Monday, August 20, 2007
Today is a day we must start thinking what all we need to bring a new puppy to our home. The day is rainy and gloomy. We remember why we don't like to be north during stormy days, it is depressing. But, we must overcome the rain and head out to purchase puppy items.
We head into Port Huron. It is closer than Lake Orion. We find a pet store. We purchase the same kind of food puppy is getting at the rescue. We get pet dishes, a crate, towels, collar, lead and toys. We at least have the basics to bring her home to us.
We think names. We thought Sabrina, maybe Brie for short. We think Eloise, maybe weezie for short. We both like Charlie. I think she is Charlie. If they can call boys Marion and Sue, why can't we have a girl named Charlie?
Anyhow this is how we spent this day. Yes, we are anxiously awaiting a call saying we can come and pick Charlie up.
When we finish shopping we give Peg and Bill a call and head to Lexington to see them once again. We tell them about Charlie and show them photos of her.
All you friends, neighbors and relatives that are reading my blog, you can make comments by clicking on the comments at the end of each posting. I don't know if any of you are reading this or is this only for my remembering each day of vacation?
Please make a comment. Thanks.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Great Heavens, what has Nancy done???
Sunday, August 19, 2007
We left in the auto and arrived at Jeff and Amy's we were taking Maggie (middle daughter) to her other Grandma's house in Grandville, MI. (by Grand Rapids) Of course that is not why we went to the other side of the state. You see Nancy really misses having a dog and she and Tom finally have started looking for another dog. They thought they might purchase a rescue dog in Illinois, only to find out you needed to live within a two hour distance for the rescue to let you adopt. So, we were on the Internet and we found a rescue in Holland that was showing dogs today. Yup, we headed over to Holland to see the dogs. Well, the showing was from noon to 3:00 and Nancy wanted to be there at noon. When they walked into the animal hospital there were two female cocker spaniels, one a spotted brown and white, the other an all black one. Well, we had been looking for a female black cocker spaniel and we finally found one. Tom managed to pick her up and hold her for awhile, then Nancy had the chance to hold her. She is about 12 to 13 weeks old. She was the product of a puppy mill. They think that she and her sister were to old when the brokers came around so they were to be euthanized but the rescue took them.
Nancy filled out the adoption papers, and talked at lenght to the rescue people. She is to be spayed on Tuesday with a pick up on Wednesday or Thursday. So, all the way back across the state Nancy and Tom had to start thinking of names for a little black cocker spaniel.
We left in the auto and arrived at Jeff and Amy's we were taking Maggie (middle daughter) to her other Grandma's house in Grandville, MI. (by Grand Rapids) Of course that is not why we went to the other side of the state. You see Nancy really misses having a dog and she and Tom finally have started looking for another dog. They thought they might purchase a rescue dog in Illinois, only to find out you needed to live within a two hour distance for the rescue to let you adopt. So, we were on the Internet and we found a rescue in Holland that was showing dogs today. Yup, we headed over to Holland to see the dogs. Well, the showing was from noon to 3:00 and Nancy wanted to be there at noon. When they walked into the animal hospital there were two female cocker spaniels, one a spotted brown and white, the other an all black one. Well, we had been looking for a female black cocker spaniel and we finally found one. Tom managed to pick her up and hold her for awhile, then Nancy had the chance to hold her. She is about 12 to 13 weeks old. She was the product of a puppy mill. They think that she and her sister were to old when the brokers came around so they were to be euthanized but the rescue took them.
Nancy filled out the adoption papers, and talked at lenght to the rescue people. She is to be spayed on Tuesday with a pick up on Wednesday or Thursday. So, all the way back across the state Nancy and Tom had to start thinking of names for a little black cocker spaniel.
A Car (?) today
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Today we had to get into Jeff and Amy's before noon. We had reserved a rental car from Enterprise and Tom needed to pick it up before the office closed. When they arrived back at the kids home we had a little PT Cruiser to cruise around in.
Amy had invited Nancy's younger sister, Marilyn and her husband, Paul for lunch. Amy out did herself in that our lunch was shiek-kabobs. We had our choise of chicken or beef. Then she made two great salads to go with the meal. Marilyn brought the dessert, a flourless chocolate cake. Good food. Paul took pictures of our grandchildren. Yes, he sent me a few jpegs of the girls.
When we left to head back to the campsite, we were in an automobile. Wow, what a good fortune. We needed the auto for our trip the next day.
Today we had to get into Jeff and Amy's before noon. We had reserved a rental car from Enterprise and Tom needed to pick it up before the office closed. When they arrived back at the kids home we had a little PT Cruiser to cruise around in.
Amy had invited Nancy's younger sister, Marilyn and her husband, Paul for lunch. Amy out did herself in that our lunch was shiek-kabobs. We had our choise of chicken or beef. Then she made two great salads to go with the meal. Marilyn brought the dessert, a flourless chocolate cake. Good food. Paul took pictures of our grandchildren. Yes, he sent me a few jpegs of the girls.
When we left to head back to the campsite, we were in an automobile. Wow, what a good fortune. We needed the auto for our trip the next day.
Arrival at Thousand Trails
Friday, August 17, 2007
Bill had a doctor's appt. today and this was when we were planning to leave. Peg and Bill headed out for the doctors' and Tom and Nancy hooked up the motor home and headed south to St. Clair, where they are camping at the Thousand Trails campground. The great state of Michigan has just about every road we want to take under road construction. After setting up our campsite, we took off on the motorcycles and headed into Lake Orion. That is about a 46 mile one way trip. But when we arrived we got to see all the Michigan Milton's. The weather turned a little cool, so we turned around and headed home. We arrive before the sun set, a little cold, but safe and sound.
