July 26, 2026, Packing for Siblings Week 549 words

My brothers, sisters-in-law, and I have gathered in my brother Brian’s cottage during the first week in August for many years. Though we have lost some family members, we still eat brought goodies, reminisce, and laugh. Brian brings out all his toys for the lake: pedal paddle boat, canoe, and the rubber Zodiac. As I age, I am content to walk the beach and splash in the lake, close to shore. In the evenings, we sit in Adirondack chairs and enjoy the heat of the fire, as we watch the sunset and the sky darken to reveal the first stars. I recall that is one of the few places where I could see the evening stars appear. Now they are just a memory.
The cottage is in Goodhart, MI. which is known for its historical roots as a native village located on what is referred to as the tunnel of trees on M119, a lake shore drive. Last winter’s storms undermined some of the road north of Goodhart and heading to Cross Village, another historical site. The village was named after the Jesuits erected a large white cross about 1830 as a place for the native people to gather and worship. Before this, the people gathered on the sand bluff where there was a large crooked tree. After the cross was placed, the village’s English name became Cross Village. A replica of the original cross stands on a bluff overlooking the lake and can be seen by passing boats.
My sister-in-law will hunt for agates and fossils along the water’s edge. This year, I may try to see the stones using my meta glasses. Otherwise, I will enjoy the lapping of Lake Michigan’s waters on my feet.
So to prepare, I will gather a sturdy all-terrain white and a lighter cane for town traveling. Several chargers for equipment used to describe items and make notes of our adventures. Weather this close to the Straits of Mackinac, I will take clothes for cool evenings and hot days. Rain gear for the occasional showers is a good idea as well. I have two pairs of sturdy shoes to help me keep my balance on most terrains. My brothers take turns walking with me and watching for trouble. For example, I walked with my brother Brian last year to the local farmer’s market and down to the harbor to see the large boats and ships docked there.
I commented, “ There don’t seem to be many people around.”
My brother replied,
“You didn’t see all the people we avoided bumping into.”
I will bring some special treats for my guide brothers.
*** Poem
Evening Gathering
It’s almost time.
I grab my heavy cane and walk arm and arm with my brother Bob.
We make our way down the narrow walkway to the lower deck and descend to the soft sand.
I touch the sand grains.
They are still warm from the day’s sun.
I dig with my finger to discover cool sand, twigs, and rocks deposited by past storms.
I turn to focus on several conversations.
They merge with the waves to form an hypnotic chant.
Day cools into night.
Smiling, I recall past visions in this routine.
My imagination fills the gaps.
carolaspot@aol.com
Copyrighted 7/27/26