Petoskey Daily Photo

Don't Fence Me In

2009-08-16T05:02:00.000-07:00

These sweet peas in Bayview don't like to be contained. I love the color of the bright pink sweet peas that bloom wildly in July and August. These just couldn't be contained any longer.

A Secret Trellis

2009-08-15T15:38:00.000-07:00

This trellis is down a driveway, behind a house, and hugging the back of a yard. It makes me wonder what kind of people love to use this entrance to their home. Someday I wish for a trellis covering in something that climbs all over it and blooms.....dreams are good for the soul, don't you think?

You Scream, I Scream, We all Scream for

2009-08-14T06:23:00.000-07:00

Ice Cream!! We went out for ice cream in Bay Harbor after a bike ride the other evening. I had Honey Lavender (in the front), my son had vanilla bean (on the right), and my husband, brother, and daughter all had brownie chunk. It was a lot of fun! Galley Gourmet Express in Bay Harbor has some unique flavors you can't find anywhere else. They also have handmade chocolates that are so good--ever heard of honey lavender or chai chocolate? Yummy!

Mystery Solved!

2009-08-13T06:08:00.000-07:00

Thanks, Jim for the guess on what these were. They are actually rose hips, the largest I have ever seen! Along the bike path, there are several areas where there are roses planted and the hips right now are just beautiful. I was just surprised at how large they really get.

3 Guesses

2009-08-12T05:24:00.000-07:00

Can you identify this? I'll share tomorrow what it really is! :) Have a great day!

A Plethora or a Profusion?

2009-08-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

What would you consider this lovely grouping of flowers to be? I love seeing all the red geraniums on the porch of the Perry Hotel in the summer, they do a nice job of keeping it really colorful. There are tables here and you can enjoy a cool (or hot) drink out on the porch and watch the world go by---or wait for someone who's shopping downtown! :)

Another Day, Another Sunset

2009-08-08T19:54:00.000-07:00

Sunset over the Marina. A lovely place to spend the night if one has a boat!

Bear with Me

2009-08-07T09:35:00.000-07:00

I do love watching the Bear River downtown. It is a very relaxing place to hang out and doesn't usually get too noisy except when the salmon are running and there are a lot of fisherman here. A quiet, green place with water is a great place to read a book. A century ago though, this was a very different place. There were at least 3 different mills on this section of the river and 3 different dams to create energy. It was a busy place with lots of workers and industry. In fact, if you walk the trail along the side of the river, you can still see remnants of walls and pipes coming out of the ground here and there. What a difference a century makes!

Bright Beauty

2009-08-06T07:41:00.000-07:00

I love bright colors and these flowers are just beautiful. Another thing that makes me smile today! If you would like to see these for yourself, they are on the corner of Lewis and Rose Streets in Petoskey, right next to the Perry Hotel.

Sunset over the Marina

2009-08-05T07:48:00.000-07:00

Does anything else really need to be said? It was a gorgeous night, though cool. The clouds really make a nice sunset, don't they?

A Touch of Green

2009-08-04T14:01:00.000-07:00

Usually when one thinks of algae, it is not a pleasant thought. But in this instance, I think it is beautiful. I love the bright and vibrant green under the flowing water of the Bear River. It is determined to grow even though water is constantly sweeping over it. The algae has a good anchor on the rock and is seemingly very happy where it is. It made me happy to see it, and I hope it does you as well.

Wish Upon a Star

2009-08-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

These people can wish upon whichever star they choose. I just loved these decorations on this porch and thought they were very creative. Besides, who doesn't like to have plenty of wishes?

U Gotta Regatta

2009-08-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the annual Regatta Weekend in Little Traverse Bay. It is so pretty to see all the sailboats out on the water. Too bad it was a little rainy and gray on Saturday, hopefully the rest of the weekend will be nicer for the sailors. It is a nice place to be on a summer's day.

Shop Til Ya Drop!

2009-08-01T10:03:00.000-07:00

This weekend is Petoskey's annual Sidewalk Sales. (Yay!) They close off the streets and the downtown merchants put out tables and tents and things are on sale--sometimes up to 90% off, but usually at least 50% off. I usually try to get there early on Friday morning when the sale starts and find things that I need at great prices. Or, I find things I don't really need at great prices! Either way, great prices! And it is also lots of fun as well. I think my favorite find of all time is my yellow chintz teapot--so bright and beautiful.

