It has come and gone once again with this year being especially nice weather as well as activities which abounded at Houghton Lake. We packed our stuff and set out by 11am Sat and made a relatively quick shot up 127. When we got there the lake was flat calm, the temp was around 80 and Uncle S and Aunt L were readying their boat for the afternoon. M and I had a quick conversation and decided that this was our time so we got the suits on and headed out. We got out and did a bit of touring to find the right spot and were able to witness the annual Boat Parade. We weren't too close so we didn't see much of this small affair but I am glad that someone is still putting it on to try to keep tradition alive. We finally made our way back to Elks bay and got out the tube which MHM and I first went on at idle speed for probably 10 minutes. MHM didn't care a bit and thought it the BEST! Next E and I jumped on and toured at normal speed for about the same amount of time. A was anxious to get out there himself so we turned it over to him and went for a ride. The kids loved watching the show of A swinging wildly back and forth behind the boat. Albeit only and hour and a half, I am so happy the kids got out as this was our only opportunity for the entire weekend.
Fireworks for the Fourth were Saturday night. As in many recent years, we had joined D n W at their place by the lake. To start, the kids loved seeing and playing on all of the Big Kid toys they have there. MMH loved the speed boats! As twilight approached, the private fireworks started and the excitement mounted. As we scanned the lake, M kept them busy at the same time with Glow sticks and such. As the fireworks commenced the mosquitoes descended upon us in a cloud. Really truly one of the worst swarms I had seen in quite some time. With plentiful bug spray, we made it through a wonderful show.
Funland was Sundays destination for the kids. They remembered it well from Memorial Day and were anticipating it with joy. We did the rickety roller coaster first and got just short of beat to death. The kids each had like five or six tickets to give the "Guy" to ride. From slides and carousels to rocket ships and army tanks, they were a hit. Then it was inside for some arcade games and quarter rides then home for a nap.
We did a dinner with old friend G who did E's fingernails which made E just as happy as anything. Then a bonfire with Cousins J n L with smores, glow sticks and running around.
Gpa's old cars made an appearance and was a hit as usual. Nothing but big smiles while we put put down the road slowly. We got several rides before some electrical problems shut them down.
On Monday we set out for G's house to see her and her mom and sue their beach. The water was warm making the sandy floor a great place for the kids to let loose and enjoy the lake. We probably spent two and a half hours there visiting. The highlight was when a Osprey flew overhead with a LARGE bass in its talons.
After returning from G's, the power was out and MHM was soon as well. He made it in the house, asked for chocolate milk and crawled up on the stairway with head and arms on one level and butt and legs below. Very cute! We do have a pic! We almost decided to pack and go but M wasn't feeling well so we made the decission to stay and take our chances with comfort as it was quite warm. I rounded up E and took her out on the porch to read to her as I told her Gma did for me many times. She layed on the swing next to me and listened to probably two books and started to fade. I continued until I knew she was asleep then gently picked her up and carried her in and layed her down. M and I went back to the porch for a short while wher I told her some memories of summers past for me then we too retired.
Tuesday was up early, pack and lighly clean and get back so I could get to work....
Thanks again cottage for a nice w.e.
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