We never give a woman's age. Am happy to say though, it has been many pleasant days, that turned into decades.
The 4 hour drive takes us across the state on Interstate 96. A nice day, a bit cloudy overcast, but no rain. There were reports that it might get cold enough to see some snow before the week ends.
We get to the city of Grand Haven mid-afternoon. Just in time to get a bite at small deli Carol has enjoyed on a prior trip.
Grand Haven has also been called the Coast Guard City. It sits on the west coast of the state. Here is some background.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Haven,_Michigan
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coast_Guard_Festival
https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g28943-d104187-r145470052-Lake_Michigan-Michigan.html
As you can see, lots to do, even surf the waves. As we get to near city center, look for the house with the miniature red light house.
We know it’s the right place since we find a photo of daughter and her family as we enter. From there, walk into this small, delightful city. Many small shops and great places to walk and watch events. Even have grandson come to spend a few days. He attends nearby Grand Valley State University. He is in second year studying business administration. He says; got lots of homework to do. Big accounting project due in a few days.
The next morning Carol & I are ready for breakfast. Have been to Morning Star Cafe on prior visit. Yummy stuff to fill my belly (-:
http://visitgrandhaven.com/listing/morning-star-cafe/
After looking at menu, Carol decides on BLT. Me, venture into an omelet with many of my favorite additions – smoked salmon, cream cheese, chives and dill. This comes with sides of tasty seasoned red potatoes. We look around and notice, no empty spaces for seating. Looks like a favorite of many of the locals.
From there, visit the local library / community center. Is open 7 days a week. Find as we get inside book area, there is an art exhibit. On loan from the Mazza Museum in Findlay Ohio on book art. Illustration and covers from many wonderful artists. Building Blocks of Picture Book Art.
http://www.grandhaventribune.com/Literature/2017/10/23/Loutit-hosts-exhibit-on-picture-book-art
https://www.mazzamuseum.org
We spend additional time looking at magazines and other exhibits. Adjacent to the book art, are small models that 4 person student groups, age 7 to 10, depict designs for a new youth activities building. There was also some carved gourds on display. What creativity!
http://loutitlibrary.org/about-us
We then do a bit of shopping for quilt making supplies & groceries, since we will be there a few days.
Carol starts a delicious soup just in time for daughter and husband who arrive to join us for soup and sandwiches and a cold day – temp 39 deg. F.
After the nice meal decide to take short 20 mile drive south to Holland Michigan. Yes there are Dutch folks there. They also have a wonderful tulip festival in the spring. We walk the streets and poke our noses into many shops. What fun to have for a few hours.
http://www.holland.org
Wow, we get back just in time for dinner. This time, no home cooked meal, but a farm-to-table restaurant – The Paisley Pig. Menu items are intriguing. Carol gets a special pizza that is topped with the usual tomatoes and cheese with a dribble of balsamic vinegar. Me, shrimp & grits, but they added some special barbecue sauce for additional zip to the taste!
Our departure is midday Sunday. With final hugs and kisses. We will miss them all- dogs and wonderful accommodations included.
Our exiting town view is the back of the Coast Guard boat that greeted us when we entered the city on Thursday. On the way out see some of the delightful old home architecture. Can’t wait to come back and enjoy – Life In The Slow Lane (-:
