Northern Michigan Snow Trails

New Blog Location

2007-04-18T19:17:00.000-04:00

Obviously.... there are no snow trails here at Rays Retreat now. Although, we do still have some snow piles! ...
Sparky and I are trying a new blog location titled Rays Retreat Ramblings. It has a long address, sorry about that! didn't realize it was going to be so long until after we had started the new location.
It is:
http://raysretreat.typepad.com/rays_retreat_ramblings/

Hope you'll join us there through the warmer months.

Easter Vacation

2007-04-15T19:35:00.000-04:00

I wanted to get this up for Easter - but obviously its a little past Easter. We've just returned from our Easter vacation. A trip downstate to visit family, and then we even ventured further south to TN and North Carolina. Where we enjoyed the warmer temps, greener surroundings, even flowers in bloom.

Egg Dying Contest

2007-04-02T20:03:00.000-04:00

Words to Think About

2007-04-01T21:41:00.000-04:00

A day without sunshine................................is like night.

We actually had both today.... sunshine and no sunshine. I went into work this morning and when I got home it was just beautiful outside. 60 degrees and sunshine. We ate lunch out on the picnic table, then took the dogs for a walk.

Back in time for Mike to settle in to watch the race. The dogs and I opted for a nap. I am feeling much better than I did on Fri/Sat... but still not 100 percent. Its mainly centered in my head now....
during the nap time clouds, thunder and rain moved in. A spring shower.

Hyacinth, tulips, daffodils, poppies have all made their appearance through the grounds dark earth. Several crocus in yellow and purple bloom.

Hope you enjoyed your first day of April!

Why did the Easter egg hide?

2007-04-01T14:45:00.000-04:00

How did it happen

2007-03-31T15:12:00.000-04:00

I was just thinking.............................
last week; how I had made it through the winter/flu season without getting sick at all. A few times I had a slight sore throat for 24 hours, but that was the extent of my winter illness. Until, yesterday.... and it took me completely by surprise.
Although, looking back.... I did think my allergies were especially bad the start of the week. Sinus seemed to be draining by mid week, and Thursday I had a sore throat and was starting to sound raspy. Yesterday, it hit me like a ton of bricks. Completely stuffed up head and raging sore throat. Miserable. I was up every 2-3 hours through the night with a throbbing head, plugged nose and scratching throat. And aching bones.. more than usual for this old body.
I was grateful for the quiet cloudy day since it has made it easier to indulge myself. I have not done much of anything besides lay in bed or in the recliner wrapped up in a blanket.
Hopefully it will make its exit as quickly as it entered.
Its no fun being sick.

Sick puppy

2007-03-29T21:59:00.000-04:00

I don't know what those ears are all about!

I had a really rough night last night, so am going to bed early tonight. Whew, Mike fed me some of his cabbage soup (note: do not feed your dog cabbage soup - esp. mike's!)

I woke him up at 3 a.m., 4 a.m., 5 a.m. and then we just stayed up... I won't go into details... but i was a sick puppy....

feeling better now. And Ann told Mike to not feed me anything! She is in charge of feeding us dogs.

We took a little walk this afternoon when Ann got home. The water is opening on the lakes. Gizmo loves the water, and came home a muddy mess which meant she got a bath! hahaha! ... so there Gizmo. She sure looked funny all soaped up. of course now she's a pretty and fluffy and they've been making over her. whatever.

My collie friends stopped in for a visit. More fun... Sassy and I can tangle Sue and Ann up in no time! Dancer too.

i've got to get to bed. ... my eyes are droppy.

Sparky T. Ray...................................................................................

Dog saves owner with modified Heimlich - Pet Health - MSNBC.com

2007-03-27T22:28:00.000-04:00

Dog saves owner with modified Heimlich - Pet Health - MSNBC.com

A Golden makes the news - as a hero! ... well of course.

Good Day for a Walk

2007-03-27T22:11:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone! ... Its Sparky here.... I had a really good day. Both Ann and Mike spent the day with me. Gizmo hung around with us most of the day. But, it was just the three of us that took the new truck into town. I love having the whole back end to stretch out ... relaxing, watching the world pass by as we drive down the road.
They made a few stops then we went to Aspen Park for a great walk. Saw a few other dogs (and people there). Been noticing alot of squirrel activity everywhere. They have been cluttering up the yard! Everytime I look out there's squirrels chasing each other, jumping from tree to tree and enjoying the bird food Ann sets out each day.
After walking at the park, we hit Burger King. Chicken Tenders are awesome.
Once we got home Mike was fiddling around with the camper while Gizmo and I watched Ann cleaning out the herb garden and raking. Crazy Gizmo is something to watch when she's tied up. She runs like a wound up gizmo toy and then SPRING! she hits the end of her rope.... she's a crazy little thing. And always thinking she can tear me up. I let her have her fun. I know who's the biggest.

Naughty Rabbit

2007-03-27T08:48:00.000-04:00

Monday Evening

2007-03-26T22:24:00.002-04:00

More crocus blooming amidst the old, wet leaves and dead stuff from the previous year. Hopefully, tomorrow we can get out in the yard and start some major clean up.

Sparky is having a hard time letting go of the snow, just like Mike. He hunts down every little dirty white spot left to sit on, to dig on, to roll in, and just enjoy.

We were in the 60s today. Wow, did that feel good.

I just heard the weatherman say "next week its back to winter". I don't think any of us believed that spring was really here to stay. Spring just doesn't come in so quietly here in northern Michigan.

Spring Crocus

2007-03-25T21:56:00.000-04:00

We enjoyed a pleasant weekend with our oldest son and his family. They arrived Friday evening and stayed until early afternoon today. It was a great way to welcome in spring.

Three year old Daylen is delighted with the addition of Gizmo to our household. Gizmo is just the right size for her to lug around until Grandma annouces that Gizmo needs to rest. For a little doggie Gizmo was incredibly patient and loving. Another reason she's a welcome addition.

Sparky was able to enjoy some good rough housing with their dog Bourbon.

My first crocus, a yellow one opened this afternoon when the sun finally put in an appearance. It really is true... robins and crocus are here! .. spring is here. Despite the remnants of snow and ice in the back.

This week sunshine and warmth are going to be here so we can start getting some major yard clean up. Its a mess.

Gizmo

2007-03-25T17:01:00.000-04:00

This little girl is a Bichon. Some kind of French dog. ... Ann says she's descended from the poodle.

Her name is Gizmo. She's the size of alot of my toys, and at first that's what I thought Ann had done, brought home a new toy. But I've been warned many times... she is not My toy!

She's a merry little girl. Loves everyone. So I love her, and she can run really fast. It's nice to have a little sister, but I was thinking of a dog a bit bigger that I could really tussle around.

Our cat Ruff is bigger than Gizmo! Who would have thought dogs come so little?

--------------------------------------------------------------------Sparky T. Ray

Mud Season

2007-03-22T19:12:00.000-04:00

A light thunderstorm and rain through the night. It was a peacefully calm dreary start to the day with the rain continuing. We all enjoyed sleeping in and moving slowly through the morning.
The sun made its appearance this afternoon and milder temps. Its beginning to feel like spring or rather mud season. Its definitely mud season. The dogs come in wet and dirty. Mike hollers cause we're all tracking in mud.
Spring is my least favorite season of the year. Mud, mud, mud is what its all about. I am eager to start cleaning out the herb and flower gardens. Right now the flower beds still are covered in snow and ice. But the herb garden is almost clear of all the remains of winter. I can even see some green sprouting in the oregano and parsley.

Blonde

2007-03-21T22:01:00.000-04:00

Spring Arriving

2007-03-20T20:58:00.000-04:00

Hallejuah! ... taxes done.. now off to the CPA.

We celebrated by going to the matinee this afternoon. We both enjoyed 'Wild Hogs'. A fun and funny movie.

It was cold this morning, just 8 degrees.

Spring arrives in just a few minutes and warmer air is moving in through the night as springtime moves across the countryside.

A Little Too Late

2007-03-19T22:54:00.000-04:00

We woke up this morning to four inches of heavy wet snow. It made the ground, woods and trees look so pretty fresh and new. By early afternoon the temps had risen and melting had started in again, spots of ground were showing through. The snow was covered with dirt on my way home. The fresh new world was dirty and used again.

Despite winter's attempt to overtake the warmer temps it just isn't going to last. Spring officially will be here Wed. and we have temps into the 50's and rain. That should take care of any remaining snow.

Fat Cat

2007-03-18T20:43:00.000-04:00

Ruff found out that I write a blog. He also found out I have never mentioned that we have a cat living with us, and actually have been with Mike and Ann long before me. whatever- .. well Ruff seems to be quite put out about it. He says a 'birdie told him'... and I dont' doubt it. The birds have really been talking in the mornings. . the big chatter boxes. So to appease that cat I have agreed to put this link in showing a fat cat intimidating some Golden puppies. It is rather cute. Pups! ... they'll believe anything a cat tells them.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWQM1yZqTBI

To The North

2007-03-18T10:37:00.000-04:00

What Is This?

