Mushroom Houses

Earl Young was a builder of unique stone structures, known as the Mushroom houses in Charlevoix. He grew up in an insurance family and went to U of M to study architecture.  He dropped out after one year due to the schools conservative views and returned home.  He went into the families insurance business and also got his real estate license.  He is known worldwide for his unique use of stone and blending of structures to the natural surroundings.  He only once worked outside of Charlevoix.  We had to take a look. Today, it was bloody hot topping 90 degrees and we were determined to see the small mushroom house of particular interest.  If you walk downtown and then head towards the bridge take a left on Park Avenue, you will see great examples of his work.  While walking to find this marvel I kept wondering why I had packed long underwear?  I was drenched in sweat or as my grandmother would say, "I was glowing".  Actually, a much more civilized way of express that particular state of being in my opinion. Finally we reached the baby mushroom and I have attached a photo for all of you!  After seeing the little house myy personal favorite is still a very large mushroom home on Round Lake where we are docked.  The final example that I am excited to see is the world famous Weathervane Inn where we will be dining tonight!  The fireplaces are amazing and the restaurant has great views of the canal. We will let you know how the food is in case you venture up to Charlevoix!  We did have a pick me up at Whitney's Oyster House this afternoon after the big walk  This is a crazy comment but a big kudos to them as they still have classy match boxes!  As a child, I used to collect matchboxes and then lost interest over the years.  During this trip I wanted to get matches from all the places we visited, well no go to that!  Not many places have matches anymore, let alone personalized.  My advice is "hold on to any you have" as they will become bigger collectors items than they already are!  I wish I had my old collection now.  We had their famous whitefish dip and have to say it was just OK.  The capers on top added some flavor, but definitely not enough!  The fellow boaters at the bar were fun and eager to share stories that were hilarious.  I have finally cooled off, Captain David has informed me the wind has shifted and the temperature has just dropped 20 degrees.....in 5 minutes!  That is northern Michigan for you....wonderful.  He also told me to hurry up so we won't be late for our reservation at six.

Blue skies and calm water, Tracy