Florida, Mackinac – and Thoughts on Paris 11/15/15

Posted on November 15, 2015 by bree1972

Hi Everyone!

We’ve had a busy week, but that’s pretty normal at the Horton house. All my blood work came back normal from my annual physical – except for a little cholesterol elevation (no meds prescribed, just a supplement) – and I have a neck MRI scheduled Tuesday to see if they can figure out what’s been causing years of chronic neck pain (something I’ve put off as long as I can). Volunteer work continues to be a high point in my week’s activities – especially at the Humane Society. This week they gave me a list of almost 20 stray cats to be photographed – recently brought in and not even ready for adoption yet (still in the “being held to see if they are claimed” cattery). Each has to be photographed though – for computer records and eventually website and newspaper “mug” shots.

My favorite kitty from the Flagler Humane Society this week. Meet Shelton, a 2-year-old male who just cracked me up with his antics. He posed like he'd been doing it all his life!

My favorite kitty from the stray list at the Flagler Humane Society this week. Meet Shelton, a 2-year-old male who just cracked me up with his antics. He posed like he’d been doing it all his life! Surely someone will claim this baby – if not his owner, then hopefully a lucky family will adopt him.

The annual 72-Mile Yard Sale that runs along scenic A1A (the beach highway) was this weekend. Ted and I and three other couples set up on the grass by the highway in front of our subdivision. We enjoyed a great day of getting rid of stuff that had been clogging closets and cabinets ever since moving down here. Very successful for everyone involved!

We finally got a break in the hot weather this weekend! The winds kicked up and by Saturday morning we were comfortable foregoing the air conditioning inside at the Java Joint and enjoying breakfast outside on the deck.

We finally got a break in the hot weather this weekend! The winds kicked up Thursday, and by Saturday morning we were comfortable foregoing the air conditioning inside Java Joint and enjoying breakfast outside on the deck.

Cooler weather means a happier Bear – so happy unfortunately that his increased activity resulted in what we hope is only a pulled muscle.

He woke up limping this morning, favoring the same leg he had surgery on. He wasn’t a happy boy when I wouldn’t let him go out and chase golf balls in the parking lot this afternoon. Going to rest it a few days and see what happens.

On Mackinac, the weather is beginning to feel more like winter. There were even a few snow flurries this week, but nothing stuck to the ground. I’m still praying for snow for Christmas Bazaar, but plan to have a mah-ve-lous time whether the white stuff flies or not! (Photo: Clark Bloswick)

Bobby Lee is a new friend on Facebook who spends his days on Arnold ferries making the crossing to the island. He takes incredible photographs, and I’m so thankful he’s allowing me to share them.

Personal Note: It was after 10 o’clock Friday night when I turned on my phone and saw a text from Jill about the Paris attacks. We’d been busy all afternoon and evening getting ready for the yard sale, and the TV hadn’t been on all day or night. I immediately thought of Steve and Orietta, friends of ours from Mackinac who were spending a month in Paris after walking the Camino de Santiago, a 500-mile pilgrimage to the shrine of the apostle St. James in northwestern Spain. Thank goodness, my fright was instantly taken away when I read Jill’s next words: “Steve and Orietta are all right, but they can hear sirens from where they are.”

Over the next few hours we also learned three other Michigan friends were in Paris, and they were also ok. Those three were hunkered down in their hotel rooms, wondering if they’d be allowed to catch their flight out the next day (they did). Steve and Orietta remain there, although they may decide to come home earlier than their planned Dec. 1 flight.

Even though our weekend has been full – yard sale on Saturday, dinner out with friends Saturday night, Sunday activities – the events in Paris have been a constant on my mind. It hurts my heart to think how much hatred is in the world and how much violence is being used to show that hatred.

Alan Paton, who wrote Cry, the Beloved Country said, “There is only one way in which one can endure man’s inhumanity to man and that is to try, in one’s own life, to exemplify man’s humanity to man.”

Let’s all challenge each other this week to treat others as we would like to be treated. If everyone chose to follow this one simple rule, we would almost certainly live in a much different world.

Our prayers go out to France and to every other corner of the world where people are being killed or tormented in any form. I know that God hears our every prayer. And I know He is the only answer. (Photo: Bobby Lee)

Enough Already! 11/8/15

Posted on November 8, 2015 by bree1972

I love both of my volunteer jobs – each for different reasons. At the Flagler Humane Society I snuggle with, pet, and photograph kitties to my heart’s content. At Florida Hospital Flagler my ER buddy and I keep 31 ER rooms stocked with gowns, sheets, pads, washcloths, hand towels, blood pressure cuffs, heart monitor “stickies”, specimen cups, socks, Kleenex, gloves, etc. Occasionally we’ll wheel patients to their rooms or deliver them to their cars when they’re discharged. We provide chilly folks blankets straight from the warmer and do any other chores we’re asked to do by the nurses or administration.

While I’m mostly working alone at the Humane Society, at the hospital I work with a great group of displaced Northerners from New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. Mike, who is my volunteer buddy in the ER, is the only true Floridian in the bunch. The rest moved down here years ago to get away from the harsh Northern winters. They LOVE Florida’s weather and are quite vocal during our breaks when I start talking about going to Mackinac in December. They usually look at me aghast and shake their heads, wondering – I’m sure – why anyone in her right mind would voluntarily go north in the wintertime.

But – when we settled into our chairs around the break table in the cafeteria last Thursday (each of us bringing coffee or soft drinks and one of the fabulous muffins left over at breakfast and offered free on the food line to us volunteers), I distinctly heard one of my Northern friends say – quite loudly – “Enough already!”

“Enough of what, Mary,?” I asked.

“This hot weather!” she said adamantly. “I moved down here for the warm weather, but almost 90 in November is ridiculous!”

I soooo agree!

By this time last year, we were in the 60’s during the day and having some 50’s at night. We’re still in the 70’s at night, and I don’t even want to talk about the daytime (ok, I will talk about it – it reached 90 here one day last week). It might as well be July! The nor’easter that was supposed to blow in this weekend, lowering temps and bringing rain, must have made a U-turn somewhere and become a sou’wester. No rain. No lower temps. Just hot, with tons of humidity mixed in.

Enough already!

It's hard to believe that a year ago this week Ted and I closed on our house and moved in with just a blow-up bed and two beach chairs. We made do for almost a week until our furniture arrived from Georgia.

