Beauty Abound

We took the Mackinaw City ferry over to Mackinaw Island for my 38th birthday. Thank you to everyone who called to wish me a happy birthday. It means a lot to hear from those that I love. The ferry ride was only 20 minutes and very pleasant. As we approached the island there was a feel of the Victorian era. The buildings were lovely and the homes stunning. We ate lunch at Millies on Main St and then rented bikes. The island has had a ban on automobiles since 1898 so the only way to get around is either bikes or horse and buggy. We took the 8 mile ride (yes I said 8 miles) around the entire island on our bikes. John and Bowen rode a tandem as did Jadon and I. Gabe rode own his own. We climbed to the top of a mountain to see Arch Rock, a natural wonder for everyone to enjoy. We also stopped periodically to rest and to take in the island beauty. Lake Huron is crystal clear and you can see for many feet down to the bottom. I was in awe of it really.
Upon completing our bike ride we ate fudge (can't be too healthy) and ice cream and headed back on the ferry. There is a lot of history on the island with forts to explore and mansions to tour. We opted out of that but someday it would be nice to do that. Perhaps when John and I are older. It was a picture perfect day. Cool (68) and breezy and really fun. This is just what I pictured when I dreamed of our family on this trip.
Congratulations to the Laughmans for making it Florida. We are proud of you for stepping out and making it happen. We pray for you and the Hannas, that you all maintain your sanity. LOL.
Now we are settled in for the night at Rapid River Michigan. We drove for three hours across the Upper Peninsula to get here. The drive was beautiful. The coast of Lake Michigan rivals any coast I have seen. The only drawback is the temperature, only in the 60's. I have been pleasantly surprised by the loveliness of Michigan. I feel blessed to be able explore it in this way.