2007-03-17T21:05:00.000-04:00

What is this? and what is it doing on the desk?
I am the official greeter!

Its larger than a chipmunk but smaller than a squirrel.
Ruff is larger than it.

Its too little to play tug with me. Everyone is hollering at me: Sparky! Watch your feet. Sparky, don't drop that bone on her head! Sparky!

What good is this little dust mop? It can't play with me. . . and why does it look like it belongs on the desk?

Sparky T. Ray..........................................................................................................................................

Breakfast for Two

2007-03-17T11:41:00.000-04:00

Saturday Morning and breakfast for two! ... It seems so odd to have a quiet dining room this morning. Kitchen was still noisy since the first thing Mike does it come in and turn that radio on. He fixed us a good hot breakfast to start the day.

We heard from Dan T. out in Washington. He rode even less than Mike and I have this winter season. He's been busy working out there. He said the trail system out there may have been a little nicer than Northern Michigan's... but he said it was not nearly as much fun! He missed the morning breakfast updates in Rays dining room as well as the evening chats in the lobby. We're hoping he'll be back in the midwest by next winter.

I've got the delightful job of working on tax paperwork. UGH! My goal was to have it done by the end of Feb. Whooops! ... so its time to get cracking. I am taking frequent breaks. I HATE working with numbers.

Mike is working on his snowmobile. Putting new carbides on before getting them washed up and stored for this season.

Hope you're enjoying your day.

Michigan Road Facts

2007-03-16T20:30:00.000-04:00

The longest Interstate Highway in the State of Michigan is I-75 which is 395 miles from the Ohio border to Sault Ste. Marie.

The longest State Highway is M66 which is 268.95 miles running the length of the lower Peninsula from the Indiana state line to Charlevoix, MI.

The Siphon Bridge (in the U.P.) which is located on Old US 2, over the Manistique River is noted in Ripleys Believe it Or Not as being the only bridge 4 feet below water level.

The 3-span camelback bridge in Mottville (located just a few miles from our home on the St. Joseph River downstate) is the longest remaining bridge of this type.

Spring Road Trip

2007-03-14T18:23:00.000-04:00

As Sparky wrote late last night we enjoyed a great day yesterday on our first spring road trip in our new (but now new) vehicle. We seem to have a connection to the dark green colored vehicles. We have not purposedly set out to get all our vehicles in that color. It just keeps working out that.
I was surprised how quickly Mike actually moved on this. We've been talking about getting an SUV for several years now... more intently this past winter. As it was getting closer to vacation Mike was starting to look through the ads and car lots trying to find a good deal. We want to take our tent camper but he wasn't sure about using his Dodge Dakota since the transmission has been slipping occasionally. Any decision that involves money involves Mike having to think, think, think, think. You get the idea, he doesn't just impulsively buy.
As I was driving to work Monday morning I saw it sitting along Old 27 with the For Sale Sign, and called him to let him know he might want to check it out. When I got off work, we went down and picked it up! That quickly!
The man can still surprise me, even after 35 years.

Robin Sighting

2007-03-14T18:19:00.000-04:00

Spotted the first robin of spring 2007 at Ray's Retreat early evening today. We can see more spots of the ground showing through out back. The trail is looking very miserable. Its not a very pretty time of year right now. Brown or black mud. Even the snow that is still on the ground is a very dismal dirty brown/black. I think the winter snowmobile season is definitely over. Even Mike is starting to admit it....

First Road Trip of 2007

2007-03-13T22:34:00.000-04:00

What a great day!

We took our first road trip of 2007 in a new vehicle. Its the same color as our car and truck, what's up with that? Does it help the old folks remember what to look for in the parking lot. I don't know. This is my favorite though. I can stretch out in the back to nap as we're driving along, very comfy.

We headed west a little before noon. Spent the rest of the day along Lake Leelanau playing with Bourbon (chocolate lab), Daylen and Chandler.. we also saw Bryan and Ang. They cooked supper for us. We were out after dark! We didn't get home until 10 p.m. We are never out past dark.

The closer to Traverse City the less snow, but once we got out of Traverse City and closer to Lake Leelanau there was snow again. I played on the snowbanks with Daylen and Bourbon.

We took pictures but both Ann and I are too tired to download them. Maybe tomorrow....

Got to get to sleep......

Wow! 150

2007-03-12T21:50:00.000-04:00

I just noticed that my last post was the 150th post for this blog.

That went by quickly......................
as well as the snow season. We still have snow in the yard, and in the woods. The trails themselves are a soupy, muddy, wet mess. It was 46 degrees today, and may be warmer tomorrow.

Mike still is having a difficult time admiting it is over. He always has a hard time 'letting go'.... I am working on slowly transitioning him to the reality that spring is on the calendar this month.

They are calling for colder air this weekend, but if it will be enough or if it will bring enough snow for one last ride... we'll have to wait and see.

End of Winter Rush

2007-03-12T19:38:00.000-04:00

Just like that... we go from intensely busy and running nonstop from sun up to sun down... to having free time. Well.. we are still working on getting things caught up, but we aren't being rushed to have it all done.
We celebrated the end of winter rush and a late anniversary dinner last evening at Bennethums (thanks to a gift certificate from two special friends). Sunday afternoon when there's just wet slush on the trails is a great time to enjoy dinner out. We were the only two in the dining room. A quiet, relaxing dinner with just the two of us. I even left my pager at home and enjoyed a whiskey sour.
Below is a picture of my new Chevy Tahoe. Its in great condition. We are both excited about this addition to our small vehicle fleet. Its 'my' winter vehicle, Mike's summer vehicle to pull the camper and boat.

Vampires and Snowmen

2007-03-12T19:36:00.000-04:00

Great Weekend for Sparky

2007-03-11T20:34:00.000-04:00

It's been a GREAT weekend! Some of my favorite people were here.

Anyone who plays with me and roughs around with me are my favorite people.

Reggie, the bloodhound pup stopped in Saturday. What long ears he has... a very gentle fella. I can't wait for him to get just a little bigger so we can really rough house around together. I guess I was a little overwhelming for him. I was trying to show him what a fun guy I am.

The pictures Mom took of us didn't turn out at all, and the picture here of me with the Bobs isn't very good either. She must not be paying attention to what she's doing!

I ran over to a friends house behind us. The ones that I was rolling around in their bed at my last visit. Ann found me. The nice lady invited me in, and told Ann not only was I rolling around in their bed, she was in it! She loved all my kisses and loving. They have an older dog. He's a lucky boy too... their counter is filled with dog treats of every kind! No kidding. Ten jars of different treats. And Mike and Ann try to tell me there are no dogs with no toys or treats. What are they talking about? humph! ...

The Trail - Slush

2007-03-11T20:20:00.000-04:00

The trail late afternoon, approx 5 pm... Slush. This is in front of the motel, one of the better sections left. Mud and much more water in either direction on the trail.

Melting

2007-03-10T19:16:00.000-05:00

Cigars and Sunlight equal a melting snowman.

Friday Mar 9, 2007 Snow on the Trails

2007-03-09T18:34:00.000-05:00

46 Degrees and Sunshine Today!

Still decent riding at this point... when I got home from work at 4, I walked over and took a picture of the trail right out front here ... two pictures, one looking south, one looking north. You can see its still White!

The tv weathermen said they were surprised at todays high temp.. they had been calling for just 30's...; they couldn't believe it got so warm with the deep snow we've got all over... but mother nature has her own plans.

Another warm day in the 40' tomorrow. We'll see what will happen to the trails by the end of that day.

Just Let It Go

2007-03-08T21:51:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, Friday is the second annual Just Let it Go Day. A time to just let go of all the little things that we have ranted and raved about one too many times. Actually... that's one of my pet peeves... people that just hang on like bull dogs to little injustices that have been done in the Past. Its in the past. Its done, its over. Let it Go.
Sparky and his dog friends have it right. They don't hang onto the little things that can trip us up if we let them. You forget to feed them one morning, they still trust that you'll feed them the next feeding. You slip and step on their toes, they yelp once and then are ready to run and play in the next minute.
Just Let It Go. Move on.... Save your energy to use for fun things.

Winter Day Walk

2007-03-08T21:39:00.000-05:00

I haven't been able to romp with my friends in a very long time. At least today, Ann and I went for a good walk - 45 minutes and we did some romping around. It was 25 degrees out and sunny. Just beautiful. No wind, perfect day to play in the snow. I was a golden catcher as she tossed her glove in the air and I did magnificent jumps to grab it. Then I climbed up on the snowbanks. Look at me here... this is a snowbank as high as the fence! The rail tips from the fence are just peeking out. The snow is still beautiful white. Trails are smooth. Today was a perfect winter day.