It’s hard to believe that a year ago this week Ted and I closed on our house and moved in with just a blow-up bed, two beach chairs and a coffeemaker.

We made do for almost a week until our furniture arrived from Georgia. It was quite the adventure, and we loved every minute of it. Well, except that first morning when we discovered we’d brought the coffeemaker but no coffee.

Over the last year we've sometimes wondered if we'd ever feel we weren't living in a construction zone. But one night this week, as I was turning down our street from a dog walk, I noticed that - for the last few houses on our block at least - we were almost looking

Over the last year we’ve sometimes wondered if we’d ever feel we weren’t living in a construction zone. But one night this week, as I turned down our street from a dog walk, I noticed that – for the last few houses on our block at least – we are almost looking “finished”.

Our little house looks all snuggled in and protected by those big guys on either size.

Our little house looks all snuggled in and protected by those big guys on either side..

Weather on Mackinac Island has been unnaturally warm also for November. They’ve had some pretty gusty November winds a few times, but so far the really cold stuff hasn’t shown up – and snow hasn’t even been mentioned in a forecast. I’m beginning to think my Christmas Bazaar visit the first weekend in December may be snowless.

A scene from Market Street by the folks at Metivier Inn. November is probably the slowest month of the year on Mackinac. A lot of the men are off-island at hunting camps, and many women are off the island visiting friends and family. It’s truly a time for relaxation – after the super busy summer season.

While Mackinac remains snowless for now, the island has hosted some rainy days and nights (Photo: Greg Main) . . .

. . . mornings when fog rolled up from Lake Huron to tickle Fort Mackinac’s ramparts (Photo: Clark Bloswick) . . .

. . . blustery days when a ferry ride should have included sea sick pills (Photo: Clark Bloswick) . . .

. . . blustery days when a ferry ride might have included some sea sick pills (Photo: Clark Bloswick) . . .

. . . and one morning when there was just a hint of frost on the rooftops at Mission Point. (Photo: Clark Bloswick)

For the most part though, November has been a beautiful continuation of October. (Photo: Clark Bloswick)

And the sunsets continue to dazzle. (Photo: Greg Main)

It’s strange to me how slowly October passed this year and how rapidly November seems to be flying by. Thanksgiving will be here before we know it, and the week after that I’ll be heading north. I sometimes wonder if the love and passion I feel for my time on Mackinac will ever change, but I can’t really imagine that happening. In Joan Chittister’s wonderful book, The Gift of Years, she writes that “the beauty of the later years is that if we have learned through life to trust our own insights at least as much as we trust the insights we have been taught, we find ourselves at the end of a very long life with a very young soul.” For me, returning to Mackinac turns on my “young soul” so quickly I’m almost dizzy with it when my foot touches down on the ferry dock. I know many of you feel exactly the same way.

Thanks to everyone last week who added a comment about what you were up to in October. I so enjoyed reading every one, and I know everyone else did too.

See you back here soon!

God bless.

Goodbye October. Hello November! 11/1/2015

Posted on November 1, 2015 by bree1972

Hi Everyone!

Oh my gosh! This has been the LONGEST month!

I have to admit I’ve enjoyed my vacation from writing this month, but for the last week or so I’ve looked at the calendar more than once to see how many days of my self-imposed “writing vacation” was left. I’m glad it’s over . . . because I sure have missed sharing and hearing from all of you!

If we’re friends on Facebook, some of what I’m about to share will be repetitive, but maybe there will be enough new stuff to keep you interested.

SUNSET INLET

Home sweet home. So happy to report that – after exactly one year (as of October 31) – we are truly settled in. I don’t know if Florida will ever be my favorite place to live, but two things are really beginning to make it feel like home. First – wonderful new friends! While we were in Michigan, Sunset Inlet really filled up, as houses were finished and people moved into the neighborhood. We spent our first week back meeting new neighbors and getting reacquainted with the ones who were already here when we left.

We've been doing fun things with new friends this month - like going to the Creekside Fair and spending a day recently in St. Augustine. Of course, any trip includes food!

We’ve been doing fun things with friends this month – like going to the Creekside Festival and spending a day recently in St. Augustine. Of course, any trip includes food!

At the Creekside Festival. This is the closest Ted will ever be to riding a horse!

At the Creekside Festival. This is the closest Ted will ever get to riding a horse!

The other thing is our home. The longer we live in it, the more we’re making it ours. Decorators are wonderful, and mine is the best . . . BUT! After the decorator has come and gone, it’s all the little things you add that make a house a home. That’s the fun part, and I love doing it. Of course, Ted says if I bring home one more “throw” pillow he’s going to place a moratorium on his credit cards. But that’s ok . . . I have my own.

I have such a thing about pillows. If I could get away with it, there'd be one or two is every chair in - or out- of the house!

I have such a thing about pillows. If I could get away with it, there’d be one or two in every chair in – or out- of the house!

The weather has been HOT (Ted would say warm – I say HOT) and muggy since we’ve been back. We had a nor’easter blow in right after we arrived, with winds around 30 mph for three days straight. THOSE days were cooler because of the constant wind. I’m hoping the first week in November will see a cool down that lasts AND less humidity!

Even though the weather hasn’t been fall-like yet, I can’t say enough about the beauty of our surroundings.

While on an early morning beach walk with the dogs we got to watch God paint the sunrise. Brush strokes of sunlight crept into the dark sky - separating Heaven and earth for another day.

While on an early morning beach walk with the dogs we got to watch God paint the sunrise with brushstrokes of light – separating Heaven and earth for another day.

I had to pull over one morning as I drove to my volunteer job in the ER at the hospital to take a pic of this rainstorm on the horizon. What my phone camera couldn't pick up were the shrimp boats - one directly under the rain and the other directly under the brightest part of the sun.

I pulled over one morning, as I drove to my volunteer job in the hospital ER, to take a pic of this rainstorm on the horizon. What my phone camera couldn’t pick up were the shrimp boats – one directly under the rain and the other directly under the brightest part of the sunlight.

Our beach on a day when the surf was up. (Photo by Ted)

Our beach at almost high tide. (Photo by Ted)

A very vivid sun dog over our marina recently.

The sleepy streets of Flagler Beach after sundown.

And oh, those sunsets!

View from our skywalk with the Flagler Bridge in the background.

Our walk this morning at sunrise.

