Aunt Helen Elopes

Aunt Helen took a teacher training class after high school which certified her to teach elementary school for three years. Later on she attended classes at Syracuse University. She then taught in one room school houses in central New York State. Her father, Grandpa Warner, did not particularly approve of her choice of Everett Henderson as a spouse. Consequently she and Everett eloped after having a small ceremony at her sister's house. She and Everett were married for many years but never had any children of their own. She was a wonderful Aunt to her nieces and nephews and in time to her great nieces and nephews. She made absolutely wonderful home made rolls, pies, and fudge, which she willingly shared and brought to all family gatherings. Grandpa Warner was finally reconciled to his daughter's choice of a husband and finally accepted Everett into the family.

Everett and his brother Orange owned and ran a small hill farm with a small dairy. It provided for them but they never made much money at the enterprise. I remember Everett taking us to town in his Studebaker truck, which he just loved to drive. That was their only vehicle and if Aunt Helen wanted to go see her folks, she had to walk the six miles to their farm and back. She always had a small garden and loved to raise Cosmos flowers. She also had a small raspberry patch and would hunt for other berries in season to make her pies. Everett wanted a slice of pie with every meal and it always seemed to us to be the height of luxury to have pie for breakfast. Uncle Everett would get down on his knees in an evening and play growley bear with his excited nieces and nephews. Aunt Helen always thought he got the kids too excited just before bed time.

We were staying with them for a few days when our younger brother was being born and I got sick to my stomach and threw up all over the bedding. What a mess. Aunt Helen just cleaned it all up and never had a sharp word for the extra work I had made for her. How could you not love such a wonderful person. They are both gone now but I have my memories and perhaps best of all, her four drawer Cherry chest that she always had in her kitchen for linens and other kitchen things. A treasure for sure.

Thunder Storms

While we have been here in Interlochen we have had many rain and thunder storms. Last night was a doozey! It kept us awake for several hours and frequently seemed to be directly overhead. At first the lightening and thunder was quite far away but HW2 got up and closed all the windows in preparation. You can count the seconds between seeing the lightening and then hearing the thunder to figure out how far away the storm might be. It quickly became apparent that this storm was right over head. One clap was so close to us that I literally jumped. After at least two hours of pyrotechnics we finally got back asleep and so went the night. We figured that Kim had two boys and two dogs in her bed for most of the night too.

This storm reminded me of Aunt Helen. She and her husband Everett and his brother Orange (How would you like to be called Orange?) were having dinner one evening at their farmhouse when a thunder storm came up and suddenly lightening hit a corner of the roof on their house. The thunder was so loud that they all jumped up and ran out to see if the roof was on fire. Luckily it was not. Then they realised that they could not hear one another talk. Lips were moving but no sound was getting through to the listeners. That loud thunder clap deafened them all for several hours. When we came by for a short visit several days later, we got to hear the story and see the damaged roof. In Aunt Helen's later years, she was quite deaf and her hearing aid did little to remedy the situation. I always wondered if the thunder and lightening incident had anything to do with her later deafness.

Star Wars and Harry Potter Movie Fans

We may have created a monster. Jon and Christian love Star Wars movies. Last week we watched movies 4, 5, and 6. They now know all about Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, light sabers, and many of the wonderful characters created by George Lucas. Today they were allowed to watch Star Wars l and started by singing the introductory music and kept asking questions as the movie progressed. They are hoping to get in movies 2 and 3 before we all have to leave Interlochen on Saturday.

Christian is concerned about who might be a good or a bad guy. Neither boy can imagine how Anakin Skywalker can possibly turn into Darth Vader. They also needed popcorn and drinks while watching the movie. Somehow, they still managed to enjoy dinner tonight. Those two boys can eat!!!! Probably we will watch the other movies on Tuesday and Wednesday. I haven't seen these movies in years and enjoyed them all over again, too. Our Omaha grands love these movies too, as well as the Harry Potter movies. Once Jon had enjoyed the first Harry Potter book being read to him, his reward was to watch the first Harry Potter movie. Christian joined for the viewing and both talk about Harry, Ron, and Hermione, as well as Dumbledore, Snape and Hagrid.