Bill had a doctor's appt. today and this was when we were planning to leave. Peg and Bill headed out for the doctors' and Tom and Nancy hooked up the motor home and headed south to St. Clair, where they are camping at the Thousand Trails campground. The great state of Michigan has just about every road we want to take under road construction. After setting up our campsite, we took off on the motorcycles and headed into Lake Orion. That is about a 46 mile one way trip. But when we arrived we got to see all the Michigan Milton's. The weather turned a little cool, so we turned around and headed home. We arrive before the sun set, a little cold, but safe and sound.
Port Huron
Thursday, August 16,2007
The day starts early with Bill and Tom going to meet the "guys" for breakfast. When they return Peggy and Nancy want to go to Mary Maxim, and of course the boys don't want to be left out in the cold so we agree to let them tag along. We hit Hobby Lobby first then it's on to Mary Maxim. Peg and Nancy's kind of stores. We have lots of fun and the guys don't harrass us to much for the time we spend.
We head to Sam's Club next. Tom and Nancy had found some great burgers that just need to be heated in the microwave and they make for a good lunch on the road. But when we purchased what we thought they were, we found out we only purchased Angus Burgers that needed to be cooked on the grill. Oh, well such is life.
We had a great cook-out at the Heine's for dinner. Tom and Nancy supplied the steaks and Peggy had fresh corn on the cob and salad. What a wonderful summer meal.
After dinner, Bill and Tom left for the bar to met the guys for beer and pizza. Only the left the pizza and just had a couple of beers. Nancy and Peg headed into Port Huron and got to see Bob and Jackie's new condo where they will reside very soon. Then it was back to the lake.
The day starts early with Bill and Tom going to meet the "guys" for breakfast. When they return Peggy and Nancy want to go to Mary Maxim, and of course the boys don't want to be left out in the cold so we agree to let them tag along. We hit Hobby Lobby first then it's on to Mary Maxim. Peg and Nancy's kind of stores. We have lots of fun and the guys don't harrass us to much for the time we spend.
We head to Sam's Club next. Tom and Nancy had found some great burgers that just need to be heated in the microwave and they make for a good lunch on the road. But when we purchased what we thought they were, we found out we only purchased Angus Burgers that needed to be cooked on the grill. Oh, well such is life.
We had a great cook-out at the Heine's for dinner. Tom and Nancy supplied the steaks and Peggy had fresh corn on the cob and salad. What a wonderful summer meal.
After dinner, Bill and Tom left for the bar to met the guys for beer and pizza. Only the left the pizza and just had a couple of beers. Nancy and Peg headed into Port Huron and got to see Bob and Jackie's new condo where they will reside very soon. Then it was back to the lake.
Heine's
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
This is a road day, although very short. We left Harbor Beach to drive about one hours down the road to just south of Lexington, Mi. We arrive at Bill and Peg Heine's with Bill at the road flagging us down so we don't miss the turn. Tom and Bill bring the motorhome into his yard and set it up for us. Peg and I talk. Isn't that what women are suppose to do?
We drive into Port Huron for lunch at Ted's Coney Dogs. What a great lunch. We head to Jackie's home to met Jackie and her children, Heather (16ish), Mark (9), and Katie (7). And we get to met Will (2 months). Bob is away on a business trip.
This is the night we go out to Olive Garden. Wonderful meal. Peg is on the South Beach Diet, and she ate just what she should have. Good girl, Peggy.
Bill and Peg take us on a tour of the Port Huron area. Nice area.
This is a road day, although very short. We left Harbor Beach to drive about one hours down the road to just south of Lexington, Mi. We arrive at Bill and Peg Heine's with Bill at the road flagging us down so we don't miss the turn. Tom and Bill bring the motorhome into his yard and set it up for us. Peg and I talk. Isn't that what women are suppose to do?
We drive into Port Huron for lunch at Ted's Coney Dogs. What a great lunch. We head to Jackie's home to met Jackie and her children, Heather (16ish), Mark (9), and Katie (7). And we get to met Will (2 months). Bob is away on a business trip.
This is the night we go out to Olive Garden. Wonderful meal. Peg is on the South Beach Diet, and she ate just what she should have. Good girl, Peggy.
Bill and Peg take us on a tour of the Port Huron area. Nice area.
Day of Change
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Today was a long day. We accomplished so much. We left Canadian Lakes early in the morning. We arrive in Midland at the bank where Nancy worked about 9:22. Nancy wants to find out what she would give up if she starts taking her retirement from the bank at 62 instead of 65.
After that stop we head to Bay City. This is where Nancy’s cousins have the jewelry store. Cousin Dave is on vacation this week, but that does not stop Nancy from shopping and finding a bauble for herself. She also orders pearls and has all her diamonds checked and cleaned.
We figure we can camp out in the thumb. We call a few RV parks and decide to head to Harbor Springs. We find a nice campground run by the city and stop there. We set up camp and when we are trying to set up we have a nice man offer help. Yes, he is a Harley rider.
We decide to take a ride and head south to where the other RV park was located. We made to right choice. Then we ride north to the tip of the thumb at Grindstone City.
We get back to camp and Ted (the Harley guy) and Debbie arrive back from their ride. We talk with Ted and Debbie and find out Ted use to ride with the “Outlaws” We somehow think that they are not what we really want to associate with. Ted has spent time in jail, did not really tell us what for. Ted had a bad fall at work and now is collecting disability. Ted won a lawsuit for his fall, but could not collect anything for it as the company did not have any assets. Need I go On?????
Today was a long day. We accomplished so much. We left Canadian Lakes early in the morning. We arrive in Midland at the bank where Nancy worked about 9:22. Nancy wants to find out what she would give up if she starts taking her retirement from the bank at 62 instead of 65.