Ted and I have both jumped back into our volunteer jobs. For me that means the ER and the Flagler Humane Society. After being gone for 2 1/2 months I was faced with almost all new faces in the cattery (although a few of our ‘regulars’ were still there – mostly our sweet little black cats).

This beautiful 12-year-old female really caught my heart. Another sad tale of an elderly owner passing away and no one in the family willing to take this old girl. Her name is Kitty Kitty.

MACKINAC ISLAND

What can I say? I miss Mackinac, and miss it even more knowing we left just as “leaf” season was cranking up. But, thanks to friends who were there and shared, we get to enjoy the beauty of Fall on the island through their photographs.

The sun and the Round Island Passage Light by Bobby Lee.

The sun and the Round Island Passage Light – in the wake of the ferry. (Photo: Bobby Lee)

The Peace Garden sculpture against brilliant fall foliage. (Photo: Bruce LaPine)

A peak through a Fort Mackinac window. (Photo: Clark Bloswick)

A peek through a Fort Mackinac gun port. (Photo: Clark Bloswick)

I don’t think I took a single photo of the Mission Point Resort gazebo this summer – no idea why not. Thank you, Jackson Pearson!

From a photographer for Joanne's Fudge: Another group of horses leaving for winter pastures in the U.P.

From a photographer for Joann’s Fudge: Another group of horses leaving for winter pastures in the U.P.

A peaceful Arnold dock. (Photo: Steve Fridley)

Colors, colors, colors. (Photo: Steven Blair)

Same fort - different angle. (Photo: Tom Chambers)

Same fort – different angle. (Photo: Kate Rise)

A view upward. (Photo: Steven Blair)

Rifle Range Trail. (Photo: Tom Chambers)

Rifle Range Trail, with the newly reconstructed Fort Holmes in the background. (Photo: Tom Chambers)

I love everything about this photograph by Jackson Pearson. Horses going to rest, fall colors, a peaceful Market Street, even a street sweeper following along behind the horses!

I love everything about this photograph by Jackson Pearson. Horses going to the ferry, fall colors, a peaceful Market Street, bikes at the post office, the fort on the hill – even a street sweeper following along behind the horses!

A splendid photo of the sidewalk in front of Destination Mackinac and the Chippewa Hotel. (Photo: Kate Rise)

A splendid photo of the Fall-decorated sidewalk in front of Destination Mackinac and the Chippewa Hotel. (Photo: Kate Rise)

For the first time ever, Grand Hotel celebrated Halloween with a special weekend event. Wow! Would have LOVED being there for this!

For the first time ever, Grand Hotel celebrated Halloween with a weekend event – complete with special lighting. Wow! Would have LOVED being there for this!

BIG MACKINAC NEWS!

Guess who’s going to the Mackinac Christmas Bazaar the first weekend in December?! Do you see me jumping up and down waving both arms in the air??

It’s true, it’s true! Original Murdick’s Fudge has asked me to come up to write about how they open for three weeks in December to make the fudge that goes out all over the country for on-line orders. Instead of a complete summer crew, it’s all done by just a few special Christmas elves. It’s going to be a great story, and I can’t wait to share it! Ted is staying home for this trip – he is never going to be a cold-weather person. Bear and Maddie were very happy to hear a pet sitter was not in their near future!

Ok . . . I know it’s a frivolous thing to add to your prayer list . . . but it sure would be nice if there was lots and lots of fluffy white SNOW during that weekend!!! I’ll be flying up on Thursday, Dec. 3 and returning to Florida on Monday, Dec. 7. So EXCITED!!

And here’s where I’ll be – good Lord willing – on Friday night, Dec. 4. Can’t wait to stand right there for the lighting of the Mackinac Island Christmas tree – right smack dab in the middle of Main Street! See that snow on the ground? This is last year – thanks, Nicole Doud, for sharing this photo!

BRAGGING RIGHTS

From Mackinac back to Florida! Our 13-year-old Matthew doing some serious surfing a few weeks ago!

I think that about catches you up on what’s been happening with the Hortons. Thanksgiving will be here before we know it, and our list of guests for dinner is growing each day – which makes us so happy.

Notes: I’ll be keeping the Mackinac Island blog open until after my December trip, then I’ll close it down until we return next July.

So . . . . what have y’all been up to???? Wouldn’t it be awesome if everyone reading this did a little one-paragraph version of what you and yours have been up to in October? Happy events, prayer requests – whatever you want to share.

Ok- see you back here in a few days – or a week – or whenever I’ve got something to share.

Have a GREAT week. I’ve missed you all! God bless.

Photo Night 9/23/15

Posted on September 24, 2015 by bree1972

Are you kidding me?! We’ve been here almost SIX WEEKS?! Are you kidding me?!

Oh. My. Gosh! It’s just unbelievable how fast these weeks have flown by. And we’ve been so busy I know I haven’t shown you nearly enough of beautiful Mackinac – and that’s why you come to this blog!! So, I’m going to try to remedy that, because . . .IT’S PHOTO NIGHT!!

Here’s a sampling of what I’ve captured through my lens during the last couple of weeks. There are a LOT of pics, but believe me, there were a LOT more I could have posted. But then you’d have been here when you should have been working – or sleeping – or eating!

Let’s start with cuteness, with a capital “C” – for Chester! Chester belongs to friend Bart, who also happens to be a volunteer fireman on Mackinac. So . . . now the Mackinac Island Fire Department has an official Dalmatian fire dog mascot!!

I wonder what we can get into today!

A walk to the ferry one morning took me by The Island House and its magnificent gardens . . .

. . . . and Fort Mackinac, framed by newly mown grass and that incredible Michigan-blue sky.

So excited to see good friend Frankie when we met a few days ago in Mackinaw City. We rode over to Petoskey and had lunch at Stafford's Bay View Inn. What a charming place and what yummy food!

So excited to see good friend Frankie and her friend Sue when we met a few days ago in Mackinaw City. We rode over to Petoskey and had lunch at Stafford’s Bay View Inn. What a charming place and what yummy food! It was a great day, Frankie!

View that same day when I got back to the island - looking at the steeple of Mission Church from one of the high bedroom windows. A peaceful sunset on Mackinac.

View that same day when I got back to the island – looking at the steeple of Mission Church from one of the third floor bedroom windows. A peaceful sunset on Mackinac.

We FINALLY made it up to Fort Holmes last week! This is what it looked like the last time I was up there (two years ago) . . .

. . . and here it is now!!

