I've stated a gazillion times that September is my favourite month in the Great White North. What's not to love about warm daytime temperatures, cool breezy evenings, and NO bugs? The abundant rainfall this summer, however, enabled a few more bugs than normal to survive this long into the season. They're still buzzing around, but otherwise so far September rocks.
Friends invited us to their cottage on the north shore of Lake Huron this week, and we didn't hesitate. We packed an overnight bag and hit the road. Just past Blind River on the north side of Hwy. 17 is this abandoned building. I may be wrong, but I think it's beyond the fixer-upper stage, so be wary if a real estate agent suggests otherwise.
While the guys went kayaking almost as soon as we arrived...
The women hit the shops. Forestland in Thessalon is a ten-minute drive to the west, and the Round Barn is the same distance to the east. The exterior of Forestland is a normal storefront you'd find in any northern community, but the stock inside always impresses.
The Round Barn really is a round barn. Originally home to horses, cows, chickens and pigs, it's now a gift shop that is open from April to October.
The Round Barn really is a round barn. Originally home to horses, cows, chickens and pigs, it's now a gift shop that is open from April to October.
The ceiling (below left) shows off the building skills of our early settlers. Fast forward to the 21st century and the rustic interior makes for one of the most unusual shops you'll ever visit. There is always a wide variety of unique and useful gift items, and much to the guys' chagrin we rarely come home empty handed.
Back at the cottage, we lounged on the wide covered porch. The view of the lake and gazebo is breathtaking.
Meanwhile, within a few inches of our heads four or five hummingbirds swooshed past us at the speed of light, arguing with each other while doing aeronautical acrobats to determine who'd have supreme dominance at the feeder.
After a tasty dinner (with wine, of course) the sun set over Lake Huron. Ah, spectacular September. Life doesn't get much better than this.
Thank you, Fred and Maxine, for everything. We had a lovely time!
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