Monday Morning

Great morning folks,

61°, a little patchy fog and a clear sky here near Halfway USA. May get to a record high today in the upper 80's.

The ride north to St. Ignace was easy enough since much of the traffic was headed south. We crossed the big bridge & rode the Starline ferry across to Mackinac Island. I have not seen northern Lake Huron that calm in the Straits in a long time. Usually it's windy & cool. The "short ride" from the north side is about 10-15 minutes. If we'd left from Mackinaw City, that passage is usually about 1/2 hour. We entered the harbor after passing Round Island.



We stretched our legs by walking the southwest shore boardwalk then crossed up hill through Woodfill Park to the main avenue at the foot of The Grand Hotel.



Debra Dearest & Miss Judy visit with one of the hotel hostesses.



Last time I toured the island was 35 years ago & it was mostly college kids from this state who provided guest services. Many of the people who work the island these days are foreign. Asians & Caribbean made up much of them. If you are wanting T-shirts & traditional fudge, Mackinac Island is where you go.

All in all we walked about 3 miles, people watching & browsing several tourist shops. If you ever make a trip there, I suggest you take a bicycle or rent one on the island. There is more to see on north east part including the fort & governor's summer home. Bring your wallet, though it isn't as expensive as the big resorts in Florida, you can plan on the ferry ride costing about $25 per person. Later September it is far less crowded with July & August being the busiest months. In about 3 weeks, the island and both supporting towns will become very quiet until Spring.