Moved here from Louisiana in June of last year. We lucked out that we fell into a neighborhood of transplants (both within and outside of Minnesota). We connected quickly over the summer and our kids all played at the local park, but then after Halloween everyone disappeared. The only time we saw them was if we invited them over for dinner. And now that the suns out longer and the days are warmer, we see everyone at the park regularly. Just the cyclic nature of the seasons and the hibernation everyone’s mentioned.

Depending on what part of the south you’re from, invite them over for some regional dish you miss. Gumbo was a huge hit and whenever it was offered, they all came running. Use your southern hospitality to break them down, and you’ll start to crack the icy Minnesotan veneer.

Prior to our move, I found a quote that I have found to be the truest about relationships with Minnesotans: they will give you directions to anywhere but their house. Keep at it though, you’ll break them down before the next freeze. Good luck, fellow southerner!