We in Minnesota are a hearty bunch. Although I am a transplant here, I believe I've earned my stripes. A few years ago I caught myself saying "you betcha." That was a sign. I also don't seem to be able to start a phone conversation without saying the word, "oh" as though surprised that someone was willing to talk at the other end of the line. I also own a crock pot, so there's that. But perhaps the true measure is ones fortitude to endure, and indeed thrive during, the long and dark winter months which, as I've discussed, extend well into April.
I am a baseball fan. My chief loyalty is to the New York Mets. I suppose there is something in my nature which seeks the challenge of bearing hardship. This extends to the Twins, who are my adopted favorite. I tend to follow the Twins these days more than the Mets. I don't see it as a conflict of interest, as they are in different leagues, although if they ever faced each other in interleague play, or impossibly in the World Series, it would be Mets all the way. But I digress. Liking both is to be perpetually disappointed. Perhaps the appeal is in baring hardship. Wearing this albatross, and a parka, I will head to the home opener at Target Field tomorrow. There are 10 inches of snow in the stands. The park officials assure us it will be cleared by tomorrow. Tonight we are expecting a low of 10 degrees F. Hardship; we are proud of our ability to endure it in this great city.