Summer Vacation

Recently (7/25-8/8) Dan, Ashley, Nicole and I went on an amazing boat trip. We started out in the Apostle Islands (where we keep our boat), stopped at Grand Portage, MN; on to Thompson Island (near Thunder Bay); Thunder Bay, Ontario; Silver Islet, Ontario; Isle Royale (Michigan territory/state); Grand Marais, MN and then back to the Apostle Islands. We were sooooo lucky with the weather. We had rain a couple times in the evening after we were set for the night and stayed an extra day in Grand Marais, MN ‘cause the winds/waves would’ve been too uncomfortable (4-7 foot waves; 30knot winds)and some occasional fog; thank goodness for radar! We stayed on the boat the entire time; sometimes at a dock and sometimes at anchor. Here are some of the highlights. Grand Portage- Trading Post replica; Thompson Island-gorgeous waters, trails and a sauna!; Thunder Bay-Fort William (original fur trading post early 1800’s); Silver Islet, Ontario-one of the richest silver veins/mines in the late 1800’s; Isle Royale- remote island only accessible by ferry, personal boat or sea plane, many inlets, anchorages and trails. (http://www.nps.gov/isro/index.htm ); Grand Marais, MN-last stop before going “home” to the Apostle Islands, we lucked out and were able to spend time at the Fisherman’s Festival which is their annual summer celebration (mini-donuts, log rolling exhibition and street vendors). It would take me a long time to fill you in on all the details of the trip, but overall it was great being together (yes, we still talk to each other) and taking in all the beautiful sights. We are so fortunate to have been able to take such an amazing trip. Here are a few (of the hundreds) photos from the trip.

2.Thompson Island Lookout