A perfect day on the island

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Have you ever had a perfect day? Oh, how I hope you have had many! Some days are perfect only after you look back and realize the entire day was a blessing. Others days are evidently wonderful from the get go.

Mr. Schalk and I had an absolutely perfect day last Saturday. We realized it was special as soon as we set foot on the island and instantly tried to soak up each moment given to us. The weather, the company, the adventures were all blessings straight from our awesome God. He is amazing in His plan and creation. Thank you for this perfect day, and now perfect memory, Lord!

Mr. Schalk and I love Mackinac Island! The history, the horse filled roads (no cars allowed, don't you know), the nature. While Mr. S has always had an affinity for this little island, it wasn't until the most recent trip that I realized it had my heart, as well.

This Mister also happens to have a big piece of my heart.

Mackinac Island is the perfect spot to take a long weekend trip. The island is quite small and we feel that a night or two is perfect. We were able to get settled in then go for a relaxing bike trip around the island. It's an 8 mile trek full of quaint homes and lots of trees. Mr. Schalk kindly bought me new tires for my bike, which made my ride oh-so enjoyable! Amazing what a different kind of tire can do. Thanks honey!

The Carriage House Restaurant at Hotel Iroquois - Far right with orange umbrellas
(we were on the ferry and it was go go going!)

After our ride and a nice nap, we got all dressed up for dinner at our favorite restaurant on the Island, The Carriage House at Hotel Iroquois. Part English tea room feel, part summer island getaway, it an ideal dinner out. In fact, we look forward to eating here for months before our trip. It holds great memories for us.

I especially like their fancy dishes and lake views. Also, their homemade lemon meringue pie out-of-sight! The meals are not the cheapest, but to be honest almost everything on the island is a little pricey. I suppose the combination of shipping everything (and I do mean everything) to an island and the fact people have to eat allows them to make an extra buck. It's okay with us. We would personally rather have a special once-a-year meal at The Carriage House, and pay a little more, than buy an over priced burger and fries. We take advantage of freebies like bike trips, long hikes and window shopping throughout the day so it all equals out to us.

After dinner we enjoyed a long walk enjoying the gorgeous breezes, summer flowers and easy conversation. A walk to remember indeed!

As evening drew in we paused and enjoyed the serenity. Then off we went for drinks and night time snacks with the locals. A perfect ending to a perfect day. And you know, our day wasn't fancy or dramatic, but it was exactly what we needed. Mackinac has a great way of combining fun activities with a peaceful way of life. Something about hearing horse hooves instead of car mufflers. Bird songs instead of traffic. Your husband laugh instead of...anything else. It's the perfect way to unwind.

Sigh, until next time dear island. Until next time...

xoxo, Rachel