The Suite Life

2009-07-31T04:38:00.000-07:00

There are some who visit Petoskey from another angle, the water. There have been sailboats anchored in the bay for several weeks this summer and it is a relaxing way to spend a vacation I imagine, if a little small. Quarters on a boat may be small, but you can sleep, eat, and relax all in the same place! I hope these visitors had a wonderful time, I know they had a wonderful view!

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Ivy League

2009-07-30T20:38:00.000-07:00

I love ivy growing up the sides of buildings! I know it's not really good for the building unless they've taken precautions and all that, but it looks SO COOL! This is the side of City Hall, right next to the entrance to the waterfront area. I rode my bike here today and it was really nice out. A little cool for my summer tastes, but nice.

How Sweet!

2009-07-29T06:27:00.000-07:00

Right on the bike path, there is a cooler set out with water for anyone who needs some. Dentist Dr. Scott Eaton and his team are so kind! Thank you for your thoughtfulness! It is really nice to have around on a hot day.

Another Day, Another Bench

2009-07-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

Here is another bench I've found in town, ready for the auction to benefit the Red Cross. This one is decorated with scenes of the Beatles and their songs. Interesting look for someone's garden....

Oh, Sweet Pea, Won't you Dance with Me

2009-07-27T06:25:00.000-07:00

A field of sweet peas, can anything be more enchanting? I love sweet peas and this field in the middle of West Park (a nice long bike ride from Petoskey -- about 7 or 8 miles) was full of them. It was a lovely sight. West Park is the counterpart of East Park, and both are well maintained. West Park is a little more rugged and there is a 5-10 minute walk through woods and fields to get to the beach. But, there is a pavilion near the beach and a place for picnics. If you would like a quiet place to enjoy the sweet peas, this would be it!

On the Waterfront

2009-07-26T05:33:00.000-07:00

This is a place that we used to spend hours and hours at--the playground with the best view ever! It is right on the water next to the pier and usually crowded with kids having a great time. A few years ago, the city finally put in this larger version with another area for smaller children to the right. My kids and I have spent many happy hours here playing and meeting friends. It is a great place to come and hang out.

Sorry I've been away--I had the flu for several days and neglected pretty much everything! But all is well now and I'm back!

View from East Park

2009-07-18T06:52:00.000-07:00

The newly reopened East Park has a beautiful view of Bay Harbor and Little Traverse Bay. There is a pavilion and a parking area behind me, and another parking area closer to the water seen here. It is a very nice place to come and watch the sunset, and there is almost always a nice breeze here. It is on the bike path from Petoskey to Charlevoix and a great place to rest. Enjoy the view!

Bench for Sale

2009-07-17T06:15:00.000-07:00

For the last several years, the American Red Cross has been having a unique fundraiser. It started with fish, then sailboats and bears, and now benches. These benches have been decorated by local artists and are placed around Northern Michigan before the auction. The auction proceeds will benefit the Red Cross and the work they do here. One of my favorites was a fish that had been painted to look like Monet's "Water Lilies". Every artist does it own design, all that is the same is the base that they have to work with. It will be fun to try and find more of these in the coming weeks before the auction.

A bit of hurly-Burly

2009-07-16T12:43:00.000-07:00

This is the largest burl I've ever seen on a tree! It is at least 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide near the bottom of a full grown tree. Whenever I see one, I always wonder what caused it, but to have one this large, it must have had a large reason! There are usually 2 main causes of burls, mold, or insect infestation. The tree compensates by growing around and enveloping such a problem and continuing with growth. But it leaves a lot of interesting information behind. This one is located in the Bay View Hiking Trails, a great spot for hiking if you're looking for one. There are maps at each entrance showing you the different trails and all are very well marked. Happy trails to you today!

Wednesday Special--Two for 1 (posts)

2009-07-15T12:01:00.000-07:00

In our modest and informal survey of the best tomato soups in Petoskey, we (my husband and I, at least) declare this soup from Julienne Tomatoes the winner! It is their Tomato Gorgonzola, a vegetarian selection that is one of the two Wednesday soups. It is a light creamy tomato soup with chunks of gorgonzola. I have never liked tomato soup in my life, but this one has changed my mind. Lovely!

Julienne Tomatoes also has great sandwiches--my favorites are the Grilled Ham and Brie with cranberry (*YUM*), the Cornwell's Roast Beef with creamy horseradish and provolone, and the Robyn's Reuben with coleslaw instead of saurkraut. If you have a chance, try them all! They use local ingredients whenever possible and have one of the best reputations in town. It is a great place -- go check it out!

