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  • Best Campground in Michigan

    Best Campground in Michigan

    Ever since I was two months old, I have been an avid camper. Okay, so maybe I wasn’t doing the planning, packing, setting up camp, building campfires, cooking, or hitching up the travel trailer, but I was there for every adventure my outdoor-enthusiastic family went on.

    Sitting by the campfire is probably my favorite thing about camping. Whether it is the smell of fires burning in the fresh air at night in a beautiful Michigan campground, or the smell of the smoldering fires in the morning, my spirit is lifted.

    When I was about seventeen years old, I started tent camping with friends and my cousin at primitive campsites on Lake Michigan and the Au Sable River. Later, once I had children of my own, I began taking them camping as babies, continuing an important family tradition. We started in tents, and by the time my youngest was around a year old, we upgraded to an RV/travel trailer.

    When my mom and I went camping, for most trips we went with my grandparents and my same-age cousin in a travel trailer towed by either a Chevy Suburban or a Ford Econoline conversion van.

    The other times, my mom would pack all our gear into her AMC (American Motors Corporation) Gremlin and hit the road. We camped in a giant canvas tent, sleeping on click-click lounge chairs in our sleeping bags and cooking on an old Coleman stove.

    Whether it was just my mom and I, the whole family, or when with my sons, we camped all across the state of Michigan at mostly State Parks, a select couple of private campgrounds, and on the Jersey Shore or in the Outer Banks (OBX), North Carolina, for two weeks out of the summer.

    Below are some of my favorite State and National Parks to visit, located Up North in Michigan’s lower peninsula:

    • Huron Manistee forest in Oscoda, on the Au Sable River
    • Manistee National Forest, Manistee, footsteps from Lake Michigan
    • Ludington State Park, on the shores of Lake Michigan
    • Lakeport State Park, on the shores of Lake Huron
    • Proud Lake State Park, on the Huron River (close to home)
    • Seven Lakes State Park, for Halloween camping (close to home)
    • Algonac State Park, on the shores of Lake Huron (great pier fishing)
    • Burt Lake State Park, on Burt Lake (which connects to the Indian River, connecting to Mullet Lake, which feeds into the Cheboygan River, which leads to Lake Michigan)
    • Mears State Park, on the shores of Lake Michigan, minutes away from the world-renowned Silver Lake Sand Dunes
    • Outdoor Adventures campground, Standish, MI (private)
    • Haas Lake campground, New Hudson, MI (private)
    • Duggan’s Family campground, Port Austin (near Caseville), MI (private)
    • Highland Recreation State Park, White Lake, MI
    • Pontiac Lake State Park, White Lake, MI

    When we camp in the Manistee National Forest, campsites are first-come, first-served. Basically, you drive down two-track roads (fire roads), find a clearing, and set up camp. But not at the Huron-Manistee National Forest off the Au Sable River, as you need to reserve those sites unless there are boat-to-only campsites vacant. However, when camping at a Michigan State Park, you must make a reservation.

    Michigan State Park & Harbor Reservations shares, “Book your favorite spot! The Michigan state park and harbor reservations site helps you reserve a specific camping site, overnight lodging location, shelter or harbor slip.

    By creating an online account, you can create, view, change or cancel your reservations. Reservation agents are also available to make your reservation or answer any questions you may have over the phone. Please call 1-800-447-2757 (1-800-44PARKS).

    When the booking window opens, inventory becomes available Monday through Friday at 8 a.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 9 a.m.

    • Campsites, overnight lodging and harbor slips can be reserved 6 months in advance.
    • Picnic shelters can be reserved 1 year in advance.

    Harbor slips, campsites and state park lodging not already reserved in advance may be available on a first-come, first-served basis,”.

    Because Pure Michigan’s travel and tourism season is very busy, especially in the summer months, the campgrounds are usually booked and full, leaving no campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you get one, consider it your lucky day!

    Tent camping with a dog

    Before we had our two sons, we had our dogs, and they went everywhere with us – including, and especially, camping. They truly do love it, well, at least my dogs do! I remember when our first dogs, Roxy and Josi, were so pooped from primitive camping all day at the beach and body-surfing the waves of Lake Michigan that they clawed open our tent and put themselves to bed. The following year, we had a little tent for them and left the door open so they wouldn’t wreck our tent again.

    When camping with dogs at a State Park, they must be on a leash no longer than six feet. It is challenging for many dogs, even after proper obedience training. Camping in State Parks can be distracting and over-stimulating because there are usually a lot of people coming and going, other dogs walking by, and endless new sights and smells to explore.

    When we did primitive camping, we could let our furry loved ones be leash-free. I have taught every dog I have had to “stay home,” which means stay near me; wherever I am is home. That way, when we are chilling around the campsite or hiking in the woods, they get to be free dogs!

    Different types of camping

    There are many types of camping, including primitive or backcountry camping, camping in private campgrounds, resort campgrounds, state parks, national parks, camping in your car or van, in a tent or travel trailer/RV, overlanding, backpacking, and even the new type called glamping.

