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Grand Haven
Beachfront view Hi friends,
Yesterday we departed from Holland, Michigan and headed towards Grand Haven to visit the Gerald Ford Presidential Library. It is only a 30 mile drive. We had programmed the library in the GPS and got very close before we discovered the roads were blocked. We went to the next exit and it was blocked too. So, we tried a third time and got close but again the road was blocked by police and other uniformed guards. Then we discovered what was happening. It turns out that Grand Rapids hosts the largest 25K road race in America and it was happening as we arrived. There was no way we could enter the city center.
So, we found our way back to the freeway and headed west to Grand Rapids, about 35 miles. We were told it was a better place to overnight than in Holland and I wanted to check it out. About half way between the two "Grands" we spotted the Magnum Coffee Roastery. We had to check this out. Yes, it was a good stop and we loaded up on some good freshly ground coffee.
We now agree that if we come back some day
Magnum Coffee Roastery
On the road between Grand Rapids and Grand Haven, we spotted this business. Neither of us have visited a 'roastery' but we love coffee. So, we stopped and enjoyed the shop. Of course, we purchased some. we would skip Holland for Grand Rapids. From there we headed north for our ultimate destination of Arcadia, Michigan, about 120 miles north.
Not far north from Grand Rapids we passed through Muskegon. My nephew, Josh, spent his youth in this town and we wanted to touch base to say that we have been there. We continued on our trip and as we neared Arcadia we found a road side scenic overlook with great views of Lake Michigan. After parking, there is a 123-step staircase to take you even higher for even better views. We needed the Fitbit steps so up we went. Breathtaking! I never knew how blue the lake was.
Next we arrived at the home of our friends. It is right on Lower Herring Lake, which feeds into Lake Michigan. In fact, it is a short walk from their home to the lake which we did upon arrival.
After Charlie gave us a tour of the property and surrounding homes, we returned for a quick drink on the patio. Later we drove back down to Manistee to have dinner and attend a music performance at the Ramsdell Theatre. May Erlewine was the lead performer.
She sang many folk songs and was very good. She did have a political bent that was evident when she sang an anti-Trump song. Can't say that is why we left at the intermission but we did. It was getting late and we had a 30-mile drive to get back home. Along the way it was dark and we counted 6-8 deer, some in the middle of the road. So, the the drive was slower than usual but we got home safely.
We will stay here again tomorrow. Good Day.
PS. Jackie complained to me that I have not posted her state signs since Kentucky. All the others have been great. Check them out. Also, I'm running behind on my posts. I'll try to catch up today or tomorrow.
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Kathie kirts
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In my hood
Part of my growin up years in Grand Rapids. Floods of memories. Beach at Grand Haven, Muskegon (a piece of folklore, history) an Indian announcing The Musket is gone. Sleeping bear dunes. Ok probably would not attempt that again.