It was great fun to intorduce the boys to the Star Wars movies and to Harry Potter as well. The Harry Potter books are so well-written, and the movies in both categories have enough action to keep kids and adults interested. Now they want to see Harry Potter 2, but must listen to the book read to them first.

It has been a fun but busy summer with the boys, and we hate to see it draw to a close. Their young minds just soak up information and they seem not to forget anything that they are exposed to. What a delight it is to be a grandparent and to become involved, even briefly, in their daily lives!

More Scotties and Westies

Every once in awhile we enjoy the sight of someone walking a Scottie or Westie dog. The other night we were on our way to Bud's for an ice cream treat when we saw and heard a Westie barking because he had been left in the car while his owners were also going into Buds. He sure looked like Duffy, the last Westie we had before we went back full time on the road. It reminded us of the time we had left Duffy in the car, to be asked by passing folks if that was our dog in the car? When we said it could be, they added that the dog was jumping on the horn. Sure enough Duffy had his feet on our horn and was entertaining all who passed by. He only quit when we got back into the car. I guess we got told.

In our winter campground in Kerrville there was an older man who frequently was out walking his equally elderly Scottie. They both walked slowly and though it was apparent that they were not able to move easily, they kept at it each day. We enjoyed stopping to say hello to both.

Recently here there was a Brindle Scottie who let all know that he was about. He looked to be a puppy in age but, sure had that jaunty Scottie walk when he was passing by. While I miss my Scotties, it just did not seem fair to have to crate them up or have them spend significant time in a kennel when we traveled to far places. But I sure do enjoy vicariously seeing other ones in our travels. On Sunday we saw a Westie walking with his mistress and weaving his way through the crowds on the street. He was not pulling on his leash but doing a nice job of keeping her walking right along. Duffy was never that well behaved.

Shopping and Linner or Dunch

On Sunday we six went to Traverse City for a bit of shopping and then a late lunch or early dinner before we had to say good by to Chuck, who had to get back to Ann Arbor and be ready for work this week. We couldn't decide whether to call our meal linner or dunch as it was too late for Sunday brunch. After driving around we finally decided to try out a new place, The Blue Tractor. This place was decorated with lots of tractor pictures and gears and generally done up in an industrial look. Our booth easily sat the six of us comfortably and we particularly enjoyed the table light made out of a galvanized pail. Andy, our waiter, was quite helpful. The boys eat free on Sunday which was quite fine by us. Andy brought lunch menus and we went for the barbecued pulled pork on top of a juicy hamburger, with string fries. Several tried the Bloody Mary's but I stuck with a long tall cold beer. The sandwiches proved to be excellent and we left very full indeed.

However, on the way back, Chuck wanted to make one more trip to Moomers for ice cream. HW2 and I did not participate but enjoyed watching the other four with their cones. Happily satiated we wandered home having had a good time and full bellies.

Camp Fire at A Lake Michigan Beach

After dinner with our kids we all piled in their car and drove about 30 miles
to Lake Michigan. This is apparently an annual trek for them. We got there after winding our way around the woods looking at deer and looking for ghost towns. Apparently after logging was completed in the area and the logging company moved on to the next site, then the houses were deserted as well and created ghost towns. We did see one abandoned house; however, someone had mowed the grass. Figure that one??????



When we finally arrived to the beach, we met friends David and Sandy and their two kids, Noah and Sophia, who had already started a camp fire. We settled in with our blankets, chairs, extra wood, and supplies for S'mores. Chuck had brought his new (birthday present from Kim) telescope and set it up for all to view the wonders of the sky. As soon as it darkened enough, we could see a planet with our eyes, and when viewed through the telescope it was spectacular. We could not only see Jupiter but also four of its many moons. Now that was really cool! Scattered clouds came and went and kept the viewing down to only a few stars and planets, but we could make out the Big and Little Dippers and the North Star among others.

I had to kid HW2 a bit, as she kept seeing moving lights in the sky, which later on turned out not to be moving. I told her that her astigmatisms were at work. She punched me on the arm.