After that stop we head to Bay City. This is where Nancy’s cousins have the jewelry store. Cousin Dave is on vacation this week, but that does not stop Nancy from shopping and finding a bauble for herself. She also orders pearls and has all her diamonds checked and cleaned.
We figure we can camp out in the thumb. We call a few RV parks and decide to head to Harbor Springs. We find a nice campground run by the city and stop there. We set up camp and when we are trying to set up we have a nice man offer help. Yes, he is a Harley rider.
We decide to take a ride and head south to where the other RV park was located. We made to right choice. Then we ride north to the tip of the thumb at Grindstone City.
We get back to camp and Ted (the Harley guy) and Debbie arrive back from their ride. We talk with Ted and Debbie and find out Ted use to ride with the “Outlaws” We somehow think that they are not what we really want to associate with. Ted has spent time in jail, did not really tell us what for. Ted had a bad fall at work and now is collecting disability. Ted won a lawsuit for his fall, but could not collect anything for it as the company did not have any assets. Need I go On?????
Relaxing Day
Monday, August 13, 2007
This is our lazy day. We do nothing all day long, just relax and kick back for a change. About 4:30 we take a ride east to Remus and south out in the country. Nice short ride, but fun nontheless.
This is our lazy day. We do nothing all day long, just relax and kick back for a change. About 4:30 we take a ride east to Remus and south out in the country. Nice short ride, but fun nontheless.
Ride Canadian Lakes
Sunday, August 12, 2007
We decided to ride to the Croton and Hardy Dams. (The Croton dam was a pioneer in its early days.) We started out on 5 Mile Rd. Riding down we passed a home where there must have been 25 to 30 Amish buggies parked. This is Sunday and so it was church day. We rode past the Elk/Deer/Moose farm, not seeing any of the wild animals. Think they were back in the woods. We traveled through many small country towns with names the likes of Morley, Newaygo, White Cloud, Lilley, Bitley and finally arrived in Baldwin. Each spring Baldwin has a blessing of the bikes. Heading east out of Baldwin we travel to Reed City and Paris before arriving in Big Rapids.
Our route took us through forests, along streams and rivers and past many a small mid-western farms. What a beautiful country we live in. We rode from Big Rapids out the back roads towards Canadian Lakes. On this part of the trip we ride past a Llama farm.
We called long time friends, Bonnie and John Detloff and agreed to meet them for dinner in Mt. Pleasant. So about 5:00 we took off eastbound riding to Mt. Pleasant and the Mountain Town Station Restaurant. It’s speciality is ribs, but alas none of us ordered the ribs this time. We had prime rib and steaks, not as good as the ribs. Great conservation, wonderful friends, but alas Tom and Nancy must leave to ride back into the setting sun and Canadian Lakes.
We decided to ride to the Croton and Hardy Dams. (The Croton dam was a pioneer in its early days.) We started out on 5 Mile Rd. Riding down we passed a home where there must have been 25 to 30 Amish buggies parked. This is Sunday and so it was church day. We rode past the Elk/Deer/Moose farm, not seeing any of the wild animals. Think they were back in the woods. We traveled through many small country towns with names the likes of Morley, Newaygo, White Cloud, Lilley, Bitley and finally arrived in Baldwin. Each spring Baldwin has a blessing of the bikes. Heading east out of Baldwin we travel to Reed City and Paris before arriving in Big Rapids.
Our route took us through forests, along streams and rivers and past many a small mid-western farms. What a beautiful country we live in. We rode from Big Rapids out the back roads towards Canadian Lakes. On this part of the trip we ride past a Llama farm.
We called long time friends, Bonnie and John Detloff and agreed to meet them for dinner in Mt. Pleasant. So about 5:00 we took off eastbound riding to Mt. Pleasant and the Mountain Town Station Restaurant. It’s speciality is ribs, but alas none of us ordered the ribs this time. We had prime rib and steaks, not as good as the ribs. Great conservation, wonderful friends, but alas Tom and Nancy must leave to ride back into the setting sun and Canadian Lakes.
Ride Canadian Lakes
Sunday, August 12, 2007
We decided to ride to the Croton and Hardy Dams. (The Croton dam was a pioneer in its early days.) We started out on 5 Mile Rd. Riding down we passed a home where there must have been 25 to 30 Amish buggies parked. This is Sunday and so it was church day. We rode past the Elk/Deer/Moose farm, not seeing any of the wild animals. Think they were back in the woods. We traveled through many small country towns with names the likes of Morley, Newaygo, White Cloud, Lilley, Bitley and finally arrived in Baldwin. Each spring Baldwin has a blessing of the bikes. Heading east out of Baldwin we travel to Reed City and Paris before arriving in Big Rapids.
Our route took us through forests, along streams and rivers and past many a small mid-western farms. What a beautiful country we live in. We rode from Big Rapids out the back roads towards Canadian Lakes. On this part of the trip we ride past a Llama farm.
We called long time friends, Bonnie and John Detloff and agreed to meet them for dinner in Mt. Pleasant. So about 5:00 we took off eastbound riding to Mt. Pleasant and the Mountain Town Station Restaurant. It’s speciality is ribs, but alas none of us ordered the ribs this time. We had prime rib and steaks, not as good as the ribs. Great conservation, wonderful friends, but alas Tom and Nancy must leave to ride back into the setting sun and Canadian Lakes.
We decided to ride to the Croton and Hardy Dams. (The Croton dam was a pioneer in its early days.) We started out on 5 Mile Rd. Riding down we passed a home where there must have been 25 to 30 Amish buggies parked. This is Sunday and so it was church day. We rode past the Elk/Deer/Moose farm, not seeing any of the wild animals. Think they were back in the woods. We traveled through many small country towns with names the likes of Morley, Newaygo, White Cloud, Lilley, Bitley and finally arrived in Baldwin. Each spring Baldwin has a blessing of the bikes. Heading east out of Baldwin we travel to Reed City and Paris before arriving in Big Rapids.
