A Lilac a Day, Day Two

I was worried the lilacs were going to be really late this year, but they're not too far behind last year. Maybe they just feel late because it's been such a cold spring. 

A Lilac a Day, Day One

The lilacs may be a wee bit behind last year, but they're starting to wake up...

I Told You

Remember I told you spring comes late to northern Michigan? I wasn't kidding. This is what most of the trees and shrubs on the island look like. They're all just starting to leaf out.

Finally

The tulips in my garden have finally opened; they opened on May 25th. Spring in the UP is generally late, but this year it was exceptionally late. This winter just held on, and on, and on. 

Our spring hits so late, out plant date is Memorial Day. Usually, I can get away with planting things a couple of weeks early, but not this year.  This year, we had multiple frosts the week right before Memorial Day. 

Spring!

We are finally getting flowers blooming on Mackinac! Planted in the ground flowers, not ones that were started in a greenhouse and transplanted. Mine don't get quite as much sun as the tulips at Grand Hotel, so mine aren't quite this far along. Flowers always put me in a good mood so I'm glad I get to see these every morning on my walk to school...

Good Morning

Not much beats a freighter tooting "Good Morning," just as you arrive at work. I love where I live!

Waiting for Spring

Today is May 13th, and Mackinac Island still has snow. It's not everywhere - mostly in shaded spots in the woods, but it's still there. 

It really hasn't felt like spring much up here; it's been cold! I have yet to wear capris, let alone shorts. And none of my flowers have bloomed yet. You read that right - I don't even have tulips yet!

Teacher Appreciation

This past week was Teacher Appreciation Week. Each day we were treated to something special - including these beautiful flowers, courtesy of  Grand Hotel.

On Friday, one of my sixth graders brought me this hilarious set of pens. I have no idea where they found them, but I love them!

Teaching can be a thankless job, but the Mackinac Island community pulled out all the stops this year. We all felt very appreciated!

Happy Worm Day

 Happy Worm Day 2026!

This year's Worm Day is the latest since I've been keeping track, but it's a day to celebrate none the less.

 The first day we find huge numbers of worms on the pavement after a rain means spring is here!

Not Funny

Mackinac Island awoke to snow this morning.  Not funny Mother Nature, not funny.