No matter how open-minded I try to be, it seems that I inevitably enter a new situation carrying an armful of presuppositions. The latest example of this being that our summer vacation plans have changed last minute. Instead of my meticulously planned trip to the Wisconsin Dells, we’ll be spending a few days in a different destination that wasn’t originally on our radar.

I know this trip will be fun, it fits our timeline better, and even allows us to meet up with friends we haven’t seen in years. But that still doesn’t stop my bad-attitude-brain from whispering things like, “This isn’t a real vacation destination.” “This isn’t going to be nearly as fun as the Dells.” “This is disappointing.”
You’re getting a glimpse of just how petty I can be.

On the outside, I might seem like a natural optimist. But the truth is, my mindset is the product of intentionality—and hard-won victories over well-worn mental ruts and negative thinking. The truth is, this never-before-experienced destination may turn out to be the best trip we’ve had in years. It’s an opportunity to try something new, explore fresh places, reconnect with old friends, eat different foods, and even come home with recommendations to share with other North Dakota families.

Those who know me best know I don’t love trying new things—unless it was my idea in the first place. I don’t cope well with change. And in an ever-changing world, that means I often have to take my own advice. Things like:
• “Your best friend in the whole world was a stranger until one of you introduced yourself.”
• “You won’t know your favorite food until you take that first bite.”
• “This might be your new favorite way of doing it.”
• “You’ll never know what you like best if you never try anything new.”
These are the annoying “Amy-isms” my kids hear all the time. And they’re the same phrases I repeat to myself when faced with challenge or change.
All this trivial vacation angst got me thinking about the assumptions I had when we first moved to Minot—expecting to hate certain things that have since become surprising blessings. If you’re new here, on the verge of a PCS, or just struggling to see the good, maybe some of these reframed thoughts will spark a shift in perspective for you, too.

I expected to hate the isolation—but I’ve come to love the boundary.
Having always lived in places where one town blurs into the next, Minot was a shock. There’s Minot… and then there’s nothing. But I’ve found something oddly comforting about that clear separation. For someone who struggles with personal boundaries, the firm edges of this city have been healing. Life here feels contained and manageable. Bonus? Commutes are short. We’re rarely more than 10 minutes from anything.

I expected to hate limited options—but I’ve come to love the clarity.
At first, I worried I’d miss the stores and restaurants I loved at other duty stations. But having fewer choices has turned out to be a relief. There’s comfort in knowing what we have. And with fewer distractions or endless options, I’m not paralyzed by decision fatigue. It’s oddly liberating.

I expected to hate the numbered roads—but I’ve come to love the logic.
I’m not great with directions, and Minot’s grid system—with its 3rd Streets and 3rd Avenues in every quadrant—seemed like a setup for disaster. But once I gave the system a fair shot, I found the numbered layout helps me understand addresses and get lost less often. Now I wish every city used this method.

I expected to hate the long winter—but I’ve come to love the rhythm of the seasons.
Yes, the winters are cold and dark. But the summer days are long, warm, and perfect for being outside from sunup to sundown. Living in North Dakota has taught me that life has seasons—times to go full throttle and times to rest. I’ve learned to embrace both, and the shift from one to the other brings a sense of balance. The kind I didn’t know I needed until it was thrust upon me.

If you’re holding tight to a presupposition this summer, I hope you’ll loosen your grip. (I’m talking to myself here, too.) We might be surprised at the beauty, joy, and growth that come from releasing expectations and stepping into something new.

Next week, I’ll be sharing another story that shattered my expectations: giving chiropractic care an honest try with Cornerstone Chiropractic. That was another situation I entered with skepticism and left with a completely changed perspective—in the best way.

I’m honored to have Cornerstone Chiropractic partnering with She’s Not From Around Here and the Northern Sentry to bring you sunny stories and a little extra positivity from life here in Hotdish Land.

For more thoughts on mindset, thriving in Minot, or making the most of this quirky, beautiful life, join me online at amyallender.com or on social media @HeyMinot.