This past week was the annual mystery trip. The surprise and destination is always fun and brings anticipation.

The trip began with a Swedish theme at the Historic and Charming Mansion at the American Swedish institute. The “Turnblad Mansion” which was the former home of the affluent Swan Turnblad family. Situated on Park Avenue in Minneapolis. This home was built with the intent to recognize the Swedish coming and settling in our country. Many items have a home there to display their fine works. The wood works and carvings along with the 11 (kakelugnar) stoves of tile, from Sweden were designed by selected craftsmen assigned to the job

With no two stoves alike, they have never been used to burn, mostly used for decorative purposes. The beauty of this home reflects the works of detailed stone carving as well as the plaster ornamentation on all of the ceilings.

Situated on six building sites, it took five years to build in the early 1900s. In 2012 and extensive addition was added and can now host up to 1000 guests throughout the home and grounds. This museum continues to retain its beauty and upkeep with many loyal friends.

Lunch was next on our schedule with a surprise visit to a newer (2 years old) theater set in the Mall of America area. The “Day Trippers” is a new idea of a smaller theater with an intimate setting.

Greeting us was an “Old Friend” who many recognized from the Old Log theater. He had greeted us there for many years and now owns this theater and will be the Director of the English Farce Comedy we were about to see. Special treatment was given to us with our lunch with a Hilarious show to follow.

Clues to this trip came to unravel as we made our way for this busy day. The challenge of a mystery trip to seek other places which they may not have been. And this trip was still another one probably accomplished just that.

Upcoming trips

•June 9, Amish in Lansboro: This will our next tour as we learn about the life of the Amish families in the Lansboro area. We will have free time and lunch in this charming town. We do have a few seats available and the fee is now due.

•July 29, Million Dollar Quartet at the Old Log Theater near Excelsior: Please watch for fee due dates.

An updated newsletter is now available at the Senior Center, and to members by mail.

The full schedule of our fall extended trip to the Southwest, highlighting the National Balloon Fest in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on Oct. 4-12 is also available.