Our route took us through forests, along streams and rivers and past many a small mid-western farms. What a beautiful country we live in. We rode from Big Rapids out the back roads towards Canadian Lakes. On this part of the trip we ride past a Llama farm.
We called long time friends, Bonnie and John Detloff and agreed to meet them for dinner in Mt. Pleasant. So about 5:00 we took off eastbound riding to Mt. Pleasant and the Mountain Town Station Restaurant. It’s speciality is ribs, but alas none of us ordered the ribs this time. We had prime rib and steaks, not as good as the ribs. Great conservation, wonderful friends, but alas Tom and Nancy must leave to ride back into the setting sun and Canadian Lakes.
First Day at Canadian Lakes
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Today we leave Mesick and travel south to Canadian Lakes. This is where we had our last home in Michigan. Another day we arrive early in the day so we ride around and toured Canadian Lakes. We rode by our last home and wow does it look small. The people who purchased our next door neighbors home basically did a tear down, and the home went from about 1800 s.f. to about 6500 s.f. Really made our place look like a postage stamp.
We stopped at Theismeyer’s home to visit with them for a short while.
Toured around the ”Royal” both north and south. Some building, lots of homes for sale and are we happy we sold when we did. Also rode up by St. Ives and in through the back gate. The back gate is paved, never did we think that would happen.
After dinner we wanted to ride to King’s. That is the place to go for ice cream. We both ordered a small bowl of ice cream, and we should have ordered just one bowl for the two of us. It was much larger than either one of us remember it to be. Leaving Sylvester we traveled back country roads arriving home before sundown.
Today we leave Mesick and travel south to Canadian Lakes. This is where we had our last home in Michigan. Another day we arrive early in the day so we ride around and toured Canadian Lakes. We rode by our last home and wow does it look small. The people who purchased our next door neighbors home basically did a tear down, and the home went from about 1800 s.f. to about 6500 s.f. Really made our place look like a postage stamp.
We stopped at Theismeyer’s home to visit with them for a short while.
Toured around the ”Royal” both north and south. Some building, lots of homes for sale and are we happy we sold when we did. Also rode up by St. Ives and in through the back gate. The back gate is paved, never did we think that would happen.
After dinner we wanted to ride to King’s. That is the place to go for ice cream. We both ordered a small bowl of ice cream, and we should have ordered just one bowl for the two of us. It was much larger than either one of us remember it to be. Leaving Sylvester we traveled back country roads arriving home before sundown.
Lake Michigan
Friday, August 10, 2007
Today we start heading for Beulah and the north shore of Crystal Lake before finding our way to M-22 along the Lake Michigan shoreline. We ride up into the Leelanau peninsula. Along the way we visited Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore. We have riden our bicycles here before, and of course taken the automobile along on parts of this ride, but this is a first for the motorcycles. About 5 or 6 years ago we brought Lucy and Emmett here. They loved the sand dunes, which we also do. Still heading northwinding along the shoreline through forests we end up in Northport where we have a picnic lunch by the city docks. Along the way a deer ran out in Nancy’s path thank heavens she stopped before hitting the deer.
After lunch we head south on the east side of the Leelanau peninsula towards Traverse City. We take our time and enjoy the ride down. When we arrive in Traverse City we take the time to find Tom’s Aunt Bonnie’s home. She was born and raised and has lived all her life at 717 7th. St. Around 4:00 we head to Boone’s on Long Lake. It is a wonderful steak house so we try and eat there when in the area.
After dinner we head to John’s home. We arrive and talk with wife Laura, and meet son Jonah and twin daughter’s Lizzie and Gracie. What a nice family. John’s mother, Katrina comes so we get to visit with her. What a nice visit we had and of course we had to leave because we had to ride back to the campground about 45 miles away and we wanted to arrive during daylight.
Today we start heading for Beulah and the north shore of Crystal Lake before finding our way to M-22 along the Lake Michigan shoreline. We ride up into the Leelanau peninsula. Along the way we visited Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore. We have riden our bicycles here before, and of course taken the automobile along on parts of this ride, but this is a first for the motorcycles. About 5 or 6 years ago we brought Lucy and Emmett here. They loved the sand dunes, which we also do. Still heading northwinding along the shoreline through forests we end up in Northport where we have a picnic lunch by the city docks. Along the way a deer ran out in Nancy’s path thank heavens she stopped before hitting the deer.
After lunch we head south on the east side of the Leelanau peninsula towards Traverse City. We take our time and enjoy the ride down. When we arrive in Traverse City we take the time to find Tom’s Aunt Bonnie’s home. She was born and raised and has lived all her life at 717 7th. St. Around 4:00 we head to Boone’s on Long Lake. It is a wonderful steak house so we try and eat there when in the area.
After dinner we head to John’s home. We arrive and talk with wife Laura, and meet son Jonah and twin daughter’s Lizzie and Gracie. What a nice family. John’s mother, Katrina comes so we get to visit with her. What a nice visit we had and of course we had to leave because we had to ride back to the campground about 45 miles away and we wanted to arrive during daylight.
Point Betsie
Thursday, August 9, 2007
We ride back roads out to Lake Michigan and north to Crystal Lake. What a pretty lake. Reminds me of large old lake homes the Chicago wealthy came to the Michigan shoreline and built during the 20’s and 30’s. We rode out to Point Betsie lighthouse. As with all our rides, we ride though the forests, and near a lake or river and along shoreline.
We start our day in long sleeves, and before long we shed the long sleeves for short sleeves and ride the rest of the day in short sleeves.
