Found across North American at Anishinaabe archeological sites, these “Lucky Stones” or “Lucky Pieces” can still be found across our continent today! These tiny, smooth, white half-orbs are marked with a “J” or an “L.” Where did these gems come from? As a regular rock connoisseur, I was surprised that […]
Interests
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The Anishinaabe have utilized maple sap for centuries. The first written record of this antioxidant-packed resource had been in 1557. Last year, Michigan produced an impressive 200,000 gallons. Each gallon of this “liquid gold” is worth at least 15 times more than crude oil. Join us as we investigate the […]
As always, Chuck and I seek unusual excitements around the Great Lakes. With USA Today‘s article about the nation’s top ten New Year’s Drops, we found “The Pierogi Drop” in Whiting, Indiana, just south of Chicago. These Polish potato dumplings are most often boiled then fried. Join us for our […]
When I have heard people mention, “Jackson, Michigan,” immediately my mind has focused on the expansive prison. I had not been prepared for the magical, creative community of 30,000 residents that we would meet. Chuck and I were both drawn to the people of the city and will return again […]
“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, let nothing you dismay. Remember Christ our Savior was born on Christmas day.” The traditional holiday carol lofted across the three acres of the Realy farm, northeast of Jackson, Michigan. This small group of carolers had created a portal, welcoming us to the 1880’s Waterloo […]
Fifty-six years after the United States had become a nation, Calvin Snell built his home along US-12, the Chicago Road, in the Michigan Territory. From 1832-1843 Calvin Snell offered meals and rest for people making the five day stage coach journey from Chicago to Detroit. Later it was named “Walker […]
“Oh. I have been looking forward to this stop on our tour of US-12.” Chuck’s eyes widened as we approached Drier’s Butcher Shop on South Elm Street in Three Oaks, Michigan. First opened in 1875, Drier’s Butcher Shop has served the Three Oaks community, surrounding areas and some well known […]
Did you know that Grand Rapids had been the first city in the world to have commercial electric lighting service? I had no idea of this amazing, local history! My husband, Chuck, had been walking along the Grand River last Tuesday, August 20th when he came upon a curiously large […]
“Imaginary Friends Stay Free” Last May as we had been driving along Highway 2 in Michigan’s upper peninsula, Chuck and I simultaneously read, “Imaginary Friends Stay Free” on The Colonial Motel sign. We each repeated the line with laughter. Chuck had quickly turned around and pulled into the parking lot. […]
Did you know there’s a multi-use recreation trail from Kalamazoo to South Haven? Through the effort of many and the resistance of some, this retired rail line had been reimagined into the linear park it is today. This rail line is FULL of crazy, curious history! Join us as we […]