Fox Hunt

2007-03-08T07:16:00.000-05:00

Sometimes its best to know when to keep your mouth shut, and blend in with the crowd.

When My Ship Comes In..............

2007-03-07T17:58:00.000-05:00

When my ship comes in.....
it'll have a sidecart for Mike's snowmobile so I can hit the trails with them.
it'll have a boat load of dogs to romp, wrestle and run with day and night.
it'll have a trunk load of Puperoni's.
it'll have all sorts of toys, tugs, balls, chewies for me and my friends.

I'll just keep watching the horizon, anyday now...

-----------------------------Sparky T Ray

Is it possible... 36 hour day? Sure feels like it.

2007-03-06T22:29:00.000-05:00

The day started out good and cold. We had -16 at 6 a.m.
I swear today has already had 36 hours in it! ... We started out, as usual with the breakfast thing. Then room cleaning, laundry, changing towels. We finished with all that, along with checking in several rooms, about 12:30. And that's when the fun began.
We bundled up and hit the trails. Beautiful! ... Beautiful. It was a great ride. We headed south and explored some of the trail south of Grayling we had never been on before... there was just a small section that was rough - I believe an area that the DNR is responsible. It was easily forgotten once we got back onto the Grayling groomed trail. Both Gaylord and Grayling trails we were on today were smooth!.. White! .. We saw a few deer that ran across the trail in front of us, and I had my camera with me... but I was not up to speed today, and it never came out of my pocket. I've been feeling a little off lately... as evidenced by Mike leading all day today. I was quite content with following.
I do wish we didn't have responsibilities cluttering up our next two days. I would love to get back out and enjoy these great trails. We have only two empty rooms tonight (Tuesday!) and everyone we have talked to say they have enjoyed great rides in all directions.
We got back to Rays Retreat at 5 to a very spirited Sparky. Poor fella has not had alot of exercise lately. With the cold our walks have been short, with the work around Rays Retreat the walks have been short, with guests needing attention time spend with Sparky has been short. Its a good thing he's such a good natured fella. And always forgiving.
I had time to fill bird feeders and put my feet up for 35 minutes before heading out for a 2 1/2 hour meeting. sigh..............At least that is one meeting down.
The cold and snow are staying with us consistently through Thursday. We have over two foot of snow - before tonight's accumulation - so there will be snow for another weekend.

Week of Meetings

2007-03-05T19:17:00.000-05:00

Snow! .. we have snow. At least two feet out in the middle of the yard and woods. Winter isn't giving up yet.

Today has been bitter cold, a high of only 10 with very strong winds. A storm system coming through tomorrow night with the possibility of another 4-8 inches.

The trails are in great shape. Everyone has been coming in telling us how much fun they've had and how good the Gaylord trail system is. Our hope is that tomorrow we can get out ourselves. But we've got alot of rooms to feed breakfast to in the morning, and I'm sure there will be a few more rooms to clean. We're both determined though to find a way to break out and fire the sleds up.

This is a week of meetings, which I need to start preparing the notes and anything else I was supposed to have completed. The weeks pass so quickly. I have my monthly fire/ems business meeting tomorrow night. And then Wed is the Big Meeting Day. Mike has three meetings that day! and I have two. Sparky, the lucky dog has no meetings this week.

Annie, the dog I was worried about on I75 was found and taken to the Animal Shelter. I talked to them today and family was picking her up sometime this afternoon. That took a big concern off my heart. Annie was in a vehicle that had an accident.... she was scared and ran away. Deep snow, the cold, the traffic, wild animals all had me worried for her safety. Sparky understands the horror of spinning in a car out of control (let alone one rolling over several times!). Just ask him about it.

Forever

2007-03-04T19:29:00.000-05:00

Married 35 years today!

When our kids were teen-agers falling in love for their first/second and third times and always thinking it was the 'forever' love I liked to tell them: "The younger you are when you get married --- the longer forever is" (although in today's world I'm not sure how serious people take the word forever ... or if they actually realize what FOREVER really means.

I understand that sometimes circumstances beyond one persons control make forever an impossibility. . . oh, I do understand!

There's no special secret to our being married 35 years besides the fact that we are both tenacious people. We hang on, we endure, we are stubborn.

35 Years Sounds Like a Memorable Occasion doesn't it? A Special Celebration perhaps, a special effort for all the special moments that brought you to the 35 year mark.

I'll tell you what 35 years brought me... a man who calls himself my husband who had no idea today was our anniversary. I did get the joy of preparing breakfast with him to serve 35 people. We cleaned the kitchen together and then started cleaning rooms. Ten rooms cleaned by early afternoon when we had to sit down and take a break. During the break everyone checked in that was coming in for the day. It was now 4 p.m. and he suggested an anniversary dinner out -- after a full day and weekend we both agreed Pizza Hut was enough to satisfy our hunger. He even picked up the tab. Back home again, Sparky's walk, a shower... settling down with aching bones. When the phone rings and wouldn't you know it? One of the rooms we hadn't cleaned is the room these people want Tonight! ... so my husband looks to me to meekly suggest we start cleaning again.Isn't this every woman's dream of a 35th anniversary?

Bottom line. We married for love. And we're still married because of love...... BUT!
and that's all I'll say. The 'rest of the story' I've shared (along with anything/anyone else that irks me and can't print on this blog for fear of incriminating myself)for 35 years with my crazy cussin in Indiana. She knows it all. She'll back me up when I say one minute Mike was leaning over the boat bringing a fish in... and the next he was gone in the water with the fish. She'll validate that we spent hours rip roaring around the lake trying to find them.. the fish and Mike. Never to be seen again.

I don't want any of you without a sense of humour to take that last paragraph seriously. Really.
Mike is a good man with a good heart. A terrible memory - both long term and short term are long gone. He's always been trustworthy, dependable and a loving man. He just sometimes forgets .... and that's why I'm here ... to keep reminding him of who and what's important.

Last Full Moon of the Winter

2007-03-03T15:45:00.000-05:00

I was just checking my Farmers Almanac which tells me tonight's full moon is the last of this winter season.
Doesn't that make you sad? It sure does me, and I won't even tell Mike. It could throw him into a deep depression. I'm having to slowly 'transition' him into the reality that winter will be moving into spring..... eventually.
This full moon is also known as the Full Sap Moon - because the warmer temps starts the maple sap flowing,
and a Full Crust Moon as the snows ground cover turns crusty from daytime warming temps.
Ready or not the temperatures will start to rise, the ground begin to warm and earthworms will replace the snow.

Busy Weekend

2007-03-02T20:26:00.000-05:00

It's going to be a busy weekend up here in Northern Michigan. I'm not sure what is bringing all the people up, besides fresh snow and great trails.
There is the drag races out on Otsego Lake tomorrow. We're going to try to slip away for a short time tomorrow just to take a look. Maybe get a few pictures. I think the last time Mike had talked to Joe/Parkside there was 18 inches of ice. I always like to know there is ALOT of ice before I'll go out... just something about falling through with 25 pounds of extra heavy winter clothing, and ice trapping me sends shivers and horror through my mind. I'm sure I was trapped in the Titantic in another life.
We've also been told The Hiberians (not sure if that is spelled right... since I had never heard of them before this year! ... ) are having a big dance affair this weekend.
The sun actually came out for a few hours this morning. Yesterdays winter storm was a real mess through the late afternoon into early this morning. Wind was huffing and puffing up to 40 mph. Several powerlines went down.
We were actually prepared - flashlights set out and in working order. Extra water set out and bottled.
Farmers Almanac called for last weeks storm and this week's. They also say we'll have snow in April. . .

Two Pens

2007-02-28T20:29:00.000-05:00

This cartoon was sent to me...............everyone that knows me at work knows I have 'a thing' for pens... especially nice pens. So they thought I would enjoy this little cartoon about a naughty pen. ... and I do.

Another Winter Storm.... headed for Michigan

2007-02-28T20:11:00.000-05:00

Its an exciting time again, with another winter storm headed into Michigan. We're under a Winter Storm Warning, and we're all hoping that the precip we get is ALL SNOW.

Many of you will have already this... so please be patient. I wanted to include my trail report from Monday (for my mother who only reads this blog and not the reports). So here it is the trail report from Rays Retreat Country Inn Monday Feb 26.

We rode 84 miles today. I won't say enjoyed because (and before you start saying what the ?!@# ... noting that I had labeled the trail conditions good... read through this entire report. Alot of it was miserable riding.