    Dutch Ware Gear defines glamping as, “For those who enjoy nature but prefer to relax in comfortable spaces, glamping — glamorous camping — provides a reprieve from the outdoors during camping trips. You’ll stay in a cabin or another type of accommodation where you’ll have access to beds, electricity, and indoor bathrooms. This option is terrific for families who want to enjoy time together without the stress of setting up or tearing down tents,”.

    Best campground in Michigan

    In conclusion, Michigan’s best campground is the one that brings you peace, adventure, and connection—where campfires glow, memories deepen, and nature feels like home.

  • What States Have All 4 Major Sports Teams

    What States Have All 4 Major Sports Teams

    Hailing from Michigan, I cannot fathom living in a state without a single professional sports team. For goodness’ sake, we are known as “Hockey Town”! We love our pro sports teams as well as our college teams.

    Furthermore, we have highly competitive sports teams, whether we are talking about notable pro teams or college teams, including but not limited to the following:

    • University of Michigan Wolverines (softball, basketball, hockey, football)
    • Michigan State University Spartans
    • Detroit Tigers Baseball
    • Detroit Red Wings Hockey
    • Detroit Pistons Basketball
    • Detroit Lions Football

    Besides Michigan, here are the other states that host all four major sports teams:

    1. New York
    2. California
    3. Florida
    4. Pennsylvania
    5. Minnesota
    6. Texas
    7. Illinois
    8. Colorado
    9. Ohio
    10. Arizona
    11. Massachusetts

    I can remember when New York had three baseball teams: the Yankees, Dodgers, and Mets. The Dodgers went to Los Angeles, California. Cali now boasts five professional baseball teams with the Dodgers, Angels, Athletics, Padres, and Giants.

    Florida has two with the Marlins and the Rays. Chicago has had the same two teams, which divide the state of Illinois’ loyalty among Cubs and White Sox fans. Ohio also has two teams, the Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Guardians.

    Missouri has two teams with the Kansas City Royals and the St. Louis Cardinals. Pennsylvania has the Philadelphia Phillies and the Pittsburgh Pirates. Lastly, Texas has two teams as well, including the Houston Astros and the Texas Rangers.

    I’m always surprised that we don’t have more than one pro team per sport, given that our great Pure Michigan state has two parts: the Lower Peninsula (The Mitten) and the Upper Peninsula (UP). Apparently, a lot of “Youpers” (people who live in the UP) are Wisconsin pro team fans – traitors!

    Wikipedia notes the following regarding Michigan sports teams and that, “Michigan is home to four major-league professional sports teams, all of which play in the Detroit metropolitan area. The Pistons played at Detroit’s Cobo Arena until 1978 and at the Pontiac Silverdome until 1988, when they moved into the Palace of Auburn Hills where they played for 28 years between 1988 and 2017, before moving back inside city limits to Little Caesars Arena in Detroit in 2017.

    The Detroit Lions played at Tiger Stadium in Detroit until 1974, then moved to the Pontiac Silverdome where they played for 27 years between 1975 and 2002, before moving to Ford Field in Detroit in 2002. The Detroit Tigers played at Tiger Stadium (formerly known as Navin Field and Briggs Stadium) from 1912 to 1999. In 2000 they moved to Comerica Park. The Red Wings played at Olympia Stadium until 1979, Joe Louis Arena from 1979 to 2017, and then to Little Caesars Arena beginning in 2017,”.

    We also have “feeder teams” that our pro teams recruit from. Key teams include:

    • Toledo Mud Hens (Triple-A) for Major League Baseball (MLB)
    • Erie SeaWolves (Double-A) for the MLB
    • Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL) for the Red Wings hockey organization
    • Motor City Cruise (NBA G League) for the Pistons basketball team

    Let’s not forget about soccer/futbol! Visit Detroit shares, “Are you a soccer fan (or football as the rest of the world knows it)? If so, check out Detroit’s own professional soccer club: Detroit City Football Club.

    Currently, Detroit City FC is in the USL Championship, which is the tier below major league soccer. There are both men’s and women’s teams, and last year the men’s Le Rouge team made it to the USL Championship playoffs.

    Catch a home game at Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck the next time you’re in Detroit,”.

    Top 10 states with the most professional sports teams

    Well, I am going to guess that California leads in this category as well. For instance, as a football fan, I know that they have the following NFL teams:

    • L.A. Rams
    • L.A. Chargers
    • San Francisco 49ers

    They also used to have the Oakland Raiders, but they moved to Las Vegas in 2020.