For all of you who love campfires, you would have been in heaven. By the time we were ready, the coals were perfect for S'mores and enjoyed by all present. I don't think HW2 or I had had them in years and shall probably wait a few more before we have them again. The four kids screamed and chased, got wet in the surf, and built sand castles. Satiated with S'mores, they settled down by the fire asking Dave, "Turn up the light." Dave obliged and put more wood on the fire. We never got around to telling stories around the campfire but that can await the next trip.

Finally we headed home about 12:30 this morning, and two little boys were quickly asleep. We slept in this morning!!!!!!

Christmas in July

We love Christmas and all the trimmings. HW2 particularly loves to decorate for this festive season. We discovered that this state park was going to hold a Christmas in July Contest today. Last night we got out our few decorations that we carry with us in the motor home, and HW2 went to work. We put up a small tree that revolves and changes colors. She put up a selection of her Anna Lee Christmas dolls that she loves. Stockings were hung. Of course a Christmas Wreath was hung on the front door. Scotty dogs had ribbons added, and finally we put up a few strings of lights too. We did not play Christmas music, although we may do so today.

People stopped to talk. One woman had a hard time figuring out what was happening, and her daughter explained about the contest. Some park employees thought that the display was perfect. We checked out other decorations throughout the park and shall see who wins the contest.

Today there is the contest entering and voting parts, and then tonight, THE RESULTS! I fully expect HW2 to secure a convertible with loud speakers and take a drive throughout the park encouraging all to view and vote. The suspense grows minute by minute. WHO WILL WIN?

Best of all, NO PRESENTS HAD TO BE BOUGHT! Although we do have a few presents bought and put away, in case they are needed. It has been fun, and I will try to keep you informed of the results.

A neighbor informed us that we won second place in the contest. This is unconfirmed at this time. HW2 thinks we are, "Celebrities!" NOT!!! Indeed we did take second place and won prizes of two free nights of camping here within the next year, box of candy cane mints, and a small sign telling of Christmas in July. What fun. We congratulated several of the other winners and most certainly had fun. Now next year............................

Sand Castle Contest Today

The boys had a dry or rather wet practice run at making sand castles yesterday in preparation for today's event. They are combining with another friend and planning to win, of course. I expect that if the rain holds off that they will have a great deal of fun and get delightfully sandy and hopefully creative. They are already planning what utensils to take and use to make towers. There was also much discussion about the need for a real moat. Many buckets of water were lugged and enjoyed while completing the trial castle yesterday. At times it looked and behaved more like a volcano, but who cares. We will take pictures of the event and comment on the winners later on today.

Son Chris and I once entered a castle-making contest in San Diego. We had a great deal of fun but were unprepared for the competition that designed and made very elegant castles and decorations. We did have fun and enjoyed watching the navy ships stationed nearby where the competition took place. The winner certainly deserved the honor, and we enjoyed the fun of the whole thing.

Winrock Mall in Albuquerque displayed very creative sand castle structures for several years, and when we were walking the mall for exercise, we certainly enjoyed watching them being built and carefully looking at all of the items displayed. Would that we were all so creative!

The boys played all afternoon and made more volcano/castle types with lots of running water. Such fun!!! Finally cookies and lemon aid for all of the participants.

Insights from a four year old

We have been taking care of Kim and Chuck's two boys while she teaches at Interlochen Music Camp this summer for six weeks. The boys are ages 4 and 6 and while lively, have been fun to care for and try to keep up with. The six year old asked HW2, "Why don't you eat sweets?" Without a pause in the conversation the four year old said, "Because she doesn't want to get fat!" HW2 had to agree that that was the reason.

Another time we were listening to the boys complain a bit in front of their parents. The six year old said that their bedroom was too dark and did not want to go to bed. This was immediately followed by the four year old saying, "It's OK brother, I will be there too. Quit whining!" How we laughed. It has been fun to see how much six and four year olds comprehend and how they express themselves. They are a kick and we are very happy to have this chance to spend time with them and their parents.

Does Roger Need Red Cat?

I suppose you could ask, "Who is Roger?" and "What is Red Cat?" If you are in the family, you might have met cousin Roger, who since he has retired has developed an insatiable appetite where his family genealogy is concerned. Now this is a good thing, since every family should know from whence they spring. If you happen to be of the Morman persuasion, then it may be required for you to look into your family relations and gather up information on ancestors and descendants. I am fairly certain that Roger is not of that persuasion, but he is quite interested in his ancestors and descendants. This may be where Red Cat comes into the discussion.

