The Bear

We went camping at our farm over the weekend with 23 of our closest friends and relatives. Most of us slept in tents outdoors because, unfortunately, the farmhouse is in a pitiful state of disrepair. It does boast a toilet and running water, though, so that alone makes up for many of its inadequacies. The trip was an annual gig that our gang normally takes in July. Some members of our group have attended every trip for over 35 years. We all refer to the weekend as “The Bear,” since we often camp at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park. But, we have discovered over the past few years, if you do not make campsite reservations early enough in the season, you run the risk of ending up at the family farm, which, mercifully, is always available for our group. All 23 of us went canoeing on the Platte River Saturday and had a blast. A few people spent some of their time bike riding and others went to the beach at Lake Michigan. Five of the more adventurous folks took a grueling 4-hour hike on Sunday over the sand dunes. We had campfires each night and shared many amusing stories, often laughing hysterically. All in all, it was a great weekend, and it was nice to get away from at-home responsibilities, even if only for a few days.

Adam and Muffin hang out while the farm grass is being mowed.

The grass is finally shorter and some tents are going up.

Five fearless hikers, ready to embark on their journey.

Adam, in the black shirt, doing what he does best at the beach. Notice the dune hill off in the distance.