What an awesome job they did reconstructing this fort, both outside . . .

What an awesome job they did reconstructing the fort, both outside . . .

. . . and inside. The fort’s history is told on placards around the wall.

As you top that last rise of the road past leading up past the cemetery and the structure comes into view, it just takes your breath away . . .

As you top that last rise of the road leading up past the cemetery, and the structure comes into view, it just takes your breath away . . .

. . . and so does that view from the "top of the island".

. . . and so does the view from the “top of the island”.

From Fort Holmes we walked to Lookout Point up one of my favorite paths . . .

From Fort Holmes we walked up one of my favorite paths to Lookout Point . . .

. . . and even though there was very little “color change” looking out toward Sugar Loaf . . .

. . . we did see a few leaves changing in the tops of a couple of trees.

. . . we did spot a few leaves turning red in the tops of a couple of trees.

This tree downtown next to the Richard and Jane Manoogian Art Museum is always one of the first to show its fall colors, and this year is no different.

Even though summer is officially over on the calendar, Mackinac’s flowers are still blooming their hearts out – like here at The Cottage Inn on Market Street . . .

. . . and near Anne’s Cottage on Main Street.

The hanging baskets are still going strong and continue to grow more beautiful each day.

These pink and green bikes . . .

. . . seem to match these pink and green baskets on the front of this downtown cottage.

. . . seem to match the pink and green baskets on the front of a downtown cottage.

A freighter passing . . . as seen between downtown condos.

So good to run into Pam and Mike Day (from Ohio) while out biking the other day. These two might love Mackinac as much as I do . . . notice I said “might” . . . it’s pretty close though. They’re on the island around this time every year and are two of the sweetest folks I’ve ever met!

As you may or may not be aware, last weekend the island was host to the Republican Leadership Conference, and five or six of the candidates in the running for the Republican Presidential nomination were here to speak. While waiting for Carly Fiorina to arrive, I ran into one of my favorite Mackinac Island photographers, Steven Blair. Steven owns Artistic Mackinac Gallery & Studio on Astor Street. If you’re ever in the market for beautiful photography of beautiful Mackinac, you need to stop into Steven’s shop. Bet you don’t walk out empty-handed!

I managed to get a few shots of Fiorina – both arriving on the Shepler dock . . .

. . . and close up, as she walked down for a meet & greet at Mary’s Bistro.

This photo of me with Jeb Bush is from two years ago. He was on the island to speak at the Detroit Chamber of Commerce conference and was leaving just as I arrived from volunteering with Shepler’s on the mainland that day. There were maybe three people standing around, and I don’t think any of them realized who he was. He was carrying his own luggage.

What a difference two years makes! This is Bush’s arrival last week! (Photo: Jill Sawatzki)

Being so close to town this year, I've spent more time out and about after dark. These next three photos are from an after sunset stroll to the condo from dinner at the Chippewa. Lady Liberty stands guard over the marina.

Being so close to town this year, I’ve spent more time out and about after dark. These next three photos are from a sunset stroll to the condo after dinner at the Chippewa. Lady Liberty stands guard over the marina.

The Island House . . .

. . . and Mission Church.

We had lunch recently with Steve and Cindy, who bought our condo. They are so sweet and love the condo AND Mackinac a lot. They’re from Atlanta and spend most of the summer up here – just like we did.

Things you never want to see on Mackinac - fire trucks! Last Sunday morning a piecing alarm went off just across the street from us, followed within two minutes with the arrival of our Mackinac Island Fire Department. Turned out a sprinkler system pipe had sprung a leak and set off the alarm. Geez - sure wouldn't wish THAT on anyone. But, so glad it wasn't a fire, and our firemen were on it in record time!

Things you never want to see on Mackinac – fire trucks! Early last Sunday morning a piecing alarm went off just across the street from us, followed within two minutes with the arrival of our Mackinac Island Fire Department. Turned out a sprinkler system pipe had sprung a leak and set off the alarm. Geez – sure wouldn’t wish THAT on anyone. But – so glad it wasn’t a fire. Our firemen were on it in record time!

On the way off island for a final grooming appointment before going home. . . .

. . . and spreading “Bear love” wherever he goes.

We ran into Mary Lou Peters, my favorite watercolor artist, in the Island Bookstore this afternoon. Love this lady!

We ran into Mary Lou Peters, my favorite watercolor artist, in the Island Bookstore this afternoon. Love this talented lady!

Here’s a good one to end with! We stopped in at Sadie’s this week so Ted could have a Jersey Mudd. Not to be outdone, I ordered their “special of the day”, a Brownie Scotch sundae. Someone on Faceebook asked me if it was the camera angle that made my sundae look five times bigger than Ted’s. No, it really WAS five times bigger!

I can’t WAIT until tomorrow. For some reason, this seems to be a week when a pretty good number of Bree’s Mackinac Island Blog readers are on the island. Since I’m working at the Stuart House tomorrow, everyone I could get in contact with is going to show up at the Stuart House at 10:30 a.m. for a group photo, with Jill doing the photography honors. IF you read Bree’s Blog and you’re on the island and want to join us – whether you’re from out of town or an island reader – please come on by Thursday morning and join in the fun! 10:30 a.m. at the Stuart House!!

Excited to see everyone!!!

Covering Mackinac Island 9/3/15

Posted on September 3, 2015 by bree1972

Living downtown in the Mission District has quite a few advantages over living “up the hill” past the Grand Hotel. Here are a few:

A bike ride to town and back does not include a prayer request for your brakes to not fail and many, MANY stops on the way back home to catch your breathe.
If we forget to buy bread, the trip to Doud’s only takes 10 minutes (round-trip)!
Being much closer to the water, we get the full sound affects from the harbor – freighters blowing salutes, ferries blowing at other ferries, and the buoy bell.
And my personal favorite – being able to hear Taps played at 10:00 each night from the fort ramparts. Priceless..

The disadvantages are:

Cutting out that hill also cuts down on the daily exercise. My big plan to ride around the island every day has so far – sadly- not happened.
Being closer to town makes it a lot easier to opt out of cooking dinner. With so many restaurants within a 10-minute walk or a five-minute bike ride, we find ourselves eating out more. Add that to less exercise, and our waistlines are sure to suffer the consequences.
We miss the Village and our friends up there! We see many of them downtown every day, but it’s not the same as being “amongst” them!

