Luminary Loppet

Yesterday evening I visited the Luminary Loppet at Lake of the Isles, in South Minneapolis. What a wonderful job by The Loppet Foundation and volunteers to construct a beautiful Luminary Loppet.  

I spoke with the young man responsible for managing the construction of many of the taller luminaries.  He was amazed at the level of volunteer support that helped to make the 1,200 luminaries. 

City of Lakes Loppet Dog Sled Race

 

Yesterday there were sled dog races at Theodore Wirth Park in the city of Minneapolis.  This was one of many activities which were a part of the City of Lakes Loppet.

SNOW

We recently received three inches of much needed snow.  The ground was getting bare in many areas around the Twin Cities.  Nobody was more appreciative than the organizers and soon to be participants of the upcoming City of Lakes Loppet Nordic ski races.  I stopped by their office yesterday while watching a ski meet at Theodore Wirth Park to visit with the executive director, who I've come to know.  This weekend I plan to help with taking pictures at the event.  It is especially beautiful with luminaries lining the course.

PS  If you are interested in visiting the City of Lakes Loppet, there are many different fun events, including bike racing on the ice, snow sculpting, skijoring (skiing with dogs), and of course classic and skate Nordic ski races/tours. Here's a link to the schedule.

Lefse and a 5K

It was a blast to run a 5K trail run yesterday, sponsored by the City of Lakes Loppet.  The running courses they planned for the Loppet 5K, 13.1K and half marathon all went through a scenic and VERY hilly Theodore Wirth Park.

Prize mug

Being of Norwegian ancestry it felt like an auspicious start to the race when we were offered Mrs. Olson's Potato Lefse.  I couldn't help but enjoy a pre-race snack.

Following the run there was live music, Surly beer and more lefse!  For those of us who rode our bikes we were rewarded with an extra cup of beer.  I was extra pleased to receive a handcrafted mug, filled with beer, as a result of placing second in the 5K race.  I must confess that three beers before noon is a bit more than I'm used to ;-)  Thankfully I avoided any bike accidents on the ride home, and a possible RUI (riding while intoxicated).