Bruce Laidlaw writes: The weather this week hasn’t been exactly tropical, but it is July. And last night’s view of this 1965 era Airstream camper trailer in Barnes Park almost made me feel warm. All that was needed to complete the Caribbean scene was a Jimmy Buffett song.
Welcome, campers. Hope you’re out and about on the trails, wandering up to the Eastport Market for S’mores makings and pop, swimming in the Bay . . . . OK, it’s too cold for that today, except for the little kids with the metabolism of hummingbirds. Roast a hot dog, burn a burger, light some sparklers. Relax. Be neighborly. Pat Ranger Teddy and mind him. Pay attention when Park Manager Eileen Wallick says something, and mind her. I tell you these things for your own good. You do not want to get on the wrong side of Eileen. You really do not want to get on the wrong side of Ranger Teddy, because then you will be so far on the wrong side of Eileen that you would leave scorchmarks on the sand. Don’t even think about it.
A couple of years ago at this time Miss Sadie took fright at some noisy, and certainly illegal, fireworks and disappeared north. She found her way to Barnes Park, where she roamed around contentedly until Eileen rounded her up. This, you understand, was before Eileen and Miss Sadie became acquainted. At the end of the day, though it broke her heart to do so, all Eileen could do was call Animal Control and have Miss Sadie incarcerated for vagrancy. Naturally the story has a happy ending, but let it be a cautionary tale. This is prime time for accidents and confusion. Please make sure your furry companions—and your little hummingbirds—are right where they’re supposed to be. Have fun. Be safe. Happy Summer.
Park Manager Eileen Wallick and Ranger Teddy
More posts about Barnes Park:
Torch Lake Views 
Beth Toner
July 2, 2009
Gerry, I have to say, Joe and I have a grownup only vacation (long weekend) planned in two weeks, and I am seriously toying with the idea of driving 12 hours to camp at Barnes Park. I am THAT homesick.
Gerry
July 2, 2009
Beth, Beth, it is not healthy to leave homesickness untreated too long. You must find a way to restore yourself with a visit to Torch Lake.
flandrumhill
July 2, 2009
From my office window I enjoyed fireworks that the neighbors set off last night. There’s something about colorful lights on a summer night that lightens the spirit and makes the heart sing. Those tropical trees in the camper park give the same feeling 🙂
centria
July 3, 2009
Happy 4th of July weekend, Gerry! My folks and brother and his family are all in Antrim County for the big weekend. They’ll probably be on the boat watching the firework celebration in Central Lake (if there still are fireworks up there). We did that for many many years. Glad Ms. Sadie was rescued and that she found a new friend on her adventures a couple of years ago. It’s amazing how lost pets can spur new friendships…
Gerry
July 3, 2009
Miss Sadie and the Cowboy are not fond of fireworks, but they think the festive lighting at this campsite is very appealing. There is indeed a fireworks display in Central Lake on Saturday, and if I were not going to Stone Circle I would go to that. In either case, the dogs will have to stay at home dreaming of rabbits.