But I AM NOT complaining! We are so fortunate to have found a place for six weeks that allowed us to bring our pooches, and the only thing bothering us is that our stay is almost half-way over already. Where the heck is the time going?!

Tonight I’m going to share a bunch of pics I’ve been collecting for the last few days as we’ve been here and there around the island. And later this week (probably Sunday) I’ll be sharing photographs from the Grand Garden Show. I can promise you those photos are going to make you want to get online or on the phone and book your reservations for next year’s show. I know I’m going to be there again!

A LITTLE BIKE RIDE

Even though I haven’t biked all the way around the island yet, I HAVE done half that ride. Ted and I biked out to Silver Birches one afternoon, hoping owner/friend Liz would be there. We were out of luck on that, but we did get a couple of photographs from outside the gates.

We’ve heard it will be the summer of 2017 when this property is open for guests, and when we saw the massive restoration going on, we could sure understand why it might take that long. All I can say is that once this property is completed, it will be one of the premier destination spots on Mackinac. Hoping to get a tour inside before we leave at the end of September!

Instead of finishing the ride around the island, we chose to turn up British Landing Road and stop at Croghan Water, named after Colonel George Croghan, Commander of the American forces during the Battle of Mackinac Island on August 4, 1814.

Croghan Water is a natural drainage area for rain and meltwater from the surrounding fields and woods. It’s not fed by a running stream or springs, so it goes through cycles of wet and dry periods. Every spring the marsh is filled with life as it’s an excellent environment for animals, birds, and vegetation that thrive in cool, damp wetlands. By autumn, the marsh is frequently dried up, leaving the bare stalks of cattails and rushes.

It always amazes me how nature finds a way to replenish herself. Even though this tree trunk was barely showing above the earth, new leaves were pushing out and skyward.

It always amazes me how nature finds a way to replenish itself. Even though this tree trunk was barely showing above the earth, new leaves were pushing out and skyward.

Looking down British Landing Road - where we'd just ridden . . .

Looking down British Landing Road – which we’d just ridden up . . . .

. . . and further up – where Ted is stopped next to the sign marking where American soldiers futilely attempted to drive the British from their hill in 1814.

That battlefield is now Wawashkamo Golf Club, one of very few American courses laid out in a links style that remains substantially unaltered, and the only nine-hole course in America to be designated an American Historic Golf Landmark by Golf Digest.

Back in town. It was a great day to hang out in Marquette Park . . .

. . . or sit on the corner and watch the world go by!

HANGING OUT AT GRAND HOTEL

I can always count on getting some pretty good photos just by going and hanging out at Grand Hotel, and this day was no different. Sadie’s Ice Cream Parlor is surrounded by flowers on the outside and filled with frozen yumminess on the inside!

The Michigan Governor’s Summer Residence – as seen from the porch at the Grand.

The western portico and its fabulous view over the Straits of Mackinac.

The Grand omnibus approaching the entrance to pick up guests going downtown.

A Grand omnibus approaching the entrance to pick up guests going downtown.

The Grand Rose Garden – through the trees.

FRIENDS

It’s been great fun to connect with readers and friends over the last few days!

Patty and Buz, our condo neighbors at Surrey Ride, as well as Cindy and Steve, who bought our condo. We had lunch together at Gatehouse after church Sunday.

Patty and Buz, our condo neighbors at Surrey Ridge (from Oklahoma), as well as Cindy and Steve, who bought our condo (from Atlanta). We all had lunch together at Gatehouse after church Sunday.

Katie, her husband Kevin, and little Claire - blog readers from Clarkston, MI who stopped us on a recent dog walk. Loved meeting y'all, and give your mom a big hug for me!

Katie, her husband Kevin, and precious little Claire – blog readers from Clarkston, MI who stopped us on a recent dog walk. Loved meeting y’all, and give your mom a big hug for me!

Girl friends Patty and Sue. Sue spent two nights with us on the island, and the three of us had a blast “doing” the show!

Others have been Hilde and Bud (why didn’t I get a photo?), Paul and Elaine (same question), Stu Stuart (same question), Joleen and her husband (who I never saw, but they saw Jill), and two ladies at the Garden Show who introduced themselves as readers (I didn’t get their photos and I can’t remember their names, but I think they both started with a “J” – how far off am I, ladies?). One thing, sweet readers – don’t EVER hesitate to introduce yourselves – no matter what I might be doing. I LOVE meeting all of you!

RANDOMNESS

Wedding photos in the Mission Point intersection below our condo.

One of my favorite curves on M-185.

Yes, there is a young person who rides this bike filled with soft drinks up and down Grand Hotel porch. Don’t you just love that?!

Mission Point Resort from Robinson’s Folly.

Island friend Mary Jane Barnwell at her recent book signing at Little Luxuries of Mackinac Island.

Island friend and owner of the Island Bookstore, Mary Jane Barnwell, at her recent book signing at Little Luxuries of Mackinac Island.

The book, Goodnight, Mackinac Island was written by Mary Jane and illustrated by wonderful Mackinac artist Lily Porter. A wonderful souvenir of the island that you'll read over and over again to the children and grandchildren!

The book, Goodnight, Mackinac Island – A Vacation Journal, was written by Mary Jane and illustrated by wonderful Mackinac artist Lily Porter. This is the first Mackinac Island board book for toddlers!!

A FEW FLOWERS TO GET YOU READY FOR THE NEXT BLOG ABOUT THE GARDEN SHOW!

And – as a real tease – one of the gardens you’ll be seeing from the perspective of the cottage owner – not as a visitor to the island . . .

Whew! I told you I’ve been busy!!

Hope everyone is doing great and getting ready for an awesome weekend! And I hope you’ll join me back here on Sunday for the garden tour to end all garden tours!!

God bless.

Almost On The Road! 7/24/15

Posted on July 24, 2015 by bree1972

I wonder if anyone has as much trouble packing as I do!!

Here's the deal. We don't want to have to lug our huge suitcases out of the car each night on the road. So, we pack a

Here’s the deal. We don’t want to lug our huge suitcases out of the car each night on the road. So, we pack a “destination” suitcase (or two or three) AND a “trip up” suitcase. The “trip up” suitcases are small and carry ONLY what is needed to spend a couple of nights on the road. They go into the truck bed LAST so they are easy to get out.