Bike Night

2009-07-15T11:52:00.000-07:00

We were walking around Monday evening and found out that Mondays are Bike Nights downtown. There is a bike parade and they all meet at Papa Lou's Pub and Pizzaria. It looks like fun if you like to ride motorcycles, and seeing all of them lined up was very interesting--each bike very unique, colorful, and bright. If you're in Petoskey on a Monday night, check out Lake Street to see all the bikes!

Glorious Gazebo

2009-07-13T14:57:00.000-07:00

I do love a good gazebo, and this one in East Park is really beautiful. It is on a detour of the bike and walking path, overlooking the bay and it quite a wonderful view. A quiet and peaceful stop for the foot-weary (and a great place to walk down to the bay as well!)

Waving Hello

2009-07-12T18:07:00.000-07:00

I love listening to the waves down by the waterfront, and this place is just beautiful. It is near the newly-reopened East Park. East Park has been closed for cleanup for more than 2 years and cleanup has been completed. Now it is a beautiful stopping point along the bike path between Bay Harbor and Petoskey. Enjoy your day!

Are you a Fun Guy?

2009-07-10T06:10:00.000-07:00

We went for a short hike the other day and found these beautiful specimens growing on a tree. The largest is about 8 inches across, so they aren't small at all. They were very colorful as well. I always wondered who the "fun guy" was who decided that fungi were good to eat! I would have to thank him, as I do love mushrooms--especially morels which grow wild around here in May. So yummy! Don't think I'll be eating this one though....

Surprise!

2009-07-09T14:07:00.000-07:00

Today I went for a bike ride down by the waterfront, and to my surprise, there were ships in the harbor! (My first thought was pirates, but I was mistaken. :) It actually turned out to be a replica of the Nina and the Pinta, 2 of the ships in Colombus' entourage. One (possibly both) of these ships was rebuilt over a period of 3 years and used in the movie "1492". It was an interesting thing today, neat to see, even if we didn't take the onboard tour, which was available. If you have a chance, the ships will be here for the rest of the weekend--head down to the waterfront to take a closer look!

Maybe this should be the Weekly Photo!

2009-07-08T18:07:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite pictures I've ever taken, I think. I absolutely love white picket fences with gates and climbing roses. To me, this is GORGEOUS! I'm sorry I have been remiss about getting pictures up--I'm just not in town very often these days. On average, about 2 days a week I'm in town during the summer. Great for me--but hard to take pictures of Petoskey when I'm not there! :) Thanks for being patient with me!

Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming

2009-07-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard that song? I know the first line, which is, "Lo, how a rose e'er blooming, from tender stem hath sprung,". This picture taken near a bike and walking path has sprung up beautifully this year with soft pink roses and is just lovely.

Don't Forget Me!

2009-07-01T06:12:00.000-07:00

Just a little bunch of forget-me-nots down by the water. I love their daintiness and the color of blue--so pretty! I hope you remember something pretty today!

Dark Clouds

2009-06-29T09:45:00.000-07:00

There's a storm comin'......

But we really need the rain, so that's a good thing.

City Photo Blog Day --- Where is Amir?

2009-06-28T13:02:00.000-07:00

I know it is not the first of the month, but today the City Photo Blog community is posting a picture in support of Amir, blogger from Tehran. Today, CDP Bloggers from all over the world are coming together to hold a special 'blog day' to draw attention to recent protests in Iran. Our posts feature the color green, which is the color of Moussavi's reform movement. Why? Because Amir is missing and his blog sits idle and it has been reported that he has been imprisoned. This is a great reminder to all of the knowledge we gain when we view things from another perspective, whether that perspective is in Tehran, Sydney, London, Petoskey, or Buenos Aires. We can all learn from each other and be friends, even though we may not always agree on everything. It also reminds me personally that freedoms that I take wholly for granted are not enjoyed by all. A sobering reminder.

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

A Glorious Day on the Bay

2009-06-27T15:12:00.000-07:00

On such a day as this, one of the best places to be is on the bay in a sailboat. It is lovely and blue, the bay's waves are not whitecapped, and the breeze is strong enough to get you where you want to go. It is quiet and peaceful and wherever you're headed, it will take you a while to get there, so you have to slow down and just enjoy yourself.

Fit for a King

2009-06-26T16:11:00.000-07:00

We were down at the water today, and found this "chair" looking out over the bay and ready and waiting to be sat upon. I haven't been in town of late, so I haven't been there to take my daily pictures! So sorry! I try to take pictures whenever I'm in town, but I've been doing some projects at home and haven't been in town this week. But the projects are done and things are back to normal, so we should be good to go! See you tomorrow!