We ride back roads out to Lake Michigan and north to Crystal Lake. What a pretty lake. Reminds me of large old lake homes the Chicago wealthy came to the Michigan shoreline and built during the 20’s and 30’s. We rode out to Point Betsie lighthouse. As with all our rides, we ride though the forests, and near a lake or river and along shoreline.
We start our day in long sleeves, and before long we shed the long sleeves for short sleeves and ride the rest of the day in short sleeves.
Our "3rd" Son
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
We leave Indian River heading for John’s campground in Mesick, Michigan. (John is like our third son.) We arrive early in the day and at the front gate they inform us John wants to meet us there and escort us to our site. But, alas John is busy and can’t get to us so we head to our campsite. Before we are totally set up John arrives and it is so good to see him. We would recognize John, he really hasn’t changed much. Age agrees with him.
After lunch we ride into Cadillac to grocery shop. We go to the Meijer’s. That is a department/grocery store started in Michigan. A straight ride into Meijer’s and we buy a few more items than what was on our shopping list. Remember we are on the motorcycles, so we can’t purchase to many items. We fill Tom’s saddlebags, the roll bag and Nancy’s little bag on the rear. Boy, all of them are full and we are glad we did not purchase anything more. A nice ride and we get home and unload.
We leave Indian River heading for John’s campground in Mesick, Michigan. (John is like our third son.) We arrive early in the day and at the front gate they inform us John wants to meet us there and escort us to our site. But, alas John is busy and can’t get to us so we head to our campsite. Before we are totally set up John arrives and it is so good to see him. We would recognize John, he really hasn’t changed much. Age agrees with him.
After lunch we ride into Cadillac to grocery shop. We go to the Meijer’s. That is a department/grocery store started in Michigan. A straight ride into Meijer’s and we buy a few more items than what was on our shopping list. Remember we are on the motorcycles, so we can’t purchase to many items. We fill Tom’s saddlebags, the roll bag and Nancy’s little bag on the rear. Boy, all of them are full and we are glad we did not purchase anything more. A nice ride and we get home and unload.
Back Roads
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Our ride today takes us south on county road C 48 south towards Wolverine. Then through Boyne Falls, Boyne City, East Jordan, Atwood and along the Michigan shoreline. We travel through forests, along the lakeshore north towards Charlevoix, Bay Shore and Petoskey. The road snakes around and it is spoiling us for future riding. What a gorgeous day we have. The riding in the north woods areas just can’t be beat.
Our ride today takes us south on county road C 48 south towards Wolverine. Then through Boyne Falls, Boyne City, East Jordan, Atwood and along the Michigan shoreline. We travel through forests, along the lakeshore north towards Charlevoix, Bay Shore and Petoskey. The road snakes around and it is spoiling us for future riding. What a gorgeous day we have. The riding in the north woods areas just can’t be beat.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Tunnel of Trees
Monday, August 6, 2007
Well, today starts Sturgis Week. So glad we went early and had wonderful rides. The state of S.D. population will swell this week. They only expect 400,000 people. Lets just say a lot of them are the unsavory type.
This is the day for THE RIDE. Nancy wanted to motorcycle this ride since we started talking about heading north with the cycles. We started our from our campsite heading south on old U.S. 27. We rode it until C.R. C-58. That took us towards Petoskey. From just west of Petoskey we found route M-119. That route takes you to Harbor Springs and then onto Cross Village. The town of Harbor Springs is very picturesque. Lots of old Cottages for the rich from Chicago. Many were built in the early 20th. century. Lovely old Victorian homes, well kept up. The harbor is nice and there were plenty of boats in. We walked around some and then headed out on our routh.
What a day. The sun was warm, we started out in long sleeves but by the time we reached Harbor Springs we took the long sleeves off. We finished the day in short sleeves.
Heading north our of Harbor Springs is a very pleasant ride. Lots of nice curves, in amongst the forest. You are riding the high bank right along Lake Michigan and is is so cool. It is a scenic highway and if you ever get the chance it is one of those MUST rides. When we arrived in Cross Village we headed to the Leggs Inn. It has been a popular spot for tourists for many years. Some years ago it fell in disrepair and we were not sure what we would find. Luckily someone caring now owns the Leggs Inn and has fixed it up. We had lunch on the patio in among the flower gardens, and our view was overlooking Lake Michigan.
After a fine meal we traveled back country roads to Wilderness State Park, then on into Mackinaw City. We then headed down the Lake Huron shoreline for Cheboygan. From Cheboygan we took the east side of Mullet Lake before reaching our campground.
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Well, today starts Sturgis Week. So glad we went early and had wonderful rides. The state of S.D. population will swell this week. They only expect 400,000 people. Lets just say a lot of them are the unsavory type.
This is the day for THE RIDE. Nancy wanted to motorcycle this ride since we started talking about heading north with the cycles. We started our from our campsite heading south on old U.S. 27. We rode it until C.R. C-58. That took us towards Petoskey. From just west of Petoskey we found route M-119. That route takes you to Harbor Springs and then onto Cross Village. The town of Harbor Springs is very picturesque. Lots of old Cottages for the rich from Chicago. Many were built in the early 20th. century. Lovely old Victorian homes, well kept up. The harbor is nice and there were plenty of boats in. We walked around some and then headed out on our routh.
What a day. The sun was warm, we started out in long sleeves but by the time we reached Harbor Springs we took the long sleeves off. We finished the day in short sleeves.
Heading north our of Harbor Springs is a very pleasant ride. Lots of nice curves, in amongst the forest. You are riding the high bank right along Lake Michigan and is is so cool. It is a scenic highway and if you ever get the chance it is one of those MUST rides. When we arrived in Cross Village we headed to the Leggs Inn. It has been a popular spot for tourists for many years. Some years ago it fell in disrepair and we were not sure what we would find. Luckily someone caring now owns the Leggs Inn and has fixed it up. We had lunch on the patio in among the flower gardens, and our view was overlooking Lake Michigan.
