There’s an island in my heart where I love to go. I’d been inhaling the fresh air in my imagination ever since my visit last fall. I could hardly wait to return. I knew I’d see the trees sway, and the crystal water shimmer and hear the birds calling. We’d take the ferry ride to the landing and drive down the dirt road to our secluded destination. And be greeted there as if we were family. A little slice of paradise has become a home away from home. And this time, we were in for a surprise. Let me explain…

In the Straits of Mackinaw

Located to the southeast of its better known cousin, Mackinaw Island, our destination was the beautiful Bois Blanc Island in the Great Lakes. Part of the Mackinaw State Forest, mostly undeveloped Bois Blanc Island has one restaurant/general store, one tavern, private residences and a handful of places offering lodging. We were headed to the island’s only Bed & Breakfast, Insel Haus, for a weekend  knitting retreat organized by Heritage Spinning and Weaving.

Fourteen knitting affectionados had the run of the place for three days. Our gracious hostess, Christa Newhouse, provided instruction and access to her knitting patterns to all takers. So we knitted. We talked. We ate. We laughed. We spun and plied yarns. We ate more. Watched the hummingbirds and waited for deer. Enjoyed our beautiful surroundings and the company of like minded spirits.

We had beautiful weather with clear blue skies and the fresh cool breezes I’d been imagining. And then, Sunday. Hot. Humid. No breeze. None. We’d been transported to the Doldrums. Out came the fans, and the vats of cold drinks. Off with the sweatshirts and sweaters. Ninety-one degrees F!

Wow! Bois Blanc, in northern Michigan, gone (temporarily) tropical! An island of surprises in my heart.

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He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul. Ps. 23