A Fashion Statement

2009-06-22T03:59:00.000-07:00

This model in the window at Monarch has a unique fashion look. Her dress is made entirely out of lavender and her scarf is made of hydrangeas. It is really a beautiful look, and very creative! I happen to absolutely LOVE lavender, so this one is right up my alley. Now if I could just figure out how to make it in my size......

Taking a Ride

2009-06-20T09:44:00.000-07:00

The bike path around Petoskey is lovely this time of year, and with over 30 miles one just one trail, there is a lot to explore. You can ride along the waterfront, around the bay to Harbor Springs, or south to Charlevoix as well. Or, for the very adventurous, you can start in Charlevoix and bike to Harbor Springs, taking in all the beauty along the way!

Get all your Ducks (Or Geese) in a Row

2009-06-19T05:57:00.000-07:00

These Canada geese looked like they were taking a break on the bay. They were on the beach area and swam our farther when they heard us coming. There were plenty of goslings in the group, so perhaps they can't stay as close to the beach as they normally would. They are quite pretty, but loud and when they are at a beach, you really should watch where you walk!

Simple Seaweed

2009-06-18T05:54:00.000-07:00

Down along the bike path, there are places you can stop and walk down to the water's edge, and here we did just that. It was very beautiful and the seaweed was waving gracefully under the water. I wish I had video to show you its beauty, but you'll have to be content with a picture and use your imagination.

Let's Go Fly a Kite!

2009-06-17T08:01:00.000-07:00

It was a gorgeous day! And there was a breeze, the kites took off beautifully, and it was warm and sunny. ( I did forget the sunscreen, but it was worth the small sunburn to be out on today! The bottom picture is at the Open Space by the waterfront where there is plenty of room to fly kites. The top picture is a field a few miles out of town that is perfect--no kite-eating trees to be found anywhere!

Okay, I think this is it!

2009-06-15T06:42:00.001-07:00

A gorgeous sunset on our difficulties, I believe! The sun was going down the other night and it was just beautiful. Thankfully, all of our technical difficulties have been addressed and we are back up and running once more. Welcome back! (Oh, it is finally feeling like summer around here--I wore something sleeveless yesterday!)

Unplanned Hiatus

2009-05-30T13:13:00.000-07:00

Due to technical difficulties, (again), Petoskey Daily Photo will be on hiatus for a while. We have finally diagnosed the problem, but now have to find the fix! I hope to be back soon, but for now, thank you for visiting, and check back often to see if we're back in the loop! I'll be checking for comments and email if you have any questions or concerns. Thanks so much for being a part of this journey with me!

Michigan's State Flower

2009-05-27T08:09:00.000-07:00

Is the Apple Blossom. These are a few apple blossoms from my front yard--the very first apple blossoms I've had on my trees! It is very exciting, as we've had them for 4 years with nary a blossom to be found before. They are beautiful, as you can see, with a dark pink bud that opens to a creamy white/pink blossom. Hope you're enjoying the day today. We're enjoying the rain which should bring the fire danger down considerably.

Flowers are Yummy

2009-05-26T09:38:00.000-07:00

The Sweet Woodruff is blooming. The flowers are so good, especially on berries. I have a cookbook, actually several, on flowers that are edible, and this is one of the prettiest recipes that I've ever seen. And yes, I did enjoy them quite a bit!

A Famous Visitor

2009-05-25T07:36:00.000-07:00

If anyone recognizes this car, you'll know what an exciting thing it was for my daughter--she loved seeing it. We were pulling in to the grocery store, and there it was in the parking lot! For those of you who don't know who this is: it is a replica of "Herbie", the Love Bug. There were 6 movies made about Herbie, all of which my children thoroughly enjoyed. It was such a momentous event!

Spring

2009-05-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

Spring in Petoskey is one of the most glorious times of the year! After a long winter, seeing green again is wonderful, and this year was especially so since we had snow for almost 5 months! The waterfront is green and lovely, and the water is so beautiful and blue. (Can you tell I've been starved for color? White does get rather monotonous!) It is still on the cool side, but in the 60's, and one day we even had 85 degrees! So fun! I hope you enjoy the waterfront with me!

Tulip Time!

2009-05-21T07:26:00.000-07:00

These red beauties are near the waterfall park. It was a gorgeous day yesterday, so we had a picnic. Since I was out of town a few days, it seems like everything started blooming and the trees burst into leaf in the 3 days I was gone! Petoskey is a beautiful place right now!

