Minnesota bound

Tomorrow afternoon, I'll find myself once again at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Last time I was there, I flew out to Los Angeles to reunite with my college roommates and explore a new city. Tomorrow, I'm heading to Minnesota.

Both sides of my family stem from the land of ten thousand lakes, so I've gone there to visit more times than I can count. Last summer, we flew up for a family reunion + local fair with my dad's side of the family. This time, we'll be seeing my mom's side of the family to celebrate my cousin's wedding.

In a trait ENTIRELY unlike my usual self, I didn't start packing, really, until the day before the trip. But that's not for a lack of excitement — just the sure sign of a busy week. But nevertheless, I've been looking forward to this trip for months now.

Going to Minnesota always makes me sentimental. I've spent many hours in the Minneapolis airport over the years, and have fond childhood memories of visiting family in Minnesota — I'd planned entire hypothetical businesses in a single afternoon at the cabin with my cousins. I explored the Mall of America in its entirety. I've learned that the stereotypical Minnesota accident definitely checks out, and most importantly I've spent quality time with my loved ones.

I don't get to see my mom's side of the family all that often, so it's a privilege and a pleasure that I have a long weekend to take off, fly up and be with them.

As sentimental as going to Minnesota makes me, the thing I'm most excited for is the opportunity to make new memories that I'll cherish. Years from now, I could be sitting in Charlotte Douglas reflecting on this very trip. I can't wait to see what memories I make.