It was pretty. Pretty Rough. Groomers must have slept in this morning. The entire ride over to Dingmans (M72) was miserable. We kept thinking about turning around, but we haven't been able to get out and ride that much. So we persevered in hopes of improvement. Stopped into Dingmans to eat where there were several tables of snowmobiles who were all complaining of a rough ride from either direction.

We left Dingmans, getting back on trail 79 heading north and hallelujah!!! A groomer. Sweet riding for the next ten miles, then started getting rough again, and then there was another groomer. Great riding for the next ten miles until we hit trail 4 when it turned miserable again.

I tried going fast (the theory of flying over the bumps), slowed down... either way, it rattled my bones. I just wanted it to end.

Several of the trails which are shared with oil truck roads through Lakes of the North had been plowed down to the bare road!!! What is that all about. I can't remember seeing that this whole season. Did they forget its still snowmobile season and it is a designated trail they share their road with?

One had plowed up an embankment so steep you had to be a stunt rider... I came up on it so quick, didn't realize what was happening and was up and over without spilling. And then proud! then furious! and finally just relieved.

The roller coaster hills along Mancelona Rd were pretty much bare ice from the drifting snow, so be careful.

As we came off Lynn Lake Road, back onto trail 4 through the woods, the groomer approached. The remaining ride home was good. At this point, I was just too exhausted to enjoy it.

The groomers were out that evening and when I went into work at 7:30 Tues morning I saw them both out on the trails. Riders enjoyed their rides Tues. Today it reached 33 degrees and sunshine so the snow was soft, mushy and in some had actual wet spots.

So the approaching storm is appreciated. Hopefully it will dump cold snow.

The life of a dog

2007-02-27T21:42:00.000-05:00

It's been Mike and I all day. Ann was out of here early this morning. Saw her again about 4 p.m. for a brief hour and a half and then she took off again. She came back home shortly after 9 and has gone to bed.
I just don't know what keeps her so busy. I do have some fresh dog food tonight, and a great new chew bone so I guess she went to the store. Heard her talking about 'work', med sheets, end of the month. So she must have put some time in at the home. When she kissed us as she headed back out the door at 5:30 she said EMS training. Why can't she just stay home with us?
No wonder she's always tired!
I much prefer a more fun loving, easy going lifestyle. Just let the people come to me - feed me, play with me, pet me, love me and tell me how beautiful I am. The life of a dog is pretty darn good.
----------------------------------------Sparky T. Ray

Pretty Ride

2007-02-26T18:26:00.000-05:00

If you've read my trail reports... you already know I said it was a pretty ride today. The picture with pine trees on either side of the trail was a section where it had not been groomed.
And then I took a picture of the freshly groomed trail. Is there any prettier sight? So smooth, no marks at all. Flat. It makes your heart jump with joy.

I am too worn out to write much tonight. You can read my trail report at www.sledtheweb.com
Give me a piece of cheese because I am set to whine.... My head aches, my neck aches, my shoulder aches, my arms ache, my hip aches, my leg aches.....................oh this aching old body can't take rough trails.

For my friends and coworkers

2007-02-25T19:28:00.000-05:00

Have you noticed life seems to group things in cycles? ... You enjoy a quiet space of time where nothing much is happening. then. Deadlines all happen within days of each other. Emergencies pile up one after another. Death even seems to come in groups (of three if you're really superstituous).
When you work in the geriatric field death is a repeatable fact of your working life. That doesn't make it any easier to handle, emotionally and physically. It takes its toll. This past month has been a difficult one for all of us at 'the home'. We have had several of our residents leave us as they finish one of the two things that everyone says are always inevitable (death and taxes). For some, it was a first time experience. For many of us, its one of the many good-byes we have had to experience.
It hurts. It hurts to loose some that has become a part of your daily life. For the full time staff they have spent day in, day out with these residents. Residents who within a short time become family and friends. For most of them they see more of us, than they do of their own families. They know our daily moods, family, pets, hopes and dreams. We know of their families, moods, disappointments, lifetime success. It is us who help them with the most intimate details of daily living, and it is in those moments that we bond over the fragility of the human body.
It is hard work. Emotionally and physically. The day to day bending, lifting, and listening.
Most of what you read in the press and news stories are about the defeciences, the horror stories of long term care facilities. Rarely, do you hear of those dedicated, compassionate workforce that make up the backbone of these homes. Never do you see the tears and heartache they have felt as they watch a failing resident loosing their grip with life on earth. Never do you hear of the grace and dignity they have granted a loved one as their bodies fails them.
So many times you hear: "I don't know how you can stand to do this kind of work!" .... Thank God there are people who are willing to put others before themselves. Thank God there are those who are willing to care enough to hurt and cry each and every time.
I want to let those workers know that when you say.. "I just don't know how long I can keep doing this" please remember....
Bless You, Bless You, Bless You. Let God wrap you tight in his arms. Let your weary body relax in his strong grasp of strength and love. He will renew you. Let his Spirit return you refreshed and know that you are blessed. You are blessed to minister love, caring and compassionate. How fortunate we are to be able to share so many lives, and whisper a farewell as another journey starts.
And just think...........when its our turn to pass over those gates... how many will be there to greet us and welcome us!!!

Fresh Snow

2007-02-25T19:24:00.000-05:00

Its been a great weekend, again. Best of all we have fresh snow, several inches. It doesn't get any better than when its new snow and I can roll in it, bury my face in it, and it goes flying all over.
This picture was taken last weekend when we had family in for a visit. The Blue Bundle is Lyndy (Mike and Ann's baby girl) the little blue bundle on the sled is Daylen (3 year old grandchild) .. of course me, and down the path is Bourbon. Daylen's dog. We were out having fun together.

If you can keep your head

2007-02-25T14:16:00.000-05:00

If you can keep your head when all others around you have lost theirs,
its quite possible you haven't grasped the situation................................................................................

Frenzied Excitement Storm Warning

2007-02-24T19:50:00.000-05:00

"They" tell everyone I act like a crazy guy! HA! You should see Mike when he's anticipating a winter storm. Talk about frenzied exciting crazy man! ...

First we watch the weather channel.

we watch 9&10 weather,

then he flips over to 7&8 weather!

and then excitement builds.... Warning! Warning! Storm Approaching....

Tilting, Twirling, if he could do cart wheels or if there were room in here.. that's what he'd do. The storm is centered still a little south of us... although 7&8 is calling for 4-8 Inches. Just what we need.

Quiet Weekend

2007-02-24T15:19:00.000-05:00

This has been a quiet Saturday along the trails. The thaw we had earlier this week maybe kept people at home, or concern about the storm system moving through Michigan as the weekend progresses. Either way, its made for some good riding for those out on the trails and not having to fight the traffic that is usually out there. We had a few cancellations, but other filled in those rooms. Leaving us with only 3 empty rooms last night.
Mike is just heading out to take a quick ride down to Waters, to look over the Vintage Snowmobiles and have a little fun on the trail.
Its a beautiful afternoon. Sunny, slight breeze and 24 degrees. Sparky and I enjoyed our walk this afternoon. Of course, he always enjoys himself whatever. He met up with his friends Dancer and Sassy. He came in, finished up his food and is now taking a nap.
We said goodbye this morning to a great group that was with all week from the Maple Summit Snowmobile Club out of Pennsylvania. They called home before leaving and heard the news that they'll be returning to snow! Ruth put on 543 miles on her sled this week, despite the one day of 'spring thaw'... excuse my language!
Spring is considered a cuss word around here until at least middle March.

Laughter in the New Year

2007-02-23T21:17:00.000-05:00

Chinese New Year was this week. It's the Year of the Pig...... Again, a Happy New Year. May it be a year filled with excitement, joy and laughter.
"When you do what you love, you can pull back the bed sheets every morning feeling excited about beginning another day, and you'll be filled with a heartfelt joy that is highly contagious,
Just like when you start laughing out loud, and you make someone else start laughing, and then someone else,
until you are laughing so hard that your eyes water,
you get terrible stomach cramps, its hard to breathe,
and you can't stand up"..................................................Bradley Trevor Greive

and isn't that just the best fun? enjoying laughter with friends/loved ones?

