Leaving Michigan

There are days that you know are coming but seem so far away. This move had felt surreal for so long and still did. This was the day that I would say “aloha” to my sister. Yes, we did say good-bye, but I don’t think it was the accurate term to use. Unfortunately, the traditional English language does not have an equivalent to “aloha”, but it should. Aloha describes how I felt. I didn’t want to say good-bye because it seems so final and we both knew this wasn’t. (I can’t wait to have her up here to visit.) I’m not a very outwardly emotional person and I’m sure I seem really awkward in these situations. It must be frustrating to other people. I’m not the best at “feelings”. I keep them locked inside. “Feelings” make me feel vulnerable. But I feel them; just express them differently. I’m sure some of you know what I mean. Honestly, I don’t remember my exact words. I may have said “good-bye” but in my heart, it was aloha; we will see each other again; you’re with me and I’m with you; I love you; I’ll miss you; You are my best friend, my sister; I’m so proud of you… 

(okay, wipe the tears, lock them back inside, bugger on)

We had a good visit at Gates Au Sable Lodge before heading up and out of Michigan. My sister and brother-in-law both work there. We have great friends there. During and after an excellent brunch (thanks go to Nan and Chef), we visited with my sister. She gave me an amazing graduation gift with such a heartfelt card. I’ll admit, I choked up reading it. (Dang. I am so proud of her.) Now it was time for us to get on the road after we had our hugs… then another… okay one more. Aloha.

North to the UP (Upper Peninsula for those non-familiar folks) and west to Wisconsin. I’m glad we decided to travel this route. We’ve had so many great times in the UP. We’ve made great friends who now are like family. My wilderness “big sister” who taught me what I needed to be prepared in the woods or out in the field, what to expect as I aged, and all around superwoman (J.S., you are the best). 

We had crossed the Mighty Mac so many times together, it was odd to think we were crossing it for the last time. We were leaving one life behind and starting a new one.

It was a long drive over to Wisconsin and we pulled in while the sun was setting. And now I had to back into the campsite. I was nervous. Tom was an excellent backing guide and on the second or third attempt, we were in. We set up camp a bit quicker this time and were starting to get a good rhythm going. We each took on certain responsibilities and it helped ensure everything got done. Trix and Clementine were getting much more comfortable in the camper. We stayed at Top O’ the Morn campground in Iron River, WI and it was another nice one: quiet, nice people, and just what we needed for the night.