Boulevard Market in Tecumseh

We made the trek out to Tecumseh, south of Ann Arbor, because we heard they made some really good artisan cheeses at the Boulevard Market right downtown on Main Street. It's so true. We came home with this fresh chèvre or goat cheese made from the raw milk of local farms that is embued with herbs. The triple creme is kind of like a camembert, but stronger.   John and Erika Aylward have been holding shop here for seven years and their love of Europe shows in their homey store that draws foodies from all around. Another bargain is their own bottled balsamic vinegar--fabulous!!

Middle of the Mitten in St. Louis

The mystery was solved back in the 1800's! The geographic middle of the lower peninsula is in St. Louis! This marker is located in Clapp Park. Inquiring minds want to know. St Louis is just north of Alma off of Highway 127. Jim Northrup, who passed away earlier this month, played for the Tigers from 1964-74. He graduated from high school in St Louis. The fifth annual St Louis Blues Festival takes place July 1-2.

Shiawassee Arts Center in Owosso

The Shiawassee Arts Center in Owosso sits peacefully on the Shiawassee River.  They showcase local artists and their works.  We came upon this beautiful dish made by Richard L Lahmann who lives in Owosso.  He used to be an engineer.  Can you tell by the linear design?  We saw several pieces we would like to take home.  It's open 6 days a week.

Fort Gratiot Lighthouse in Port Huron

Fort Gratiot Lighthouse in Port Huron was the first lighthouse built in Michigan. It sits at the lower bowl of Lake Huron where it flows into the St Clair River. Built in 1829, it stands 82 feet tall.  Michigan has about 150 lighthouses, more than any other state in our country. Fort Gratiot was named after General Charles Gratiot, the engineer in charge of its construction. When we took this photo, we were able to climb it, but it is currently closed due to deteriorating infrastructure and we heard it will cost 4 million dollars to fix it up.   If interested in its progress, you can become a friend and help support the restoration. Note: As of May 19, 2012, it is once again open to the public!

St John's Episcopal Church in Saline

Saline is located in antique country and its darling little church is no exception.  Completed in 1835, St John's Episcopal is the oldest church of that denomination in our state.  All the stained glass windows and the interior beams, which were shaped using axes and hand tools, are original! It's worth a trip to Saline to attend their 9:15am service.

Don Juan's Burial site in Tecumseh

Would you believe that Tecumseh has been listed as one of the top 100 small cities in America? Maybe people rush here to see the burial site of General Custer's horse, Don Juan. It's on Russell Road on the property owned by Brady Sand and Gravel. Actually, we have featured this horse and its rider before, here. If Lexington, KY can give horse farm tours and show the burial sites of their famous horses, why not Michigan?  After Custer's untimely death, the thoroughbred Don Juan was sent back to Tecumseh and used for his stud services.

Croswell Opera House in Adrian

The Croswell Opera House in Adrian is celebrating 145 years. In Michigan, it is the oldest continuously running theatre and therefore listed on the National Register of Historic Places. They are open year round and Hairspray is showing tonight and this weekend and Annie in July.  In August, look for Singin' in the Rain and a special --43 summers at the Croswell. They also sponsor --with Adrian Parks and Rec-- the free movies at Island Park in town where people are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and blankets. This weekend, it's Megamind. It is only through the wonderful network of volunteers and supporters that the Croswell continues to thrive.