A Lilac a Day, Day Twelve

These white laced lilacs grow around the State Park sign on Doud's Corner (the corner of Fort and Main.) They don't have a strong scent, but they sure are pretty.

A Lilac A Day., Day Eleven

These lilacs on the East Bluff looked just beautiful as I walked home last night.

A Lilac a Day, Day Ten

This year I've noticed just how much better the lilac trees in full sun look than the more shaded trees. The full sun trees definitely have more blossoms.

A Lilac a Day, Day Nine

 Each day the Island seems a little busier...

I'm Going to Sleep Well Tonight

Between walking to and from work, and spending the day cleaning a four story home on the island, I climbed sixty-six floors today and walked a little over 10 miles. I don't expect any issues falling asleep tonight! 

A Lilac a Day, Day Eight

I'm always surprised at how the colors of the lilac flowers change as the buds open.

A Lilac a Day, Day Seven

The Island just keeps getting prettier... 

A Lilac a Day, Day Six

I know the rules of professional photography tell you not to shoot right into the sun, but I love this picture.

Happy

I know Fort Holmes doesn't look very happy, but he's actually thrilled that today is the last day of school on Mackinac Island. For me, summer begins today at 3:00 pm, and I'm ready - so ready. Please understand, I'm not bad mouthing my students or their parents; teaching is just emotionally tiring, especially during the last month. I'm ready for summer break so I can recharge my batteries.

Not a Lilac, but Still Gorgeous

One of the loveliest thing about spring on Mackinac is the trillium. They grow wild all through the State Park and, if you're lucky, they just might pop up in your garden. (I somehow managed to get three!)

A Lilac a Day, Day Five

We are finally having some spring-like weather in Northern Michigan. I think the lilacs like it.

A Lilac a Day, Day Four

This clump of lilacs grows between the school and Cadotte Avenue.

 

A Lilac a Day, Day Three

Every day they get a little bigger, and then, "Pop," they start to open.  

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!