Minnesota's Pumpkin Wonderland: The Jack O' Lantern Spectacular

 

Minnesota's Pumpkin Wonderland: The Jack O' Lantern Spectacular

Todd Swank's Diary Entry for November 3, 2024

This fall in Minnesota was unusually warm, making the trees hang on to their leaves far past their due date. But as soon as we got some rain this week, they all seemed to drop at once, like the trees were playing a cruel joke. Thankfully, Miss Sheri loves raking—otherwise, we'd be buried up to our ears and Googling “how to winterize a leaf pile?”

The white stuff made its appearance this week, because why wouldn’t it? It’s Minnesota. Still, somehow, we’re never quite mentally prepared when it shows up, clinging to fall like we’re in a custody battle with winter—the parent no one wants to live with.

On Wednesday night, we headed to the Minnesota Zoo for the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. This event boasts thousands of intricately carved pumpkins, turning the zoo into a glowing wonderland of illuminated art and eerie displays. Each pumpkin tells a different story, ranging from iconic scenes to creative, spooky designs. Walking through, it's clear this is Halloween on steroids, where even the pumpkins are working overtime for your amazement. By the end, you start questioning your own carving skills and wondering if a triangle-eyed face ever really cut it.

Walking deep into the zoo, we spent a solid 20 minutes cracking jokes about how we’d been duped into the world's longest, pumpkin-less hike. But when we finally reached the spectacle, it hit us like a Halloween fever dream. Thousands of glowing, intricately carved pumpkins staring back at us, and suddenly, the walk didn't feel so ridiculous. Turns out, the joke was on us—those pumpkins knew exactly how to stage a dramatic entrance.

I’ve always admired artists, mostly because I can’t draw a stick figure that looks trustworthy. But these pumpkin-carving virtuosos? Next level. I can’t even fathom where to start making something like this, and there were hundreds of them. Then you find out they spend 10 hours carving each one only for it to turn into a mushy science project in four days. That’s the kind of commitment that makes the rest of us look like slackers.

Seeing Beavis and Butthead carved into a pumpkin brought back all those “yeah yeah, cool” memories from back in the day. Their take on life was always pure, stupid brilliance—finding enlightenment in nachos and chanting “fire” like it was a mantra. And now, they’re enshrined on a pumpkin destined to rot quicker than Beavis’s chances of ever scoring. It’s the perfect nod to two icons who thrived on chaos and temporary glory.

The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular really leaned into its Minnesota roots with references to everything from Paul Bunyan to, yes, a pumpkin carved with a Spam can. For those outside the Midwest, Spam isn’t just a sketchy meat product—it’s a point of pride here. Born in Austin, Minnesota, this iconic canned mystery meat got many families through tough times and became the unofficial state mascot that nobody asked for. Seeing it carved meticulously on a pumpkin? That’s when you know the state fair vibe is alive and well, even in late October. 

Seeing Anthony Edwards carved into a pumpkin was a tribute I didn't know I needed. His standout performances for Team USA this past summer, where he showcased his scoring prowess and leadership, reminded us why he's such a fan favorite. Naturally, it set the stage perfectly for our next outing—catching him in action at a Timberwolves game.

Miss Sheri and I hit our first Timberwolves game of the season, buzzing with optimism because, hey, they made it to the Western Conference finals last year. We’re hoping they go even farther this time. Maybe all the way to the finals, where they can finally achieve what we all expect: a dramatic fourth-quarter collapse and the phrase “Well, there’s always next year” said through gritted teeth. Ah, Minnesota sports—where hope springs eternal and dies just as quickly.

As luck would have it, our first game of the season was against Luka, Kyrie, and the Dallas Mavericks—basically, the guys who sent us packing last year. The Wolves looked ready for battle, and the crowd was buzzing with the hope that this time would be different. But with Luka’s smirk and Kyrie’s unpredictability, we knew it could go one of two ways: victory or that familiar Minnesota feeling we all know too well—the "close, but let’s start drafting our apologies for next year."

Anthony Edwards came out swinging, dropping 24 points in the first quarter with six 3-pointers, making the Mavericks wonder if they’d wandered into a shooting clinic. Meanwhile, Luka Doncic put up a modest 5 points, looking less like the star and more like the guy holding everyone’s jackets. By the time the quarter ended, it was clear: Edwards was on a mission, and the rest of us were just praying Minnesota wouldn’t find a way to ruin it.

The game was a rollercoaster—momentum swinging back and forth with every possession. Just when the Wolves seemed ready to pull ahead, Luka and Kyrie would hit back like a one-two punch, reminding us that hope in Minnesota sports is always a fragile thing.

