Labor Day: Transcending

In honor of Labor Day, we have chosen the newest sculpture in Detroit's Hart Plaza --the work of two artists, David Barr and Sergio De Guisti. It's called "Transcending" and explores the evolution of labor, unions and freedom. See the top of the arch (some 60 feet high)? There is a little space there....meaning we've progressed immensely, but that we've got a little more work to do. Well, actually, that strive for unity never reaches perfection--it's always a work in progress! It is quite a unique piece and the stones on the pathway leading to the arch have interesting carvings on them representing various facets of the labor movement and there are great quotes in the round tablet beneath the arch. It gives one much food for thought.

The Spirit of Detroit

This statue is 51 years old and represents the city of Detroit. He was created by Michigan artist Marshall Fredericks. He sits at the foot of Woodward on Jefferson and all visitors to our city must have their photo taken with him. He is sporting a new patina now. Can you tell? It is lighter and all one color. The verse behind him is from 2 Corinthians 3:17 "Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." This guy is 26 feet tall and sometimes wears a sports jersey supporting one of our teams.

Tiger Fans at Comerica Park

It's pennant fever time with our Detroit Tigers in first place! Comerica Park is gorgeous especially when you have seats right behind homeplate. Suzie is in the middle, flanked by Spanish teacher coworkers Sara on the left and Laura (who is related to Charlie Gehringer!!) on the right. The Toronto Blue Jays will be in for a four day homestand next weekend. And as Ernie Harwell used to say, "Thank you for sneaking your transistor under the pillow as you grew up loving the Tigers." This beloved Tiger announcer recently announced that he has incurable cancer and has chosen not to undergo surgery. You are in our prayers, dear Ernie.

Michigan State Fair

The Michigan State Fair opened on August 28 and is running through September 7, 2009. Armed services day is Sept 6 where Vets and those currently serving are admitted free. Doreen's favorites at the fair were the agricultural displays, the miracle of life (baby cows, pigs, chicks, etc), the mules, donkeys, chicken, doves and pigeons. Be sure to visit the Community Arts Building to see displays of local talent in photography, quilting, canning, painting, wood carving, table setting, cake decorating. The music on Saturday night was fantastic with plenty of seating, plenty of food, bottomless chocolate milk for 50 cents and carnival rides. We surely hope this is not the last State Fair. Did you know that it is the nation's oldest? It began in 1849, shortly after we became a state and is designated as an official Historic State site. It is situated on 164 acres.

Jollay Orchard since 1857

The Jollay family has owned and operated this unique orchard in Coloma for over 150 years. They make divine preserves! Suzie has been eating the cherry blueberry one with her whole grain toast all week. Doreen bought a half bushel of peaches which she is going to can. (Yes, we managed to squeeze it in the Smart car along with two suitcases, two computers, our journal/book bags and the proverbial cooler). This is a great place to take the whole family. There is even an old one room school house that they have converted into a haunted mansion. Gruesome!

Tabor Hill Winery and Restaurant

It was a supreme treat to dine at the Tabor Hill Vineyards and Restaurant in Buchanan last week, just a few miles from Lake Michigan. Both the food and the gold-medal winning wines were absolutely scintillating! They have been here since 1968. Just for fun, we made a one minute movie of our visit: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQwUH2n5E_U

Their website is chock full of photos and information: www.taborhill.com

Warren Dunes State Park

Warren Dunes State Park in Sawyer is the place to have fun! The high-relief sand dunes were formed over 10,000 years ago during the recession of the glacial lakes. They are a natural phenomenon found no where else in the world. Besides the hiking, swimming, hunting, fishing, and birding you can do in this great Michigan State Park, you can experience the joy of running down the dunes. Click on the button above to watch some joyful frolickers and hear the waves behind Doreen's camera!