Stuck in the Washing Machine

After 100 miles of cruising on big water, we arrived in Charlevoix, MI last Saturday just in time for the 5:30 bridge to lift and let us into Round Lake's Charlevoix City Marina.  The marina is located next to the charming downtown area, close to nice clothing shops, cafes, restaurants and taverns, a movie theater, grocery store, and residential area.  It's a busy and convenient place to stay for the next few days until the gale winds on Lake Michigan (fondly referred to by Loopers as "The Washing Machine") settle down.

If weather permits, we are hoping for a Thursday morning take-off across Lake Michigan for Sturgeon Bay, WI (112 miles--another new record).  We've plans to celebrate the 50-years of marriage and explore Door County with life-long Crookston/Bemidji friends, Rob & Lynda.

We passed by Mackinac Island on our way to Charlevoix.  This is the ferry boat we rode from Mackinaw City to the island. 

Continuing on, we passed under the Mackinac Bridge.  This famous bridge is a suspension bridge that connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan.


This was a fun photo to take as we passed under this impressive structure!

This is one of about 2 dozen "mushroom" homes we saw on our self-guided walking tour yesterday in Charlevoix. 
Such homes were designed by Michigan Architect Earl Young.
Like Frank Lloyd Wright, Young designed homes with the idea that they should fit into the surrounding landscape.
This is one Young's larger homes, called "The Thatched House." 

In the 1940-60s, Young purchased a parcel of land in Charlevoix and built several mushroom or "hobbit" homes.  His homes feature limestone, fieldstone and boulders found in the area.

Each Earl Young home is unique and different and very recognizable.  We imagine the masons and builders who worked on each home shook their heads in disbelief...curves, irregularities, non-traditional! 

You might need to look at this photo sideways.  Our time in Charlevoix gives Mike time to trouble-shoot why our air/heating system on Velsignet is not working.  In addition, it gives us time to catch-up on laundry, personal business, plans for the days ahead, chart plotting, and getting together with other Loopers in the marina.

Tomorrow, Sept. 3, is birthday to Brenda's brother, Bret.  Bret joined Jordan and Allison for a pontoon ride on the St. Croix River earlier in August.  He's a thoughtful brother who loves being a great uncle to our girls.  Happy Birthday, Bret!!



Location: Ferry Ave, Charlevoix, MI 49720, USA

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