Who was John Ball, the namesake of our beloved Grand Rapids zoo? John Ball was a multi-faceted gentleman. He’d been a realtor, a lawyer, an adventurer, an author, a teacher and a businessman. I hadn’t realized what an epic exploration he’d taken in the early 1800’s! Join me on this […]
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We had just arrived at Longue Pointe, the northern terminus of any road in eastern North America. The point serves as a launch for hunting and fishing parties of the nearby villages. As we maneuvered our vehicles into our makeshift campsites overlooking the water, the low thrum of an engine […]
***Sorry the trailer is Sold*** $11,250 This Flyer Pursue is perfect for taking your camping up a notch. Whether you are heading to a campground, or making it an off-road trek. This unit easily sleeps two inside. The front curb side slide out kitchenette is fast and easy to set [...]
Giovanni, our guide, met us outside the gate of Vatican City’s wall in February 2020. (Our visit to Rome preceded the world shut down due to Covid-19.) Giovanni’s enthusiasm for the intricate art showcased in the Holy City was inspiring. From the moment we entered the hallway lined with artifacts, […]
The sun was shining warmly on September 30, 2021. “What do you want to do for your birthday?” DaViking (Chuck) asked. “Yeah.” Noah, our nineteen year old, added. “I have taken the day off from work. What do you want to do?” I smiled. “Let’s go see the Sequoia trees […]
Have you heard of freighter wash? I hadn’t until recently. It happens when ships charge through narrow, shallow channels. As they do, water is displaced and moves away from the shore to support the massive boats. After the vessels have passed, the water rushes back with such force that it […]
After exploring Washington Island for our second day in May 2021, stopping for a late lunch became a priority. We decided to pop in to an island pub, Karly’s Bar. Da Viking and I always enjoy getting to know locals. Boy, were we in for a memorable meeting! NO LUNCH […]
We emerged onto a wooded trail labeled, “The Prayer Path,” after parking the Jeep. The birch leaves rustled in the breeze. Birds called to one another as if they were making observations about these humans invading their forest. Da Viking had read about the Stavkirke church built by volunteers on […]