After a good nights sleep to start off with, we just decided to take it easy and went to a local park. It is always nice to hear that people like where you live, or that they find the same things amazing that you do but Jason and Nikki genuinely seemed thrilled with each stop. Even the local park! (Which by the way, I never tire of going to because I think it is so beautiful.)
Of course we went to the beach and the boys loved the big waves of Lake Michigan crashing against them. Most kids are nervous about that! It was fun to see them experiencing that for the first time.I absolutely loved the hike that we took to a breathtaking view. They brought a backpack and we borrowed one so the boys could enjoy the hike as much as we did. (Thanks Beth & Dan!! It was a lifesaver.) I think being in the woods is one of my favorite places to be. I feel relaxed, inspired and in constant awe. I loved hearing Jason say over and over, "This is just soo awesome!" I feel the same way. You can't see it in the picture, but beyond the trees is Lake Michigan.
Every time we drove anywhere, Jason & Nathan rode together and Nikki & I rode together so there was always someone from Michigan in each of the cars. I liked that arrangement mostly because I adore Nikki. She is so great to talk to. We have had the most interesting conversations and I love that she is so open. I feel like she really wants to hear what I have to say, and I really want her opinion too. There is something so filling about deep heartfelt conversation, and I have that with her.We went up to Silver Lake to show them the sand dunes and the fun little town that is there. It was nice to just sit, relax and watch all the dune vehicles do their thing.
While we were watching them, Ashton decided to play in the sand. We were laughing at watching him climb down the dune on his hands and knees head first. Then we got a look at his face.....He was still as happy as a clam!
The sky was soo cool that day too. Like waves of water in the sky!
On our way down the dunes we stopped at a cool tree for a quick picture. First up, Saroya. It fit her like a glove!!
Then we got all the kids. Aren't they so cute??
For their farewell, we drove up north with them, stopped in Mackinaw City and then went up to Tahquamenon Falls in the U.P. The best I can do from this part of the trip is just to post the pictures. If you live anywhere close to Michigan, make sure you visit there. A couple of suggestions too, stop at the roadside park just before you get to Paradise, MI. The view is amazing and it's cool to put your feet in Lake Superior. At the Lower Falls, pay $10.00 per family and row yourself across the lake. In my opinion, it's the ONLY way to experience the falls. When you go to the Upper Falls, go hungry. They have a great Brewery and Pub (which feels weird suggesting, but the food and atmosphere is great!) that you should eat at. Now even though they don't do it justice, I'll let the pictures speak for themselves...Lower Falls
Gettin' there...
Gettin' Wet...
Upper Falls
A big forest fire in Newberry caused a delay in our plans, so we weren't able to go to Pictured Rock National Lakeshore this time. Another MUST SEE in the U.P. We were sad, but it worked out for the best. They got to continue their journey across the country and we headed for home to clean the house, mow the lawn, do the laundry and grocery shop for the next adventure that is just two days away....
P.S. This is officially on my Christmas list....
7 comments:
Holly! It sounds like you know of some rad places! You'll have to let me know where they are!
Man How did I live 23 years or so in Michigan without ever really seeing the U.P.? UHHG! We are definitely going to take a trip up there when we come out! Did you finally get the "Randazzle" out for it's first voyage with the family? You really need to do that sometime Holly! Looks so much fun!
I'm ready to move up to the U.P. and start a commune...anyone in?
Maybe you don't remember it Sunny, but we did a trip around Lake Michigan when you were a little one (taking in a day at Great America Amusement Park and then up through Wisconsin, across the U. P. and then back to Grand Rapids after crossing the Big Mac Bridge). Granted, we didn't see but only that route - there is a lot more to see. Most people don't think there is much more than just miles and miles and miles of trees.
Do you remember it, Holly?
I want to do the waterfall sitting thing!!
The waterfall looks amazing... put it on next summer's to do list! :)
NIK
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