I'm dreaming of dental bliss that I once had.

As a child, my teeth were perfect-o. Never a cavity. No toothaches. No worries about what I should or shouldn't eat or drink. My teeth grew so strong that when a batter line drove a softball into my face while I was on the pitcher's mound, I needed stitches in my lip but nothing happened to my teeth. I must have been great with the toothbrush, because I never had to floss and I always got a good review from the dentist.

Minnesota is arguably as melodious as any state in the union. Over the years, it has produced almost as many great musicians and bands as it has lakes – and the variety is as diverse as the weather.

At the Baden house, our Halloween tradition is emptying out our cupboards and giving goodies out to trick-or-treaters from the neighborhood.