Auntie to be

I've been trying forever to snap a picture of "the tummy" to show you all - success!

Ancient History

It seems like forever ago (okay only 2 weeks ago) that my family made our pilgrimage to Traverse City, but since I made so many promises to do so, I thought I'd share with you all how it was.

We stayed at the Grand Traverse Resort. It isn't actually in Traverse City (it's in Acme) but it's only about a 10 minute drive to TC and the resort is so big it's worth it. Our condo overlooked the golf course, which the boys did brave while the ladies hit the gym.

There are a few highlights of our trip definitely worth mentioning. The tour of the Old Mission Peninsula wineries was scenic and delicious - with Chateau Chantal as the absolute creme de la creme. Not only is it a winery but also a beautiful bed and breakfast.

The Spa at Grand Traverse Resort is FABULOUS. The hubby treated me to a half day of relaxation and pampering (I know, I'm a very lucky girl) including a pedicure, facial and haircut. My sister and mom enjoyed some pampering as well; mom-to-be got a pedicure and massage and mom (or soon-to-be-nana) got a facial and pedicure.

For lunch the hubby and I tried the Apache Trout Grille. We tried to get in with the family for dinner one night - 2 hour wait. The food is okay - nothing too fancy/special - but the view and drinks are the main attraction. There's even a tiki bar!

And finally, the scenery. Let's face it - Michigan is a beautiful state. (Not to say we shouldn't do our complaining about the temperature, wacky seasons, lack of good employment options, but) with its forests, lakes, sunrises and sunsets, Michigan is a great place to get outside and enjoy.

In Hope

I stumbled on this site while doing some browsing for volunteer opportunities...watch the movie by clicking on the "In Hope" icon towards the bottom of the page.

http://brightlion.com/Default.aspx

INDIFFERENCE

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that has - MARGARET MEAD

My heart hurts. Not from sickness, but from the thought of all the things we can do to make a difference that we chose not to. That we chose to look the other way on, or pretend they don't happen in the background. Global warming, pet overpopulation, poverty, the food crisis...there are so many causes to get involved in and so many of us have so much to give...but don't.

Why?

Because we don't think it will make a difference.

Is that really the truth? Think about it. If everyone you know - not even everyone in the world, just everyone you know - gave a little bit, lets say even just one hour or $10 a week to a cause they believe in - what would that add up to?

Think about it.

Is it really that you don't think it will make a difference?

Or is it that you'd rather pretend things we don't like just aren't happening?

Please - I beg, I pray, I beseech you - do something, give something, anything, to a cause you believe in.

Just don't do nothing.

It is ALL of our responsibility. What are you going to do?

Laundry, dishes, unpacking...

Just because I know you all are dying for them, here are some more vacation photos to tide you over until my vacation catch up ends.

Old Mission Lighthouse

Refreshment

Beautiful little piglets, courtesy of my sweetie.

View from Mission Point

Michigan Wine Country

Rested soul

Ah, its good to be home, even if it is to mountains of laundry and a dirty house.

We had a fantastic time on our trip - golf, swimming, sunning, wine tasting, eating, spaing and playing. I'll give a better rerun tomorrow - here are a few pics to tide you over.

Long time no hear

Yes, I know, it's been forever. Some quick updates.

My sweetums celebrated a milestone birthday. To commemorate the occasion he requested a delicious meal of... Jack's Naturally Rising pizza, frozen corn and Jello No-bake cheesecake with Cherries. I tried not to consider it a comment on my cooking abilities.

I've been feeling rather creative this past week, which lead me to paint my bathroom orange and make these two fabulous items. (Yes, I said orange. It's awesome and I love it. You all shouldn't be so afraid to have some color in your lives.)

Curtain for bathroom

Super cute apron

I'm in love with Amy Butler's fabric (which is now available at Fields). I recently purchased one of her books, In Stitches, and have been making aprons like it's my job.

My garden has been kicking production into high gear - I've been giving lettuce away like nobody's business. Here are a few other things I picked this week:


I visited the beach for the first time in years with my friend Alicia, and let me say - you have got to go. Van Buren State Park is just south of South Haven - less busy, way less commercial and well, fabulous.


We're off to Traverse City tomorrow with the family. Hope you have a fun (and safe) holiday!