Bayfield, Part II

If you studied the previous links that I sent in yesterday's blog......(and I just assume that if your are interested enough to read this blog, you also follow my directions), you know a little about Bayfield , Wisconsin, on the shores of Lake Superior. A picturesque and pristine community of 611 (or so the sign says) sits on a hill overlooking the unending views of this massive lake. This is fairly typical of the architectural style and attention to detail. Paul and I spent 3 hours on a cruise around the 22 islands off shore....the Apostle Islands, newly crowned a National Park about 30 years ago. Most are in their natural state but a few have light houses and one is large and home to many who cross the water by ferry in summers and sled boat in winters when the channel freezes.
Because of its location on the hills leading to the shore, there is a water view from everywhere. This does NOT do it justice. As I mentioned in the previous post and you have now read , the Big Top, Chataqua is a big attraction to this community in the summer. Lew and Marlyce started as volunteers and are now actually paid to keep this truly wonderful tradition going. We attended shows both evenings,a mix of background historical slides, folk music, skits and downright toe-tapping, hand-clapping fun. We met wonderfully friendly people (after all, isn't that what the midwest is all about) and wish we could drop in for each and every performance scheduled (5 per week in season). Willie Nelson returns each summer to perform in this intimate setting (900 seats) and Garrison Keiler of course is a favorite.

Being so far north, the spring blossoms are just now at their peak. Lilacs were everywhere as well as gorgeous oriental poppies, peonies, azaleas and an occasional tulip. But my favorite was the lupine which grows wild everywhere in shades of purple, lavendar , pink and white. They are massed besides the road and along the hills. Perfect. Lew and Marlyce originally lived near Minneapolis and started coming to Bayfield about 10 years ago. Lew and the entire family lovingly restored this schooner and sailed these waters for many years. Then they found land and with the entire family , built their home.

They also built this guest house with two suites, perfect for spending a week or two exploring this area. They used to offer B&B services but now its just the B....altho we had a taste of the breakfast and those people are missing a good thing.


Now,sometimes I can multi-task, after all, isn't that woman's strong suit......you know, like kids, husbands, jobs, and bake a perfect pie all at the same time. So , it should be a natural to be able to drive a large house on wheels, cook fabulous meals from a box, tour the country while eating M&M's and knit colorful sox, all at the same time......and yes, there's the keeping the husband happy part also...........and then I just need to add in being blog photographer. Well, sometimes, it just doesn't all get done and on this trip, I seem to be forgetting the photographer hat at times. I have no pictures of Lew and Marlyce's beautiful home in the woods, every inch hand made by them. I guess that's a good enough reason to invite ourselves back ......real soon.

We are currently ensconced in Detroit Lakes Minnesota . After recovering from a late night of indulging in drink, great food, fabulous company , we are off to do it all again. The class of 61 never looked so good......(and the class of 59) . Stay tuned......and I'm determined to wear the paparazzi hat at all times and report accordingly.