I am always continually amazed.

What amazes me is this — no matter how many times I experience something, there’s always something in it that recaptures my attention. Perhaps it’s because one sees, hears or tastes something that was not seen, heard or tasted before within that same experience. For instance…

No matter how many times I travel around the state of Minnesota, I always amazed by the diversity of geology and landscapes. Having grown up on the prairie of southwest Minnesota, I know what that landscape looks like. However, on a recent visit back to the home country, I was once again enthralled by the flatness of the land. Depending on where you are at the moment and when you reach a high point, you can see for miles and miles. You may not see the coming town, but you will notice the town’s water tower many miles from the community.

We traveled to the prairie for a family reunion, and I was able to enjoy the family along with a glass or two of Ménage á Trois Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s aged for a few months in oak bourbon casks, and it’s delicious. There’s the expected black cherry taste that is mellowed a bit by the vanilla flavor from the casks. I’ve sipped it many times before, but no matter how many times I taste it, I notice it and enjoy it.

After leaving the prairie, we traveled east into the introduction of the Driftless Region of the state. Suddenly, one is surrounded by lakes, trees and hilly terrain. I tried to notice the transition from prairie to driftless, but failed due a heavy downpour of rain. We’ve traveled a bit in the southeast part of the state, but its beauty and history never escapes me. Again, no matter how many miles I drive within the area, I am always amazed. I try to imagine what it must have been like when the glaciers came flowing through the area.

Of course, I’ve experienced the magnificence of the Arrowhead region of our state, and that’s special, too. I have canoed the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness area, and hope to experience it again one day. It is such a marvelous region, and needs to be always protected from mankind’s greediness. The lakes of that state’s region are spectacular. The forests are so impressive. On a trip to Itasca State Park, we drove by a stand of white pines that had been planted by the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) in the 1930s. Think of the history there!

Whew! It’s time to pause this road trip and have a bit of Korbel Sparkling Champagne. It’s a perfect beverage to raise in a toast to this special state. Notice the lively bubbles and savor the crispness of the wine. Ah, perfect!

Speaking of wines, I have sampled a few different wines in my day. No matter how many times I taste an old friend, I am always impressed by the wine’s continuing flavor and aroma. Obviously, someone knows what they are doing! Of course, there’s always the opportunity to taste a new wine just like there is to see a new part of the state.

I mentioned the family reunion we went to recently, and although it was fabulous to talk to my sisters, my brother, his wife and my nieces, there was one moment in time that will not be forgotten.

Just before the day was to end, I sat with the brother-in-law, and we sampled a Minnesota made bourbon from Cantilever Distillery near Rainy Lake. The conversation matched the interesting liquid and I would recommend a visit to the distillery when you are in the area.

May your life be filled with many “no matter how many times” moments.

As always, eat and drink in moderation but laugh with reckless abandon.

Cheers!