Red Cat is a New York wine that is perhaps sweeter than what some of those with sophisticated taste may prefer, but it is a good wine and enjoyed by many. We were introduced to this particular wine by my brother and have enjoyed commenting on its many fine qualities for many years. It seems to me that if you imbibe a bit of Red Cat, that the evening turns out to be mellow and the comments shared throughout the evening have a tendency to become merry as the evening continues. Now where does Roger fit into this picture? I leave it to you to draw your own conclusion here. Should Roger read this particular entry on my blog, I would say, "Roger, enjoy a sip or two of Red Cat and see if your day or evening turns mellow."

p.s. I was not sipping Red Cat while writing this but my brother was. Enjoy!

You recognize a face

Every once in a while when I am in a crowd of people I see some characteristic in a face or the way the person does something that gets my attention. The other day I saw a woman purse her lips and immediately thought of Katherine Hartnagle who was the wife of our family doctor, who we all went to, when we were growing up. I have not thought of Katherine in many years but what ever that woman did the other day, reminded me of her enough, to bring back her face and gestures. Katherine was a lovely woman, well thought of in her community and dedicated to her husband and daughter.

I remember another time seeing a man walking away from me and the way he walked reminded me of Dad. I quickly walked after him and then by him so that I could see his face. Of course the face was different and the man in no way resembled my father. It shook me up though, since Dad had recently died.

Does this happen to you? I wonder if this is God's way of reminding you of someone you miss or that is no longer here. I remember faces very well and could always tell at school whether a student belonged on campus or not even though we had 2600 students at that time. However, I had a hard time remembering their names and finally learned to ask, "Tell me your name again". Of course I frequently forgot the name in the next second even when I tried to use their name in a sentence as soon as I heard it. But, I could remember their faces.

Sometimes now, I study people to see if I will see characteristics that will bring someone to mind. The neat thing for me is that I do get similarities a lot and then get to relive fond memories of a friend.

Raspberries

Yesterday we went on a jaunt up one side of the Leelanau Peninsula, visited the Grand Traverse Lighthouse and then back to Traverse City. Along the way back we saw a sign for raspberries and stopped at the roadside stand to learn that they were all out. We did manage to get some Queen Anne cherries and went on our way. The we saw a sign for raspberries - pick them yourself. Naturally we had to stop and pick some. The patch had been well picked over by the time we got there but we still managed to get nearly a quart of the fruit.

So for dinner last evening we brought our cherries and raspberries and Kim and Chuck contributed pizza. The boys ate salad alternating with pizza slices and managed to put away 3-4 slices and lots of salad too. When it was time for dessert they inhaled the fruit too. I am sure that the boys ate as much as the grownups or maybe even more. The good meal was enjoyed by all and followed by card playing (Canasta, Spades), once the boys were in bed. A lovely evening all together.

Every time we have been in Michigan we have managed to pick raspberries. One year we picked so many that we made several batches of jam, raspberry pie, raspberry smoothies and of course fresh berries and froze the rest. Such a bounty of one of my favorite fruits. Every summer I look forward to the heavenly taste of raspberries. Is this one of your favorite fruits too????

Comments on This and That

The other evening a man knocked on our door and then proceeded to talk with us for an hour. His name is Mark, and he and his wife recently retired (a buyout plan from General Motors, Cadillac Division), and they had also bought a Chrysler Crossover like ours, only his was a 2004 model convertible. He gave us all sorts of tips on taking care of the car and was interested in the fact that we put our car up on a trailer to haul it behind the motor home rather than just pulling the vehicle with all four wheels on the road. The next morning he asked permission to look over the trailer as he thought he might like to get one for his car.

Recently we were driving into Traverse City for groceries and shopping when we got the high sign and a kiss from another driver in the next lane. We interpreted that to mean that SHE liked our car. We didn't think that she was just sending HW2 kisses. I mean really...

Kids like the car, too, and the usual comment is, "I like your car," or "Neat car" from boys. One parent stopped us one day to tell us that her daughters liked our car.