Blustery Day

2007-02-22T19:30:00.000-05:00

What a difference a day makes!
Yesterday's sunshine and 42 degrees made a sloppy mess of the trail system in most spots. There was still plenty of deep white snow in the woods and on two tracks which is where many people went tothe still be able to enjoy their snowmobiles.
The forecast was calling for a cold front to come through overnight and bringing with it snow. YAHOO, for once they were right! What a relief to wake up to cold air and snow. We were in a Snow and Blowing Snow Advisory until early afternoon. Blustery wind guests up to 40 mph knocked out power lines and made visibility zero.
Several riders headed out this morning and were gone all day.
We had five rooms to clean after breakfast and the usual chores. Our plan was to get the work done and then head out for a few hours of riding to check the trail conditions.
We had finished the downstairs. Just started on the upstairs when my pager went off. Rollover on I75. The roads were awful... icy, snowy and wind blowing hard. It didn't slow up any of the traffic. They were driving like at the race track. My gosh. We just took both lanes trying to slow things down as we approached. Nothing like stepping out (truck pulled over on the side... ) and stepping into knee deep slush snow. Even when police car, our emergency vehicles were in place... it didn't slow them down much. Its a miracle there wasn't another accident.
Lucky people. Their truck was demolished. Smashed, and roof separated from the rest of vehicle, debris everywhere. Seatbelts make a difference.
We got back to the hall and got to work cleaning the truck and paperwork. Hadn't finished the paperwork when the pager went off again, and we were off.
It was now 4 pm when I returned to Rays Retreat. Mike had finished cleaning. It was time for Sparky's walk. Finally, we got around and headed out for a quick ride. At least we were able to get out for a spin on the sleds. It was an enjoyable ride.
We took trail 7 up to Mancelona Rd (a dream)... the trail base is ice with the 2-3 inches of snow on them made for a flat trail. At Mancelona Rd, we turned back southwest on trail 4. Again good riding... only one open water hole. Easily skirted. A short area where you had to be careful due to ruts from oil trucks (yesterdays thaw). We rode to Lynn Lake Rd. and then back over and up to trail 7 and home.
We stopped into The Keg for supper, and talked to a nice couple there who had rode 100 miles today. They had been over to Alba and back. They said their ride was overall good. A little more rough and a few more open spots over towards Alba... with the best riding from here to Starvation Lake.
We missed seeing tonights weather since we were out riding. But I do know its not going to warm up! Good News, and a major storm system headed this way for the end of the weekend.
We've had some cancellations for this weekend and that's okay. Bottom line is that we would rather have people cancel than be disappointed. Everyone has their own opinion of what is good riding.

Refrigeration System

2007-02-21T10:45:00.000-05:00

The sun is shining... Snow people don't!

It was a cold start this morning with just 10 degrees at 7 am,, 14 degrees at 8 am, and at 10 am it had zoomed up to 26. Going up into the 30's this afternoon.

There is still snow, and ice under alot of the snow on the trail. But there is now much more dirty snow, and bare dirt and a few water holes to make the riding a challenge at times.

Lots of snow to be found on the two tracks! which is what alot of riders did yesterday.

We are hoping the weather man is right and the cold front comes through tonight bringing with it snow. It wouldn't take much to improve the trail conditions. This is the last warm day, according to the tv. And then it turns cold. Hopefully this storm system will dump on us with SNOW!... right now its looking like we'll stay cold enough for that to happen.

But who knows? Not any of us mortals. Its enough to drive these two mortals crazy... like the cartoon we need to come up with a refrigeration system for the trails. Like they use or the tobaggon runs. Then we could enjoy snowmobiling until April 1 when the trail system officially closes.... ah well, if wishes had wings I'd be flying where I didn't have to worry and fret about cold and snow.

Sleepless Night

2007-02-20T18:17:00.000-05:00

I had a great walk this afternoon. Went down and saw my friends Sassy and Dancer. Sassy and I raced around here and there, up and down. It was nice enough Ann and Sue didn't even wear hats.
I had been rather sluggish before my romp with the collie girls. I didn't sleep much last night. Somehow, Someone shut the door to the bedroom and I was left out in the living room by myself -- ALL night.
The couch is comfortable, and I can sleep on there just fine BUT I was upset that no one seemed to miss me, or want me.....so I was awake....
come to find out this morning. Mike just forgot about me! How could he forget ME?

Snow Chanting

2007-02-19T19:57:00.000-05:00

It doesn't seem like we've been able to get out and do much riding yet this year. The season is just beginning, isn't it?
The past several days have been very intense with a full house since Thursday night, and continueing through tonight. That means lots of work and very few free minutes. Add in a visit from family and it turns into a whirlwind of trying to keep up with all that needs to be done.
We had to eat tonight... and all the guests expected in today had arrived so we shrugged off the heavy weight of exhaustion and put our snow gear on and headed out the door. We rode down to Frederick to eat our supper.
It was a good ride. The groomer had just been thru so there were very few bumps. The ride back home was even better because it had gotten a little colder and we weren't moving around as much. We both agreed - it had been too short of a ride, but felt great getting out on the trail. It was alot of fun for a short while.
The trail is showing alot of brown... but its brown snow. Very ridable.
It was sunny today and warmed up to 32 degrees. Sun - Sun - GO AWAY! Colder temps come to STAY. That's our chant.

Take a Deep Breath... and be grateful

2007-02-18T22:23:00.000-05:00

Have you noticed? Its the simple things in life....that make life possible? ... for instance, the simple ability to breath in, breath out. To take a breath without effort, without thought is something most of us do continually. YET,

there could be a time it isn't so simple. When our lungs fill up, when our bronchial tubes close up, when... breathing is not simple. Breathing is a tremendous effort and suddenly becomes a panic filled exercise in trying to live.

And I am grateful tonight that despite my tired aching body I have been able to breath in and out all day without any thought of concern. This day, I am blessed to be able to live and breath.

Sunday Evening

2007-02-18T20:37:00.000-05:00

I've been having a great couple days. Its been incredibly crazy busy around here with people, family, dogs and kids!

Ann and Mike have been whining they're so tired. Not me! .. I should be out of sorts - due to so much commotion my schedule was all off today. We had to say goodbye to the kids! and dogs! .. then Mike and I were busy all day cleaning rooms, doing laundry, going shopping, checking people in and I didn't get my walk of the day until 8 p.m.! And I ate after that! That is way off schedule. But at least I ate before Mike and I .. they just finished their sandwich.

We've still got plenty of people around. . .
I'll be going into town tomorrow. Yup, a visit to the vet. I love that place. They all love me too, and I get my favorite treats - Puparoni! Get to see dogs and cats! Can't wait. Don't worry... I just need something called 'yearly vaccination'....

Sparky T. Ray

Smoking Allowed?

2007-02-16T20:44:00.000-05:00

No Smoking

2007-02-16T20:31:00.000-05:00

Another Friday evening has arrived. It doesn't seem that long ago since the last Friday.

We had a few rooms to clean today, one of them being a non smoking room that we had people in Monday thru this morning. They had requested a non smoking room. There was a couple non smoking rooms available. They were asked again at check in if that is what they wanted, and the answer was yes.

So, WHY did they smoke in the room?!

Very frustrating. We've worked very hard at airing it out, and hope we are successful. But why do people have so little regard for others?

Makes me understand a little more clearly why people are getting more adamant about making everything non smoking except your own home. Its people like this (who just think rules/ good manners are not required of them) that make life a little more impossible for sensitive people.

Sir Reginald Mic-Ski

2007-02-16T20:22:00.000-05:00

Isn't he cute? Joe and Roxanne S. have sent us a pic of their new arrival. Isn't he adorable? A full blooded blood hound! I've never met one of those fellows before... Ann and I did look up a little info on their breed since she hasn't met one either. Very impressive heritage. He's a sleeping beauty. I hope I'll get a chance to meet him in person when spring comes and Joe and Roxanne come back up north.Can't wait until we can rough around little fellow... ; although it looks like you're going to grow fast and big.

Bark to Boomer

2007-02-15T20:08:00.000-05:00

I've made another friend! Boomer, who lives over at Lakes of the Norths reads my blog! ... A Friendly Bark to ya Boomer, and if you ever get over this way stop in and see me. I'm sure we could have fun.

I'm very excited! My sister, Lola is coming up Saturday. I haven't seen her since early November and then it was just a quick overnight visit. Her and I tussle around, chase each other and have such a good time. Can't wait..... she has an older sibling that isn't much fun. Those old gals just don't enjoy a friendly tussle now and then.

Of course, tomorrow starts the weekend and I love those weekends when the motel is full of people. Hope to see you soon.

Cold Day

2007-02-15T19:47:00.000-05:00

It was definitely a cold start to the day this morning with a brrrrrrrrr -10 temp when Sparky and I first headed outdoors. It was a quick little outing.
Mennonite Dan responded with a comment to yesterday's My Favorite Things entry so if you're interested in hearing from him, check it out. Keep in touch with us Dan and hope you get a chance to get back out on those western snow trails. Send us a picture if you do!

I saw the groomers out this morning when I headed into work at 7:30 a.m. So that is encouraging. Most people returning from rides today report they had good rides, but noticed more rough areas than earlier in the week.

All the staff (at the home) let me know it was snowing today (they all think I am directly responsible for each snowflake... since they know how much we like seeing them). We got about an inch of new snow by the end of daylight. We really need some fresh snow to whiten the trails up again, and give the groomers more to work with along the trails.

Trails are still snow covered, more snirt showing and as you ride east the snirt increases where they have had less snow.

