Part 2 of our tour involved a larger carriage and thus a three horse team.
A geographical wonder – The Arch, created by erosion of limestone after the glaciers went through. Per guide, it is predicted that in just 30 years further erosion will result in the collapse of the arch, making it two pillars instead. Lucky for us we got to see it in this form. I didn’t realize until afterwards that Bob was in the picture!Crystal clear waters of Lake Huron. Almost looks Caribbean. Next on the tour was Fort MackinacSecond random painted rock (found one in DeTour but didn’t post it). Now I’m on the alert for more. Happy Re-enactors Shooting off the canon at 5:30.Pretty sure the original fort didn’t have such colorful umbrellas!Looking down at the busy harbor. Flowers everywhere.Looking across the Straights of Mackinac, again the dividing point of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. The museum closes at 6 with flag lowering ceremonies. Enjoyed watching the boy scouts do their rituals. An unseen scout played the bugle as the main flag was lowered. They did a nice job of folding the flag.And then they marched away.From the fort we walked back to town. Another heavy load!On the way back we snuck into The Grand Hotel. After 6 pm the dress code requires women to wear dresses and men to wear suit coats and ties. So, we scooted out pretty quickly. One last look up at the veranda.Horse topiary. Bob holding on to a lilac tree trunk. I was amazed at the lilac trees (not hedges here). Apparently the Island is known for its lilacs and has 68 different varieties. Must be really pretty in the spring. Back at the ferry dock. All female crew.Bob chatting with the Ferry Captain. She explained that the rooster tail is just for show. There is a separate diesel engine to kick up the tail and it only adds 2 knots to the speed. On the way out a parade of kayakers go by the stern of our new friends’ boat Mother Ocean. Wish we had noticed they were in the marina at the beginning of the day. Headed back to St. Ignace on the 8pm Ferry. Great day!
Islandia Grabo's Blog 
Great blog Dee. Really enjoyed both parts.
Jim said you’re not too far from his Mom’s place which is next to Traverse City.
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Thanks! Should we try to visit his Mom?
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