Mackinac Island
The lure of Mackinac Island begins with the ferry ride across Lake Huron. Upon arrival porters bicycle my belongings to the historic coast guard station, where I will reside as artist in residence with the Michigan State Historic Parks. The hooves of stately horses clop along the streets and charming carriages with dangling tassels and striped yellow canopies cross my path. I am struck by the brightness everywhere-the sun reflecting on freshly painted churches, the expansive white fort, the impressive and colorful Victorian homes, and the breadth of the historic Grand Hotel perched high upon a hill. Purity resides as I bicycle along the outer and inner loop of the island. The natural arch rock and beautiful pines sweep by, the narrow paths rolling through the landscape. Yellow umbrellas dot the teal sky.