tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5811891964460708402024-02-19T00:41:10.922-05:00Happenings In The Hills.Dewey Lake Manor Bed and BreakfastUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-22574680727033615322016-02-14T23:01:00.001-05:002016-02-14T23:06:56.820-05:00Saint Valentine<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8UUNYp6kCS9GB_Cp7gLIr2wOemKjf7os_sP1ijP4PTmm0dUH2LUlkJQX_RMHrcVJ-l_hBACLZx8bIVVJxc9NDnQc0Wwt50pixK62W6PJFUj7Gcy5vUSjxX-Oxoo2jSPvMPKiZqB8uPFA/s1600/chocolate+hearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8UUNYp6kCS9GB_Cp7gLIr2wOemKjf7os_sP1ijP4PTmm0dUH2LUlkJQX_RMHrcVJ-l_hBACLZx8bIVVJxc9NDnQc0Wwt50pixK62W6PJFUj7Gcy5vUSjxX-Oxoo2jSPvMPKiZqB8uPFA/s200/chocolate+hearts.jpg" width="185" /></a>February 14, Valentine's Day, The Official Holiday of Lovers. A Day of cards, love notes, chocolates, and roses .<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5M17Ih7_oqa6nDGkG3D3NNPUhr5SlbU53VXjK4Tm1CUCzft4pMM2wpiq3SVSSotYaJ83b-CJmGMHKhe4oBiCZMjutqLKv16oh1php0GQXhBzMIb4B7_3DeBru-Jq3PU5EkexCFcwYN88/s1600/TF31-1+red+roses.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5M17Ih7_oqa6nDGkG3D3NNPUhr5SlbU53VXjK4Tm1CUCzft4pMM2wpiq3SVSSotYaJ83b-CJmGMHKhe4oBiCZMjutqLKv16oh1php0GQXhBzMIb4B7_3DeBru-Jq3PU5EkexCFcwYN88/s200/TF31-1+red+roses.jpg" width="175" /></a>Originally February 15th was a Roman pagan holiday. But when Christianity took over, the Church instituted the feast day of Saint Valentine, who was martyred on February 14th. He was already considered the patron saint of happy marriages, betrothed couples, and lovers. So this custom transferred into Valentine's Day. <br />
A couple of traditions that started in the Middle Ages was the giving of cards with handwritten notes, and also giving roses. Cupid was bringing sweet nectar to the Gods, and spilled some of the nectar on the ground. Out of that ground grew a rose, and so the rose became considered the flower of Love. <br />
Today Valentine's Day is celebrated in many countries besides our own, and is not restricted to couples, but a day to honor anyone special. Did you give/get your rose today? I did. Happy Valentines Day.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfCR2ec81xkCjNqha34PvkLmwIFuo3Qj2d-2Fnwi3tgZWf4RLW7NOmSQIeiNkhyphenhypheneEKfgIKGIaMgZ31fdIWhm6-DX3Zm_wW6OtJuLmFUmKKQUvOWoIvRkjM584g4GBE1HsndWWl_R4KZms/s1600/h+valentine+candy+j0441021.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfCR2ec81xkCjNqha34PvkLmwIFuo3Qj2d-2Fnwi3tgZWf4RLW7NOmSQIeiNkhyphenhypheneEKfgIKGIaMgZ31fdIWhm6-DX3Zm_wW6OtJuLmFUmKKQUvOWoIvRkjM584g4GBE1HsndWWl_R4KZms/s320/h+valentine+candy+j0441021.jpg" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-58478811483838887732016-02-09T09:50:00.001-05:002016-02-09T09:50:59.864-05:00MARDI GRAS / FAT TUESDAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGbuqsJhzAnOGvE0butmIuv0T7sUj3il2AJQPScbMkZwa0PvHON5Qlmq48avHa9MwJtKtY8H7SxzuiFurz_mDlcZbghhk7OHBPiIi1njdoiYVbksF0WRJPFiFttbnyt6eH3aZsV8faDA/s1600/mardigras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGbuqsJhzAnOGvE0butmIuv0T7sUj3il2AJQPScbMkZwa0PvHON5Qlmq48avHa9MwJtKtY8H7SxzuiFurz_mDlcZbghhk7OHBPiIi1njdoiYVbksF0WRJPFiFttbnyt6eH3aZsV8faDA/s320/mardigras.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEwhOFBNoY8TQQlb5JYFogsflAJL3ZwRX9zntKO8KIcYLgvsCDYl870sbVMM50gDPLfLOH9JslL0FJxXhyphenhyphenAphVuFCdfN_CsWL-Ec84F0Rx8rmQTTg7i0Cqhfka6q8vdNw72Pf5P3_JwjQ/s1600/paczki++2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Today is Paczki Day-have you had yours?only 700 calories!<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEwhOFBNoY8TQQlb5JYFogsflAJL3ZwRX9zntKO8KIcYLgvsCDYl870sbVMM50gDPLfLOH9JslL0FJxXhyphenhyphenAphVuFCdfN_CsWL-Ec84F0Rx8rmQTTg7i0Cqhfka6q8vdNw72Pf5P3_JwjQ/s320/paczki++2.jpg" /></a>YOU PICK THE NAME! It's the party day before Lent starts. Mardi Gras came to New Orleans in 1718, but the Parading started in 1856, and what a spectacle they are. Colorful beads are thrown off the floats , and the beads are as much a symbol of Mardi Gras as the Paczki's are.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-49405978896029042702015-12-22T23:01:00.004-05:002015-12-22T23:01:54.724-05:00The Winter Solstice<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUbLUoPNVa9WNTAnB5itj5YUetYe5RHz6NrAEC_oANyRBgTKnFcivb2vrKzxYOwqUdzRRnHjfTN7ONwWwyMs_aoE1m9FNhYXEcwUUq4WDjIr-foj3Y01Fj7vOht3DW-qC0SwKtq_JGOJk/s1600/wintersolstice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUbLUoPNVa9WNTAnB5itj5YUetYe5RHz6NrAEC_oANyRBgTKnFcivb2vrKzxYOwqUdzRRnHjfTN7ONwWwyMs_aoE1m9FNhYXEcwUUq4WDjIr-foj3Y01Fj7vOht3DW-qC0SwKtq_JGOJk/s320/wintersolstice.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSz0sgT6wCq4iChgSVrLS3RlkfwrUFEa5ix6J_HT5wPHTmHsauDIatPBbOHlIDw09AZRNrlPBHz90UwSt_ZZvAn9ELPT8D5ZW87zupulV89lLja6P0R_gcfXIoj61Tijpv9zjb-NewjoM/s1600/soltice.jpgsummer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSz0sgT6wCq4iChgSVrLS3RlkfwrUFEa5ix6J_HT5wPHTmHsauDIatPBbOHlIDw09AZRNrlPBHz90UwSt_ZZvAn9ELPT8D5ZW87zupulV89lLja6P0R_gcfXIoj61Tijpv9zjb-NewjoM/s320/soltice.jpgsummer.jpg" /></a>Today marks the shortest day and longest night occurring in the Northern Hemisphere. The WINTER SOLSTICE! We call it the first day of winter as do astronomers also. It happens in December 20, 21,22,or 23, although the 23rd is rare, not since 1903.