We also get comments on the motor home, mostly, I think, because we are parked on the end of a row, and it is one of the first campers seen as people enter this national park. One guy said, "I know where all the money is, here." If he could see the big rigs which we see in RV parks throughout this country and especially in the South in the winter, he would decide that our rig was not nearly as fancy as many we have seen. We do enjoy the full-timing life style and willingly talk with passersby who inquire into what we are doing and some who are planning to do this as soon as they retire.

I enjoyed all the conversations that occurred when I walked our black and white Scotties, and I guess I could drive the car slowly around an RV park but that doesn't have the same feeling as two lovable dogs. What ever it takes to get into conversations with fellow travelers, it is worth it, and especially fun to meet new and always interesting people. Happy travels and keep talking to us.

Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes National Park

When I think about the state of Michigan, what comes to mind is lakes, Detroit and the automobile industry, the UP (upper peninsula), woods, mosquitoes, cherries, and smoked whitefish dip. I do not give a thought to sand dunes. Well, I guess I should.

Yesterday we went to visit the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes National Park which is located in northwest Michigan on the shore of Lake Michigan. These dunes were apparently left behind when the last glaciers retreated northward. The glaciers carved river valleys into the Great Lakes system and left behind terminal moraines, which usually consist of rocks and sand scoured from the land by the glaciers as they move. These sand dunes are hundreds of feet high and are moved by the wind to the northwest about a foot per year.








If you are inclined, you can climb up the dunes (we left that to younger folks), or you can enjoy the view by driving through the park to the many lookout places. The wind certainly does blow, and you need to have warm clothing even in the summer. The sand does drift and in places covers wooden walks with drifts of sand, so you can get a feel of trying to walk in the stuff. Lots of signs are in place to stay on the walks and not to wander about the dunes. This was generally ignored by many people, who apparently either can't read, or think they are above the rules and regulations.

Sleeping Bear Dune has a lovely Indian tale which tells of a bear swimming with her two cubs across Lake Michigan. Her cubs drown on the way, and when she reaches land, she turns and longingly watches for her cubs. They are returned as two islands, and she is gradually turned into a sand dune. You can easily see the two islands from many vantage points, and the rounded dune where the momma bear sleeps. You can also see the shore of Wisconsin, which is over 50 miles to the west.

There are other places in our country where you can see sand dunes and yet they are spectacular next to Lake Michigan. If you get a chance, visit!!!!!!!

Indiana Jones Movie

Yesterday we went to see Indiana Jones, The Cave of the Crystal Skull. It was classic Harrison Ford (although older) in the role he made his own. With Stephen Spielberg and George Lucas involved, it had to be a success. There are rough and tumble fights, a female Russian villainess, vehicle chases on the edge of a cliff, falls over a cliff, three waterfalls to go over, caves, ants, snakes, and quick sand. What's not to like? The story line is right out of the previous Indiana Jones movies and yet there is enough action to keep you on the edge of your seat as you munch your popcorn. We give it two thumbs up and encourage you to go see this wonderful escapist movie.

Dinner at Poppycock's Restaurant

Last night Kim and Chuck took the two of us to Poppycock's Restaurant as a treat. What a treat it was! Chrissy was our waitress and very helpful with menu and with great service to boot.

We started with beverages and appetizers. The appetizers were pita chips with hummus and black bean corn cakes. All (including beverages) were excellent. For main course we had locally caught whitefish encrusted with either nuts or parmesan and topped with either a sauce made from brown butter or reisling. Wonderful!!!!! Chuck had the only different entree since he really likes duck, and he praised the reduction sauce made from fresh sweet cherries, which accompanied it.

On the way back to the car, we stopped at a kiosk type place on the corner of a building that sold coffee and bite-sized bakery goods. The little cakes were small in size like a muffin but could be eaten in two little bites. They had about a dozen choices, and we tried out some. They were excellent! We think this place should be franchised.

So if and when you are in Traverse City, we highly recommend Poppycock's and the bite size dessert kiosk around the corner. Happy eating!!!!!!!

