CARAMEL APPLES = FALL FUN!

Just about every harvest festival or fall carnival in Michigan will feature nature's bounty especially abundant in our area which, of course, would be Caramel Apples.

These beauties are simple, delicious and the sure sign that fall has definitely arrived. If you want to make your own there are even kits available at the market - So simple!

EVER FIND YOURSELF FEARFUL?

There are many things in life of which I have become afraid over the years. This bit of wisdom came from Sarah Piver,

"Try this: The next time you notice fear rising, whether it appears as anxiety, melancholy, or anger, stop, grab a piece of paper, and write one short sentence that describes your fear. Start with the words "I'm afraid...," then scribble the first thoughts that come to mind, without regard for grammar or rationale. It could be something such as, "I'm afraid to check my e-mail because I've already got too much to do" or "I'm afraid about an upcoming conversation with my boyfriend" or "I'm afraid I have cancer." Slowly read your words over three times. Take a full inhalation and exhalation after each reading. Avoid any attempt at amping up or toning down your agitation."

Fall in Michigan (and other lovely thoughts)

You have heard (read) me whine occasionally about living in this tiny Michigan village. Some of you may have even commiserated with my 60 mile round trip for a market or 90 miles to a small mall for school shopping. But, when the dust settles and I see leaves turning that little touch of red, my sometimes harsh opinion of Kaleva is softened, if only for a season.

We, the citizens of Kaleva do have essential bragging rights for "the bottle house" which was touted in Michigan Living as lovely and unique to Kaleva, Michigan. One of our two restaurants was included in Michigan Food, but I don't remember what menu item it could've been talking about. We may not have a grocery store, but our main business district boasts an Art Gallery stocked with amazing works of local artists which is located kiddy corner from our Bank and post office. This particular bank is famous for being one of the banks selected by the infamous Bonnie & Clyde during their heyday.

I just thought you should know that Kaleva, Michigan has it's rightful place in the grander scheme of things - and in the meantime - we're still here admiring the little bit of red in the leaves as they head toward fall.

Today, There Is Hope!

According to some people, one of the advantages of living in Michigan is the distinct change of seasons and I was recently reminded of this while raking at the church.

You see, the raking was scheduled for the Saturday before Easter so the lawn and parking lot would look clean and welcoming without the build-up of gray sludge and snow-blown paper. Typical for Michigan, we received another 9 inch snowfall the night before our planned "yard party" which covered blooming daffodils and obviously put the kabash on the lawn raking.

Also typical for this area within two weeks the ground was clear, warm and temperatures hovered around 70 degrees (tropical compared to -30 of winter) allowing us to get the yard cleared and ready for a beautiful summer!

So, while some of us grumble through the ice and snow of a Michigan up north winter - the harsh weather of winter only serves to make spring all the sweeter!

With Summer being our prime focus right about now - stop by Jori-Marks Home for terrific items for summer fun including a beach umbrella, garden umbrella, three styles of buffet warming trays, and several different styles of BBQ tools.