Good Times Were Had

The Independence Day “weekend” was five busy days long, but they were good days, and we couldn’t have asked for better weather. Oh, maybe not everyone loved the rain on Wednesday, but it watered fields and gardens, and after that there was nothing but sunshine Thursday through Sunday. On the 4th itself, the fireworks David and I saw on our way through town, returning home from a friend’s house, were stupendous. (Even when you ask in Suttons Bay, “Where are the best fireworks?” the answer is always, “Oh, Northport, no question!”) Never have we seen cars parked so far out of town along the highway as Friday evening. But we were tired and missing our dog so went home rather than join the crowds, and Sarah’s wiggly-wagging welcome more than repaid the sacrifice.

Earlier at our friend’s house, while David, our host and another guest were visiting, I walked down the path to the beach barefoot, feeling more relaxed with every step. To the north, to the south—not a soul in sight! The last light was brilliant on the tranquil water, and stones whispered to me to pick them up. First to come to my hand was a perfect 2-inch oval Petoskey. Well, when stone-picking begins like that, whatever follows is gravy.

Back at the patio dining table, reflections in the sliding glass doors captured my attention.



This afternoon at Dog Ears Books and the Painted Horse Gallery, true to the “You never know” theme of our lives, we were treated to an impromptu concert of folk music by the Weatherheads from Grand Rapids. Pete and Barb gave us acoustic guitar, electric bass, harmonica and vocals, and the only way it could have been better was if it had gone on all afternoon. But we were here, and they were here, and there was music and appreciation of it.

Northport Calendar:

Tuesday, July 8, at 7:30 p.m. at the Leelanau Township Library, Northport author Kathleen Firestone will talk about her new book, SWIFT AS A VANISHING DREAM.

Friday, July 11, there will be a wine and cheese reception at Dog Ears Books, 106 Waukazoo Street, from 5-7 p.m. for Robert Underhill, who will be on hand to sign copies of his new mystery, CATHEAD BAY, second in the Sheriff Hoss Davis series that began with STRAWBERRY MOON. (Bookstore and gallery will be closed 2-4 p.m. to give me a chance to regroup.)