Houghton Lake, Michigan

 We left Island Resort and Casino a little later than we normally would have done because high wind conditions existed through the Straits of Mackinac and on the five mile long Mackinac Bridge. Figuring that the wind might lay down as the weather warmed, we delayed as long as we could, while still hoping to arrive at our next destination at a reasonable time. So we took our time driving the 100 miles east on US Highway 2 to the bridge. 

Our plans seemed to work, as we approached the Straits the wind died to a gentle breeze and we paid our toll and headed across.

Having successfully navigated this engineering marvel, we arrived at Shady Oak RV Park in Houghton Lake, MI, mid afternoon. This park is privately owned, with each of the two hundred or so lots privately owned. We were meeting friends there, and they were able to score us an empty lot for the week!

We rested, ate, washed the trailer, met new friends, and generally had a good time with our friends Bill and Diane, the two closest to the camera. This was taken at the LC taproom and pub in Lake City, MI, where every Tuesday a dozen wings and a salad is $6! The others in the photo are Jeff, Pat, Paul, Shelley, Kari, Dana and Sandy. Jeff and Sandy still struggle with adulthood.

Later in the week, Bill and Diane hosted an evening gathering around a backyard fire. A bunch of the neighbors gathered in a cool evening to talk, laugh, and gossip. Good time!

We took the opportunity to have lunch with our friends Dave and Toni who are full time rv’ers and are currently in Traverse City. We met at the 308 in Manton, MI, and caught up on the latest happenings.

A trip to Fruitful Orchard near Gladwin, MI, netted us some fresh squeezed apple juice, apple cider donuts, and a bottle of Peach infused hard cider, all from their private orchards.

While we have been glad of the time in Houghton Lake with friends and new acquaintances, our mood has been somber as we attempt to find a way through some health issues of friends back home. Our hearts are with them and we pray for peace in their family.