We arrived in Minnesota in mid-May to spend time with my (Michael) family. Because I grew up here, some things are still familiar. But because I left a long time ago, a lot has changed, and my relationship with this place is… complex. It’s not home. It’s where mom is, my brother and his family are, and one or two old friends; so, it’s lovely to visit. But it’s not home. And even though I lived most of my life in Seattle, last year’s visit proved that it’s not home anymore ei

One month later..... The month of July felt like an intensive boot camp of friendships, family, and community. Between a week in...