 In the end, Luka and Kyrie proved why they’re the dynamic duo, with their supporting cast stepping up to seal the deal. The Wolves gave it their all, but Dallas walked away with the win, leaving us with that familiar post-game mantra: "It’s a long season, we’ll figure it out… right?"

@toddswank Let’s go Timberwolves!! #minnesota #timberwolves #nba ♬ original sound - Todd Swank

@toddswank Timberwolves get beat by the Mavericks on October29,2024. #timberwolves #mavericks #nba ♬ original sound - Todd Swank

@toddswank Happy Halloween! The Jack ‘o Lantern Spectacular! #halloween #pumpkins #jackolantern ♬ Trick or Treat - FASSounds

The Great Minnesota Squeeze Together

 

The Great Minnesota Squeeze Together

Todd Swank's Diary Entry for September 2, 2024

On Thursday, we took a road trip through Iowa which always feels like home. There’s something about those endless fields and open skies that just makes the drive feel familiar and comforting.  Even if it wasn't our final destination.

We made the trip to St. Joseph, Missouri, this week for a somber occasion—the burial of my step-mom, Grandma Joyce. It wasn’t the kind of gathering anyone looks forward to, but we found some comfort in knowing we’d be reconnecting with my sisters and Joyce’s family. In moments like these, being together is what matters most.

We were only in town for 24 hours, but we made the most of it with Tammy, David, Lindsay, plus Tracy & Dave. St. Joseph might not be the entertainment capital of the world, but when you’re with good company, you create your own fun. Besides, who needs a ton of options when you’ve got a local brew, a few laughs, and a table full of family?

Lori and Dave went above and beyond, driving 23 hours to bring Grandma Joyce to St. Joseph. It was great to see them. They didn’t come empty-handed either, hauling in a treasure trove of memorabilia from the lives of Joyce and my dad, Bob, for us all to reminisce and enjoy.

It's been 16 years since my dad passed, and now, he and Joyce are reunited here in St. Joseph, bound together in eternity. Life's journey may take us through many places, but in the end, it's love that guides us home. Now, they rest together, their love enduring beyond this world—a quiet testament to the bonds that truly last forever.

Tracy, Tammy, and I got there early, eager to see Dad’s headstone for the first time. We were feeling pretty good about our punctuality until the rest of the family rolled up 45 minutes later in a traditional funeral procession—while we were already parked front and center. Classic Swank move, right? We don’t mean to stand out; it just seems to be in our DNA. But hey, maybe that’s our way of keeping things interesting, even at a funeral. Life’s too short to be ordinary, after all.

Lori truly shined with her heartfelt eulogy for Grandma Joyce in California, and she brought that same grace to the ceremony at the burial. We all took turns swapping stories—some tear-jerkers, some laugh-inducers, and a few that were a little bit of both. It was a moment that reminded us that even in saying goodbye, there’s beauty in the memories we share and the joy in remembering a life well-lived. Sometimes, it's those shared laughs and tender moments that make you realize just how much someone meant to all of us. It wasn’t just a farewell; it was a celebration of everything Joyce brought into our lives.

At the burial, we each took turns with the shovel, lightening the moment with a touch of our family’s humor. Joyce had three son-in-laws named Dave, which never failed to amuse. Dave Mohar kept that spirit alive when he asked, “Should I do 2 scoops?” after his shovel load—a nod to my dad’s old demand for “3 scoops, Joyce!” when it came to ice cream. It was a moment that brought both tears and smiles, reminding us that even in goodbye, the best memories are often the ones that make us laugh.

The pastor pointed out that we had people from five different states at Joyce’s service—quite the testament to the impact she had. We didn’t get to spend much time together, but in that brief moment, we all shared something special. It’s not every day you get to gather from far and wide to celebrate a life well-lived, and it’s a reminder of how love and memories can bring people together, no matter the distance.

We went to the Minnesota State Fair on Sunday, and let me tell you, it was packed! It ended up being one of the largest crowds ever, with over 225,000 people squeezing into the fairgrounds, breaking yet another attendance record this year. Every year, I get excited about going to the fair, but once I’m there, reality hits—so does everyone else in Minnesota. Navigating through the attractions becomes a bit of a sardine experience, making it a little less enjoyable and a lot more cramped. But hey, it’s all part of the charm, right?  The Great Minnesota Squeeze Together!

