Here we are on the bus ride down:
We stopped for lunch in Fargo at Paradiso. I loved this large owl in the foyer, so I had someone take a photo of us with it.
We got to Albertville and did some shopping. I can't even remember how many stores we went to. I ended up getting a pair of jeans at New York & Co., a $60 cardigan for $19.99 at Banana Republic and a leather jacket at Wilson's Leather for $41.99. And did you know there's no sales tax on clothing in Minnesota? Fabulous!
(We were too busy shopping to take photos. Our bus was suppose to leave at 8pm to take us to our hotel and well, ahem, we were a little late getting there. We ran across the parking lot, carrying our purchases, and were the last ones to arrive. A little embarrassing to say the least!)
So the next morning, we took the shuttle from the hotel to the Mall of America. This is our before photo:
And our after:
LOL! We bought shoes (one pair for me, and two for Val), some Silver Jeans (we each got a pair), some tops (two for me and one for Val), a Lucky Brand bracelet for me, as well as some Fancy Pants goodies from Archivers.
After eating supper out, we headed to the Excel Centre for the conference. The first night was great! Ken Davis and Sheila Walsh both spoke (great stories and Ken Davis is soooo funny!) and Cece Winans sang (not my favourite style of music, but it was fine.) Oh, and the worship was wonderful!
Here's a photo taken on Saturday:
And, more great speakers (Liz Curtis Higgs, Max Lucado, Angie Smith and Pat Smith) and Selah performed. Just a wonderful time, being with friends, hearing from God and worshipping Him!
We got back late Saturday night (well, Sunday morning) and I'm still tired. But we're already planning on going next year again!
So, to let you know, I'm leaving tomorrow on another trip..... to the DR Congo! I know I've mentionned my fund-raising before for this trip and now, the trip is finally here. I'd really appreciate your prayers while I'm gone, too.
I'll have some papercrafting posts scheduled while I'm away, so feel free to still stop by my blog. I'll have wifi for some of the time while I'm in DR Congo, so I'll still be able to check my emails and see your comments.
Thanks for looking!
Looks like you had a great time!!! I was just at the MOA this weekend too! :) We spend a lot of time there. I grew up in the Twin Cities and about 8 yrs ago moved to the very western edge of WI. I always head back to MN to buy my clothes too. I love that there is no sales tax on clothes. I don't think there should be.. it's a necessity item. :)
ReplyDeleteHi Leigh! Looks like you had a great time in Minneapolis - how I would love to hear Cece sing! Wishing you safe travels to the Congo, I will be thinking of you!
ReplyDeleteWow, Max Lucado - what a treat! He was so close to our area one time and I didn't have the opportunity to hear him! I do have lots of his books. He sure has a way with words!
ReplyDeleteHi Leigh! What a blessing to attend a wof conference and get filled up just before travelling on your mission! I will pray for you and your mission as you reach out in Jesus name!
ReplyDeletePraying for safe travel, good health and amazing opportunities to serve, Leigh. And looking forward to seeing your great photos and to hear the stories when you return :) God speed!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful time it looks like you had:) Prayers for you as you are on your Congo trip! Can't wait to see pics and hear all about it:)
ReplyDeleteOh Leigh how wonderful that you and your BFF were able to attend this special conference! I live in southern MN about 2 hrs away from Mpls. I do love having to pay NO tax on clothing.
ReplyDeleteHope you have a safe and wonderful trip to DR Congo! My thoughts and prayers are with you.