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That was a great trip through the past for me. I've been across the Macinac Bridge and to the Island a couple of times. Northern Michigan is beautiful. Like you, I would rather be there than in Detroit.

We have blue herons that visit a lake nearby. It was a special day when they showed up. Take care of yourself.

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I saw a Blue Heron near Wyandotte last week. We're only a couple of miles from the water so when it gets warmer (this week, they say) I'm hoping we can get to one of the waterside parks to see if there's any bird action there. Thanks.

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May 4, 2023Liked by Ramona Grigg

What amazing pictures! Love seeing a slice of your life!

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Thanks for coming along!

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May 4, 2023Liked by Ramona Grigg

I love the U.P. And Drummond Island. Great article!

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Thanks. Me too!

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Salties! I do love a local term of art. If I'd known that one , I'd have worked it into The Women of the Copper Country for sure.

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Mary, I'll bet you're wondering why I haven't said anything about your book yet, considering I have such strong ties to the Copper Country. (I was born in Laurium and my Finnish grandfather, my uncle, and most of my great-uncles worked in the C&H mines.)

It's because I'd started reading it and then misplaced it. Now I think I remember where it is, but I'm not at home, so as soon as I get there I'm going to go find it and read it! I'm hearing wonderful things about it, and I know you've done that story justice.

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Oh my gosh. Damned teeth!

I'd be back there like a shot. That peace and beauty. Cities pale and pall.

I am in the city three days of each week at the moment and I cringe and feel low. But once I see the coast, it's like a shot in the arm and I know that tomorrow, instead of road traffic, I will hear birds and waves. I'm guessing you might feel the exact same feeling.

One other thing, Ramona - maybe you needed to be away just now to move you forward through the mire of grief. Maybe when you return to the lake, it will be a softer, kinder companion... I hope so.

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We're lucky we have those choices, aren't we? I suspect my longing to get home has a lot to do with still missing Ed. I want to be where he was, to breathe the same air, to walk the same terrain, to be comfortable in our shared surroundings. It's calling me!

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We used to vacation in Door County, WI which is somewhat similar. My BIL is from Calumet out on the tip of the UP where he told me "we have 6 months of winter and 6 months of tough sledding!"

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I've always wanted to see Door County. I hear it's beautiful. My home base is the Calumet area. I was born there, lived there for a year, and spent every summer of my growing-up life there. Winters are harsh but the other seasons are amazing!

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Lovely, I can see why you want to be there!

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Thanks. I do!

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How delightful of you to share a trip down memory lane Ramona. Love the photos and the stories they embellish. We have a Blue Heron Reserve here where I live and they are such a spectacular bird. - https://www.chilliwackblueheron.com/herons/ - I will have to post some photos along the way. In the meantime, please know that I do "hear you" and understand about missing Ed. I think at this 4 1/2 year mark I've finally realized the "missing" probably never leaves but perhaps the intensity lessens? Sending loving energy your way.

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A Blue Heron reserve sounds amazing! Yes, do think about posting photos. Everyone loves them!

Thanks for your kindness, Marilyn. My thoughts go out to you.

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