A train ride

Right next to the Cherry Festival grounds is an area that used to house the Traverse City Zoo. The zoo was sold and the animals relocated to other zoos because it was too cold next to Lake Michigan and too expensive to keep open. There is however a remnant of the zoo which is a small steam engine train which goes around the area where the zoo was located that you can ride.

The engine was painted a dark green and pulled several open multi-colored cars in which the passengers sit and enjoy the ride. These cars have small benches slightly wider than the track and an adult and small child can sit on the bench. HW2 sat with Christian and Jonny with his dad. I got a seat all to myself, and although a bit lonely, did enjoy the trip, two times around the park. The engineer was a big man and there was no room at all on his seat for another passenger. He blew the whistle and we were off on our circular travel. We crossed roads where the traffic was blocked by other train employees and we got to wave at all the people at the Cherry Festival. What fun!!!

I have 'G' gage or garden trains which have been erected either in a backyard or basement at various times when we were not full time on the road. To have a real steam engine that you could ride on would be even better, but, where would I put it. The ride was much enjoyed by us all.

The "L" Boys Rock

Traverse City, Michigan is the home of the National Cherry Festival and held at this time for about ten days each year in July. This is so, because, nearly 80% of the cherries grown in the world are grown here in Michigan. Last year our son-in-law Chuck took his boys to the cherry pie eating contest and Christian (then three) took first place and Jonny (then five) took second. Both boys were eager and excited to be able to compete in the pie eating contest again this year. They do the competition by age groups to make it fun and competitive. The three year olds compete and so on. Sarah Lee donated all the cherry pies needed for the contest.

Christian competed in the 3-4 year old contest. There were 20-25 contestants in this age grouping. He carefully studied his pie, his eyes narrowed, and he carefully listened at the countdown: 3, 2, 1, GO! He dove his face into the pie and began to eat/inhale his cherry pie. His dad took movies and the rest of us cheered him on. The ending was close but the winner was (drum roll please), Christian for the second year in a row. Yeah!!!










Jonny's 5-6 year old group went next. Christian gave advice to his brother. The count down began: 3, 2, 1, GO! He dove his face into the pie and began to eat/inhale his cherry pie. Dad took movies and the rest of us cheered him on. The end was called and the winner was (drum roll please), the boy next to Jonny. Yeah for this boy! Everyone got to eat pies with their faces. What a treat in the middle of the day.

Now their dad was inspired, and we moved to another part of the festival so that he could sign up for the adult cherry pie eating contest. Both of his boys gave advice. The count down began: 3, 2, 1, GO! Dad opened his mouth and ate most of the crust in one bite and inhaled the filling, all in about 20 seconds. His wife took movies, and the rest of cheered him on. The end was called, and the winner was (drum roll please), DAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The "L" boys rock!!!!! They got to eat their cherry pies and have them too. Faces were sticky with pie goo everywhere. But three happy "L" boys could only be found here. What fun for all!






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July 5 --arts and crafts and old car show

We went to an art and craft fair in Traverse City and also discovered an antique car show to visit. There were many visitors in both places so hopefully the vendors did a good business. We managed to come away unscathed but thoroughly enjoyed seeing all the goods on display. There were many jewelry booths that HW2 enjoyed visiting. She was looking for a pendant to complete a necklace that her sister had given her. Success, and it only cost $5!!!

The old and restored car show was excellent. It was fun to see a Mustang convertible like the one I used to own back in the 60's. Some of the cars dated back to 1911 like a lovely old Cadillac. It was fun to see a Frasier and some other cars where we had to look carefully to learn the make and model. I am glad that some people like to take care of and restore old cars. We even tried to buy a metal cast model Corvette for Jerry's collection, but they did not have the one he has been looking for. We tried though! It was fun to stroll through the many booths and inspect the lovely old cars.

John Adams and the 4th of July

John Adams thought that one day in this country we would have wonderful celebrations on the Fourth of July. This way we could honor the establishment of our great country, and there would be music, games, speeches, and fireworks. Mr. Adams should be proud of this country. We indeed celebrated by visiting a local baseball game where the Sliders (away) played the Beach Boys (local). The local boys won 3 to 0! At the ball park there was music, fly-overs by the Blue Angels, and patriotic movies showing and reminding us all of what is great about this country. Particularly moving was the one on the sacrifices made by our men and women in the military for the past 230 years. Finally, we were all delighted by a wonderful fireworks show with the many colored explosions and booms. It was a spectacular evening and great fun to boot. Mr. Adams would have enjoyed the whole evening and felt that Traverse City had worked hard to celebrate this Forth of July.