New Business...New Ideas!

2009-05-20T18:44:00.000-07:00

Today, I met Josh, an enterprising gentleman in Petoskey. He drives the new Petoskey Pedicab--great for the environment, and I'm sure great exercise for him! He carries passengers from the downtown, the waterfront, and the Bay View area to each of the others. It looks like so much fun! I must say "Bravo" to him as Petoskey is built on a HILL! There is no where to go without riding up a hill either on the way there or the way back. Josh, good luck with your business and I hope it goes well!

A Unique Art Show

2009-05-16T18:52:00.000-07:00

A quick visit to the Library, and a great surprise--an art show to visit. This art show is in the courtyard and are done by the students of Lakeview Academy. Pictures of the area, thoughts by the students, and their ideas in lots of color--and shoes! Each art piece has a pair of shoes (my son's favorite were the spray painted leopard slippers) each painted very brightly with quotes on each piece. It is quite fun to see and interesting to read. If you have a chance, check it out!!

Spring is springing up!

2009-05-15T05:24:00.000-07:00

I love flowers, and hyacinths are one of my favorites. The deer won't eat them, they smell amazing, and they are so cheery and bright. You can always tell how far we are into Spring we are by what flowers are blooming. Right now, the daffodils are almost done, the hyacinths are blooming, and the tulips are starting. Gorgeous! I wish we had smell-a-puter for you all to enjoy these today!

Can you Imagine?

2009-05-14T05:21:00.000-07:00

Having your front yard look like this in the Spring? Wouldn't that be lovely? This is a front yard of a lucky homeowner in Petoskey who has a carpet of blue every spring. So pretty!

Put a little Light on the Subject

2009-05-13T10:32:00.000-07:00

Petoskey's downtown is know as the Gaslight District, as there are old fashioned gaslights all along the sidewalks and on buildings and such. This is one example that I really like; it is very solid, yet delicate looking, like a lot of Victorian architecture, something we have several examples of in Petoskey. Enjoy a "light" day today!

The Hidden Staircase

2009-05-11T17:23:00.000-07:00

I think that was a title of a Nancy Drew book that I loved reading as a girl. (If you still count me as a girl, I'm still reading them.) This is one of the entrances to the Noggin Room in the Perry Hotel. I just loved the windows and the stairs going down. Just an intriguing way to get to the basement floor!

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T05:38:00.000-07:00

As a mother, this is a special day, so I'm showing you a picture of one of the most special people. My daughter and I went around Petoskey and took pictures the other day and I caught this one without her knowing. She loves our town as much as I do and loves that there are so many things to do and see here. I hope today that you enjoy your town and your mother!

We're back in Business!

2009-05-08T11:47:00.001-07:00

And the Wright brothers were in the late 1800's! I researched what I could, but the main Wright Brothers Cycle Company was in Dayton, OH, so I don't know how they came to have a branch here in Petoskey. I hope to find out someday and I'll let you know more then! In the meantime, enjoy the picture, the sunshine, and a picture of me in the window!

Technical Difficulties

2009-04-30T09:05:00.000-07:00

I have pictures ready for the blog, but cannot get them loaded! Hopefully we'll be back operational very soon! Thanks for checking!

Warmer Weather Brings Change

2009-04-27T10:49:00.000-07:00

They are subtle, but they are definitely there. Umbrellas and napkins, as well as tables outside are a sign of warmer weather. It was actually warm enough to eat outside without the heaters that they sometimes use last weekend! Not that it is warm all the time, but it is definitely not winter any more!! This little courtyard is part of Chandler's on Howard Street. I totally love their Goat Cheese salad. If you like goat cheese, you'll love it! Even if you don't, give it a try!

It's a Grand Old Flag

2009-04-26T05:05:00.000-07:00

It is a colorful flag and the wind was blowing it just so. It is hanging from the porch of the Perry Hotel downtown, a great place to just sit back and relax. Alas, no view of the bay from this side, but a nice view of the park.

Oh, What a Beautiful Morning...

2009-04-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

....Oh, what a beautiful day. The ice is gone from the bay and today the weather is supposed to be up to 70 degrees today! That is definitely picnic weather and I think that we are going to take advantage of it. Sunny, blue skies, warm weather, and gorgeous views--what more could one ask for?