Luke joined Miss Sheri and me at the fair—not necessarily because he enjoys hanging out with us, but probably because he can’t resist the snacks. Corn on the cob, pronto pups, and, of course, Sweet Martha’s chocolate chip cookies, which he bought by the bucket. I’m pretty sure that bucket went straight into hiding once he got home, away from the prying hands of his roommates. The real trick isn't finding the best fair food—it's keeping it all to yourself afterward.

At the 2024 Minnesota State Fair, unique food offerings included "Cheesy Sriracha Funnel Cake Bites," "Churro Pretzel Sticks," and "Cloud Roll," a light, fluffy dessert filled with ice cream. But I decided to stick with a classic— the deep-fried Twinkie drizzled in strawberry sauce. Sure, it's a traditional indulgence, but given all the fair's culinary temptations, I might need to reconsider my fitness plans soon. After all, it's hard to outrun a diet that includes fried desserts on a stick!

While wandering through the fair, I had a run-in with Fairchild, the gopher mascot who’s been scurrying around the Minnesota State Fair since 1966. Named after the fair's founder, Col. Knute Fairchild, it’s ironic how this little rodent has burrowed its way into the hearts of Minnesotans. Who would've thought a gopher, of all things, would become a symbol of the state's biggest event? Yet here we are, celebrating him like he’s royalty—proof that even the lowliest critters can achieve greatness at the fair.

My son Avery’s gift-giving skills have definitely leveled up since Abby came into the picture. Thanks to their combined efforts, I was sporting this loon shirt and duck hat, fitting in almost too well with the local scene. It’s like they’ve turned me into the poster child for Minnesotan pride, one stylish piece at a time. Funny how a little fashion upgrade can make you feel like you belong, even if you’re just blending into the background!

The art building at the Minnesota State Fair is a showcase of just how far people will go to prove they’ve got creativity to burn. Whether it’s miniature villages or movie scenes crafted with obsessive detail, these displays are proof that imagination isn’t just for dreamers—it’s a way to flex those creative muscles and see what sticks. So, while I’m over here marveling at everyone else's handiwork, it’s a reminder that maybe we should all take a crack at creating something, even if it’s just to see what happens.

It turns out the governor was indeed at the fair on September 1st, causing quite a stir. After waiting 45 minutes just to get near the entrance, we were suddenly overtaken by a motorcade of squad cars and black SUVs. As it turns out, it was the governor himself, likely off to kiss some babies or something. Our entrance got closed down, and we were forced to find a new parking spot. Ironically, we found this booth later, and after our morning runaround, we weren’t exactly his biggest fans either.

Oh, the Minnesota State Fair—you can always count on it to deliver something memorable. And this year, I stumbled upon what might be Bigfoot's lesser-known hobby: hunting deer. Who knew? Maybe the legendary creature has decided to come out of hiding to show off his skills. Or perhaps he's just tired of all the blurry photos and figured he'd up his game. Either way, if this is how he spends his downtime, I’d say Bigfoot’s having a way more interesting summer than the rest of us.

After five hours and five miles of navigating the crowded labyrinth that is the Minnesota State Fair, we decided it was time to call it a day. Our last stop was the DNR pond, where we admired the fish before heading out. As we made our exit, battered and weary, we couldn't help but wonder: how much "The Great Minnesota Get-Together" can one person endure? We'll probably be back next year—if only to test the limits of our stamina once again.

Joyride with Caitlin Clark

@toddswank Joyride with Caitlin Clark. #joyride #caitlinclark ♬ JOYRIDE - Kesha

Lakefront Music Festival 15 in Prior Lake

 

Lakefront Music Festival 15 in Prior Lake

Todd Swank's Diary Entry for July 14, 2024

It's outdoor music festival season in Minnesota.  Wednesday night brought us to Rhythm on the Rails in Shakopee.  Krazy Kory was in town for the evening and we connected with Tom & Kellie and Eric & Deanne.  Subsequently a good time was had by all. 

Kory wanted to go near the band to get a photo and on our way through the crowd, we bumped into Troy and Rhonda Brown.  I felt quite fortuitous for the encounter!

Thursday night gave us the opportunity to go on a boat ride with Heidi and Lisa.  We tootled around the lake and spent the evening laughing and catching up on each other's lives.  It was a pleasant experience and best of all, nobody pushed me overboard for being obnoxious.  That's a big achievement for me.  

The water level on Prior Lake has risen more than 3 feet over the past couple of months so we're finally able to get into Mud Bay again to see Bird Island.  I was happy to see that even though we haven't been able to visit our feathered friends for about a year, they're still living together in happiness.  Although there seems to be quite a bit more poop on the leaves than there used to be. 

