Four States Fall 2018 (State 1) - 1 - TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN - Family Trip

On our trip to Iceland in March, my sister and I brainstormed as to what special event to do for our mom's 90th birthday celebration. She hasn't been out much past city limits these days, so we decided on a mini-road trip to Traverse City. Lots of planning and coordinating to get the four siblings and spouses together, but we did it.

On Tuesday morning, all but Kevin headed up north to the meeting spot. Mike and I usually stay at the Park Place Hotel, but wanted a more direct view of the Grand Traverse Bay for mom. This time we chose the Cherry Tree Inn, located a bit out of town and on the more eastern side of the bay.

All of our rooms had a lovely view of the hotel beach below, even though it was too chilly for a dip.

Before getting to the hotel, Mike and I stopped in downtown Traverse City at the Park Place Hotel for lunch with Mike's cousin Barbara and her beau. We had a good visit with them. When we arrived at the Cherry Tree, Bob and Lorraine were already there. Mom, Tom, and Laur came along shortly. Brother Kevin had to work and did not arrive til the next day.

Those that were there met in mom's room for a good family chit-chat. Memories and laughter were abundant. Lorraine brought all kinds of fun things to share. Crazy wigs (bro Bob in a wig below, just the orange part!!), jewelry, toys, and a lovely selection of scarves. From those, all the gals got to choose one based on "seniority." As second choice, I got a lovely blue and rust "impressionist" style scarf. It will go with lots of outfits. Thanks, Lo!

Mom, Bob, and Lo went out for dinner and the rest of us hunkered down for the evening. Tomorrow was the big celebration day.