As we drove home, the car was filled with happy comments on this wonderful evening. We all hope each of you found a way to celebrate your country's birth and made Mr. Adams happy in your community. Happy 4th!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Birthdays and Decades

What is there about birthdays and decades? Yesterday we celebrated son-in-law Chuck's 40th birthday. It was a fun day. We had lunch with him, Kim and the boys and in the early evening, joined them for a trip to the ice cream store, Moomar's, where a local farmer makes wonderful ice cream from his dairy cows milk. Chuck likes to have dessert and then dinner, but only on his birthday. We then went on to a brew pub that gives birthday people a pint beer glass. Dinner was very good too. So we managed to celebrate his birthday in a manner that he wanted. Fun!!!

When we hit another decade, do we think that it is special enough to have a great party??? I think so, but am not sure exactly why. Maybe it is one of life's milestones like getting married or qualifying for your first driver's licence. I will celebrate my next birthday in February and it will be my 70th. My father and grandfather both reached 70, but, it proved to be their last birthday. I intend to follow my OLDER brother's fine example and get through the 70 and pass on to 71 and then 72 and.... However, we do not always get what we wish.

I am prepared to become 70 and no more but that seems a bit pessimistic and so since I am generally optimistic, will look forward to being 71 or even 80 or 81. Fortunately we are not in charge. I guess it is better to live each day and live it well. That is my real goal. So, why do we celebrate these decades???? Ideas??

Six Bikes All in A Row

Yesterday we biked over to the Interlochen school campus to see how Chuck and the boys were getting along with swimming. Christian looked like a fish in the water, and his brother, who is nearly over his ear infection, was having a great time playing in the sand. Chuck wanted to take his swimming test so he could qualify to take out a school sail boat, so we agreed to come back in the afternoon to watch the boys if needed so that he could take his test.

About three o'clock we rode back over to find Chuck, Kim and the boys in a group talking about events, and there we all stood. It was decided to take the boys back to their cabin for showers and resting time, and Chuck could get suited up for this swimming test. We six rode off to the cabin in a neat line of bikers. Two little boys peddling very fast, their folks trying to keep them in line, followed by two grandparents trying to stay on their bikes and not fall off or mess up the line too badly. It was a Kodak moment, but no camera.

Chuck indeed passed his test and can now take out a small sailboat. He was quite pleased with himself. We were happy for him and rode home. Another fun day here with kids and grands.

Driving Up the Peninsula

On Monday we decided to take a favorite drive up the peninsula north of Traverse City. It is quite narrow, and frequently you can see both sides of Lake Michigan as you drive through verdant countryside. There are many cherry orchards and vineyards, and, of course, several opportunities to do wine tasting as you go.

We stopped at two wineries along the way and tried out several types of the local wines which were mostly Rieslings and some combinations with cherries. HW2 likes a dry wine, and I like a sweeter wine, but we found several to bring back home. When we looked at the grape vines all around us, there were small clusters of grapes already to be seen!

We drove to the end of the peninsula to see a light house. Michigan is famous for its light houses. This one had the distinction of being exactly on the 45th parallel, exactly half way from the Equator to the North Pole. We walked out from the light house onto the lake shore, and the lake is still low from the drought which has been occurring for several years here.

Then we drove to the west side of the peninsula to have lunch at a small yacht club and managed to have a light lunch of crab cakes topped with a large scallop and a side of asparagus (I ate one spear) and another dish of smoked salmon and smoked whitefish pate. What a treat! On the way home we talked with the kids and grands, and they agreed to come over to the motor home for dinner.

We had to stop in Traverse city for a visit to the Traverse City Pie Company where they make homemade cherry pies, and HW2 found more smoked whitefish pate at a nearby store. We fixed grilled shrimp, saffron risotto, salad with fresh Queen Anne cherries, pate, and finished with cherry pie. Altogether a feast. It could only have been better if you, the reader, had been here, too.