After a fine meal we traveled back country roads to Wilderness State Park, then on into Mackinaw City. We then headed down the Lake Huron shoreline for Cheboygan. From Cheboygan we took the east side of Mullet Lake before reaching our campground.
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Monday, August 6, 2007
Beautiful Sunday Drive
Sunday, August 5, 2007
This Sunday started out with leaving Munising and heading south to the lower peninsula. It would turn out to be a wonderful day for a drive. The sun was out and the winds were relatively quiet so you could drive with the windows open. We headed south and found our way to U.S. 2 on the north shore of Lake Michigan. As anyone who has traveled this area knows this is truly a great drive. We drove down the shoreline amongst forests and the sand dunes. Very picturesque.
Arriving in St. Ignace area we wound our way around to find lines for crossing "Big Mac" bridge. We had no idea what the costs would be with the motor home and trailer. Wow, cost was only $8.00! When it actually came time to cross the bridge, Tom was in the outside lane on the bridge. I cringed! At times I closed my eyes. The lanes are narrow and I felt like I was going to fall off the bridge. But, we made it across and we are alive to tell the adventure.
Arriving on the lower peninsula side of the state we headed south to Wolverine area for a campsite. The first campsite we arrived at was 4 miles or more down a dirt/gravel road. Not for us so when we arrived Nancy told the camp owner that the road into it was not for us. We left that one and found another camp ground in the same area. Called it and the person stated most of the road was paved just a short 1/4 mile unpaved. We could do that so off we went in search of the camp site. We found our way and the 1/4 mile was more like one mile up and down hills. Wrong we were not going to ride down that road.
We found our way to exit 313 off I-75 and found the greatest campground you would even imagine. The campground is in Topinabee. It is wooded, hilly, interior paved roads, full hook-up. The only downside was no cable. But, it is a great location. In the area we want to be in for the rides we would like to take.
After setting up camp we had lots of day light left. We unhooked our motorcycles and headed out to Mackinaw City. This city has really changed since our last visit to it. We parked the bikes, went into the outside shopping mall and wound our way around the city. Nancy finally found the fudge shop she wanted. Yes, she turned into a "fudgie" and purchased the pound so she could satisfy her sweet tooth. Tom found a kite shop and purchased a spinner kite for outside decoration of the motor home.
We had walked, seen and shopped so we wanted to get back to the camp ground. We headed south and ended up having to ride on the interstate to get back to the camp ground. Great ride.
We thought we deserved to have cocktails tonight. We made them and started to walk around the camp ground. We found many nice people to talk with. By the time we got back to the motor home it was late, so we hurried and had a late supper.
This Sunday started out with leaving Munising and heading south to the lower peninsula. It would turn out to be a wonderful day for a drive. The sun was out and the winds were relatively quiet so you could drive with the windows open. We headed south and found our way to U.S. 2 on the north shore of Lake Michigan. As anyone who has traveled this area knows this is truly a great drive. We drove down the shoreline amongst forests and the sand dunes. Very picturesque.
Arriving in St. Ignace area we wound our way around to find lines for crossing "Big Mac" bridge. We had no idea what the costs would be with the motor home and trailer. Wow, cost was only $8.00! When it actually came time to cross the bridge, Tom was in the outside lane on the bridge. I cringed! At times I closed my eyes. The lanes are narrow and I felt like I was going to fall off the bridge. But, we made it across and we are alive to tell the adventure.
Arriving on the lower peninsula side of the state we headed south to Wolverine area for a campsite. The first campsite we arrived at was 4 miles or more down a dirt/gravel road. Not for us so when we arrived Nancy told the camp owner that the road into it was not for us. We left that one and found another camp ground in the same area. Called it and the person stated most of the road was paved just a short 1/4 mile unpaved. We could do that so off we went in search of the camp site. We found our way and the 1/4 mile was more like one mile up and down hills. Wrong we were not going to ride down that road.
We found our way to exit 313 off I-75 and found the greatest campground you would even imagine. The campground is in Topinabee. It is wooded, hilly, interior paved roads, full hook-up. The only downside was no cable. But, it is a great location. In the area we want to be in for the rides we would like to take.
After setting up camp we had lots of day light left. We unhooked our motorcycles and headed out to Mackinaw City. This city has really changed since our last visit to it. We parked the bikes, went into the outside shopping mall and wound our way around the city. Nancy finally found the fudge shop she wanted. Yes, she turned into a "fudgie" and purchased the pound so she could satisfy her sweet tooth. Tom found a kite shop and purchased a spinner kite for outside decoration of the motor home.
We had walked, seen and shopped so we wanted to get back to the camp ground. We headed south and ended up having to ride on the interstate to get back to the camp ground. Great ride.
We thought we deserved to have cocktails tonight. We made them and started to walk around the camp ground. We found many nice people to talk with. By the time we got back to the motor home it was late, so we hurried and had a late supper.
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Early Saturday morning the sun was out and the weather was favorible for a ride on the tour boats on Lake Superior. We called and made reservations for the noon ride. We had taken our windbreakers, but they were not needed. The ride was more than either of us expected. The shorline is wonderful and we sure were glad we had digital cameras. We took lots of photos. The rugged shoreline had overhangs that can't be described. We enjoyed our ride and about 3:00 we were back on shore.
We asked the crew on board the boat "where is the best pasties?" Everyone said Muldoon's in Munising was o.k but the best were in Au Train. So, we must have the best: Au Train it was for a late lunch. We rode through Christmas to get to Au Train. It was certainly worth the ride.
Then we headed back to our campsite, but we took a little detour. Nancy had seen a waterfalls at the intersection of 94 and 28. So we stopped for that photo shoot. Nancy did not want to get back quite so soon, so we rode down 94 for a little ways. The road was nice, newly paved and we soon spotted another waterfall. This one was back in the wood, so off we went on the pathways to enjoy the waterfall.
