Things are always better Up North

The weekend of January 15th-17th was spent with my family. Unfortunately Mike couldn't go because the Bulldogs were playing at home. We were sad, but loning it with the girls sure made for an eventful weekend. End destination was Bitely, MI - 7 hours from home! 

A little history...

My grandparents reside in the middle of Manistee National forest, in the remote woods of Michigan. Built when my Mom was a little girl, their cabin is a modest three bedroom, one bath home off a two-lane highway, off a paved road, off a gravel road off a dirt road (not kidding). They back up to a lake, where as a children my sisters, cousin and I enjoyed fishing, swimming, ice skating and cross-country skiing. Mostly visited by fisherman, snowmobilers and wildlife enthusiasts, their town (Bitely) is right next to Baldwin, known for it's annual Blessing of the Bikes, but most recently abuzz because of the bear that was hit right off M-37. 

My Grandparents are in their late 80's and didnt make the trip down to my Mom's house for Christmas for the first time EVER. Unfortunately my Grandpa's deteriorating health wont allow him to make the drive. As a result, my entire family planned a surprise trip to the cabin to celebrate the holidays.

As the weather warmed in Indianapolis, we started our adventure Up North, arriving to almost two feet of snow.

Front of the house...

Back of the house..

Lake view...

I had forgotten how long it had been since I'd been to the cabin. Anabelle, who is now 4 1/2 was two last time we made the trip. You can see below how fast time goes!

Anabelle age 4 1/2

Anabelle age 2

Grandpa and Grandma were surprised to see us and we had a great time. I was even subject to some helpful money advice. Grandma told me I should buy a green candle, let it burn for five minutes, and then blow it out. Then immediately rub your hands together (think of Mr. Miyagi before he heals Daniel Son) in the smoke. This my friends, will bring you wealth. Who knew?

I also always forget how much I enjoy my Grandmother's home decor; especially her love for the royal family.

OK, it's not that weird... Grandma grew up in England.  

Grandma collects three things - owls, nutcrackers and decorative plates.

My favorite thing about the house has always been the velvet wallpaper. Once considered out of date, I think I may have seen something similar for sale the other day at Pier 1. Proves that if you wait long enough, It'll come back in style.

Anabelle even tried her hand at taking pictures and did a pretty good job, asking Mommy to pose with a funny face and a funny stuffed animal stuck to my neck.

One of the best parts of the trip was how calm and happy Emilia was the entire time. 

Grandma also went shopping with Anabelle and I at Up North Gift Co. Needless to say, Great-Grandma spoiled Anabelle rotten. Ana walked out of that shop with two rings, a tee shirt and a stuffed animal. It reminds me of a quote I once heard, "Grandmas are moms with lots of frosting."

The best part of shopping was on the drive back from when Grandma told me not to worry about Grandpa passing away. Reason being, Grandpa is waiting for Grandma to go first because he doesn't want her getting with any other men!

It was a good weekend and I'm grateful we were all able to make the trip, but I agree with Anabelle when after the long drive home she said, "Mommy, next time we go to another state, I want to bring our house."