Uneventful Day

2007-02-14T20:40:00.000-05:00

It was an uneventful day. Not the day I had planned - but life has a way of changing plans and you/ve got to be flexible.

It was a bitter cold start to the day. After serving breakfast, we had a few rooms to clean, and then laundry. We had a few rooms expected to come in thru the afternoon. We did get into Gaylord and enjoyed a nice lunch at Sugar Bowl. Love their raspberry pie.

About 3:30 we were able to suit up and go out for a quick ride. We were out for about an hour just on trail 7 and 4 right close by, and several of the two tracks. Took time to play on the hills for a short bit.

Trail conditions on the short distance we traveled was not as good as it had been Monday. It was a rougher rider. We saw just a few sleds. I saw the green groomer sitting where it parks overnight when I came home from town about 2 p.m. Its usually still grooming...

I'm going to bed happy though, just had phone calls from all three of our kids. And two of them are going to be coming in on Saturday for a visit. That has improved my birthday spirits tremendously. Having them here will make Sat seem more like my birthday than today! It doesn't seem like birthday without friends and/or family to share it with.

Mike got a little wild, and thought he was a stunt rider. HA!

My Favorite Things...........parody

2007-02-14T12:56:00.000-05:00

This parody was written for Julie Andrews birthday... thought you might enjoy it.

Maalox and nose drops and needles for knitting,
Walkers and handrails and new dental fittings,
Bundles of magazines tied up in a string,
These are a few of my favorite things.

Cadillacs and cataracts, hearing aids and glasses,
Polident and Fixodent and false teeth in glasses,
Pacemakers, golf carts and porches with swings,
These are a few of my favorite things.

When the pipes leak,
When the bones creak,
When the knees go bad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don't feel so bad.

Hot tea crumpets, corn pads for bunions,
No spicy hot ood or food cooked with onions,
Bathrobes and heat pads and hot meals they bring,
These are a few of my favorite things.

When the pipes leak,
When the bones creak,
When the knees go bad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don't feel so bad.

Back pains, confused brains and no fear of sinnin,
Thin bones and fractures and hair that is thinnin
And we won't mention our short shrunken frames,
When we remember our favorite things.

When the pipes leak................................................................................................
when the bones creak,........................................................................................
When the knees go bad,
I simply remember my favorite things
And then I don't feel so bad!

You can be thankful I didn't sing this for you... I'm sure your voice is much prettier.

Valentines

2007-02-14T11:59:00.000-05:00

Yesterday at 'the home' a class of third graders came to make Valentine boxes with our residents. Remember those days?
We used to use the half gallon milk cartons or shoe boxes then spent a night with paper, scissors and glue decorating our boxes with slots placed on top to drop the Valentines in. That was a night's work, and another night was spent picking out Valentines for those special friends and then addressing one for each one in the class.
Valentine's was a fun holiday, having a birthday just made it a party to share with everyone.
Hope you're enjoying your Valentines Day with someone who loves and appreciates you.

Happy Valentines Day...

2007-02-14T08:17:00.000-05:00

Have a Golden Valentines Day....................................................................love, Sparky

Misunderstanding

2007-02-13T20:56:00.000-05:00

Well, I've had a word with Ann and Mike. They just don't understand me and the social animal that I am. Here's what happened: Mike and I were outdoors. He was busy taking trash out and I was frolicking in the snow with a pop can. You can't imagine how much fun that is - tossing it high into the sky and then digging it out of the snow. Mike was ready to go back inside, and I just wasn't. It shouldn't have been a problem, but someone had a problem with my decision to not come inside with him.

He called me to come in with him, and I wasn't ready to go inside. I really don't think we had been outside that long. The snow is just so much fun. I couldn't believe he was really ready to go inside... so I stood there looking at him for a few minutes to make sure I understood what he wanted. Sure enough, he wanted us to go inside. I ran out to the woods. By this time, he was really hollering loudly, it was embarassing. I stopped again, looked at him and said: "You go on in, I just want to check the neighborhood out, might stop in and see my friends. I'll be home later. See ya".... and continued on through the woods and out onto Circle Drive and around to North Shore.

Before I made it to my friends Sassy and Dancers, I decided to meet someone new. You can never have too many friends. I went up to a house where I knew a dog lived... and guess what? They invited me in! I had a great time with them. I got up and played on their bed and just got to know them - a very nice couple with a very nice dog.

In the meantime - I guess Mike was frantically looking for me. I don't know what he was so worried about, and I know it was just worry that had him so upset. He even got in the truck (after he couldn't see me anywhere) and drove around the housing development two (2) times. After the second time, he returned thinking I might have returned. That's when the nice lady I was visiting called over (I didn't know it but Ann has my name and phone number on my tag) and let them know I was at their house playing.

I soothed things over with Mike by surprising him early with his Valentine chocolate. We're best buds again, and hopefully he will have learned a lesson! ... I just need to get out and visit.

A weekend at Rays Retreat

2007-02-13T19:40:00.000-05:00

Thanks to M. Cowan for sharing these pictures from their weekend here at Ray's Retreat.

You Just Don't Get It!

2007-02-13T19:25:00.000-05:00

Why do I write this blog?

When we first moved to northern Michigan nearly five years ago and started a whole new life our family and friends back home were interested in hearing what we were doing, what we were learning about innkeeping, and just wanted to stay in touch. I would email different ones at different intervals sharing little stories of our life. Our moms, brother, sister-in-law, friends.. all commented you need to keep writing these down. When they didn't hear from me in a week or so I would get a call or email, hey! what's up... we want to hear what's happening up there at Rays Retreat.

We got our website where we could post pictures to share. We started writing trail reports. During the summer months our guests wanted to know what we was happening up here in northern Michigan... and after requests, we continued writing infrequent newsletter accounts of happenings around northern Michigan and Rays Retreat.

Blogging was introduced to me, and it seemed a natural transition. Friends and family could get daily updates and conversation with Sparky and I. Friends include our guests. Its hard to come and stay with us without leaving a friend. The small intimacy of our little motel makes for a friend after one nights stay.

I blog because I like to write. I blog to share my thoughts. I blog to share our pictures. I blog to stay in touch with family and friends. If you are not family, and if you are not a friend... why do you read this blog?

This is my 'blog home'... I would not presume to enter your home and comment on your opinions or your spouting off. It is your home, that is your right. It is my right to spout off on my blog without rude comments from people who need to get their own blog home where they can spout off at their leisure.

Enough said.

Todays Ride.. Feb 12/Monday

2007-02-12T19:55:00.000-05:00

It was a fantastic day on the trails. We rode 78 miles. Headed out south on trail 7. Trail 7 was a smooth ride all the way to Frederick. We didn't see even one sled for this stretch. Our intention was to enjoy the entire Blue Bear Trail. However, after getting on trail 679 and bumping along for about 15 minutes we took a break and had a discussion. It was unanimous to turn around and return to the Gaylord trails. 679 was a continuous bumpy rough roust-about. No fun at all.

It wasn't long and we were on a county road to take us back over to trail 7 where we headed north. Trail 7 the entire ride into Gaylord was great. We decided to take 4 north over to the north and south loops. Good decision.

I can't say enough for the Excellent trails we rode today. It was the most fun I've had EVER riding snowmobile, and the most fun I've had in a long time.

The new shock on my sled made such an overall difference in the ride, handling of my sled. I felt in complete control. I left Mike in my snow dust (which got me a warning about being careful and not driving too fast). I came up over a little hill and as I came down got the little tickle in my belly (which reminded me of ticklebelly hill in Shipshewana) and had me laughing out loud.

Saw a deer as he crossed in front of me. Luckily he crossed far enough ahead that I was able to slow down gradually and enjoy his graceful descent over a hill and into the woods.

Very few riders, excellent trails, and great sled to ride. It couldn't have gotten any better. A stand-out day.

Friendly Little Reminder

2007-02-12T17:32:00.000-05:00

I would like to just remind those few readers who have a problem with MY opinions on MY blog (well I do share it with Sparky)... that this is not a tv news station, newspaper or any other public opinion forum. It is simply MY (and Sparky's) blog.
You do not pay to read this, you do not even have to read it. So... write your own blog with your own opinions. Read only those things that completely agree with your opinion. Save a little of your time by not reading this blog.

Hotel Ownership -- Chapter XXX -- Dealing with Drunks

2007-02-11T21:43:00.000-05:00

We are in our fourth year of living as innkeepers. There are still always new situations arising to surprise us and make for lively breakfast room conversation.
Mike went to bed last night around midnight. Very tired from a long day of taking care of guests - dead tired. The phone had been ringing for some time before it broke his deep sleep... upstairs guests reporting there was a beligerent person banging, pounding, kicking on an upstairs room door.. yelling also. As Mike stumbled out of bed, another phone call from the Bob's to report the same.
Mike made his way up the stairs - still half asleep, and feeling very cranky as he was woke from such a heavy sleep. He lumbered up the stairs with just his black muscle t-shirt, sweat pants and slippers braving the frigid night air to put an end to this ruckus. The Bobs' were outside their doors, the drunk in the hallway...

