Team Ketelsen: Our Last House Guests of the Season

Stefani's parents arrived right after Sue for their week long vacation. We enjoyed exploring Northern Michigan together.

Sunday afternoon we went to Mackinaw Crossings and discovered Mackinaw Trail Winery, a wine store that had tastings. Needless to say wine was found and enjoyed!

Monday, we went to the Gaslight district of Petoskey. On a previous trip to the area Stefani discovered Fustini's Oils and Vinegars and knew she had to take her dad there. You can taste all their olive oils and vinegars before you buy. Since her dad's birthday was the following day, she let him pick what ever he wanted!

Tuesday was Stefani's dad's 47th Birthday. We decided to have a low key day. We had a picnic of McDonald's on the shore of Lake Huron. Later, we had a dinner of Manzana's pizza and Dairy Queen for dessert.

Wednesday was a trip to Alpena and two lighthouses. Once we got to Alpena we were hungry. We consulted one of Stefani's mom's travel books. They decided to head to the John A. Lau Saloon. It was yummy! We highly recommend it. Then we went to Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center. There was so much history about the shipping industry in the Great Lakes. Along with a full size replica of a ship. We also learned the hard way that just because they say adults can climb through a tunnel, one should not! We also went to the Old Presque Isle Lighthouse and the New Presque Isle Lighthouse.

Thursday we explored Mackinac Island. We went last Labor Day, but it is impossible to take in all the Island in one day. We decided to take a carriage tour. After Stefani went with her grandparents and has decided it is a must do on the Island. It is the best way to see the Island if you are not a serious bicyclist. Plus, the tour guide that we had, Joe, is the best! (Stefani had him twice this summer. He is definitely worth requesting.)

Friday, Stefani's parents made their way south. They made a stop in Frankenmuth to enjoy its uniqueness.