But - you have to be somewhat organized to be able to plan a 3-day/2-night road trip and every, little detailed thing you need once you stop for the night. One year I had everything I needed EXCEPT my huge round roller brush, which for some reason I'd packed in the

But – you have to be somewhat organized to be able to plan a 3-day/2-night road trip and think of every little detailed thing you might need once you stop for the night. One year I had everything I needed EXCEPT my huge round hair styling brush, which for some reason I’d packed in a “destination” suitcase. There was just no way I could “do” my hair without it the next morning, so Ted had to haul every single “destination” suitcase, dog food bin, cooler, toolbox, camera case, etc. out of the truck to get to the bag that held my brush. Well, let me just tell you, THAT was not a happy way to start the day, and I’ve done my best to make sure it hasn’t happened again!

Even Maddie and Bear have the type types of luggage - big green bag (destination-full of toys, meds, brushes, etc.). Small tote (trip up-full of dogfood and bowls)

Even Maddie and Bear have the two types of luggage – big green bag (destination-toys, meds, brushes, etc.). Small tote (trip up-dogfood and bowls)

Anyway, we’re almost packed, and I’ve spent most of this afternoon cleaning house. Ted always asks, “Why are you cleaning the house when we’re not going to be here?” It’s kinda like your mom telling you when you were young to always wear clean underwear in case you’re in a car accident and end up in the emergency room. I’d hate mighty bad for someone to have to come into our house (for whatever reason) and find dust on all the furniture and Bear hair floating across the floor and in every nook and cranny. So – I clean before we go. And yes, that’s what my mom did.

While I’ve cleaned, Ted and our neighbor Ernie have worked out in the near-100 temps to cover our boat. Ernie will be in charge of moving the boat to dry dock IF a hurricane should be about to hit our little stretch of beach while we’re gone. We pray that is something he doesn’t have to deal with!

I got a text message this morning from Sue and Terry, whose lake cabin we’re renting for the first three weeks of our Michigan trip. She was warning me that the temps are on the rise for the next two weeks, and forecasts are calling for highs in the 80’s. Frankly, “the 80’s” sound like a cold front to us!

Orietta Barquero, our friend on Mackinac Island, shared some great photos this week!

A beautiful view of ferries coming and going on a busy summer day.

Looking across Fort Mackinac toward the Straits.

Main Street hustle and bustle.

Carriage Tour horses walk past the always-flowering grounds of the Metivier Inn.

Another view of Main Street.

We’re only going to drive 7 hours on Saturday because we’re stopping off in Atlanta to spend the night at Jason’s On Sunday we’ll hit the road early and drive until we feel like stopping. Since we won’t be on the island the first three weeks of our stay, we don’t have to worry about ferry schedules – we plan to arrive at Black Lake sometime Monday afternoon. Even though we were just on Mackinac a few weeks, ago, it’s been almost two years since we’ve spent long, QUALITY time on our favorite island. By that I mean weeks with plenty of time to relax, walk trails, eat out all over the island, see friends, check out what’s new and revisit what’s old, and just hang out. We are excited!

I will try to write a blog post at least once on the road, and if we’re friends on Facebook, I’ll post there pretty much daily.

Safe travel prayers are always appreciated. See you in Michigan – and from points north – good Lord willing!

God bless.

Update on Max Jones Ride Across Iowa for the Mackinac Island Fire Department:

This photo was in Hiawatha, Iowa yesterday. They were 130 miles from their 480-mile goal! Max is on the far right.

Happy Day After! 7/5/15

Posted on July 5, 2015 by bree1972

Happy Day After the 4th!

It’s hard not to make comparisons between places you’ve lived, and holidays lend themselves to comparisons in a big way.

Until yesterday, Ted and I have spent the last several years celebrating the 4th on Mackinac Island (except for last summer, when – if I remember correctly – I spent the 4th at Lake Blackshear providing TLC to Bear immediately following his ACL surgery).

The Mackinac 4th of July celebration is an all-day event. There are family activities at Windermere Point – like climbing the greased pole and sack races. The Stone-Skipping Contest is during the morning, with professional stone-skippers from all over the world arriving to try and set new records. Late in the afternoon is the Grand Hotel Picnic at Fort Mackinac. Friends reported that it was a picture-perfect day on Mackinac, with temps in the 70’s. Ahhhhhhh . . . .

Red and white checked tablecloths are provided by the Grand, and everyone stakes out a piece of lawn where kids can play and everyone can eat from the huge buffet the Grand provides. (Photo from yesterday's picnic by Mert Vartanian).

Red and white checked tablecloths are provided by the Grand, and everyone stakes out a piece of lawn where kids can play and everyone eats from the huge buffet the Grand provides. (Photo from yesterday’s picnic by Mert Vartanian).

And then there are the fireworks. Sometimes we’d walk downtown to watch, but usually we just sat on our condo deck in the Village, where the view was awesome. (Photo by Emily Galka of last night’s Mackinac fireworks)

Ted and I love that Flagler Beach – in a few important ways – reminds us of Mackinac. There is that small-town atmosphere, and the 4th of July celebration here reminded us a lot of the island’s old-fashioned and laid back observation of this important day in America’s history. At the park in the middle of downtown there is always something going on, and 4th of July events included activities for the kids (face painting, games), live music, and vendors selling food and crafts.

But . . . with a well-reported reputation of really bad traffic congestion downtown at the pier (where the fireworks are set off), we decided we’d forego all that and watch from the beach.

Jennifer and Ernie Sund opened their home to neighbors last night for what we hope is an annual 4th of July cookout (with rotating venues, of course). We got to meet neighbors who have just moved in, and Ernie grilled up burgers, hot dogs, and brats (that’s bratwurst for my Southern readers), and guests provided all the other trimmings. Yes – those are the Horton Georgia Bulldog chairs front and center!

We got a few sprinkles of rain off and on during the time between eating and going over to the beach, but it was so hot and humid the sprinkles helped keep us cool (between the rain showers, my trusty hankie, and my favorite funeral fan, I survived without a complete meltdown). At around 8:30 we all traipsed across Highway A1A to the beach, set up our chairs, and settled in for the fireworks scheduled at 9:15. While waiting, we were entertained by children playing in the surf and by folks all around us setting off their own fireworks. We were all hoping that the sand at one of the nine protected turtle nests on our beach would start stirring and hundreds of baby turtles would be born on the 4th, but no such luck! It’s about time for 2 or 3 of those nests to erupt with babies, and we talked about setting up a rotation of turtle nest watchers for the next few days and nights. Not seriously, of course – but it was discussed!