A Colorful Spring

2009-04-23T05:59:00.001-07:00

This is a window display in a great downtown store, Cutler's. They have a variety of beautiful things in their store, including Vera Bradley purses and bags, interesting wall hangings, and gorgeous crystal and silver pieces. I love their selection of Waterford crystal, since, having been to the factory myself, know what goes in to each piece--lots of hard work! They also have an extensive section of kitchen items that are wonderful. I love shopping here for gadgets and unique things you can't find anywhere else. Their store is on the corner of Lake and Howard streets downtown and well worth a stop!

When Ya Gotta Go..

2009-04-22T11:32:00.000-07:00

..I would suggest that it not be here!! (The door is glassed over and you can't get in anymore. Whew!) It is funny to think that outhouses used to be a normal part of any community, or any home for that matter, but this is right in the middle of town on Pennsylvania Park's northern side. I'm just really thankful to be living in a century with indoor plumbing and electricity, let me tell you. Can you imagine how cold that would be in the middle of winter??? Yikes!

Beyond the Garden Gate #2

2009-04-21T07:47:00.000-07:00

This is what is beyond that garden gate--the Rose Garden Veranda at the Perry Hotel. It is a gorgeous area to have lunch or dinner in during the summer. I went to a wedding here a few years ago and it was just lovely. The veranda overlooks the bay and the sunsets are spectacular from here. If you want to have a very nice dinner with a great view, come here in the summer just before sunset, the view is well worth it, and the food is good as well. A win-win situation!

Beyond the Garden Gate

2009-04-20T07:22:00.000-07:00

Doesn't an open gate make you wonder what is beyond it? I'll show you tomorrow, but for today, just think of the gates in your life...

The Ice is Gone

2009-04-19T04:48:00.000-07:00

This year the bay was frozen longer than I ever remember it being frozen. But finally all the ice is gone and the bay is back! Of course, it is still VERY cold and I don't want to go swimming, but at least all the ice is gone.

The FlatIron Building

2009-04-18T06:12:00.000-07:00

The Flatiron building downtown houses the Flatiron Deli as well as other stores. It is right next to Pennsylvania Park, and some of the stores open out onto the park as well as Howard Street.
The park is a nice place to take your lunch in the Spring and Summer to enjoy the sunshine. Enjoy the sun today! (Dare I say it -- Spring has come to Petoskey! It might actually snow again, but things are starting to look and feel like Spring! Woohoo!!)

Busking

2009-04-17T14:41:00.000-07:00

Not a common sight on the streets of Petoskey, but an interesting one. This saxophonist was busking on the street and was quite good. He played "A Few of My Favorite Things" and "Sunrise, Sunset" as well as some of what my daughter termed "Junk"-- a mixture of jazz and funk. It is fun to see what talented people are in the world.

It's Going, Going, Gone!

2009-04-16T16:19:00.001-07:00

This is the last bit of our 6 foot snowbank that finally melted today. Most of the snow is gone, just the bits left in ditches and places the sun doesn't shine too brightly. It was even warm enough the last 2 days to be outside without a coat on! How incredibly lovely!!

Stained Glass -- #7

2009-04-15T06:19:00.000-07:00

I love the way that stained artists can make a story in their work. This piece makes me think of a little gardener girl who loves flowers and lives in a renovated old schoolhouse. What does it make you think of?

Two for the Price of One

2009-04-13T06:09:00.000-07:00

Here you get a "two-fer", a really cool window offering of bright spring color, and the great facades of buildings across Lake Street. This is a great shopping area with all sorts of little stores that are just brimming with unique things waiting to be discovered. All part of the Gaslight District fun!

Open Water

2009-04-10T14:12:00.000-07:00

Finally, at long last, there is open water on the bay! That means the ice is melting and Spring is just around the corner. What a wonderful thought!

There it is!!

2009-04-07T06:06:00.000-07:00

The first robin of Spring! Thankfully the snow last night just stayed flakes and it looks like someone took a powdered sugar duster to the ground outside. A few hours south of here they got several inches, so I am very happy with a dusting. Welcome, Robin!

Let's go Downtown

2009-04-06T15:33:00.000-07:00

Everything's great when you're....downtown. Old song, but true here in Petoskey. I love the old buildings that make up the downtown and there are so many great places to shop there. This is from the bottom of Lake Street looking east and yes, it is a hill. The bay is to the west and there are great views from all over down here. (Oh, and did you notice? No snow piles!! There are still a few flakes falling right now, but hopefully they won't stay long.)

Stained Glass -- #6

2009-04-04T06:51:00.000-07:00

Another window of the church in Petoskey, this scene picturing the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. I love the colors and the background of mountains and trees in this window, especially the amazing details of the expressions and the delicacy of the tree branches and fronds. So delicate, and so beautiful.