When we arrived back at camp we pulled the motorcycles into the trailer and got them ready for a travel day.
Early Saturday morning the sun was out and the weather was favorible for a ride on the tour boats on Lake Superior. We called and made reservations for the noon ride. We had taken our windbreakers, but they were not needed. The ride was more than either of us expected. The shorline is wonderful and we sure were glad we had digital cameras. We took lots of photos. The rugged shoreline had overhangs that can't be described. We enjoyed our ride and about 3:00 we were back on shore.
We asked the crew on board the boat "where is the best pasties?" Everyone said Muldoon's in Munising was o.k but the best were in Au Train. So, we must have the best: Au Train it was for a late lunch. We rode through Christmas to get to Au Train. It was certainly worth the ride.
Then we headed back to our campsite, but we took a little detour. Nancy had seen a waterfalls at the intersection of 94 and 28. So we stopped for that photo shoot. Nancy did not want to get back quite so soon, so we rode down 94 for a little ways. The road was nice, newly paved and we soon spotted another waterfall. This one was back in the wood, so off we went on the pathways to enjoy the waterfall.
When we arrived back at camp we pulled the motorcycles into the trailer and got them ready for a travel day.
Friday, August 3, 2007
Munising
Friday, August 3, 2007
This morning we had a thought we might go on a boat ride. The wind was strong so we figured that the day would be better if we took a nice ride. We started out riding and stopped at a few rest areas. The views were great and the many inlets and woods just made us realize why we like the North Country.
We rode into Marquette and the Harley store. When we were there lots of bikers were there. It was interesting to talk with them. Some were headed to Sturgis, some just out for a nice ride on a great day.
We ate lunch at a Pizza Hut in town before heading back to Munising. We toured the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Wow, the lake was so clear and color turquoise and blue, just like the Carribbean. The rocks have such lovely colors and the beach below so sandy.....just a great time.
We arrived home late in the afternoon and we had an even later dinner. We did take lots of pictures today so that we can remember all the great views and wonderful sights.
This morning we had a thought we might go on a boat ride. The wind was strong so we figured that the day would be better if we took a nice ride. We started out riding and stopped at a few rest areas. The views were great and the many inlets and woods just made us realize why we like the North Country.
We rode into Marquette and the Harley store. When we were there lots of bikers were there. It was interesting to talk with them. Some were headed to Sturgis, some just out for a nice ride on a great day.
We ate lunch at a Pizza Hut in town before heading back to Munising. We toured the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Wow, the lake was so clear and color turquoise and blue, just like the Carribbean. The rocks have such lovely colors and the beach below so sandy.....just a great time.
We arrived home late in the afternoon and we had an even later dinner. We did take lots of pictures today so that we can remember all the great views and wonderful sights.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Michigan my Michigan
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Left our little campsite early this morning. Before leaving we take a small walk around the camp ground and look at other motor homes. It is nice to see what others have done to their rigs that maybe we should consider doing to ours.
We arrive in Michigan in the late morning. We decide we want to camp at Munising. Tom calls ahead to reserve a campsite for us. We now know just where we are headed to for the day. The area around Munising is close to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. We have been here before, but this time we will take a boat ride out and see the area from the lake.
Our drive down the Lake Superior shore line is so pretty. The lake is rugged and the turn outs are many. We decide that when we ride the motor cycles on this road we will take the turn outs and take photos.
Arriving at the campsite in the early afternoon, we get tucked into the assigned campsite to find that the electric hook-up is fine, but the water and cable are a mile away. We walk back into the office and she suggests we move to another campsite. Tom walks down to look at the different campsite, before we pick up and move. He returns and says it's a keeper, so we move to the different campsite.
Tom readies the outside of the motor home for a little longer stay. (3-4 days) Nancy puts things out inside the motor home. We will be here a longer so the flag goes out, the name sign goes up and the canopy goes up. We are just settling in. Perhaps tomorrow we will go for a bike ride or the boat ride. Must see what the weather is like for the boat ride. The winds are strong today so the lake will be rough.
Left our little campsite early this morning. Before leaving we take a small walk around the camp ground and look at other motor homes. It is nice to see what others have done to their rigs that maybe we should consider doing to ours.
We arrive in Michigan in the late morning. We decide we want to camp at Munising. Tom calls ahead to reserve a campsite for us. We now know just where we are headed to for the day. The area around Munising is close to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. We have been here before, but this time we will take a boat ride out and see the area from the lake.
Our drive down the Lake Superior shore line is so pretty. The lake is rugged and the turn outs are many. We decide that when we ride the motor cycles on this road we will take the turn outs and take photos.
Arriving at the campsite in the early afternoon, we get tucked into the assigned campsite to find that the electric hook-up is fine, but the water and cable are a mile away. We walk back into the office and she suggests we move to another campsite. Tom walks down to look at the different campsite, before we pick up and move. He returns and says it's a keeper, so we move to the different campsite.
Tom readies the outside of the motor home for a little longer stay. (3-4 days) Nancy puts things out inside the motor home. We will be here a longer so the flag goes out, the name sign goes up and the canopy goes up. We are just settling in. Perhaps tomorrow we will go for a bike ride or the boat ride. Must see what the weather is like for the boat ride. The winds are strong today so the lake will be rough.
Travel Time
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Well, this morning we are leaving Dakota Lakes (Mystic Lake Casino) campground. How should we plan this day. We would like to go to Duluth, then onto Wisconsin and into Michigan. Just how far do we want to travel? Don't have reservations for the night, when we get to be 3:00 ish we will look for a campground.