All in all – a great first 4th of July at our new home!

OTHER STUFF

Our warranty team came in on Saturday and did some preliminary work and will be back bright and early Monday morning to start putting us back together after our indoor rainstorm. We have Georgia company planning to arrive on Thursday, and we’ve been semi-promised we’ll be back to normal by then and we won’t have to cancel on our guests. That will take some seriously hard work – walls to be painted, carpet to be laid, cracks and seams to be repaired, etc. I’m pulling for them to get it done!

A FEW MACKINAC PHOTOS

The 4th on Mackinac! A flag on a ferry's stern waves proudly as they pass under the Mackinac Bridge.

The 4th on Mackinac! A flag on a ferry’s stern waves proudly as it passes under the Mackinac Bridge. (Photo: Bobby Lee)

An awesome patriotic shot of Lady Liberty’s torch against a full moon over the Mackinac Marina. (Photo: Clark Bloswick)

Wow! The restoration of Fort Holmes is changing the scene as you come into the harbor. Bruce LaPine captured this from a boat coming into the harbor.

Wow! The restoration of Fort Holmes is changing the scene as you come into the harbor. Bruce LaPine captured this from a boat approaching the harbor.

Sunrise by Clark Bloswick.

A great Georgia friend whose family owns a cottage on Mackinac always celebrates the 4th on Mackinac. Sure missed seeing you this year, Jane! (She's the beautiful lady

A great Georgia friend whose family owns a cottage on Mackinac always celebrates the 4th on the island. Sure missed seeing you this year, Jane! (She’s the beautiful lady on the left with the gorgeous white hair.)

One of Clark Bloswick’s favorite subjects – and mine -the Mackinac Lighthouse.

We’ll have company coming in on Thursday (if the house is put back together), so I’m going to take Thursday off from blogging. I’ll see y’all back here on Sunday, July 12 – good Lord willing!

Have a great week, and God bless.

Mackinac June Visit – Monday Afternoon/Tuesday 6/18/15

Posted on June 18, 2015 by bree1972

Being on Mackinac for a few days refueled my engines in so many ways. First, it got me away from the oven that Florida has become in the last week or two. Although the thermometer just topped 90 today for the first time this summer, the humidity makes it feel infinitely hotter. Bear and Maddie can’t even take their normal walks out to the intracoastal dock anymore because the wood on the walk-over is too hot for their paws. They just put on their brakes and refuse to move. So – I was more than delighted to dig out a sweater and jacket for the island highs – only in the 60’s!

Second, it was wonderful to see so many island friends! On Mackinac you can hardly turn a corner without seeing someone you know, so we spent a lot of time catching up on a year’s worth of news.

And third – for me – it was a homecoming. No matter where else we go, I believe Mackinac is always going to be my ultimate destination on this earth. The island recharges my spirit in some unfathomable way that defies explanation. I feel energized when I’m there – able to climb hills, walk miles and miles, leap small buildings in a single bound – well, that might be a slight exaggeration, but you get my drift.

After meeting with Stefanie on Monday morning and getting a tour of beautiful Stonecliffe, I grabbed the shuttle to town, planning to meet up with Ted, who had already borrowed a Stonecliffe bike and was out exploring. I don’t think I’ve mentioned that I’ve been having some back issues for a couple of weeks, so biking was out of the question for me on this trip.

Since this was the noon shuttle, a stop at the barns for a team change was on the schedule.

Cadotte Avenue over a horse’s back!

My first stop was The Island Bookstore. Jill was out on an errand, but Tamara and Emma were there – all smiles! Coming into that store is like opening a door to a favorite room in your home . . . familiar, comfortable, cozy – and filled with folks you can’t help but love.

I found Ted, who had left his bike up at the Fort Mackinac offices (on the back side of the fort). The plan was to walk up and get his bike, and he’d walk/bike with me back to Stonecliffe. There was music playing in Marquette Park (it was Lilac Festival Week, and there were all kinds of activities going on). This lady was videoing her husband dancing in front of the lilacs. The man had some serious moves . . . so cute!

A broader view of Marquette Park and all the lilac trees.

One good thing about living in a two-story house is that you get a good dose of aerobic activity each day, and that comes in handy on Mackinac! I usually have to stop several times going up the ramp in front of the fort, but this time it was a relatively easy climb – and the higher you go, the better the view!

One view from the ramparts of Fort Mackinac, looking across Marquette Park out to the Straits . . .

. . . and another looking straight up Main Street.

. . . and another looking straight down Main Street.

We walked through the fort and over to the State Park offices, where we picked up Ted's bike. Our trip back to Stonecliffe was over ground on familiar we could have both navigated it blindfolded.

We walked through the fort and over to the State Park office, where we picked up Ted’s bike. Our trip back to Stonecliffe was over ground so familiar we could have both navigated it blindfolded.

One leg took us past the Surrey Ridge Carriage Museum.

. . . . where nothing had changed. Carriages filled with excited visitors pull up and empty. The visitors spend time looking at the vintage carriages, checking out the shops (lots of sweatshirt sales that day), and grabbing a snack. Then they board a larger carriage out back for a narrated ride to most of the island's main tourist attactions.

. . . . where carriages filled with excited visitors pull up and empty. The visitors spend time looking at the vintage carriages, checking out the shops (lots of sweatshirt sales that day), and grabbing a snack. Then they board a larger carriage out back for a narrated ride to most of the island’s main tourist attractions.

The woods we passed through were lush with vegetation. Although the trillium was mostly gone . . .

. . . the Lady Slippers were still blooming in several areas.

And then, of course, there were the lilacs!

We spent Tuesday morning hiking around the Stonecliffe area and enjoying the cool weather. I wrote another blog that morning, and early in the afternoon Ted left for town. The annual Community Foundation celebration was that evening in Turtle Park, and Ted had volunteered to help cook (something he did for several years when we had our condo). Around 4 p.m. I set out on foot for Turtle Park, hoping I’d get to see friend Denise at Surrey Ridge. Sure enough she was there, and we had a great visit!

The Community Foundation celebration is always a great event, and we got to visit with so many of our friends from the "Village" - where our condo was located.

The Community Foundation celebration is always a great event, and we got to visit with many of our friends from the “Village” – where our condo was located.

Ted rode the dray back to town with the cooking crew, and I set off walking back to Stonecliffe, walking down trails that we'd use practically every day. I'd stop occasionally and just take in the sounds of the birds and the wind rustling through the trees.

