Week 19 (Continued) - Minneapolis, MN (Twin Cities)

Hello Family and Friends,

We took a little detour to visit Brett's Dad in Minneapolis. Last minute, Brett's older sister, Leila, also flew out to meet us. Brett's dad has been struggling with his health, which makes every visit bitter sweet.

Brett, Atlas, Sadik and Leila visiting in the hospital

Once Brett's Dad, Sadik, was discharged from the hospital we took him on a little adventure to the Mall of America. It is the largest mall in America. It includes a theme park and aquarium. It was both Leila's and Sarah's first time to the mall.

We got sucked into the tourist trap that is Margaritaville. Leila described it perfectly: it is a little more fun with a few margaritas.

Three generations taking in some sun outside the Mall of America.

As a part of our day trip we also took Sadik to visit his sister, Zahara. She served us this amazingly fragrant tea with cookies. You guys know that I love me some tea. Brett's younger brother, Omar, also spent time with us at Aunt Zahara's place.

Leila, Zahara, Danielle, Atlas, Brett, Omar, Sadik visiting at Aunt Zahara's home.

Silly while spending time with Aunt Zahara

We also took a little time to allow Atlas to meet his second cousins. They are a boy household and Atlas really enjoyed lining up all their matchbox cars. Alex, Brett's cousin-in-law, served us a homemade bundt cake. If I lived in Minnesota I would be able to eat delicious home cooked food without actually having to cook. I'm sold!

Tarik, Alex, Danielle, Aiman, Brett, Atlas outside on the porch at Alex's home.

It was a short and sweet trip to see Brett's side of the family. It was nice to get even just a little time with everyone. And I want to thank Leila for being instrumental in making Brett take so many photos! Older sisters are the best.