2009-04-02T05:55:00.000-07:00

Usually one doesn't think of birchbark as the basis for a great pair of earrings, but here you are. These are very unique and interesting to me--especially as I'm a jewelry designer myself. The beadwork and quillwork is intricate and handsewn and they are just so interesting. There is a long history of Native American art and culture in this area. I can't imagine using porpucine quills the way this artist did; they are so small and perfectly patterned.

When Parking Lots Shrink

2009-04-01T11:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, they do shrink in the late winter with all the snow piled into the corners. The roads and parking lots seem just huge when the snow melts and we get to use their whole area again.

Okay, not exactly Petoskey....but...

2009-03-31T06:44:00.000-07:00

...I couldn't resist. This is a shot of the Mackinac Bridge (pronounced Mack-i-naw). It is about 30 miles from Petoskey and the bridge is 5 miles long. It connects the Lower and Upper Peninsulas of Michigan and divides Lake Michigan from Lake Huron. You can walk across this bridge once a year--on Labor Day in September--along with 50,000 other people! They used to have a long bike ride that culminated in a ride across the bridge and a trip to Mackinac Island, and you could join it the morning of the bridge ride, so I've been able to ride across the bridge twice, but that is not an option any more, you have to ride the whole thing. What gorgeous views.

Snow

2009-03-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

How many pictures can you take of snow and still have them be interesting? I really have no wish to find out!! I have heard that snow when it seems like Spring is coming is like a slap in the face when you expected a kiss... very appropriate, I think.

Stained Glass -- #5

2009-03-28T09:27:00.000-07:00

These 2 panels are part of a 4-panel screen of stained glass and wood. It has beautiful flowers of Spring on it, crocus on one side, Lady-slippers on the other, and the trillium and the daffodil shown here. This piece also has slices of polished agate and Petoskey stones, as well as a large tiger eye that is gorgeous! This is truly a work of art.

Stained Glass -- #4

2009-03-27T05:02:00.000-07:00

This is a specialty piece from Shadetree Studios that is just so cool! I had to share it with you. On the right is the shape of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, with a Petoskey stone where Petoskey is on the map. It is so pretty and a great reminder where it came from!

Spring is Coming!!!!!!!!

2009-03-26T10:07:00.000-07:00

I'm just a little excited (hence all the exclaimation points) about Spring this year. These are the first green shoots I've seen, hostas coming up near the library downtown. They'll be gorgeous in a while with huge leaves and oh, they can't come soon enough for me!

Symon's General Store

2009-03-25T16:56:00.000-07:00

Is definitely more than your "general", run-of-the-mill store. It is a lovely store with lots of very yummy specialty items from all over the world. I was in here trying to find some chocolate caramels with sea salt. No luck today, but they are getting some in, so I'll have to go back again soon! They have great deli sandwiches and a wine cellar downstairs. Check it Symon's on the corner of Lake and Howard Streets downtown!

Stained Glass-- # 3

2009-03-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

I visited the stained glass studio in town and this is one of my favorites, although I could say that about all of them! This one has slices of polished agate in the piece, around the base of the tree, and there is a Petoskey stone in this piece as well, right under the trunk of the tree. It is very detailed and just beautiful! Penny Kristo is the artist and owner of Shadetree Studios, which is right downtown on Emmet Street. If you're in the area, this is a great stop to see some amazing art. More pictures to come in the following days...

Stained Glass -- #2

2009-03-21T14:24:00.000-07:00

Another window from the church, this one is also lit up by the setting sun. It has part of Psalm 23 on the bottom windows, and I think the faces and the sunset on this one are just amazing.

Stained Glass -- #1

2009-03-20T06:09:00.000-07:00

This is the first in a series I'm going to do about stained glass. We have some great examples in Petoskey, as well as a stained glass studio. This one is in a church depicting the Apostle Paul in Athens. I love the way the sun is coming through the window, it just makes it glow.

Made Me Laugh

2009-03-19T06:15:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love bumper stickers sometimes?

Just One More...

2009-03-18T06:14:00.000-07:00

The sunset was so exquisite the other day, I couldn't resist just one more picture of it. If you look closely, you can see the couple walking near the sun. Lovely!

Gorgeous Sunsets

2009-03-17T06:27:00.000-07:00

We've had some incredible evenings lately. This sunset was just gorgeous. The sun was a huge golden ball and the reflection on the ice was just beautiful. It almost looks like a summer sunset (except for the snow!)