The word, solstice, is derived from the Latin word "solstitium" which means the "sun stands still". On this day it moves so slowly it seems to stand still and also reaches its southernmost position over the Tropic of Capricorn.
This day is cause for celebrations in many countries. Stonehenge in the United Kingdom is a popular place for people to gather in both summer and winter to watch the sun. In Ireland a large monument was built between 3000 BC and 2500 BC. It is believed to have been designed to capture the Solstice sun's rays. In 2012, December 21 was considered "doomsday" by some people, as the Mayan calendar ended that day.
Now that you have had your history lesson, I will just say-I'm glad the days will be getting longer. I like more sunshine!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQQ42isN9RoNjxvd0kkRNriJyBJhjbRCXlqEvQbDlAn9EeXwIuFxaksZFTenjApg4x11-m0BKr6lVJAGlr_VQQ1hZ5iQ4pXQLxdDyo4IJWIBEW8rXKBz3VRbmJv3nxpsWHVRbIf_ML4d0/s1600/soltice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQQ42isN9RoNjxvd0kkRNriJyBJhjbRCXlqEvQbDlAn9EeXwIuFxaksZFTenjApg4x11-m0BKr6lVJAGlr_VQQ1hZ5iQ4pXQLxdDyo4IJWIBEW8rXKBz3VRbmJv3nxpsWHVRbIf_ML4d0/s200/soltice.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-8338723612198474292015-09-23T21:39:00.000-04:002015-09-23T21:39:00.668-04:00Here Comes Fall! This is the first day of FALL-can you believe it! It was 80 degrees-I love it! This week is a gift!!!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5A4_ZsPU8yf62zRJbD-7AiNl6fJ9aa6mklUqiFmDqjzBb1KdiHeEtQPNIBtYE3o6yhYWWVumVxuZFt18JftxQcs2j0idQqbPgNQHSFo4rglx_xxaj9slTozdBm8v12vy81G_0HYKHvY/s1600/sandhill-crane1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5A4_ZsPU8yf62zRJbD-7AiNl6fJ9aa6mklUqiFmDqjzBb1KdiHeEtQPNIBtYE3o6yhYWWVumVxuZFt18JftxQcs2j0idQqbPgNQHSFo4rglx_xxaj9slTozdBm8v12vy81G_0HYKHvY/s200/sandhill-crane1.jpg" width="160" /></a>The weather is perfect for taking down flower beds, which I was doing today, burning brush accumulated from the storms and for just sitting in the sun watching the sandhill cranes. We have 2 that visit us regularly.<br />
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This weekend is the Tough Mudder event at MIS. If you are not familiar with this-it is an obstacle course designed by the British Special Forces and it is Tough! It involves mud, ice water, walls, electricity and other trails. You can be proud just to finish. <br />
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The other event this weekend is the Clinton Fall Festival. Clinton is 15 miles east of us on US12, and they put on a great Festival-been doing it for many years. <br />
So you have things to do or just sit in the sun!<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-58651905193516233142015-07-31T08:18:00.001-04:002015-07-31T08:18:03.145-04:00The BLUE MOON tonight!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You've heard of once in a blue moon". That's because this real "blue moon" happens only every 3 years. To define it-it's when 2 full moons happen in the same month.
According to those that know, it may look bluer tonight because of tiny particles, from an unusually active fire season, are flooding the atmosphere. Someone has named it the FLOATING BLUEBERRY!
