The pictures speak for themselves.


Follow along as Pearl and I discover all the interesting people and places in the USA.
The pictures speak for themselves.


Another fantastic Harvest Hosts stay. Great hosts who are very enthusiastic about sharing their love of wine and knowledge. As well as a beautiful place to rest for a night. The wine was delicious and I purchased 2 bottles. I know the Riesling was my favorite. Not too sweet or to dry. Loved that the grapes are grown on property.






As an Elks member I was able to stay 2 nights in a open meadow behind the Elks lodge in Charlevoix. I can honestly say I have been so blessed to have encountered this group of people. Both Thursday and Friday night, I was greeted by name and welcomed in. Talked with some great people, won $50 on a football pool and had some amazing food. And the concern shown for my well being, safety and comfort was amazing.
I didn’t get pictures but will stop back before I leave and update this post. I can honestly say, if you have an opportunity to join the Elks, do it. What an amazing organization and such caring people.
What a beautiful Vineyard and grounds. I had a choice of overlooking the Vineyard or being tucked in the woods. Perfect spot in the trees for me.

I spent all my time at the winery chatting with old friends and then meeting new ones. If you get the chance to come here, do it! Marianne and her staff were fantastic!




They are open year round and have blankets, throws, snow shoes and a great fireplace to sit and enjoy.
What a great place to start fresh camping again. Luckily I researched availability well and was in a spot that was fairly empty. 3 others camping in loop 4.


Bonus was the very short walk to the beach and beautiful weather.




Boyne city is a short drive or bike ride away with multiple parks, restaurants and history. Most notable is Ernest Hemingway. He spent a number of childhood years in the area and was married in nearby Horton Bay.


Now that mom is settling in at her new home and Beth is much more stable in over a year, I am camping around the area for the next few days.
If the smile on my face doesn’t show it, I’m happy to be back out with nature again. I’ll post more about the campground and area after I’ve had time to do some exploring. Right now, it’s cocktail hour.


It’s been a busy few weeks getting everything done so mom can finally sit back and have others wait on her. She doesn’t even have to make her bed! Happy we found such a great place for her to enjoy her golden years. At 92, she’s due! Kudos to Mallard Cove assisted living and the staff there.



There’s 2 wings with 20 beds on each. 2 separate common areas as well as 2 separate libraries. A baby grand piano for entertainment and a number of activities scheduled every day.


And with mom’s personality and sense of humor, who couldn’t love this lady!

So you know I’ve been blessed to spend time with my family here in Charlevoix this summer. What I haven’t shared is why. My mom has made the decision to go to an assisted living facility nearby. I know it was not easy for her, but she’s super excited and looking forward to having more social interaction. As well as having everything done for her. The facility is beautiful, the staff is super friendly and seems willing to take great care of her and seeing to her every need.


More pictures to come as decorations continue. Below is of one of the common areas. The other one is the same layout but yellow.

I made a quick getaway to visit some friends in the GR area. Always great catching up with friends. Unfortunately I didn’t get pictures with my former Pool League ladies. Next time for sure!!



What an amazing summer I’ve had. Spending quality time with both my mom and sister Beth in this beautiful town. We had to go check out how the Army Corp of Engineers reconfigured the very walkable pier out to the lighthouse.




Kudos to mom and Beth for making the walk! Wind was a little high coming off Lake Michigan, mom was the only one to wear a hat.
Forgot to mention we saw a sailboat race starting on Lake Charlevoix the same day.
