planet.

The photo below shows the stepping stones, which unfortunately were covered with cold, fast flowing water. I did not give it a try to cross -- nor did anyone else.

Loon....

There was still snow in the parking lot.

MN gravel pit and more

I arrived home from my MN trip a couple of days ago. I went to do a book signing plus I attended the Brainerd show to buy agates for the museum's gift shop. I forgot to take photos at the show -- sorry.

The day after the show, friends took me northeast of Brainerd. We went agate hunting in two gravel pits -- both of which we had permission to enter and the keys to the gates. I found a dozen or so agates, but nothing worth showing until I clean them up. Thanks to Sharon and Click! Here are a few photos of the gravel pits.

When we arrived back to my friend's house, we noticed a helicopter flying just over the trees. When it came around, we noticed it had one of those big water buckets. The helicopter was picking up water at a near-by lake and dumping it on a fire on the neighbor's property!  In total the fire burned 11 acres, but no one was hurt and there were no structures lost. With 45 mph winds, a camp fire that was not totally put out re-kindled. Thankfully the authorities jumped on the fire right away.

A spotter plane also circled the area to monitor this fire ass well as to watch for others.

Rock Shop Progress

 Yesterday my contractor installed the third new door on the west wall and carefully removed the huge barn door slider.

Agatelady Rock Shop -- the renovation has begun!

Work began this week on remodeling the building that will become the Agatelady Rock Shop. It is scary and exciting at the same time!