So, get outside tonight, around 10pm or so, and check it out. There won't be another blue moon until 2018!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-5522344579522360142015-07-08T18:50:00.000-04:002015-07-08T18:50:37.131-04:00US 12 Heritage Trail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBgAVdDsxHlOqpEmnwi5ZkGqeO_73B3nrC1e20I6VuytoRdwhuVZEQGUwV_vCNmy8v9o9Tw8bQEi2GV8jlw9e2lQuh3ozyjb3EaQfZObutImyCG4QHY_mdsKnrSrJJ0ULuwaN0MbjSXg/s1600/home_map+US12.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBgAVdDsxHlOqpEmnwi5ZkGqeO_73B3nrC1e20I6VuytoRdwhuVZEQGUwV_vCNmy8v9o9Tw8bQEi2GV8jlw9e2lQuh3ozyjb3EaQfZObutImyCG4QHY_mdsKnrSrJJ0ULuwaN0MbjSXg/s320/home_map+US12.png" /></a></div>
US 12 The Sauk Trail Chicago Road Michigan Avenue, whatever name it has gone by, the "path" has been here for many years. Originally used by animals, then Native Americans, settlers on foot and horseback, then Stagecoaches, and of course, automobiles. In 1825, settlers could leave their boats in Detroit and travel overland to Chicago. And, in 1825, the US government appropriated $3000 for a federal highway, the second in the nation, and it was laid out along an ancient Indian trail, the Sauk Trail. This road begins at Campus Martius in downtown Detroit and traverses the state to Chicago. <br />
During the summer, many things happen along US 12, but my main interest is in the Irish Hills area, because I live here. Walker Tavern-at the intersection of 12 & 50- has Vintage Baseball Games, Picnic in the park music events, and a Farmers Market every Sunday (except NASCAR Sundays). <br />
And, the Brick Walker Tavern, just across the road , is taking reservations for events, weddings etc.<br />
And, of course, Michigan International Speedway is on US12. They not only have NASCAR, they host a Beer & Wine Fest in May ,an SAE competition also in May, and the country Music Festival in July. There is also the Tough Mudder event in September. <br />
A little farther West on Michigan Ave, is McCourtie Park.There are 17 bridges , one of which is shown below. They are made of sculpted concrete, carved to look like logs, planks, and ropes. There is a stream that runs thru the area-a great place to walk and picnic. There are even weddings held there. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv356hl39SL5kUt6GCuQnn6nITlA5bH2_suW6pxUuESW8ZgBr9NX1rz5maw7bj6yI9GmHQykFXXyJJBgdn3X0Rk1WEEG20_anyZfv4Pf9jd3lYAX-jyTjIjG4dI0UgDGijOygagz8UV6s/s320/local_1+McCourtie+Park.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />Below is an historic schoolhouse which houses Cherry Creek Winery. They do wine tastings, light refreshments, and entertainment on selected weekends. It is also on US12. For more info <a href="http://www.cherrycreekwine.com/">www.cherrycreekwine.com</a>. For Speedway info <a href="http://www.mispeedway.com/">www.mispeedway.com</a>. For Walker Tavern <a href="http://www.michigan.gov/walkertavern">www.michigan.gov/walkertavern</a>. And, check <a href="http://www.us12heritagetrail.org/">www.us12heritagetrail.org</a>, to learn lots more about this great road! And, remember the Longest Garage sale in August.</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-13133282130469289532015-06-05T22:24:00.000-04:002015-06-05T22:24:16.727-04:00DONUT DAY???<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi78b0d2khgcJYoPO0r9L1fEd95AfU95OrroDfAlaTP713mAuDxFwK9cPy_Fvh8UlCIK-ipd9txXiCXUro2N-y78f33VMVAJL9zZLB7zqAmWVNPLseGiu-0-TD8sJ7woBhHuvVRzgpWL7o/s1600/donut+day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi78b0d2khgcJYoPO0r9L1fEd95AfU95OrroDfAlaTP713mAuDxFwK9cPy_Fvh8UlCIK-ipd9txXiCXUro2N-y78f33VMVAJL9zZLB7zqAmWVNPLseGiu-0-TD8sJ7woBhHuvVRzgpWL7o/s320/donut+day.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7IpebKXuulN9xSdgDUbCtUsjwdUcSEOFq8DgZBO5uTDD-DspygSXihDkJoruwaaPZtfsdKK_NFW6wflLBgKbTqbSPY1DQReTR1md6gAAbvx31P9jVWJMCh87TySxdUGOJGYYYisrnIZg/s1600/donuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7IpebKXuulN9xSdgDUbCtUsjwdUcSEOFq8DgZBO5uTDD-DspygSXihDkJoruwaaPZtfsdKK_NFW6wflLBgKbTqbSPY1DQReTR1md6gAAbvx31P9jVWJMCh87TySxdUGOJGYYYisrnIZg/s320/donuts.jpg" /></a>Did you know that today was national Donut Day? Who knew! The first Friday of June, which is today.<br />
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Dunkin Donuts was giving a free one if you bought a drink. <br />
Did you get yours? I didn't -maybe next year.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-75889515378215636282015-03-11T21:48:00.000-04:002015-03-11T21:49:05.301-04:00Blarney Time!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJ24nmhA-GYsSy-lNH2tXJAnPsMwAb5XWsLB-VCfBWiPWRHGT83YGm3adU7wCBK_HuATYyelmofQhFLPLc_iulGSEsJKxVHnd4az5azfoj_9szwBBkr749brBelbMwJpE6PNyobXXVtg/s1600/shamrocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJ24nmhA-GYsSy-lNH2tXJAnPsMwAb5XWsLB-VCfBWiPWRHGT83YGm3adU7wCBK_HuATYyelmofQhFLPLc_iulGSEsJKxVHnd4az5azfoj_9szwBBkr749brBelbMwJpE6PNyobXXVtg/s1600/shamrocks.jpg" /></a>Happy St Patrick Day! It will soon be here. The Irish Hills area is having their third TASTE OF THE HILLS this weekend March 14 & 15. This year there are 20 restaurants/coffee houses participating. A ticket is $25 and it also lets you go to the AFTER TASTE party at the Brooklyn Moose Lodge and there are FIREWORKS after. Check www.IrishHills.com for more info. And Dewey Lake B&B is offering a 10% discount on a overnight stay. <a href="http://www.irishhills.com/">http://www.IrishHills.com</a>"><br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-55707291422040129912014-12-31T16:12:00.000-05:002014-12-31T16:12:19.114-05:00Goodbye 2014 from the Irish Hills of Southern Michigan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here we are, writing this on the very last day of 2014. The sun is shining here at Dewey Lake Manor, making the lake look much like the picture, only it is frozen and the willow tree has no leaves. But there is no snow so the grass is like the picture; quite different than last year. <br />