Mike escorted the drunk to his room, opened the door and told him to get in and get to bed. After shutting the door, the drunk began hollering at his drunken roommates (for not opening the door for him) when Mike re-entered the room again. This time, he told the drunk... "Put that beer down, get in that bed, shut your mouth and don't make another sound" .. or the cops will be here to escort you to their overnight lodging. A Bob piped up..."and shut off the tv" .. which was promptly done.

Peace restored.

No one saw the occupants of room 31 slink out of the motel this morning... all that was left was a room full (including bathtub) beer cans.

Thankfully, this is the first time we have ever had to deal with a situation like this. This is hopefully the first, and last time!

This is one of the aspects of being innkeepers that just isn't as romantic as it all sounds. Some guests just aren't are pleasant - especially when drunk.

Collie Friend Frolic

2007-02-11T21:34:00.000-05:00

No, this isn't me and my collie friends... for one think Dancer isn't a sable color, and for another my collie friends are actually much more beautiful than these two. This picture does symbolize my collie friends and I who enjoyed a great romp today in the snow.

I also enjoyed watching the Agility Championships on Animal Planet this evening. No surprise to us.. a Golden Retriever won his class. Ann and I are thinking I could easily compete! .. I just need the training.

Its been a busy weekend visiting with everyone that came up north to ride the trails and visit me. It kept me busy checking them in, taking their keys as they left and just welcoming them as they returned from their rides.

Thanks to the Bobs!

2007-02-11T21:31:00.000-05:00

A special thank you to Bob and Bob. For not only giving Mike that little extra push.... otherwise I'd still be waiting until April for a half price helmet! ... and a new shock. .... A BIG thank you for spending the time and effort on the hard cold cement floor of the garage helping put my shock on my sled.
I can't wait to get out and go for a ride. Tomorrow!

Wed... a Holiday!

2007-02-10T18:22:00.000-05:00

This is the first day we've seen the sun this week. Every other day its been snowy, blowing and bitter cold. Today, the sun has been out all day. Deceiving.... Sparky and I went out for our walk and I didn't pile all of my cold snow gear on, just my winter coat, gloves and a stocking hat. It wasn't long and my legs were cold, my toes (just had my regular boots on, not the cozy warm snowmobile boots) , my face and neck were frozen. Much to Sparky's dismay the walk was cut short and returned to the warmth of the motel. I looked at the thermometer .. 14 degrees. Well, compared to last Sat when it was below zero and the wind was 50 mph... that is an improvement.

We did not get out to take a ride this entire week. Well, midweek we each took about a half hour/hour ride separately just so we could take away some of our intense desire to get out and enjoy trail riding. It did help, but we are both dismayed that we weren't able to get in a real ride. That's what happens when we get good trail conditions and others come up to enjoy the trails.

I've declared my birthday, Wed. a holiday for Rays Retreat. We are going to hit the trails. and I'll be wearing my early birthday present. A new helmet, .. and my sled with have its new shock on it. Its exactly what I asked for! (hey, thanks to the Bob and Bob team for giving him a little extra push there!... or I'd still be waiting for the end of the year sales).

Wait! Do I have to work?!... hmmmmmmmmmm.

Grocery Carts with sled runners

2007-02-09T19:09:00.000-05:00

I had the weekly run to WalMart this afternoon where I left a good chunk of my money. And walked out the door with an overflowing cart. As well as the insides filled with bags stacked on top of bags, the bottom shelf had cartons of pop on them.
I had felt extra lucky when I had pulled in and managed to find a parking spot halfway down from the main doors of the store. But now... with a full cart trying to pull it through several inches of snow!!! Pushing wasn't getting me anywhere, so I resorted to pulling... got about an inch then two. Huffing, puffing.. I went back and forth pushing, pulling. I noticed a WalMart worker with his fancy machine taking carts inside, as he walked by I asked if he might be able to help me. "No, I have to get in". ... that's when I began a slow burn. .. I might have ignited but the sweat from tugging on the cart saved me.
I'm planning on giving the manager a call just to let him know next week I'll shop at the other grocery in town where I can easily get help getting the cart through the snow.
If stores aren't going to clear their parking lots clean enough so you can get the carts through, they need to put sled runners on the carts.

Spoiled Rotten Golden

2007-02-09T19:03:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! Its the weekend again, although its getting harder to tell the weekday from the weekend, there's people here all the time. and I love it! just like everyone loves me.

Haven't seen too much of Ann the last few days. I know she say's she working but I don't know.........does it take all day to work? She gets rather grumpy in the evenings and doesn't want to play because she's tired from this working thing. . . . .maybe she should just stay home and play with me.

She walked in tonight with some yummy treats. A great big knuckle bone, some chewies and my all time favorite for when I'm a real good boy... Pupperoni! I guess its okay if she has to work as long as I get treats like this.

Give Me Your Noses

2007-02-07T22:25:00.000-05:00

I am worn out!... so I am sharing another snowman cartoon. Tis the season... for snow!

How did the world survive

2007-02-06T22:49:00.000-05:00

How did the world survive before cell phones? Doesn't it make you wonder? I don't think you can go anywhere and not see/hear people on their cell phones.
I understand their importance when it comes to emergencies. I've had to use mine for those times when a. sliding off the road and ending in a ditch
b. lost and calling for directions
c. calling in someone elses accident
d. what do you need me to pick up at the store
Have you noticed how people just can't stand to be alone at all, and have their phone to their ears constantly... and are jabbering non stop... while they're driving, while they're in the store, when they're dining out, when they're checking in, when they're out on the snowmobile trail and pulled over for a break;
its just non stop. Now they have the fancy little ear phones so you don't even have to hang onto the phone... won't be long and they'll be implanted right into the ear like an earring or a tatto.

Fake Snow Cones

2007-02-06T21:21:00.000-05:00

Cold Full Moon Night

2007-02-06T07:20:00.000-05:00

It was a cold full moon night. Sky full of stars and the land filled with icy cold air. Sparky and I just came in from our first morning walk... very short! I came in and took a look at the thermometer... -10 degrees at 7 am. That's too cold for woman or dog.

hmmmmmmmm its definitely going to have to warm up before I get out on my sled.

Ethical Treatment of Snowpeople

2007-02-04T20:38:00.000-05:00

Blizzardy Day

2007-02-04T20:29:00.000-05:00

After days of winter storm warnings and Gaylord only receiving a few short spits of snowflakes, today we had wind and snow all day! Along with the high temp of only 1 degrees, it feels like its a blizzard day.

We watched our weekend guests pull out onto the very slick roads and wished them all well, along with saying a prayer for safety as they left. Kevin reported it took them about an extra hour to get home to Goshen, IN due to the nasty weather. With the stretch from Grand Rapids - Kalamazoo being some of the worst. (131). Hope everyone else has made it safely home and is warm and cozy inside watching the Super Bowl.

I didn't get out too much today... the cold made my paws burn! ... I would have stayed longer. I can hope very well on three legs, but Ann just wouldn't let me. We didn't go for our usual walk today. I've had to rough Mike up a little to get some fun action.

Your Pal................................Sparky T. Ray..........................................................................

Licks of Love

2007-02-03T21:10:00.000-05:00

One of my Ohio pals left this morning... Terry (and wife Julie). They were with us all week. I'll be watching the calendar for their return in a few weeks.

I've been busy trying to send lots of licks of love down to my birth Mom and Dad... their people Dad is up here this weekend. So I'm sending the kisses back down on Kevin's (Ann and Mike's son, my mom and dad's people dad) face and head. I'm sure Mom and DAd will smell me on him and know that I am happy and loving the living up north.

Cold Friday Evening

2007-02-02T20:32:00.000-05:00

I'm thankful I can ride the trails during the week. I would be a nervous wreck out there today or Saturday. I'm a nervous wreck when I have to drive the freeway when its busy... at least with a car there's a little more protection than when you're on a sled with just a helmet. I don't like the idea of my old creaky bones getting smashed or even cracked a little.
Riders have been returning this evening with reports of too many 'near misses' out on the trails. Corners are icy with all the riders. Mostly stories of riders taking the corners quickly and swinging over and narrowly missing rider coming from the other direction. You can have it! ...
Earlier in the day a snowmobiler was injured over in the Jordan Valley - compound fracture. That's a big OUCH.
I'll be content to stay inside the next several frigid days and hear the stories of psycho snowmobilers. Come mid-week I'll enjoy getting out into the peaceful woods and riding without all that hustle and bustle.

