A Good Trip "Up North"

You have already heard the addict's lament about the "lost marathon." But, alas, the addict's higher power provides grace beyond measure. So despite the addict's descent into insanity last week, there is much more to be grateful for.

The addict and his Beloved did not cancel their trip to the North Shore. Although the addict would not be able to participate in the marathon, there was no reason we could not enjoy a weekend alone. And the North Shore is a perfect place for such a weekend.

Special preparations were needed. The North Shore's greatest treasures are outdoors and off the beaten path. Getting to these spots can be a special challenge for an addict with a limp. So our first stop was at Gander Mountain where the addict purchased a hiking pole which he could also use as a cane.

The addict settled on the Swiss Flex Pole -- a steal at $12.99.



Although the addict and his Beloved usually like to stay farther north, they were booked at a hotel in Two Harbors, just 22 miles past Duluth. We had a room over-looking the Great Lake and were quite happy to settle in for a quiet weekend.




Friday night's dinner was at the "world famous" Betty's Pies, a wonderful local diner with good food and great pies. The addict had a slice of banana cream while the Beloved tried the cherry berry crunch.

Saturday morning was wonderous! The sun was out and temps were in the mid-70's. PERFECT!!!




We headed up to Tettegouche State Park and spent some time on the rock beach by the Tettegouche Arch.

Then we drove further up the North Shore to Grand Marais where we had lunch at our favorite local spot, The Bluewater Cafe.




On the way back to Two Harbors we stopped to hike up to Caribou Falls. Another glorious sight in the woods on the North Shore.

We returned to Betty's Pies for dinner again on Saturday night. This time the addict and the Beloved both had slices of Chocolate Banana Cream pie.

Sunday brought rain, so we packed up early and headed back to Minneapolis.

But for an addict who had recently slipped into insanity, this weekend brought much to be grateful for:

+ the foot injury is not too serious;
+ time alone with the Beloved is always wnderful;
+ the addict's higher power emminates glory in the outdoors along the North Shore;
+ wonderful food provided extra joy;
+ there was a nice Father's Day celebration upon our return.

Thank you, Higher Power, family, and friends!

This addict is truly grateful!