The mitten-shaped state of Michigan is surrounded by The Great Lakes, five huge bodies of freshwater that look as big as an ocean when you are standing on their shores. Of course, if you happen to be standing in the water as you ponder this, the numbness in your toes will prove that you are not in an ocean at all. Imagine brain freeze...but in your feet.

Two of the lakes, Michigan and Huron, meet at the top of the ‘mitten’ where a famous bridge connects the upper and lower peninsulas of the state. East of that bridge is the small island that is our destination.  

I was born on Mackinac Island and lived there until we suddenly and inexplicably moved to New Mexico when I was eleven. I loved summers on the island, winters not so much. I’ve never been back for either.

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