Just heading north from Mystic Lake our GPS takes the I-35w road. We consider ourselves lucky as we went over the bridge about 8 hours before the collapse. We arrive in Duluth and with much help we find the Harley store. We shop around for awhile, finding a new shirt for each of us. Then we continue on our way.
We are in Wisconsin and we figure we should stop for the night. We stop in a small village the locals call Cedar. Can't find it on the map, but it is the intersection of U.S. 2 and C.R. 169. We have a little campsite and are glad to be off the road. We hear thunder and see lightning as we set up the campsite. Glad to be tucked in for the night.
Well, this morning we are leaving Dakota Lakes (Mystic Lake Casino) campground. How should we plan this day. We would like to go to Duluth, then onto Wisconsin and into Michigan. Just how far do we want to travel? Don't have reservations for the night, when we get to be 3:00 ish we will look for a campground.
Just heading north from Mystic Lake our GPS takes the I-35w road. We consider ourselves lucky as we went over the bridge about 8 hours before the collapse. We arrive in Duluth and with much help we find the Harley store. We shop around for awhile, finding a new shirt for each of us. Then we continue on our way.
We are in Wisconsin and we figure we should stop for the night. We stop in a small village the locals call Cedar. Can't find it on the map, but it is the intersection of U.S. 2 and C.R. 169. We have a little campsite and are glad to be off the road. We hear thunder and see lightning as we set up the campsite. Glad to be tucked in for the night.
Travel Days
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
We left Watertown, S.D. early in the morning. We were heading towards Minneapolis, MN. We looked into the Woodall's (RV park directory) to find a place to stay near Minnetonka. Our neighbors in M/L wanted us to visit them.
We drove on rural country roads into Minnesota. It is a lovely drive. Arriving at Dakota Lakes and Mystic Lake (a casino) we had a great campground. We had full hook-up and a nice level cement pad on which to park. We set up our campsite and headed out on the motorcycles.
We arrived at Jan and Clyde's in time for cocktails. We had cocktails on the patio and then went into the pool. We floated around the pool for quite some time. Tom told Nancy to watch out the pool was slippery, but Nancy went down any ways. Oh, well some people don't listen. After cooling off in the pool, we had a lovely cook-out on the patio.
After dinner it was a little on the late side so our gracious hosts let us leave to ride back to the campground arriving just as the sun set.
We did not have cable t.v. here so we headed up to the casino, where Nancy played the slots. When Tom and Nancy headed back to the camp site, Nancy had only lost a dollar and had over an hours worth of entertainment. Can't get better than that.
We left Watertown, S.D. early in the morning. We were heading towards Minneapolis, MN. We looked into the Woodall's (RV park directory) to find a place to stay near Minnetonka. Our neighbors in M/L wanted us to visit them.
We drove on rural country roads into Minnesota. It is a lovely drive. Arriving at Dakota Lakes and Mystic Lake (a casino) we had a great campground. We had full hook-up and a nice level cement pad on which to park. We set up our campsite and headed out on the motorcycles.
We arrived at Jan and Clyde's in time for cocktails. We had cocktails on the patio and then went into the pool. We floated around the pool for quite some time. Tom told Nancy to watch out the pool was slippery, but Nancy went down any ways. Oh, well some people don't listen. After cooling off in the pool, we had a lovely cook-out on the patio.
After dinner it was a little on the late side so our gracious hosts let us leave to ride back to the campground arriving just as the sun set.
We did not have cable t.v. here so we headed up to the casino, where Nancy played the slots. When Tom and Nancy headed back to the camp site, Nancy had only lost a dollar and had over an hours worth of entertainment. Can't get better than that.
Hensler Visit
Monday, July 30, 2007
Tom took the motor home to a repair shop today. The back up lights on the trailer were not working so he wanted to be sure that they were working before we traveled any further. Tom also wanted to repair the shower door, so Nancy would not get hit in the head, again.
During the time Tom was working on the motor home Nancy and Eve traveled into the Redlin Museum. Wow, a great building. The art work is great and certainly learned more about the man.
Eve took Nancy to show her Eve's office. A state of the art building with wonderful up to the minute equipment. Eve did a hearing test on Nancy and told Nancy what was wrong with her hearing.
After the hearing test Bob, Eve and Nancy had lunch downtown. The building was really neat. The dining room had a tin ceiling, brick walls and lovely shadowbox tables with 19th. century memorabilia.
After lunch we headed back to the lake and we all (Tom, Nancy, Eve and Bob) went for a boat ride. Bob had the boat out on the hoist and we toured their lake from the water. Terry Redlin, the artist has a place on their lake so Nancy got to see where he lives in addition to the museum where his artwork is on display.
After a lovely dinner with lots of talk we went out to the motor home to retire for the evening.
Tom took the motor home to a repair shop today. The back up lights on the trailer were not working so he wanted to be sure that they were working before we traveled any further. Tom also wanted to repair the shower door, so Nancy would not get hit in the head, again.
During the time Tom was working on the motor home Nancy and Eve traveled into the Redlin Museum. Wow, a great building. The art work is great and certainly learned more about the man.
Eve took Nancy to show her Eve's office. A state of the art building with wonderful up to the minute equipment. Eve did a hearing test on Nancy and told Nancy what was wrong with her hearing.
After the hearing test Bob, Eve and Nancy had lunch downtown. The building was really neat. The dining room had a tin ceiling, brick walls and lovely shadowbox tables with 19th. century memorabilia.
After lunch we headed back to the lake and we all (Tom, Nancy, Eve and Bob) went for a boat ride. Bob had the boat out on the hoist and we toured their lake from the water. Terry Redlin, the artist has a place on their lake so Nancy got to see where he lives in addition to the museum where his artwork is on display.
After a lovely dinner with lots of talk we went out to the motor home to retire for the evening.
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