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I have never really written about the Irish Hills, and we live in the middle of them. The Irish Hills have no formal boundaries or unified government structure. The name designates an informal area that to many, straddles four counties, while to others it is a small historical area along US Route 12.The area is characterized by scattered lakes-52 with names-and rolling hills. There are several historic sites on US12-The Towers(which unfortunately are closed now), St. Joseph Shrine-the beautiful little church- and Brick Walker Tavern-which has just been restored. The area was settled by the Irish, who came to America during the potato famine, and there is a very large rock- brought over from Ireland -near St Joseph Church commemorating those who came and those who died. <br />
The corner where US12 and M50 cross was known as Cambridge Junction, or" The Junction", and Brick Walker Tavern, located on that corner, was "the place" to meet and have parties. <br />
A few miles east of the Junction on M50 is Hidden Lake Gardens, MSU's Botanical Gardens, a place you don't want to miss if in the area. To find out more you can check <a href="http://www.irishhillsrecreation.com/">www.IrishHillsRecreation.com</a>, and <a href="http://www.otih.org/">www.otih.org</a>. Goodbye 2014 Hello 2015! <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-87097911144410179352014-11-29T21:56:00.002-05:002014-11-29T21:56:26.894-05:00Thanksgiving-the First<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaI8IXuAKQGYBJGSHj3diRlltHejWlfwp-rr329MbLJG7k3G1rX-hNTIgCt41BFjmDGurJm1kPqWxpRl6vF_AMgP4KolOUjLptz-cPKFWXZSITyjX4aXsETPtlefcALcrWvR6vFEyLTWA/s1600/2D9786412-wild-turkey-use_Nov+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaI8IXuAKQGYBJGSHj3diRlltHejWlfwp-rr329MbLJG7k3G1rX-hNTIgCt41BFjmDGurJm1kPqWxpRl6vF_AMgP4KolOUjLptz-cPKFWXZSITyjX4aXsETPtlefcALcrWvR6vFEyLTWA/s320/2D9786412-wild-turkey-use_Nov+2013.jpg" /></a>Since we just finished Thanksgiving, it's interesting to think about November 1621,when the Pilgrims gathered with the Indians to celebrate the autumn harvest. Their day was quite different from ours. They had to go out and hunt for their turkey and pick their vegetables from what they had grown. They had pumpkins to use as a side dish, but no flour or butter to make a pie, and no sweet potatoes as they wouldn't grow where they lived. And as for cooking dinner-they didn't have ovens so cooked over an open fire. That would have been quite uncomfortable for us on Thursday, as here at Dewey Lake we had a good 1/2inch of snow in the afternoon-beautiful but a little chilly! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-44818696091058772562014-07-20T14:58:00.002-04:002014-07-20T14:58:52.167-04:00Too Many Choices!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Iq3uyNUDqoUFbe5rV_4s-8wC0oh1ZmfDOj041bN7XDotmLu7SKOtKzkCr-l6HXLkaF9IFA0Z8UR6aPNNelN5gECJJEeaFkJdvCYYJzCU7nUAytQ1iEHW423euQgbr-0sbv-9dzfPUqM/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Iq3uyNUDqoUFbe5rV_4s-8wC0oh1ZmfDOj041bN7XDotmLu7SKOtKzkCr-l6HXLkaF9IFA0Z8UR6aPNNelN5gECJJEeaFkJdvCYYJzCU7nUAytQ1iEHW423euQgbr-0sbv-9dzfPUqM/s320/15.jpg" /></a>JULY-There are just too many things going on-I want to go to all of them! This weekend is the Faster Horses music festival. I understand the crowds are humungous! And tonight there will be fireworks.
It's also the weekend for the "Hot Air Jubilee in Jackson. Have you ever seen a dozen balloons in the sky at once? It is breathtaking. They do a morning launch and a night glow-both are quite a sight.
And this is the weekend for the Ann Arbor art Fairs. And the weather has pretty much cooperated- a little rain one morning but not like last year. The campers at the music festival last year, nearly got washed away.
Keep these events in mind for next year.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/www.visitannarbor.org"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/www.fasterhorses.com"></a>, and remember to check <a href="http://www.fasterhorses.com/">www.fasterhorses.com</a>, <a href="http://www.visitannarbor.org/">www.visitannarbor.org</a>, and <a href="http://www.experiencejackson.com/">www.experiencejackson.com</a>. </a><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-80088137317136653472014-06-12T22:17:00.000-04:002014-06-12T22:17:44.560-04:00Friday the 13th<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgbQPhafr8t6FQ1e0f32G6UXGVSlmbG2AgyKGIi9KQ3fCOszG5N_0NYhlMco1ffZeNFOifyTO8EE_aA1hJm6RAdDG7rN-Lo06qoyVjwm72_H3WuaZmWaMhGUXcZDMj5vnLEjAJbfNHrI/s1600/_blue+moon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgbQPhafr8t6FQ1e0f32G6UXGVSlmbG2AgyKGIi9KQ3fCOszG5N_0NYhlMco1ffZeNFOifyTO8EE_aA1hJm6RAdDG7rN-Lo06qoyVjwm72_H3WuaZmWaMhGUXcZDMj5vnLEjAJbfNHrI/s320/_blue+moon.jpg" /></a> Tomorrow is Friday the 13th and believe it or not, there is a full moon! Are you superstitious? This month it overlaps with the superstitions surrounding the full moon. In case you are wondering about the frequency of a full moon occurring on a Friday the 13th; it last happened in October 2000 and won't take place again until August 2049!
Because the full moon reaches it peak at 12:11am EDT, by Friday night it will technically be starting to wane, but will still look full to the average moon-gazer.
The full moon of June is sometimes called the Rose Moon or Strawberry Moon, but this one will be a Honey Moon because of its position in relation to the sun. It will be the most amber or honey-colored full moon of 2014.
