Special guest blogger, J., on our mini-vacation getaway

Here we are, right from the horse's (as the saying goes) mouth:

Vacationing in state always seems to get short shrift on the glamour scale but Northern Michigan has lots to offer.  Our Bed and Breakfast, The Grand Victorian, was great.  Our room was great, our breakfast was excellent,

[Rachel interjects - the fruit cup of fresh blueberries, fresh strawberries, whipped cream and granola was TO DIE FOR and the rest was very tasty too.]

and during the meal, our host treated us to an interesting lecture about the history of the house and the area.   Small touches like this can make a getaway far more interesting than simple tourist shopping (which I've never been able to comprehend).

 Cruising along the woodsy state highway near Torch Lake and through Elk Rapids made me ponder retiring to this area (if it doesn't change too much).  The beautiful lakes have given me pause to wonder how I can get a powerboat for myself.  There are plenty of beaches as well:

The roadside parks lining Lake Michigan were worthwhile.  Several couples we saw retrieved lawnchairs from their cars and placed them at an attractive vantage point before cracking open their books.  As librarians, Rachel and I had to approve.    

Perhaps the best experience was going to a Pearl's , a New Orleans style restaurant with, of course, New Orleans style soul food (I had southern-fried chicken, though cajun catfish is in my sights for next time).  A row of tabasco sauces lined shelves placed high on the walls all around the restaurant.  The rest of the decor was even more lively.  

[Rachel interjects - the ladies' room mural of cross-dressing tattooed bruisers freshening up their makeup during Mardi Gras was hysterical.  J. waxed eloquent about this restaurant ALL DAY.] 

There is plenty to see and visit in this part of the country, and summer is the best time of the year to do it.  

Sincerely,

 J.