We're Home!

We just arrived back home from a week-long tour of Michigan, complete with thunderstorms. lots of mosquitos, and many great memories. We spent a few days checking up on Andrew's hometown, Roscommon, which is located in the center of the lower peninsula. I have since discovered that this makes him a 'troll', because he lives under (south) of the Mackinac Bridge. A canoe ride down the Au Sable River turned out beautiful. We even spotted an oriole (brilliant reddish-orange, and not found on the West Coast). We even escaped the numerous thunderstorms that growled convincingly on the horizon.
Then off to the famed Mackinac Island by ferry, on a clear morning which gave us a view of Lakes Huron and Michigan for miles. The island is perched just east of the Bridge, and is one of the few places where cars are banned. We even spotted a UPS horse cart delivering packages. Needless to say, we got a lot of exervcise while visiting! After touring Fort Mackinac, we hiked up to the Grand Hotel, built around 1900 and commanding a stunning view of Lake Huron. The Neo-Classical style gives is a broad balcony on which visitors can stroll.
Then back to downtown, dipping into shops to watch the fudge making process. Chocolate-Walnut was my favorite. We celebrated Andrew's birthday with a dinner at an Irish pub.
Highlight of Mackinaw Island: The myriads of unique cottages, each with its own flair. Curious windows, ingenious designs on fences and doors. We especially loved the old churches. The thick walls and tinted light give a sense of distance, not only from noise but even from the present. Churches have a timeless savor to them, as if they held the memories of past services and events ever-present, always waiting in the shadows.
My apartment is alternately flashing with silver light and reverberating with thunder. The storms have followed us home.
Pictures to follow!