Monday (8/3)   We are sure it will not surprise you to learn that we went to the State Capitol in St. Paul.   This capitol was completed in 1905 and has a traditional dome configuration.  It was very nice and well kept but not overly ornate (see pictures.)   A lot of the decorations on the ceilings were painted and not carved.   It did have a great deal of beautiful marble from all over the world. Originally, two million dollars were raised for the project but the architect said he though the people of Minnesota wanted a beautiful capitol and to do that he would need four million dollars. The money was raised and the building ended up costing four and a half million dollars.  

We ate lunch at a Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives restaurant.   It was called the Nook and was just your local little bar.   The Nook has won many, many awards for their burgers.   Sue had a Triple B - a bourbon-bacon burger that was great.   Rich had a Blue Burger - a burger loaded with blue cheese.  All we can say is we know why the walls are lined with awards - the food was outstanding.

In the afternoon, we went to the Museum of Russian Art.   Being Monday, everything we wanted to see was closed.  But, that was okay, as this museum was very nice.  There was a special display called "Postage Stamps: Messengers of the Soviet Future."  To look at the pictures on these stamps, it looks like Russia was such a wonderful place where everyone is happy.  These stamps were really messengers carrying the Russian propaganda.  

For dinner, we are headed another Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives pick. It is the Bryant Lake Bowl  - a bowling alley that serves great food.  We are hoping that it is as good as lunch.  No wonder Sue can't fit in any of the clothes she brought with her.   DIET - here I come when I get home!!!!