Feb 14, 2013 |
Michigan.org is having a Pinterest contest. The lucky winner receives a trip for two to stay at the Grand Hotel.
![The Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island [Photo Courtesy Danny O'Rourke]](https://i0.wp.com/franklymydearmojo.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/IMG_0598.jpg?resize=640%2C480)
The Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
All you have to do, is create a Pinterest Board “Pin to Win: Michigan in Love” and pin what makes Michigan romantic. Needless to say, my board is already created.
Sure. I don’t have too much. Only 14 pins. But oh, my! The fun I had putting this board together.
And since I haven’t blogged for nearly two weeks, what a wonderfully fun way to get back into it.
I do love Michigan. I miss my Michiganders. And I would so love the opportunity to visit again.
How well I remember the three-and-a-half hour drive each childhood summer, as Dad would come home from work on a Thursday night and the next morning we were packed and on the road to visit Grandma in Alpena. Those weeks of romping through the wilderness. Those were the days when I was fearless. When garter snakes and daddy-longlegs encouraged me just as much as dragonflies and wild daffodils.
I remember Kensington Park and how we made it a game: who would find the most animal tracks, or hear the birds? Feeding the ducks was always an adventure in itself. But to go in the fall, with the crisp leaves breaking under our shoes, emitting that wonderfully earthy aroma. That’s Michigan to me.
I miss the four seasons. The green of rain-soaked grass. The red and gold autumns. The bitter white winters. And the blossoming springs. Right now, Mom and Dad would be in the basement green room, pushing seeds into starter cups. It would be weeks before we would see results. But this time of year, the low flourescent lights would hang on their chains urging the plants to come alive. And slowly, the garden would start to grow.
Memorial Weekends were the best. For a few weeks before, Dad tilled the ground. And on Saturday, we planted. And hoed. And raked. And watered. And made a most glorious, muddy, nature-filled mess of ourselves. By the end of the weekend, rows of seedlings were staked and growing. Corn. Tomatoes. Lettuce. Rhubarb. Green beans and snap peas (my favorites!).
We’d dip in the pool to cool off, enjoy Dad’s barbecue, and head to town for parades and fireworks.
I grew up in Michigan. I often see pictures of familiar sights, and it’s amazing to me that while much has changed, much has stayed the same.
I can’t watch Somewhere in Time or a Cadillac commercial without feeling pride at my home state. Yes, I’ve been removed far too long, but I still consider myself a Michigander.
My desire to revisit The Mitten even inspired me to send them an email last summer:
Hello,
I’m a former Michigander now located in Southern California. I run a daily blog (http://FranklyMyDearMojo.com), and am an active travel reviewer as well through Trekaroo.com, and other sites. I’ve kept in contact with my Michigan friends and we’re wracking our minds to find a way for me to revisit The Mitten. I realize this is a completely off-the-wall proposition, but I’m wondering if there’s a possibility of receiving a trip sponsorship? In return, I would write about my journey from start to finish on my Blog which I link to LinkedIn, StumbleUpon, Tumblr, Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook. I would also love to place your ad/button on my Blog directing my readers back to your site (regardless of sponsorship). My trip is in need of airfare and minimal expenses only, as I would be staying with friends throughout the state. I have people in Sturgis, Saline, Hartland, Brighton, Howell, Alpena. I’m interested in revisiting Frankenmuth, Holland, Battle Creek, Grand Rapids, Lansing, the Great Lakes, Mackinaw, Kensington Parks, the Parshallville Grist Mill and seeing the many colors of Autumn. Any other excursions, I leave up to my friends as impromptu tour guides.
I grew up in Hartland, and look forward to returning to my roots.
I’m aspiring to do a multi-part Blog series that would include various topics such as: the Geography of Michigan, the economic difference, Political climate, historical attractions, wilderness/farming aspects, weather, family based activities, heritage stories… It would more likely lend itself to writing a short book based on my travels. I run my own writing/editing/publishing company (www.NewInklingsPress.com).
Any and all sponsorship I receive would be properly recognized and acknowledged in print, including but not limited to my Blog and all social media sites.
Again, I thank you for your consideration of this extremely unique proposal.
I look forward to hearing from you shortly.
Sincerely,
They’ve yet to respond. But I don’t lack hope. One way or another I’ll find my way back.