Great Friday

2007-02-02T20:22:00.000-05:00

Its been a beautiful great day! I had Mike and Ann home with me all day. We visited with people this morning in the dining room. They actually asked to see me. I love that.

This afternoon Ann and I went out for our afternoon walk. We stopped in at Sassy and Dancer's house (collies) to see if they could come out and play. Dancer is an older fellow and he's been limping so he stayed inside, but Sassy was ready to romp. What fun! I love jumping and running with her.

Ann and I came back inside and started baking cookies and biscuits. yum.....I just got to smell them, and it was good smelling stuff.

We just went outdoors for a brisk walk under the bright full moon. Didn't stay out long, its only 4 degrees. Ann says we won't be going for long walks until it warms up.

------------------------------------------------------------------Sparky T. Ray-----------

Snowman Baby

2007-02-01T21:23:00.000-05:00

Sparky Says

2007-02-01T21:19:00.000-05:00

Dogs are not our whole life,

they make our lives whole...........................Roger Caras

This is a smart man!.................................................................

Great Day on the Trail

2007-01-31T21:08:00.000-05:00

It was another great day on the trail. No complaints from us. We both enjoy being able to get away and just let the wind, air and sun envelope us with the sweet scent of freedom.

We headed out about 10 am up trail 7 north. A few bumps in the little gully just before Mancelona Road. This is a narrow stretch so you're not going that fast anyway for the bumps to cause any major inconvenience. As you come up out of the gully.. you can see Mancelona Road ahead;

we both noticed sled tracks where people have cut across the railroad tracks right there (instead of following the trail on down to Mancelona Rd and then cutting back south on trail 4). Apparently, they forgot or did not know this is illegal, dangerous and could cost the use of the railroad land for the trail! .. Just take the extra few minutes and cross at the road.

Have you noticed that the trail sign turns to 47 from this point along Old 27 South? Mike says its because this is both trail 7 and 4. BUT, further down towards Lovels there is a stretch labeled 47 too... its rather confusing.

We traveled on into Gaylord. The closer to Gaylord, the dirtier the trail. Its still ridable, smooth, and snowcovered... but very dirty snow. Crossed over the trail at Extreme and continued along Trail 4. Great ride.

Until we reached the intersection of 404/North Loop and Trail 4 headed south. We continued along trail 4 into Lovels and from this stretch on it was rough. I gave it a 2-3 ibuprofen rating (first I've had to do this year!)... and ibuprofen being the snowmobilers drug of choice as evidenced by the many bottles of ibuprofen seen in guests rooms. Less snow also.

Every other time in the past when we've taken this portion of the trail to Lovells we've seen deer. Nothing this year. I did spy a little mouse! ... it must have been traveling across the trail. Neither one of us hit him, but Mike (who was in front) blew him across the trail when he passed and the poor little guy was rolling across when I saw him... rather disoriented, but he shook himself off and started back into the woods. First time I've spied a mouse in the winter woods.

We ate lunch in Lovells and then began the return trip back. When we reached 404 we took it north and had more enjoyable riding.

All too soon, we were home and time to get busy. Busy walking Sparky, feeding Sparky and then playing with Sparky. He's not shy about letting us know he wants attention.

I'm Getting my Own Ride

2007-01-31T21:04:00.000-05:00

I mean it! ... I am tired of being left home alone while they go out riding,

come spring...................

I'm getting my own ride.

And I'll be out of here for a whole day too!

Sparky T. Ray!

Just Nothing Much

2007-01-30T21:29:00.000-05:00

Its cold. A chilling 8 degrees right now, 9:30 pm. This weekend is supposed to be bitter arctic cold so if you're planning on heading north, pack warm.
We'll be heading out on the sleds tomorrow. Still unsure what route we'll take. We do know where we are NOT going: and that is Lewistown. Riders just came in saying they just had the worst ride of their life when they got to the Lewistown trails. Extremely rough going. They're down now taking hot showers and ibuprofen.
They report Gaylord trails are well groomed and good riding.
We just finished up folding the last of the weekends laundry. A day of riding tomorrow, and then we'll be getting ready for another weekend. The lucky ones who have enjoyed the trail during the week will be checking out Thurs/Fri and we start the cycle of a motel life all over again.
The phone has been very busy the past two days with people planning their February sledding get aways.
Can you believe it February arrives in just one more day? How can the first month of the new year be almost over already?

Did You Know...............speed limit

2007-01-30T16:54:00.000-05:00

An interesting face I heard on the radio going into work this morning. Michigan's speed limit on the freeways was changed to 70 mph. But due to the fact that Michigan has no money... they haven't been able to afford to make new signs. So now when you think you're going just 5 mph over the speed limit sign you'll actually be right at the speed limit!

Rather sad, our beautiful state has no money to for new signs.

Michigan Wolf

2007-01-30T16:45:00.000-05:00

Good News for the Michigan Wolf

He's no longer an endangered species in the state of Michigan.

Sparkys Sister Lola

2007-01-30T16:29:00.000-05:00

Hey, my sister Lola sent me a picture of herself and her people Dad, EJ. They finally got some snow down there (St. Joe County Michigan, along the Indiana-Michigan state lines) and Lola wanted to show off that she's been sledding.
Just because she's a little bit jealous of me and my life up here in Northern Michigan. She knows how much I've wanted to go sledding. hmmmm .. I can't even see her sled. Where's it at?
Sparky T. Ray....................

Smooth Riding

2007-01-29T20:51:00.000-05:00

Mike and I enjoyed a quickie (ride) when I got home from work. And it was a good ride.... just 32 miles but enjoyable every bit of the way. We headed out on trail 7 - 47 - 774. The ride along trail 7 and 47 was good, a few bumps along the way but not too many. It was pretty smooth going, with alot of dirty snow along trail 7. With it being so close to the highway alot of the sand and salt gets thrown along there, so its hard to avoid.
Once we got onto trail 774 it was a fantastic ride... SMOOTH. The Princess (who felt the pea-- you got to know your fairytales) would not have found any fault with this trail. It was awesome.
Its a great little ride to the backside of Big Boy.
We stopped in and enjoyed supper and then headed back out on the trail.
The powerlines and ride along the airport was great fun. Through the pine trees very pretty with the pine boughs laden with snow.
I've always enjoyed this trail because its not ridden that much. We didn't see any other riders on it tonight.
We veered off onto trail 4 as we were heading back and rode along it for a ways... again, good riding. A few bumps here and there.
32 miles. A nice little evening ride. Made the day worthwhile.

Trees Kill

2007-01-29T20:45:00.000-05:00

Trees are killers (maybe not premeditated) but they do kill (manslaughter). They stand firm and tall and refuse to move.
This weekend an 8 year old was killed in Kalkaska County on a sledding hill when the sled she and two siblings were sliding down the hill on veered off the path and hit a tree. Despite her helmet she died of massive head injuries.
In Oscodo county a snowmobiler went out of control, hitting a tree. Same results.
Please drive carefully - and watch yourself around the trees.

Dogs in Trouble

2007-01-28T19:27:00.000-05:00

Dan The Man

2007-01-28T19:23:00.000-05:00

We heard from Dan this afternoon. He's happily situated in Oregon where he reports they have a foot and a half of snow. He's settled into a nice apartment. He's close enough to family (in Washington) that they've made a trip to visit. He's also been able to get out and enjoy his snowmobile.
He's missed at Ray's Retreat this winter, but we're glad he's where he can enjoy snowmobiling. Because... what would a winter be if you could not jump on a snowmobile and get out and ride? .. a very dull winter.

Saturday Morning

2007-01-27T15:06:00.000-05:00

Hi! I'm just checking my email while Mike and Ann are busy serving breakfast. Its a great weekend. New snow coming down, and even better a motel full of people. Lots of kids!! You got to love that. ...... what's that I hear? "Where's Sparky?" ...
Hey, Right here I am................gotta go and greet my public. They love me. Just like I love them-----------------------------------------------------Sparky T. Ray------------------------

The Things People Ask

2007-01-26T19:55:00.000-05:00

Of course the world is full of all kinds of people... to make the world an interesting place, right?
We get a call tonight from a lady asking if we have any rooms available for a weekend later in Feb. Yes, we do. Good - she'd like one. She'll be coming in approx. 2 am Friday night, which will actually at that time be Sat AM... and since it'll be Sat. AM she'll only have to pay for one night, right?
WRONG! What she's really asking is if there is a two nights for the price of one. Which there is not! Hey Lady, we can rent that room to someone Friday night. Why would we give you a two for one deal?
Good Luck trying to find a motel that will do that for you.

I sound a little cranky. Guess I am tired. Mike was the one who talked to her, and he was actually much nicer in his reply... but once he got off the phone; well if you know Mike, he had to rant a little.