And now that you have had your history lesson, just go out and enjoy it and " howl at the moon" if you like.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-28281128104660559832014-04-18T23:53:00.000-04:002014-04-18T23:58:00.733-04:00APRIL Michigan Wine Month and it's SPRING<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
April is Wine month, so why not experience the wine of the Irish Hills and nearby wineries. The Pioneer Wine Trail runs right through the Irish Hills, so why not take a road trip? <a also="" at="" back.="" birding="" come="" cranes="" dnr="" employes="" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" lead="" means="" michigan="" sandhill="" spring="" the="" tours="" wetlands.href="http://www.pioneerwinetrail.com/">www.pioneerwinetrail.com</a></div>
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Hidden Lake Gardens present National Herb Day April 26 10am to 3pm. There are educational presentations and ideas for your summer gardens.www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu </div>
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Spring also means the Sandhill Cranes are back. Michigan DNR biologists lead Spring Birding Tours at Michigan Wetlands.</div>
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And remember, Michigan Wine & Beer Fest is May 10 at Michigan International Speedway. Tickets are $30 and includes $10 worth of tasting tokens. Saturday, May 10 12-9pm and is for guests 21 and older. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-41411583812341635422014-03-29T10:11:00.000-04:002014-03-29T10:11:10.592-04:00EARTH HOUR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Did you know today-8:30-9:30pm- is the "Earth Hour"? I did not-just heard about it. It started in Sydney, Australia in 2007, and has continued to raise awarness of how we use the earth. It takes place all across the world whenever the time is 8:30pm. It has already taken place in some countries.<br />
What do you do to be a part of "Earth Hour"? TURN OFF YOUR LIGHTS! <br />
The Coco Cola company spoke this morning on tv-they are big supporters of Earth Hour, and all of their facilities will honor the hour and their sign in Times Square will be dark. They suggest doing something by candelight-play a game with your kids,I suggest eating by candelight. I think "Earth Hour" is a great idea.<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-30625162532137077322014-03-17T13:33:00.000-04:002014-03-17T13:33:15.634-04:00St Paddy's DAY<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxchM0lnqdjGMxEmsgAWdNUgxwOHZz8PkeRFO0v1kYckAWQDeYSKoxPt4O39nhp6L1A4wAb1r4NYKkJOVJvAIM6CCaZVcKK5cHTOxThrABJGRblJx5zKAKkXNy2NpflcsyKYoRjAE5DIs/s1600/shamrocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_249742="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxchM0lnqdjGMxEmsgAWdNUgxwOHZz8PkeRFO0v1kYckAWQDeYSKoxPt4O39nhp6L1A4wAb1r4NYKkJOVJvAIM6CCaZVcKK5cHTOxThrABJGRblJx5zKAKkXNy2NpflcsyKYoRjAE5DIs/s1600/shamrocks.jpg" tta="true" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislH2UVXxGg6u2SA5kudKH6xD1-fbyJGktk1d5zgN8WFZbVBCc6KL79KsAHWQsYsE2UaQrqvx8N5Z_IAyibGbukQHG8hs_8BPTHpVU3LY1T2ExzSSX_ZUZFlTsjb_iaheLo_NN04F8zGk/s1600/2013+black+cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_249742="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEislH2UVXxGg6u2SA5kudKH6xD1-fbyJGktk1d5zgN8WFZbVBCc6KL79KsAHWQsYsE2UaQrqvx8N5Z_IAyibGbukQHG8hs_8BPTHpVU3LY1T2ExzSSX_ZUZFlTsjb_iaheLo_NN04F8zGk/s1600/2013+black+cat.jpg" height="200" tta="true" width="185" /></a>Yes, today is St Patrick's Day. And did you know that the Saint was neither Irish nor Patrick. He was English and took,or was given, the name of Patrick later in his life. Designated by the U.S.Congress in 1995,March is National Irish-American Heritage Month. Many, many Irish made their way all over the state of Michigan during the mid-1800's fleeing the potato famine. They were fishermen, farmers, miners, long-shoremen; some worked for lumber barons or the growing railroads. And sometimes they were paid in land. Therefore there were settlements north of Grand Rapids and small ones near Ann Arbor and Jackson. The Irish Hills in Jackson and Lenawee Counties is so named because the rolling hills and the lakes reminded them of their homeland. Just a little more trivia-over 94 million people will wear green today, 13 million pints of Guiness will be sold, Chicago has a green river-dyed green since 1962, and believe it or not-it was a dry Holiday-Ireland mandated the Pubs be closed on 3/17- until 1961. And "The Luck of the Irish"-legend has it that the Irish have a lock on "lucky." The four-leaf clovers, Horseshoes, rabbit's feet-Celts believed that rabbits possessed wisdom and any part of them brought good luck. I will leave that thought with you and wish you a HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yRB-RogtpcoQlRPBBcf4Bpd2U_HtziCj91tVbM-zMKVdGRu28gGPPK3IOwRRxTT8C5xqlkFTG_hC2xCx6yU7ScGFrI1aOWCvXISva2i3IBhJrstlBCHc5i6HsCOujGX1zCLZnr8eISY/s1600/st+patrick+frogs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_249742="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yRB-RogtpcoQlRPBBcf4Bpd2U_HtziCj91tVbM-zMKVdGRu28gGPPK3IOwRRxTT8C5xqlkFTG_hC2xCx6yU7ScGFrI1aOWCvXISva2i3IBhJrstlBCHc5i6HsCOujGX1zCLZnr8eISY/s1600/st+patrick+frogs.jpg" tta="true" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-yf2P5OE_vf3d2yl4mbJcV9V306r55xN_VLTpcQBctpwgkMEIVu9vteRJvBtJ-Wq2EV5X6BMdv8ZGXdSlN5xcGgi5IZu11mvLcQlp9zzWIBt3KldPWC5ENkEPDMzwEGP9iL7yvpY9wk/s1600/leprechaun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_249742="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-yf2P5OE_vf3d2yl4mbJcV9V306r55xN_VLTpcQBctpwgkMEIVu9vteRJvBtJ-Wq2EV5X6BMdv8ZGXdSlN5xcGgi5IZu11mvLcQlp9zzWIBt3KldPWC5ENkEPDMzwEGP9iL7yvpY9wk/s1600/leprechaun.jpg" tta="true" /></a> </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-60978215593882869062014-03-04T22:30:00.000-05:002014-03-04T22:30:31.307-05:00FAT