Michigan is so much more than a state. It’s memories. It’s my foundation. And I do so long to return.
And Frankly, My Dear… that’s all she wrote!
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You’re Gonna Make It After All
Dear Michigan
Destination: Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Michigan
Rest in Peace, Patrick O’Rourke
Oct 25, 2012 |
I grew up in Michigan before we transplanted to California many years ago. [Okay, not that many…]
We lived in the LP (Lower Peninsula), just under an hour outside of Detroit. My Grandma lived in Alpena, and every summer my Dad would drive us up there for a week or longer. I loved summers in Alpena, because it also meant we would visit Mackinaw.
Mackinaw City on the northernmost tip of the Lower Peninsula is connected to the Upper Peninsula by the famous Mackinac Bridge: This five-mile suspension bridge is the third longest in the United States, and 12th longest worldwide.
Mackinac Bridge [Photo courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
There are so many wonderful memories of visiting Mackinac City and the Bridge. But the one memory I’ve yet to make is staying at the Grand Hotel.
Have you seen the movie Somewhere in Time starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour? It was filmed at the Grand Hotel. It’s such a romantic, historical location. Such a beautiful movie. I highly recommend it!
So imagine my jealousy I mean jealousy I mean thrill for Danny and his family when I heard they were making the drive across the Bridge to take the Ferry (cars aren’t allowed on Mackinac Island). I begged for a plane ticket photos and they obliged. Until I get there myself… I’m living vicariously through their story and these photos.
“Let’s see. What did I like best? That’s easy. Sitting on the world’s longest covered porch (660 ft) in a rocking chair, sipping a beer and looking out on the Straits of Mackinaw. It wasn’t a terribly relaxing weekend (a LOT of walking) so that brief respite was delicious.
I would take Mackinaw Island in the fall over any other time of year. First off, the rates are much lower. It’s also much less crowded. And the colors. Oh, the colors.
Laura and I marveled at the fact that we’ve been all over the world, but this was only her second time on the island. And she’s never seen the other side!
The smells are awesome. Whether it’s the ubiquitous fudge shops, the many restaurants or just the crisp, clean smell of fall. Even the horses leave an odor that makes you smile and think “Pure Michigan.”
My favorite island sound? The clopping of hooves. Hearing it right outside your hotel window is magical. It made me wonder if there is a relaxation cd with that sound. I would love to fall asleep to that every night.
The shops are so eclectic ( I bought juggling pins in one, a green Guinness soccer jersey in another) so there’s something for everyone.
And whatever form of recreation you prefer, it’s all there. Walking, biking, hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, golf. No cars, skateboards or roller blades, though.
I could go on (haven’t even talked about history which is, for my money, the richest part of the island) but I won’t.”
Grand Hotel [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
Room 366, Grand Hotel [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
Straits of Mackinac [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
Hallway, Grand Hotel [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
Big Porch Ale from the Cupola Bar [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
Breakfast at the Grand Hotel [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
World’s Longest Porch [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
Porch View, Grand Hotel [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
Horse-Drawn Carriage [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
This image was taken from inside the Cupola Bar. The seating reflections make it look like there are displays in the trees.
Mackinac Island, MI [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
St. Anne’s Catholic Church, Mackinac Island [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
Exterior, Room 416 [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
Somewhere in Time Suite [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
The Grounds, Grand Hotel [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
The Lawn, Grand Hotel [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
The Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island [Photo Courtesy Danny O’Rourke]
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Dear Michigan…
Destination: Mission Inn, Riverside, CA
Dear Amy, I’m Just So Sorry For Your Loss.
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE THE MOVIE:
[AMAZON AFFILIATE LINK]
Oct 6, 2012 |
I spent a lot of time in Michigan the last two days.
Not literally, of course. But online. I chatted with my friends still there. I dreamed my way through Michigan.org. I rewrote a short story about snow for my writing class.
I spent a lot of time in Michigan.
It’s where I learned to point to the palm of my hand and say, “I live here.”
I lived here.
It’s been decades since I’ve been there, but I can still feel the easy humidity of a warm summer’s night spent running barefoot on the grass. The fresh, new air when bulbs push their first leaves through the damp soil in the spring. The crispy, crunchy footsteps of walking through a mosaic of fallen Oak and Maple leaves. And the blinding brightness of cold falling snow.