Ted rode the dray back to town with the cooking crew, and I set off hiking back to Stonecliffe, walking down trails that we’d use practically every day in our summers there. I’d stop occasionally and just take in the sounds of the birds and the wind rustling through the trees. I love the Mackinac woods more than any other part of the island. It’s in those woods I find the peace that makes the island so special to me.

I came out once again at Surrey Ridge and paused long enough to snap a photo of the Grand Hotel stable . . .

. . . and the horse corral nearby - larger now than it was when we lived there in the summers.

. . . and the horse corral nearby – larger now than it was a couple of years ago.

And . . . for the first time since we sold . . . I was able to look up the hill and photograph our condo without shedding tears. Well, maybe just one or two.

And . . . for the first time since we sold . . . I was able to look up the hill and photograph our condo without shedding tears. Ok, ok . . . maybe just one or two.

Our last full day on the island was Wednesday, and that story is coming soon. But first, tune in Sunday for one more post about Stonecliffe – its hidden nooks and crannies and what goes on behind the scenes to ensure your stay is perfect!

God bless.

Lots to Talk About! 5/28/15

Posted on May 28, 2015 by bree1972

What a crazy-busy week it’s been! Here in Florida we’ve been going, going, going, and up in Michigan friends are sending me photos daily that have me itching to go North. Here’s a sampling of what’s been happening in both places!

BEVERLY BEACH, FL

On Friday night Julie, Matt and the grandkids took us by boat from Ormond Beach down to the Chart House in Daytona for a belated birthday dinner for Ted.

Friday night Julie, Matt and the grandkids took us by boat from Ormond Beach down to the Chart House in Daytona for a belated birthday dinner for Ted. Coming home after dark was beautiful, especially passing under all the Daytona bridges.

On Sunday, a big group from Sunset Inlet left by boat to meet up with another big group on a sunny beach spot on the Intracoastal in Matanzas Inlet (across from the fort where Ted volunteers). We rode out with neighbors Ernie and Jennifer, and at first we were the only ones there.

A group from Sunset Inlet left Sunday by boat to meet up with another group on a sunny beach in Matanzas Inlet (across from the fort where Ted volunteers). We rode out with neighbors Ernie and Jennifer, and at first we were the only ones there.

Boats slowly began to arrive, and before long . . .

. . . it was a party! Kids, dogs, food, swimming . . . so much fun!

Things were a little quieter on Memorial Day. We made potato salad early in the morning, and Ted put a big Boston Butt on the grill around 10 a.m. so it could cook all day.

Ted, Ernie and Kevin attached flags to the boat slips for the weekend. I love to see our flag flying!

Ted, Ernie and Kevin had attached flags to the boat slips for the weekend. I love to see the flag flying- it was a great Memorial Day holiday!

MACKINAC ISLAND, MI

I don’t even know where to start with all the pics I’ve gotten this week from the island. Thanks to everyone who has shared the opening of the season with me – especially Jill, who has been running around like the energizer bunny! Can’t wait to see you in a few days, sweet friend!

An awesome pic from Bruce LaPine of the progress being made on the reconstruction of the blockhouse at Fort Holmes. Looking forward to hiking up there to see this in person!

Trees arriving by ferry. Somebody is doing some SERIOUS landscaping! (Photo: Clark Bloswick)

The renovation and expansion of Doud’s Market continues. (Photo: Jill Sawatzki)

Fuel for the horses! (Photo: Jill Sawatzki)

The island is already teeming with visitors . . .

. . . and dock porters like Josh Carley (shown here on bike with luggage) are already busy getting everyone's "stuff" where it's supposed to go. (This photo and one above - Jill Sawatzki)

. . . and dock porters like Josh Carley (shown here on bike with luggage) are already busy getting everyone’s “stuff” where it’s supposed to go. I believe that’s dock porter Archie Horn to the right of Josh. (This photo and one above – Jill Sawatzki)

A shot from Jill of the lilac trees in Marquette Park. I see leaves, but will there be BLOOMS by Lilac Festival?

A shot from Jill of the lilac trees in Marquette Park. I see some budding leaves, but will there be blooms by Lilac Festival? I hope so!!

Geraniums await planting at the Windermere. (Photo: Jill Sawatzki)

Looks like it’s going to be a bumper crop of tulips at the Grand this year! (Photo: Jill Sawatzki)

Another view of another tulip bed from Orietta Barquero.

And another from Jill – with the Jockey Club in the background.

Also from Orietta . . . a visitor to their home early one morning a few days ago.

Something I’ve never seen in the Mackinac woods – but, of course, Clark Bloswick found them – Jack in the Pulpits! Wow – just Wow!

Trees budding out at Mission Point Resort (Photo: Jill Sawatzki)

Looks like the Boy Scouts are helping to hang some new art at the Grand Hotel. (Photo: Jill Sawatzki)

Looks like some new art is going up at the Grand Hotel. (Photo: Jill Sawatzki)

Jill tells me it’s still hovering in the 60’s during the day on the island, and that sounds mighty fine to me. Hmmmm . . . . . our flight leaves in 9 days. Will there be lilacs? Will I need a fleece jacket? Will I be ecstatic to be there even if there are no lilacs and I have to wear snow pants? Yes and Yes!

BLAKE UPDATE

After almost six months of job hunting, Blake has accepted a job in Boca Raton, FL with Mutual of America, beginning June 1. This will be a position 180 degrees different from anything he’s done before, and he will have to become licensed during the first three months of his employment. After many closed doors, God led him to this one . . . and suddenly everything just fell effortlessly in place – job, housing, car – everything.

Thank you all so much for the prayers you’ve lifted over the past months, and please continue to remember him as he begins this new chapter in his life.

Blake left this morning for his new home – about a 4-hour drive south of us. That sure beats China, Turkey, and Colorado. I’m a happy mom!

To Be Clay

Tag Archives: Fort Mackinac

Florida, Mackinac – and Thoughts on Paris 11/15/15

Enough Already! 11/8/15

Goodbye October. Hello November! 11/1/2015

Photo Night 9/23/15

Covering Mackinac Island 9/3/15

Almost On The Road! 7/24/15

Happy Day After! 7/5/15

Mackinac June Visit – Monday Afternoon/Tuesday 6/18/15

Lots to Talk About! 5/28/15