TUESDAY<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5SzojjyK6aNLzUIKzy9Zs5OjUKNufcJb7-9mhLXDdEa8Bb1tz_Fx8xORHiwT14FqU_95WRTbAussGtIxQe8yd8aMwQ64BdnqXaGcRsC1dzIctQysCCou-r2NnRajHvar0yQnwZgdIVKQ/s1600/mardigrasday--50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_630448="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5SzojjyK6aNLzUIKzy9Zs5OjUKNufcJb7-9mhLXDdEa8Bb1tz_Fx8xORHiwT14FqU_95WRTbAussGtIxQe8yd8aMwQ64BdnqXaGcRsC1dzIctQysCCou-r2NnRajHvar0yQnwZgdIVKQ/s1600/mardigrasday--50.jpg" height="214" ota="true" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fkCQ0XNPOiECby1lm9cSrHDseDRBFjAzu_Pz9w5mlrs-_KntopmvIxPwUyhnQB0_tELsBm297w1BQgDKkXtRkZ4-yNRpM2cyxM8ruZJoeg2x6vJGrtE9QjIvUfVd89QKKhIDJDj1xW4/s1600/kingcake_colors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_630448="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fkCQ0XNPOiECby1lm9cSrHDseDRBFjAzu_Pz9w5mlrs-_KntopmvIxPwUyhnQB0_tELsBm297w1BQgDKkXtRkZ4-yNRpM2cyxM8ruZJoeg2x6vJGrtE9QjIvUfVd89QKKhIDJDj1xW4/s1600/kingcake_colors.jpg" height="132" ota="true" width="200" /></a>The Feast before the Fast! Today was Mardi Gras Day.It is held on a different date every year. It is always the day before Ash Wednesday and Ash Wednesday is 40 days before Easter, which can fall on any Sunday from March 23rd to April 25th, with the exact date coinciding with the first Sunday after the full moon following a Spring Equinox. Whew!(I bet you really wanted to know that) Mardi Gras is a big deal in New Orleans where the celebrations officially begin on January 6th, which is also known as 12th night, but the majority of festivities and parades are held two weeks before and on Fat Tuesday. The first parade was not in New Orleans but in Mobile Alabama in the 1700's, and other places in the world also celebrate-Brazil, Mexico, and Italy to name a few. Another interesting tidbit is the colors used in the parades and their meaning; Purple-justice, Green-faith, Gold-power. We also know this day by another name-Packzi Day! Have you had yours? They are so good and only 700 calories. Hope you got one.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJn4yh9Q_rs_ZMmsxF0rzdcMrYXS1fsEQqNls-mcoXJPmB_6asClMbhCeZH_m1xIxc04W9uL1aAYEAZ4aHwdg6dH5KYsCahQnWMU33ekSfha2IaZlJ03d4QHkAeAuaDyr9CRx9tnS33qk/s1600/paczki++2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_630448="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJn4yh9Q_rs_ZMmsxF0rzdcMrYXS1fsEQqNls-mcoXJPmB_6asClMbhCeZH_m1xIxc04W9uL1aAYEAZ4aHwdg6dH5KYsCahQnWMU33ekSfha2IaZlJ03d4QHkAeAuaDyr9CRx9tnS33qk/s1600/paczki++2.jpg" height="266" ota="true" width="400" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-70647593739496581132014-02-18T15:01:00.000-05:002014-02-18T15:01:04.833-05:00FEBRUARY A month of many faces<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRknVab4391s7EPTu0tAiMPJF1b-5zcSRTAK64JyKNy9k75Qe5j5YbuQRwGYFFMKoImAg2WCRA3LuQrq4B9FbLXtM8DodNEAF6FkZje2bwqupWIcxIvUioaN4Bofc9qGtC1SC830tWyM/s1600/TF31-1+red+roses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_778363="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRknVab4391s7EPTu0tAiMPJF1b-5zcSRTAK64JyKNy9k75Qe5j5YbuQRwGYFFMKoImAg2WCRA3LuQrq4B9FbLXtM8DodNEAF6FkZje2bwqupWIcxIvUioaN4Bofc9qGtC1SC830tWyM/s1600/TF31-1+red+roses.jpg" height="200" hta="true" width="175" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqV6O5M7MnuDpOjLdNucOrOWr29mvWnLKSGyEJeB2N6x-m9YT4db7KaYoap8O-ce4leQN94Hf7ZzH4Ob-f5U1VsJAYoFs_uUMbRI0g7paAUHaA4MiYofC52hQK55iGWjVA8fASYgfC2K0/s1600/Groundhog-Day-2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_778363="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqV6O5M7MnuDpOjLdNucOrOWr29mvWnLKSGyEJeB2N6x-m9YT4db7KaYoap8O-ce4leQN94Hf7ZzH4Ob-f5U1VsJAYoFs_uUMbRI0g7paAUHaA4MiYofC52hQK55iGWjVA8fASYgfC2K0/s1600/Groundhog-Day-2014.jpg" height="200" hta="true" width="185" /></a></div>
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February-a prelude to Spring -Groundhog Day; the month for Lovers-Valentine Day; Presidents Day-a Holiday for many ; and did you know February is National Cherry Month and Michigan supplies more than 70% of the nation's tart cherries.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgUoDmkCcWh8XSMmy_ToB1kgghPkxg9own-OiqvrObVoQ2S7RNXvEkRimI0-Fd0HbRxYlyaVeM4SH6k804A7dCGCNYu_KaSx7rpkGA7XGmLp-22gnP1jEsybztgUO86YPY1aTqL2cwbo/s1600/2+cherries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_778363="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgUoDmkCcWh8XSMmy_ToB1kgghPkxg9own-OiqvrObVoQ2S7RNXvEkRimI0-Fd0HbRxYlyaVeM4SH6k804A7dCGCNYu_KaSx7rpkGA7XGmLp-22gnP1jEsybztgUO86YPY1aTqL2cwbo/s1600/2+cherries.jpg" height="200" hta="true" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNy773XKQ8GLtvzD7u-O-1v5IALjkaFnowUuWAEqRc52uSz8o_U1jnquLOw5HUK05Tkm1HMSlBiQuJJILdoSLRSTTyw1Fn4orUPKcIosXGSVHpN-he7RM0S9emkTdbIZKedbQgYKN0aD8/s1600/2010+016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_778363="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNy773XKQ8GLtvzD7u-O-1v5IALjkaFnowUuWAEqRc52uSz8o_U1jnquLOw5HUK05Tkm1HMSlBiQuJJILdoSLRSTTyw1Fn4orUPKcIosXGSVHpN-he7RM0S9emkTdbIZKedbQgYKN0aD8/s1600/2010+016.jpg" height="200" hta="true" width="150" /></a></div>
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And, this year-SNOW! It hasn't melted-the snow pack has been around since November-it just keeps piling up 5 more inches here last night, in the Irish Hills of Southern Michigan!</div>
