So, we did it. we be hung around a giant-sized mall all day waiting in lines for over-priced rides and scoped out stores for cute Minnesota souvenirs to bring home to friend’s in Costa Rica. In all the years I lived in Minnesota, I went to the Mall once. I was handed a map upon entering; got dizzy; left without buying a thing.

Now I go every time I am in Minnesota. I can’t help it. With kids, it’s easy. And they do have fun. Honestly, I’d rather be hiking along one of those trails I mentioned before, but with a chance of rain in the forecast and four antsy kids - it’s off to the Mall again.

What is it that draws us to stand next to giant sized, colorful, fluffy, strange, yet hugely popular animals or cartoons? Maybe this is the beginning of our inner drive to rub shoulders with the stars. After a few cuddly photos with Blue or Sponge Bob, the next thing you know, we’re telling everyone how we rode the elevator with Rob Lowe or saw Alan Page at a gun show or had Matt Damon’s mom over for dinner one night.

I’m just as much a sucker as the next mom or dad. I waited in-line for a photo shot and even encouraged Addison to give Blue a kiss. No, it’s not Matt Damon’s mom, but it’ll do. It’ll do.