Fleming Farms Maple Syrup in South Haven

We had the opportunity to meet Samuel Fleming himself of Fleming Farms in South Haven.  They produce some of the most divine maple Syrup that Michigan has to offer. You will find them at the Holland Farmer's Market, Saugatuck's and, of course, South Haven's.

Masonic Temple in Detroit

It looms large on Csss Avenue and Temple in Detroit. The biggest Masonic Temple in the world has been here since 1926. It's massive theatre seats 4000+ and there are other venues within--a chapel, a cathedral and ballrooms-- which hold thousands more. Last weekend the Detroit Derby Girls battled it out on their rollerblades in the Masonic. The Inferno Hairshow is this Sunday.

Gleaners Food Bank in Detroit

Fresh bread, baked that morning is what you get from Gleaners Food Bank, set up down at Eastern Market. One of the oldest food banks in the US, this organization's mission is to turn surplus food into tons of healthy meals for the hungry. They distributed over 30 million pounds of food last year to soup kitchens and shelters in Southeastern Michigan. Find their wares in Shed 2 and share a smile.

Zingerman's Cheese Shop

Zingerman's in Ann Arbor has a second location where they made the most marvelous cheeses.  We recently tried their mozzarella and when you slice it up, serve with tomatoes and chopped basil and drizzle with olive oil, it will make your taste buds tingle.  Don't want to make the trek out to Ann Arbor? They have a booth set up at Eastern Market in Detroit!

Cost Plus Wine Shop at Eastern Market

This little row of 19th century buildings at Eastern Market is a very familiar site. Every business is unique and has a story. Take the time to explore and enjoy. Cost Plus Wines on the far south is an iconic anchor.  Even Doogie Howser a.k.a. Neil Patrick Harris, commented on what a great selection they have. Besides a marvelous and varied selection of beer and wine, you might get a chance to meet the Irish guy from Cork who started it all, Tim McCarthy.

Mary's Pie Shop

Mary's Pie Shop makes us drool.  Here she is with her rhubarb specialty and it is to die for. Located in Lexington, her little store is only open Thursday through Sunday in the afternoon. This is a special after dinner treat.  Make a production of it! Bring along your picnicware, go to the lake, spread the checkered tablecloth on the picnic table, sit down with your family and rejoice over the pie and the view and one another's company. Amen.

Wheeler's Restaurant in Standish

Wheeler's Restaurant in Standish--where the Great Up North begins-- is unique and full of friendly locals and lots of good food. At 75 years and still going strong, the atmosphere is convivial. Popular with local rural folk, it is indeed crowded on the weekends. Depot Days in Standish are being held this Saturday, October first in the historical train station welcome center. There will be lots of live music, a baking contest, farmer's market, carnival rides and a chili cook-off.