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And the temperature-Hell has frozen over". That's the community south west of us, but so has the whole state.In February, 1934, Vanderbilt, a community in Otsego County, recorded a temperature of 51 degrees below zero! Thank goodness, we haven't hit that -20 below is enough for me!</div>
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Now we are going to warm up-Spring is coming and you can get out to help get rid of cabin fever. The Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea is still running The Redwood Curtain<a href="http://www.thepurplerose.com/">www.thepurplerose.com</a>. Hidden Lake Gardens is having programs almost everyweekend<a href="http://www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu/">www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu</a>. And keep in mind,March 8 & 9 The Irish Hills is having a Taste of the Irish Hills with 18 restaurants participating<a href="http://www.otih.com/">www.OTIH.com</a>.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-75612125684052095482014-02-09T11:47:00.000-05:002014-02-09T11:47:14.006-05:00February-Chocolate lovers MonthFebruary is for Lovers and Chocolate Lovers<br />
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I have read that more chocolate is sold in February than any other month, except the month Easter falls in. And Valentines Day is this Friday,so----celebrate by bringing your sweetheart to the Irish Hills of Southern Michigan. So many people need a getaway about now-it just keeps snowing 3 more inches last night! Come to Dewey Lake Manor Bed & Breakfast and stay at the Lake. Sit by the fireplace and enjoy complimentary Chocolate and bubbly, and of course a rose.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-82163534482646193102014-02-02T17:21:00.001-05:002014-02-02T17:21:06.930-05:00Early February HappeningsToday, the second day of February is the Super Bowl, but it is also GroundHog Day. The first time ever,I think, they fell on the same day.Does everyone know what a groundhog/woodchuck is ? To me it is a big fat rodent.It hibernates nearly 6 months of the year-in hibernation it breathes once every 6 minutes and its temperature is maintained at 38 degrees.<br />
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How it became a Holiday-though it is a minor one -started way back in Roman times when most peoples lives were linked to farming. It was called Candelmas Day in the church calendar.There was a celebration midway between the winter soltice and the spring equinox.German folklore involves a badger. If it sees sunshine it goes back in its burrow for more winter. This is the ancient message of Groundhog day-even though it's cold and dark outside, now is the time to lay the foundation for spring and summer planting, a piece of ancient wisdom. <br />
This is also the Chinese Year of the Horse-it began on January 31. <br />
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If this is your year it represents prosperity. And there are parades and this picture shows a street ready for a big parade. I wonder who hangs all those lanterns--.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-62108193180918880062014-01-25T16:22:00.001-05:002014-01-25T16:22:11.518-05:00A Winter of Discontent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As I write this, winter in the Irish Hills of Southern Michigan this year is a humdinger!Yesterday it was temperatures nearly zero and 20-30 mph wind. Overnight there was 3 more inches of snow and today off and on, snow whiteouts mixed with sunshine. I guess you could say there's something for everyone. Tomorrow, January 26, Wamplers Lake, in the Irish Hills of Michigan, will host the highest paid fishing tournament in the country. The Midwest Open Ice Fishing Tournament will pay $20,100 to the winning two-man team. There will be anglers from 10 states and Canada, and if you are interested in ice fishing you can attend and watch for free.On that same note, Michigan has a Winter Free Fishing Weekend February 15-16 with workshops & ice fishing basics without a fishing liscense. You can also xcountry ski and snoshoe out here in the Irish Hills, and if you are an "outdoors" person interested in fitness did you know you can burn 550-650 calories per hour xcountry skiing and 450-500 per hour ice skating(that doesn't count the calories you would burn clearing the ice of snow!) But if you prefer indoor events, there are a couple neat ones in the area. Ann Arbor has the 37th annual Ann Arbor Folk Festival January 31-February 1 at the Hill Auditorium www.visitannarbor.org/events. And The Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea is presenting REDWOOD CURTAIN January 16-March 15. Chelsea is also having their " Chocolate Extravaganza" February 8. www.chelseamich.com. HAPPY WINTER ALL!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-88100964657383631462014-01-15T13:00:00.001-05:002014-01-15T13:00:28.925-05:00Interesting ICE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiMv-6iKgWJT1U84qo99ySk-0JNMmKP3rMbhTsP4WZMiyDLAX27V29mdc2lvQhXqjXvRR39hi0QxJv_N9ejos5yIB4_34zvKsD0GJlg629TCi7qmGcO4Delrzp5AJhI_n6mB39caadH8E/s1600/ice-sculpture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_177782="null" height="124" hua="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiMv-6iKgWJT1U84qo99ySk-0JNMmKP3rMbhTsP4WZMiyDLAX27V29mdc2lvQhXqjXvRR39hi0QxJv_N9ejos5yIB4_34zvKsD0GJlg629TCi7qmGcO4Delrzp5AJhI_n6mB39caadH8E/s320/ice-sculpture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