I grew up in Michigan. It’s where I learned to ride a bike. Talk to neighbors. Swim in a lake. Sled down the street. It’s where we played Lava in the house, and hid in the spaceship of our basement.
My mom’s flower gardens. My dad’s tomatoes. My brother working on his car. Typing out homework.
It’s where I found my first stray cat. Played with snakes and raccoons. Learned how to layer clothing. Roast marshmallows. Camp in the backyard.
It’s where my best friends once lived, and have returned to. Leaving a light on for me.
I love Bedford Manor. But I’m lonely for that light. For staying up late talking nonsense. Drinking coffee on the patio in the morning fog. Reaching hands to pray over dinner. I’m lonely for that company.
And I can’t wait to return. If even just for a visit.
Keep the light on and warm the Mittens, Michigan. One way or another… I’ll be there.
And Frankly, My Dear… that’s all she wrote!
Oct 1, 2012 |
Saturday was National Coffee Day. To celebrate this, and Second Daughter’s successful Mary Kay kick off party, we spontaneously drove down to Casey’s Cupcakes at the Mission Inn. It was close to 7pm before we even hit the road. But after the Mary Kay party, we were all dressed up with otherwise no place to go.
The Three Amigos: Dot, Me, Elisa
To The City at Twilight
I put in My Soundtrack, which is great for roadtrips. A few miles down the freeway, and Elisa squealed as The Partridge Family began to play. “Oh my gosh! I LOVE this song!” I quickly told her the story of how David Cassidy sang to me. We hadn’t even arrived at the Inn yet, and already we were laughing at great memories.
Dot and Elisa chatted throughout the drive, sang along, and took many photos. We each had our iPhones, and since we were all together, our photo albums are similar, if not identical.
Elisa had never been to the Inn before. Dot and I find great joy in introducing others to Our Favorite Place. While our intent was only to walk around and grab a cup o’ Joe at Casey’s Cupcakes, as usual it turned into so much more.
We began by parking a block away. Seems a lot of other people also were inspired to visit the Inn.
The Inn at Twilight
It was perfect walking weather. The humidity was low, the temperature was mild. At every corner we could smell either coffee or garlic.
Elisa at the Flowers
Outside Las Campanas
The Avenue
The low-lit neon signs signaled that most stores along the path were closed. All except the Mission Galleria: a four-story consignment store filled with antiques and wonderful treasures. This was our first stop, where The Dots tried on nearly every hat they could find, and a few for me too.
The Dots in Hats
And Hats…
And Hats!
When we realized the clock was ticking, we meandered back across the avenue and strolled the short distance to Casey’s. Detouring first, of course, through the halls of the Inn just in time to visit Napoleon and Josephine. Napoleon was quite friendly, but Josephine was feeling a little shy.
Friendly Napoleon
Bashful Josephine
There’s a corner where the Spa, the entrance to the gift shop, and one open-air pathway all connect. It is my favorite corner. Just standing there, surrounded by old brick and mosaics is a visual endorphin. Then the scent of fresh eucalyptus oils greets your nostrils, immediately soothing any stress still being held in the body. Just a short moment of standing there with eyes closed is all that’s needed to be transported away from the busyness of the world, and have a truly individual experience.
After this, we finally made it to Casey’s Cupcakes. The outdoor tables were vacant, which made it easy for us to get comfortable and enjoy our treats.
Happy National Coffee Day!
Dot, Me and Elisa at Casey’s Cupcakes
Of course, having heard about the exceptional Tiramisu at the Bella Trattoria next door, we stepped over for a second dessert. Since Dot isn’t a fan of coffee and had just eaten her sweet treat, she opted for a steaming bowl of Creamy Tomato Soup. The menu was so enticing, that Elisa and I followed her lead and shared both a bowl of Minestrone soup, and a Tiramisu.
