May 26th - 31st

We packed up and left Tuesday AM although we didn’t get far before we had to stop… at the dentist office so Arda could get all her teeth (well just one crown). Here we are packed up and parked in the parking lot waiting to go. All went well (meaning they had the right tooth for her and it fit) so we were on the road at 9:00 AM. First stop Happy Rock MI (otherwise known as Gladstone).

I had some business to tend to for our rental property there (new roof, painting, new tenant, etc.)… a few minor things. We got most of the items lined up or at least my partner and I agree on what is next so we had dinner with Jeanne and John Lindberg. They own Lindberg’s Cove in Gladstone and I can tell you that if you are ever looking for a place on Little Bay De Noc, they have one of the best places around. Your own cabin, a dock for your boat so you don’t have to put it in and take it out every day, a beautiful setting and a great couple!

The next morning (Wed AM) we headed to Don & Gale Ring’s place north-east of Duluth (Schroeder MN). Unfortunately highway 2 goes right by the casino in Escanaba so guess what we did (or Arda did). We stopped so she could “entertain” herself… at least that is what she calls it. After an hour we hit the road again (no Arda did not lose any money either). We arrived at our destination about 4:00 PM so we made good time at our leisurely pace. D&G knew we were coming and had ribs on the grill (plus a couple of libations) waiting for us… it was great.

Don’s Mom who is 94 lives in a walk-out apartment at Don & Gale’s house so she joined us for a cocktail and some laughter. She is very sharp not only for her age but even sharper than a lot of people I know… I’m not naming names. We sat around the camp-fire that evening just relaxing and feeding the mosquitoes.

 

The next day (Thursday) we just took it easy as Don’s sister and husband were arriving from Hartford CT around 4:00 PM unbeknownst to Don. They came to surprise him for his 60th birthday! And what a surprise that was! Even Don’s Mom didn’t know so she was really surprised too. Once again we had a couple of libations, dinner and sat around the fire.

Friday morning was gorgeous so Arda and I decided to leave Saturday instead of Friday as planned – we also were having a great time with our friends. We “went to town” to do some shopping as we had eaten D&G out of house and home. There are some really neat towns on the north shore of Lake Superior. We also did a little maintenance to the trailer. We had to raise the bikes as they were blocking the right tail-light which I didn’t think was too good. I’d also like to thank Wayne (Don’s sister’s husband) for all his help getting this done.

Saturday morning came (the 3rd morning in a row where the sun was shining and the temps were just right) and we once again packed up and hit the road. It was an uneventful day (I guess that is a good thing) but long as we drove to Jamestown, ND where we stayed at the Frontiere Campground. It was nice but we were both tired so just crashed. 

Sunday was bright and sunny again but very windy. The wind started about 3:00 AM and continued just about all day. Tonight we stopped early (~3:00 PM Mountain) time which means we drove about 8 hours which means we only have to drive 4 hours tomorrow before we are at the Wally & Rhett’s range where the branding will take place. We are staying at the KOA in Miles City MT… nice campground. 

My next update will not be for a week or so as there isn’t much internet service in the middle of the ranch in MT. 

Take care.