January is the month for ice festivals. Plymouth;which is a big one, just finished, and this weekend is one in Tecumseh. Saturday and Sunday<a href="http://www.downtowntecumseh.com/">www.downtowntecumseh.com</a> . There will be carving demos, a bell choir performance,Lost Arts demonstrations on the Rooftop Cafe, a "warm-up beverage walk" on Saturday and a "chocolate walk" on Sunday. Saturday evening at the TCA <a href="http://wwwthetca.com/">wwwthetca.com</a>, there is a film fest with 20 short films-cost is $5.<br />
Also this week 12-17 is Ann Arbor restaurant week, and the end of the month-1/31-2/1 is the Ann Arbor Folk Festival <a href="http://www.visitannarbor.org/events">www.visitannarbor.org/events</a>, and Jeff Daniels will be there. ENJOY!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-7749444538340429942013-12-27T22:09:00.001-05:002013-12-27T22:09:31.638-05:00Rudolph and all<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Rudolph has come and now has gone back to his homeland. But I recently learned something about Rudolph and other reindeer also. Do you know how Rudolph became what he is today? In 1938, in Chicago, a man with a 6 year old daughter had no money for Christmas gifts. His wife was dying and his resources were exhausted. So, he decided he could write a book and give it to his daughter. The book brought Rudolph to life-patterned after the man himself. As a child growing up he was a small boy, no good in sports and frequently bullied-does that sound like Rudolph? The man-Bob May worked for Montgomery Ward, and when they saw the story, bought the rights and published many books, which were a hit. Next a major publisher wanted to buy the rights, and Wards- gave the rights back to Bob May. Mr May became wealthy, remarried, a friend put Rudolph to music and Gene Autry made it famous. How 'bout that for a Christmas story! Now as for real reindeer- They live in Europe's northern countries. They can't fly, of course, but are fast runners.Their hair is special so that their coats are really thick.They have eyes that change color to adapt to the varying levels of light in the far north. They also have large hooves that they can spread when the snow is deep to keep them from sinking .<br />
Now, you have had your December lesson about reindeer. Happy New Year!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-42094040416119190822013-12-13T09:01:00.000-05:002013-12-13T09:01:34.360-05:0012/13/13Are you superstitious? If you are, today is a day you will be very cautious-you won't walk under a ladder, break a mirror, or let a black cat cross your path.
We have 2 Friday the 13th this year-one in September and today. Last year there were 3, each 13 weeks apart-how about that!
How did all this come about? One theory goes way back to the Last Supper. Judas, who betrayed Jesus, was the 13th person to arrive at the dinner, and Jesus died on a Friday.
Numerologists consider 12 a "complete" number-12 months in a year, 12 signs in the Zodiac, 12 inches in a foot.
Airplanes often leave out a row 13; some hotels eliminate a Room 13. And, interestlingly, Henry Ford wouldn't do business on a Friday the 13th, and FDR wouldn't travel on any Friday the 13th or on any 13th day of any month.
So happy Friday the 13th-just watch out for the black cats! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-8395880661183510352013-12-02T22:18:00.000-05:002013-12-02T22:23:52.104-05:00Holidays in the HillsThe IRISH HILLS is an area in Southern Lower Michigan once settled by the Irish during the potato famine. It is an area of quaint towns, sparkling lakes, and scenic drives. This coming weekend December 6-8, is the second annual "HOLIDAYS IN THE HILLS".
Hidden Lake Garden's Holiday Festival and EVENING OF LIGHTS is back this year. 2,000 luminaries light the Gardens and there is music, crafts, and refreshments.<a href<a href="http://www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu">="www.hiddenlakegardens. msu.edu">. </a>
</a>Cherry Creek Old Schoolhouse Winery will be holding their Christmas Open House Saturday 11:00-5:30 and Sunday 12:00-5:00.
Another event is Michigan International Speedway's charity track drive. Donate a food item or a new unwrapped toy and take a lap around the track in your own vehicle<a href="http://.www.mispeedway.com"></a> for more information.
And Oh!These Irish Hills is holding their Christmas Gala. This event is a showcase of holiday trees and decorations with a silent auction, door prizes, a choir concert, and holiday dancers, and of course-refreshments! It will be held at the Ol'Golden Nugget on US 12Friday Dec 6th-4-8, Sat 1-8, and Sun 1-4.
For more information visit <a href="http://.www.irishhills.com"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-581189196446070840.post-10076148387148650752013-11-26T20:44:00.000-05:002013-11-26T20:44:16.070-05:00THANKSGIVUKKAHYes, this is really a word, and it has been many years since Thanksgiving and Hanukkah fell on the same day. Hanukkah is an 8 day celebration and it is the first day that falls on Thanksgiving this year. Sources say it last happened in 1888 and won't happen again until 2070.
According to an article in the Detroit Free Press, most Jewish families are not upset by this;in fact just the opposite. One family is quoted as saying "having the family together for both holidays is a plus". A Rabbi from Farmington Hills says "this a 2-for-1 holiday". As for the food , one way to combine the holidays is with sweet potato latkes.
Anyway, I wish you all a happy turkey and latke day!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0