Mackinac Island

My first day in Michigan, Gretchen and I decided to take advantage of the beautiful weather and spend the day on Mackinac Island.
Despite the sun, the ferry to the island was a bit chilly but it was a spectacular view of Mackinac Bridge which connects the Upper Peninsula to the rest of Michigan. Interestingly enough, the folks that live in the UP are called "Yoopers" and those who live south of the bridge are called "trolls." Doesn't seem quite fair but that's how it is. :)

Once on the island, we walked down the street to the Fort of Mackinac where we enjoyed a wonderful lunch in the tea room with a spectacular view of the straits of Mackinac.

There are no "horse-less" carriages (a.k.a. cars) allowed on the island so you either walk, ride a bicycle or take a carriage ride. We debated the bicycle option but decided we weren't quite capable of handling that mode of transportation.

After walking quite a bit, we decided we should take a tour of the island via horse and carriage. It's not a fast mode of transportation but it is a good way to see a larger portion of the island. Our driver/guide was entertaining as well as informational and we learned a lot as we rode.

Needless to say, the ride home on the ferry was even chillier without the morning sun but we were better prepared! It was a fabulous day and I'm so glad I got to experience Mackinac Island!

Diamond Lake

On my way to Wisconsin, I drove through Stillwater, MN and discovered I was about 2 miles from the home of my friend, Torr, and his family. I decided it was time to pay them a visit! :) I did call first and was very happy to find out they were home and not busy. It was fun to see them in their natural habitat. The last time we were together was in 2001 so the kids have grown a LOT (like at least triple) since then. We sat on the deck and chatted for about an hour before I had to get back on the road. It was such a blessing to see them!

I also managed to track down my friend, Bobby, who we also use to run around with when we would come to Cable in high school. He lives in Cable and keeps busy with his many jobs. He's one of the sweetest guys I have ever known and it was wonderful to see him again.

I don't know of any place I would rather be than the beautiful cabin on Diamond Lake in Cable, Wisconsin. I have been going there since I was a kid and it holds very special memories. The sights...smells...sounds bring joy to my soul. I love to sit on the dock and read, kayak around the lake, take a picnic lunch out on the pontoon boat, browse around the Firefly or the shops in town, have lunch at the Brick House, help Virgil with a puzzle, enjoy a cup of coffee (or lemon cello blanco - YUM!) with Nancy on the dock, and listen to the loons. I know I am so very blessed to have such wonderful friends!