'A Day in Thunder Bay' or 'A Summer Celebration'

The last few weeks were highlighted by the arrival of our passports. Yes, we waited to the last minute and beyond to apply for our ticket to cross the border. And when those tickets arrived, I anyway, was very excited. So combined with my itch to go somewhere different and Joel's idea to celebrate summer, we loaded up our van and took a day trip to Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. A stop to Tim Horton's was definitely in order. It's been a year and a half since we have visited the coveted coffee and sandwich haven. Mmmm...

Next stop, a picnic lunch at Hill Crest Park. It overlooks Lake Superior and the Sleeping Giant. The view was fabulous and it was a gorgeous day, nearly perfect.

(See the large double double in this picture?)

After lunch, we visited some friends (Mary and Duncan), and then it was on to Chippewa Park. There was a small amusement park with a carousel:

and then a Wildlife Center where a raised boardwalk allows you to look down upon the animals in a more natural setting than a zoo. It was mainly North American wildlife, but none of us complained about seeing a moose up close and four Great Horned owls. Lots of fun!

To top off the day was a quick supper in the van, a little bit of shopping, and one last stop at Timmy's. We got home at about 10:30 pm and are now reaping the repercussions of the delightful, yet exhausting day on this beautiful Monday morning. Many tears have been shed today, though none by Mother, so it hasn't been too bad.

Happy Summer to you all and enjoy the last bits of sunshine (such a nice expression, eh Elizabeth?) while you can!