 Friday night brought us to Lakefront Park in Prior Lake for the 15th annual Lakefront Music Fest.  I can't remember how many of these we've attended, but my best guess would be 13.  The lineup was a good one with Bachman Turner Overdrive opening up the evening with many of their favorite hits.  They were Takin' Care of Business if you want my opinion.

We spotted our old friend, Chris Barragy, in the crowd.  He was there on official duty as one of the event photographers.  There's an old wives tale that it's good luck whenever you see a Barragy outside of Clear Lake, Iowa so I'm looking forward to my coming good fortune.

We bumped into many friends including Sue and Roberta.  We normally see each other at competitive Euchre matches so this was a nice change of pace.  And I wasn't losing any money like I normally do when I see them.

Berlin was the next performer.  I must be honest and say I didn't really remember her from my youth although her name did sound familiar.  I thought her full name was East Berlin or West Berlin or something like that, but not positive.  She really Took My Breath Away when she sang her final song about Tom Cruise.

Miss Sheri and I like singing together during concerts but I'm not sure if the people around us enjoy it as much as we do.

Eventually the sun went down and it was time for the headliner to appear.  I didn't notice the guys I was standing in front of when taking this picture, but later noticed they didn't look all that thrilled that I was standing there.

Eventually Pat Benatar came on stage with her husband Neil Giraldo and they were ready to rock!

They sang several songs I didn't recognize, but ended the evening with a bunch of her greatest hits.  Apparently she no longer sings Hit me with your Best Shot to protest gun violence, so Miss Sheri sang it for me on the drive home instead.  She's nice like that.

The Netflix Quarterback Premiere at TCO Stadium

 

The Netflix Quarterback Premiere at TCO Stadium

Todd Swank's Diary Entry for July 16, 2023

On Sunday we went to Como Zoo & Conservatory in St. Paul.  We like to see the animals, flowers, and the nude statues ready to skinny dip in the black water.

Luke & Avery joined us for the visit.  They like to hang out with us unless something better comes up with virtually anybody else.

I remember a time when the polar bears were stuck in a tiny cage where they walked and swam in the same circle countless times every day.  Now they have a much bigger cage, but I have my doubts whether or not that original insanity they carried has gone away.  So probably not a good idea to go in there with them.

I this tall!

On Tuesday night, Luke, Miss Sheri and I headed to TCO Stadium in Eagan, Minnesota which is the main practice facility for the Minnesota Vikings.

We were there for the premier of the new Netflix series Quarterback which stars Patrick Mahomes, Marcus Mariota, and the Vikings own Kirk Cousins.

The evening started with a trivia contest and then we all went onto one of the practice fields to watch the show.  It's pretty awesome and shows Kirk in a light I don't think a lot of fans have seen him in before.  Unfortunately, Kirk was in Los Angeles for the premier but he did record a nice intro for the hometown fans as can be seen here:

@toddswank Kirk Cousins introduces TCO Stafium to the Premiere of Netflix show “Quarterback”. #quarterback #kirkcousins #minnesota #vikings #netflix #Premiere ♬ original sound - Todd Swank

On Thursday night, we had one of our Prior Lake Empty Nester get togethers.  The crowd was lighter than the past couple of months, but I guess that can be expected in July.  Those of who did attend had a wonderful evening of laughter and clever repartee.

On Friday night, we headed to Lakefront Park in Prior Lake for Lakefront Music Fest.

We were joined by our good friends, The Korkowski Family.  The night started a little bumpy when a thunderstorm rolled through the area, but the skies cleared up and it ended up being a beautiful evening.

REO Speedwagon was up first and rocked us with classic tunes including Can't Fight This Feeling, Ridin' the Storm Out, and Keep On Loving You.  They reminded me of my childhood when I used to put on my roller skates and speed around the rink while gyrating my hips to these incredible songs.

This weekend concert has been going for 14 years and we've been to most of them.  Every year it feels like the crowd gets bigger and my claustrophobia gets worse. 

Lynyrd Skynyrd were the headliners for the evening and rocked us all night with songs like That Smell, Simple Man, Sweet Home Alabama, and Free Bird.  I burned out a lot of 8 Track players listening to these jams back in the day.

These guys sounded awesome even though sadly not a single original member of the band is still alive today.  That's becoming a more consistent theme as we go to see beloved bands from our childhood, but I'm not going to think about those implications regarding my own age and expected mortality.

Luke and Avery celebrated their 24th birthday all weekend so it wasn't until today that we were able to join them for the party.  Of course we had to go to Benihana to do it up right.  

Happy Birthday, boys!