Hi all from Grand Rapids, Michigan USA. Have been having a great time catching up with Jacqui and Pearce here in beautiful Western MIchigan. Last week went to the very picturesque Mackinac Island for the weekend. We are now certified "fudgies" ,the term given to tourists to the area due to the large amount of fudge purchased by such visitors. We are still trying to work our way through 1lb of fudge but can't make it past the sickly sweet pistachio fudge.

Have been having a relaxing week at Chateau Vander Meeden- 5 star accomodation and highly recommended to relatives who have yet to visiti Jacqui and Pearce. Their home is set in peaceful woods with regular animal visitors being deer, groundhogs, woodpeckers and squirrels. (new animals spotted).Last night we had a gourmet meal with a nice bottle of local St Julian's wine at the Chateau . We are being spoilt!

We are about to head off to Chicago to see a Black Hawks Ice Hockey game and also to check out the Caberet Metro (where I am told the Smashing Pumpkins played their first and last gigs).

After this we are heading to Arkansas to meet up with James' family. Looking forward to this as well.

Lots of Love

Michelle+ James