Do you Think the Lock Ness Monster Winters in Sunday Lake

I woke up yesterday to see thick frost outside. I had to look twice, at first glance it looked like snow. As the sun came up the fog came in. I captured a couple fun images from the front yard. If I had ever been to Ireland before, I'd say it reminds me of the fog there, but having never been there, I can't compare it.

The weather warmed up to 52 degrees, but this normally active weekend family, stayed home and did a whole lot a nothin, kinda nice to do nothing sometimes. Nothing means I don't have many adventure stories to share, although I did go to the post office and to Northwoods Candle and Cafe.

Northwoods is run by a woman who makes her own candles as well as sells other name brand candles and decor. On Thursdays she makes some pretty tasty pasties (I've mentioned this before). I picked up a couple hand made votives called Northwoods Cabin, they have a nice earthy scent, not too flowery or perfumely. She also makes one called White Birch and Daisy that smells nice, and I'll have to pick up on a later date.

Hey Dad- It is Ok to Take Drift Wood- I Checked

You know its been a good day when you come back home with a backpack full of driftwood. We had a late start yesterday but still headed out to Presque Isle Park in the Porcupine Mountains. We parked at the hikers lot and enjoyed an easy, beautiful walk along the Presque Isle River. There is a great boardwalk along the west side for ease and safety of hiking and a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the river.

Mr. Xenopus is a great hiker and really enjoys it. He went up and down many steps with the help of Daddy or Mommy's hand or the "Daddy Express". We reached the shore of Lake Superior and he eagerly helped find drift wood pieces.

We absolutely love this park and have plans to go next Saturday as well. A crisp 42 degrees yesterday was perfect for a walk in the forest. We ended the hike with Mommy reciting "Little Bunny Foo-foo" and Bacon hopping around.

I have great plans for my various drift wood pieces based on observations in nature. Next time you're on a hike check out all the shades of green from moss. Feel a dried up fern growing along the path or drag your feet along the forest floor where needles of pine thickly blanket. There is nothing like a family day walking through the woods.

Let me start out by saying the U.P. is different. It has areas that feel like undiscovered land. Full, thick forests where you will have a slight fear of what animals may be (and probably are) living just beyond your line of sight. Unless you live in one of the few bigger cities, you won't have many shopping choices or fast food options. You better carry cash; not everyone can run your credit card, and you better learn how to make tacos at home.

You will have, limitless places to explore and hike. You will have actual "mom and pop" stores to shop at and support and restaurants where the owner may also be your waiter. And you will see the most beautiful starry nights and meet people who are your neighbors and your friends.

I hope you stick with me as I share the mostly good, sometimes scary, and definitely challenging days ahead.