Day 1518: Big Dipper 2016

The high was 65 degrees and sunny!  There were more people outside today than we've seen since September.  Walking dogs, biking, kids playing basketball and swinging on swing sets, jogging, even fishing!  Last year, the high was 18 degrees!

We took advantage of every moment, walked all over town and even had our first ice cream from the Big Dipper.   The place was mobbed!  Parking lot full and a long line waiting for service.  Then, off to the Point Gratiot.  Dozens of people were strolling on the beach and a few daredevils hiked up the hillocks of ice.  That was dangerous because the ice was undulating from the force of the waves.  Back at home, I was moved to do gardening.  When I cut back several of the grasses without gloves, I sliced my fingers open on the sharp blades.

At 8:15, the fire radio toned out a confirmed barn fire in Sheridan.  They called for mutual aid from multiple departments plus the fire coordinators.  As Steve packed up, we worried about the high winds.  A barn won't stand a chance in these winds.  He was only gone a few minutes when the dispatcher toned out again.  Stand down.  It's a bonfire, not a barn fire.  Thank goodness!   But
how foolish to have a bonfire with such high winds.

I think there's a hint of yellow in the willow.

Just beyond the hillocks is open water.