Dot’s Favorite: Creamy Tomato Soup
Minestrone and Me
Our Tiramisu
Ambiance at the Bella Trattoria
After indulging our tastebuds, we meandered past the door leading to the Rotunda. Unfortunately, it’s closed to the public. Dot had jaunted to the nearest restroom, leaving Elisa and I to drool when a gentleman came up and used his key-card to unlock the door. I joked, “Oh, look! He has a magic card!” He turned and smiled. He told us that part of the Inn is generally off-limits… but if we promised not to jump over the railings, he’d let us in. Elisa and I tried to assure him we would behave, but our girlish giggles gave us away. He held the door open for us, and introduced himself. “If anyone stops you,” he said, “You tell ’em, Tony sent ya. Tell ’em I said it was okay.” To which I promised him, “You are so going to be named in my Blog!” So here you are, Tony. Thank you! Dot scurried up, and we ventured into the Magic Door.
We spent nearly half an hour climbing level after level of the Rotunda, photographing every angle and entrance. It was ethereal. Like being thrown back in time.
Looking Down on the Dots
Rotunda
The Fountain at the Rotunda
We found ourselves on Author’s Row overlooking the Reception Area. A wedding had taken place, and people were celebrating! There in the corner, we saw Tony! He was busy making sure everyone was having a wonderful time. We walked around the level, showing Elisa the doors to Ann Rice’s room, the Herb Garden, and other sights on the Fourth Floor. Then we took the elevator down and found ourselves mistakenly led to in front of the Chapel. We were unwitting party crashers, who quickly found our way back to where we were supposed to be.
Strolling through the Main Lobby, we stopped at the Front Desk to ask general questions about the Inn, about rates and reservations.
Helpful Chris
Dot’s 18th birthday is in six weeks. Can you imagine what she might be wanting?
Yet again, Tony walked by with a wave and a smile. Yet again, we giggled. It must be a prerequisite for employment at the Inn to be good looking. I mean… really good looking. Just sayin’…
After we took up enough of Chris’s time with questions and “What If’s”, Dot was thirsty enough to warrant us walking the short distance to the Presidential Lounge. The music of two wedding receptions nearby mixed with the sounds of the Piano Bar. Elisa and I opted to enjoy an Adult Beverage. As she first delivered bottled water to Dot waiting outside the Lounge, the Bartender made my night. He couldn’t figure out my relationship with Elisa. I had called her “Girlfriend” a few minutes earlier. We were both spunky and outgoing. Finally he pointed in her missing direction and asked, “Sister?” I laughed and said, “Daughter.” He was honestly astonished.
I know bartenders get paid to flirt and make conversation. But this was honest astonishment. And it felt great. Then I asked him to make a virgin drink for my underage daughter waiting in the Lobby. Her Shirley Temple was On The House.
From the Presidential Lounge
Yeah. I’m so going back there again.
The Presidential Lounge is a wonderful experience. Small, intimate, upscale. You needn’t be a guest of the Inn to enter. It feels like a higher class of CHEERS. And the entrances lead right into the Main Lobby. So even though Dot was sitting at a table in the Lobby, it took less than five minutes for us to rejoin her, drinks in hand. The Inn welcomes guests to stroll with their beverages; making it an even nicer experience. We weren’t limited to a corner barstool. We could sit, walk, talk, and enjoy. Which we did.
Then we strolled outside yet again. The streets are lit with low yellow-ambient lighting, and light strings in the trees. It’s not garish or bright or modern. “Strolling” is the perfect word. We weren’t in any rush to get anywhere. We ambled and danced our way up and down Orange Street.
Chainmail Jacket at Parrott’s
A band was playing at a corner bar, and we stopped just long enough to enjoy the music. And the pick-up lines. “Hey, girls! The party’s over here!” “Where ya going?” I pointed to Dot and yelled, “Underage! But thank you for asking!” Elisa fits right between us. Old enough to go out with adults, young enough to keep my teenager company and not feel like a babysitter. Of course, that’s what Family is. We blend well. Period.
Then it was time to get home.
We only showed Elisa the tip of the iceberg. In a few weeks, we’ll be back. Maybe on a Saturday morning. To experience the University Photography Museum. The Pizza Parlor. The Farmer’s Market.
Or maybe we’ll just save our money and give Dot the Birthday of a Lifetime. After all, isn’t that what Family is for?
If you get there before we do, tell Tony we said hi. And we’ll be back.
Ambient Avenue
And Frankly, My Dear… that’s all she wrote!
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Destination: Mission Inn, Riverside, CA
