Well...
It was (too) short, but sweet.
We came up on Friday and are leaving tomorrow (Sunday).
Boohoo.
I always hate leaving.
I'm not ready for reality yet.
We were able to come up to the island for one last time before winter set in for Jamie's birthday weekend.
Just he and I.
The boys are with grandma and grandpa.
It was beautiful weather on Friday.
We took our usual hikes though the woods.
And talked...
And talked...
And talked.
It's always such a different experience being alone...
Just the two of us.
Yes...
I miss those two wonderful crazy boys...
But moms and dads DO need some alone time every once in a while, LOL!
We loved the way our shadows were cast on the path of this trail.
Had to snap a pic you know...
We thought this was cool looking too.
Kinda like on "Ghost Whisperer" when she says, "Walk into the light", LOL!
This was the craziest, yet very cool thing we came across.
It was laying on a big huge rock.
It was made up of branches, sticks, rocks, bark, etc.
Someone had arranged it all in the most artistic way!
Reminded me of a jellyfish or squid, LOL!
We're always keeping our eyes open for new and unique things on our walks!
Do you see what I see?
There's a little baby squirrel on that tree ledge!
I had NEVER seen a baby squirrel till Friday evening!
He was so cute...so tiny!
He was nibbling on a nut!
We can never leave without yet one more picture by Arch Rock.
I ought to print out all of our pictures by Arch Rock and see how we all change/age though the years, LOL!
Jamie always likes to take a picture in this same spot every year too...right by this fence with the water in the background.
We're staying at the Harbor View Inn.
It's lovely.
We've never stayed there up until now.
I tell you...with the new investors who bought out Mission Point...things have really gone downhill at our favorite resort. And after staying here at Harbor View...we were SO impressed, we may be making this our new spot each time we visit the island!
Everything is IMACULATE!
So clean...so much attention to detail!
Not a bug or cobweb on the porch.
The porch furniture was spotless.
Housekeeping was constantly wiping down the inside common areas.
Our room was spotless.
And they're fast!
All the decor is beautiful...and festively decorated for the season.
Each time we go back to Mission Point...it seems there is one many more things that disappoint us.
It's sad, because it was always our favorite place.
And it's not just the worn carpets, peeling wallpaper, or not so perfect housekeeping.
It's the attitude of many of the staff.
They don't go out of their way to make you feel welcome like they used to.
There are still some that are wonderful.
Several guys and gals who work at Round Island Bar & Grill and Lakeside Market that always remember us and chat with us.
But many other areas...two thumbs down.
Anyway...I didn't mean to go off on a "let's diss Mission Point" post.
We still enjoy many aspects of that resort and may go back at times.
But I just wanted to say what a splendid time we had at Harbor View Inn.
We enjoyed Saturday afternoon coffee on the porch and we had a visitor!
I think he knew we were kitty lovers!
He came and spent about half and hour with us.
He obviously has a home and owner who loves him.
He is definitely well fed, that's for sure, LOL!
I'm sorry kitty...you're not fat...you're fluffy!
LOL!
Jamie said he looked like a little black bear because he was so fluffy and chubby, LOL!
He was very well groomed for an outdoor kitty.
He rolled around, layed down, sat a while, and then also played with me.
We spent a lot of time relaxing on this porch.
It was so clean and comfortable.
Had some afternoon and evening coffee here.
We came back at night and enjoyed watching the rain.
It was very peaceful.
We went down to Mission Point for dinner one evening at the Lakeside Market and had some sandwiches and got to visit with several of the girls who always remember us.
They're really sweet.
I was so glad I brought my coat, hat, scarf, and gloves this weekend!
Who knew it would be so chilly!
But hey...
As long as it's dry...
I don't care HOW chilly it is.
Nothing is worse than rain all day when you're visiting the island.
I love a good island storm at night.
But please give me sunshine during the day.
At home...
I'll take rain any time of day.
But at Mackinac...
I need my sunny days.
LOL!
Well...
Tomorrow we leave...
We probably won't be back till next May.
I guess all good things must come to an end.
Good bye Mackinac Island.
One day...
Yes one day...
We will be...
Coming HOME to you.
We are keeping the dream alive.
Even if it's when we retire...
Someday...
We WILL have a spot to call our own.
Parting is such sweet sorrow... ;)
