Our trip to Northern Michigan

This is where we were in Northern Michigan.  It's a lovely group of simple cottages in a quiet, peaceful place.  My dear friend, Ann, (one of the owners) is pictured here at the entrance.

 On our first day we went to Mackinac Island, a lovely, picturesque island in the Straits of Mackinac (between Lake Huron and Lake Michigan.) Cars are not allowed on Mackinac, only horse drawn vehicles and bikes.  Tandems are always a fun choice for rental.

In the past, we have biked around the perimeter of the island, along the shoreline.  It's a gorgeous route all the way around and completely flat so an easy ride.  This time some adventurers wanted to ride across the middle of the island.  We all agreed but found out that across the island is a MUCH tougher ride-- all uphill on one side and and all downhill on the other.  Below is pictured the view from on top.
OK.  Photos are out of order.  You have to take a ferry to Mackinac and below are some of the kids on the ferry ride.

I rode a tandem with my nephew and Godson Mitch!  I must confess I was a little hesitant to be on the back when I realized what our ride was going to be like (especially the downhill part).  But 14-year old Mitch was a pro at controlling that thing, speeding downhill but making a smooth stop, weaving in between people, with his superior reflexes, eyesight, and intuition.  It was a great ride!

Mike and I at a scenic overlook.  We really appreciated the water which was free with the rental!

Jim... deep in thought.....:-)

On other days we visited lighthouses...
celebrated our two mid August birthdays.....16yo Monique in the middle and 13yo Liz on the right.  Sweet Mary on the left.
The kids swam a lot and had fun trying to push each other off the raft.  Here both Monique and Mary are trying to push Liz off and they were repeatedly unsuccessful!!!!  Liz is strong.

One of the most wonderful things about Lorien is that it is only advertised by word-of mouth.   We usually know at least half the people there when we arrive.  There are nearly always other kids that my children already know before they get there.  Below is a volleyball game of almost all the young people there.  I think there was a good 13 year age difference between the oldest and youngest, but all were welcome to play and all were having a great time.

We brought our hammock from home and I must say it was almost always occupied.
This is a photo of the moon rising.  The picture doesn't really do it justice.  It was the most amazing pinkish color.  So beautiful.

I know there are at least several people who read this blog who have been to Lorien many times, and at least one who was there with us!!   (Feel free to add your two cents:-)  Others who may want to know how to contact Lorien about rental information feel free to email me.

It was a blessed time.