Ice Sculptures

2009-03-16T06:45:00.000-07:00

A natural ice sculpture is sometimes the best! The road to the waterfall is usually not open at this time of year, but they actually plowed it a bit for some reason. So, you get to enjoy this picture of the waterfall. I have never seen it with ice on it before, this was a first for me!

Winter does have One Good Thing....

2009-03-15T10:34:00.000-07:00

Beautiful sunsets! This one was gorgeous and the colors were so vibrant that I had to share it with you. Hope you enjoy it as well!

Sun and Clouds

2009-03-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

The sun is really trying to peek through, but the clouds were really thick. I'm so glad that no matter how thick the clouds, it still trys!

Yep, Still Snowy!

2009-03-13T19:15:00.000-07:00

The ice is still on the bay and the fishing shanties are still solidly out there near the lighthouse. Hopefully they will be gone before the ice begins to melt. The ice should be there for at least a few more weeks, although the temperatures are supposed to be warmer this weekend--in the 40's!! I'm just looking forward to being outside with a warm breeze and the sun on my face. Soon...

Waterfront Snow

2009-03-12T05:24:00.000-07:00

Just another view of all that snow at the Waterfront. Hopefully it should be warming up in about 2 or 3 weeks and the snow should start melting. I hope. The spring in Petoskey should be cold though as the bay will be frozen for quite a while while the land warms up. And since the wind comes off the lake most of the time, it will be a cool spring around here.

Cold, Snowy, and Windy

2009-03-11T12:05:00.000-07:00

It seems like that has been the theme of this blog for months now!! But today is another day, a new picture of the bay in all its white glory, and snow blowing around yet again. Actually, it is not snowing as much as it is blowing today. The winds are VERY strong, with some gusts up to 50 miles per hour. The wind actually kept me awake for quite a while last night howling through the trees and around the house. Thankfully, the wind is supposed to die down by this evening, and the wind chill is supposed to drop as well. Then it will just be cold.

It Snowed. Again.

2009-03-09T06:32:00.000-07:00

Last night about 6 pm, it started to snow. It started out slow, just tiny flakes. But as the evening went on, the snow got heavier and the wind picked up considerably. By the time I got home last night at 8:30, visibility was about 200 feet and was I glad to be home for the night!! The snow stopped around 1 or 2 am and this morning when we got up, we had over 10 inches in our driveway! Schools are closed and people have been asked to stay in until more plowing can be done, probably a few hours or so. Hopefully, this is winter's last hurrah and Spring can come soon. As for me, I'm staying home today!!

It's About Time!

2009-03-08T05:21:00.000-07:00

Usually, in a small town, there is a bank or some other business that has a clock and something that displays the temperature. Not Petoskey. When we first moved here many years ago, I looked for one downtown as we drove through, but never saw one. Then we lived through the winter here and understood why! It's COLD! Petoskey may not tell you the temperature, but they do let you know the time. (Even if the clock was really off when I took the picture!) For those of you on Daylight Savings Time, hope you can get a nap sometime today after the time change!

Welcome to the "Hall of Foam"

2009-03-06T09:35:00.000-08:00

In the basement of the Perry Hotel is the Noggin Room Pub, which features its "Hall of Foam". It is a casual restaurant where you have to earn your mug. How? By sampling their list of beers from around the world. There are hundreds of mugs, each with a name or initials. I wonder if you get to use your mug when you come in, or does it just become part of the decor?

It's Melting...

2009-03-05T05:45:00.000-08:00

Or at least starting to! The temperatures are supposed to be in the 40's today (Yippee!) and that means the advent of the icicle in earnest. These are a few of the first "hanging around". I love it when the sun shines through them and they sparkle like glass.

Serene Spaces

2009-03-04T17:24:00.000-08:00

This is one of the most serene spaces I can find. It is in the Perry Hotel complete with fire in the fireplace and a comfy couch and a great table for a cup of coffee and a place to put your feet. All you really need is a great book and a throw blanket for a great afternoon. (oh, and the coffee...)

Paper Trail

2009-03-02T12:03:00.000-08:00

This artist is so amazing. This is a paper sculpture, similar to the one I posted the other day, and the details are just stunning. I forgot to write down which artist 's work this is, but I'm fairly sure it was a Native American artist from the Western United States. This sculpture is also at Ward & Eis Gallery on Lake Street. Be sure to enlarge the picture so you can see what I mean--the details are fascinating!