Rainy Day Fun

The rainy weather yesterday inspired us to take a trip to Grand Marais. Since we couldn't do much outside work, it seemed like a good time to run the errands that were waiting on the perpetual town list. Before leaving, we launched a boat, and while we were pulling it up at the beach, we got to see the eagle come flying in. We were partially hidden by the trees, so he didn't see us right away. That allowed for a fairly close fly-by, and excellent sight of the eagle dropping his "landing gear" so that he could settle on a shoreline rock. No matter how many times I see these guys, it is always a thrill to experience their size and wingspan up close.

Rain on a vacation is probably one of the last things people picture in their minds as they are planning their trips. Imagine sitting around in mid-winter, drawing out the plans for a BWCA trip or cabin visit, and seeing rain in the images that come to mind. It just doesn't happen. That's because when we are thinking about it, we can choose whatever weather we want! While Greg and I were thinking about and reading up on Hawaii, we only saw sunny skies, blue oceans and sandy beaches. Fortunately, we had those for the majority of the trip, but we also had some days of rain. Imagine that--we all know it rains in Hawaii, of course, but certainly not while we are there! By the way, tomorrow I will post a few pictures of what we did on the island when it was raining. Like most folks, we didn't let the weather stop us.

But back to the Gunflint Trail. It's grand when it doesn't rain, but if it does, it's great to know that we will soon have another option for something to do on a wet day. If you read my post yesterday, you saw that I mentioned the Chik-Wauk Museum. This will be an excellent place to visit, and learn all about the history of the Gunflint Trail and its people. Here at Heston's, we are often in conversation about the early settlers and what it was like for them. Everyone up here is interested in the stories. Thanks to the work of a very dedicated group of volunteers, in partnership with the U. S. Forest Service, a home for housing the history and the artifacts will be up at the end of the Trail.

The grand opening is scheduled for July 4th. Beginning the 5th, the museum will hold regular hours through mid-October. Signs are in place, so it will be easy to find. Make plans to include Chik-Wauk in your vacation while you are here, but in the meantime, stop by their website and blog, and get to know a bit in advance. You can picture your own weather, and then when you come, you can tailor your activities accordingly. Nature trails make up a portion of the grounds of the museum, and so sunny days and rainy days both will be good times to visit.