    According to Sporcle, below are the top states with the most professional sports teams:

    “1. California (15)

    MLB: Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants

    NBA: Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Golden State Warriors, Sacramento Kings

    NFL: Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers

    NHL: Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Kings, San Jose Sharks

    2. Florida (9)

    MLB: Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays

    NBA: Miami Heat, Orlando Magic

    NFL: Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

    NHL: Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning

    3. New York (8)*

    MLB: New York Mets, New York Yankees

    NBA: Brooklyn Nets, New York Knicks

    NFL: Buffalo Bills

    NHL: Buffalo Sabres, New York Islanders, New York Rangers

    *Both the New York Giants and the New York Jets play their home games in New Jersey. They have not been included in this total. When included, New York has 10 professional sports teams, and would be 2nd on this list.

    4. Texas (8)

    MLB: Houston Astros, Texas Rangers

    NBA: Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs

    NFL: Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans

    NHL: Dallas Stars

    5. Pennsylvania (7)

    MLB: Philadelphia Phillies, Pittsburgh Pirates

    NBA: Philadelphia 76ers

    NFL: Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers

    NHL: Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins

    6. Ohio (6)

    MLB: Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Guardians

    NBA: Cleveland Cavaliers

    NFL: Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns

    NHL: Columbus Blue Jackets

    7. Illinois (5)

    MLB: Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox

    NBA: Chicago Bulls

    NFL: Chicago Bears

    NHL: Chicago Blackhawks,”.

    States without professional sports teams

    Believe it or not, there isn’t a single United States professional sports team in Alaska – not even hockey! States like Alaska and Hawaii do not have professional sports teams because of their location proximity to the rest of the forty-eight states, and travel would be extremely costly for their home teams as well as the visiting teams.

    Other reasons these states lack professional sports team representation could be a small population or rugged, uninhabitable terrain. Other states without sports teams include:

    • Alabama
    • Arkansas
    • Connecticut
    • Delaware
    • Hawaii
    • Idaho
    • Iowa
    • Kansas
    • Kentucky
    • Maine
    • Mississippi
    • Montana
    • Nebraska
    • New Hampshire
    • New Mexico
    • North Dakota
    • Rhode Island
    • South Carolina
    • South Dakota
    • Vermont
    • Virginia
    • West Virginia
    • Wyoming

    What states have all 4 major sports teams

    In conclusion, from powerhouse states like California and New York to those without a single franchise, professional sports continue to unite fans and define regional pride nationwide.

    GO BLUE!

    Go get ‘em, Tigers!

    One Pride!

    Dee-troit Basketball!

    Let’s Go Red Wings (clap, clap, clap-clap-clap)!

  • Health Benefits of Mowing the Lawn

    Health Benefits of Mowing the Lawn

    There are many benefits of mowing the lawn that we will definitely discuss, but for now, mowing the lawn is not necessarily beneficial for my knee health. Currently, I have torn meniscus tears in both my left and right knees.

    Until the tears are repaired either through knee surgery and the use of knee recovery machines or through healing by exploring the benefits of peptide treatments, pushing a lawnmower is out of the question – for now.

    Because of my situation, I bought a riding lawn mower yesterday! For the first time in my life, I will be cutting my own grass. I grew up in a townhome where my mom and I lived for seventeen years, and it had a lawn service, which was a positive benefit, but I did not have a lawn of my own.

    From there, we moved to a flat in downtown Plymouth. We lived in the lower flat, and the guy in the upper flat enjoyed cutting the grass, so I did not have to cut it. Then I married a landscaper, and, of course, he cut the grass.

    When our oldest son was ten years old, he wanted to cut the grass. He has been cutting the grass ever since, and he loves it! However, now that he is twenty-one years old, he has a full-time job and does not have time to mow the lawn anymore, which is why I bought the riding mower.

    According to Psychology Today, “Mowing the grass has mind-body health benefits. There’s something meditative about pushing a mower back and forth across that patch of green. Plus, it’s a practical way to work in a workout while burning some serious calories.

    Back and forth and back again. Focusing on the repetitive movement of mowing helps you slip into a calmer state of mind. Meanwhile, the green surroundings help restore attention and promote a sense of well-being,”.

    Benefits of mowing the lawn, from the perspective of a health workout company (ABC Fitness Connection), “The next time you need extra motivation to mow the lawn, remember this: mowing and trimming your grass can also help you trim your waistline. Pushing your lawn mower acts as an efficient form of cardiovascular exercise, and even comes recommended by the Franklin Institute as a way to work your entire body and improve your heart health. The calorie-burning or metabolism-boosting effects of mowing your lawn vary, depending on your body weight as well as the kind of lawn mower you’re using,”.

    Okay, with a riding mower, I won’t be able to benefit exercise-wise, but I will be able to enjoy the meditative experience. Furthermore, I will get fresh air, more opportunities to talk to my neighbors, and appreciate the social interaction, as well as the much-needed sunshine therapy.

    Riding lawn mower vs push mower

    Besides my knees needing a break, one of the main reasons I decided to purchase a riding lawn mower was that it can be used as a leaf sucker in the fall with a special attachment. I have many trees on my property, which is almost an acre in size – another reason a riding mower is better for my usage.

    Since my sons were little, they helped their dad with leaf cleanups in the fall and spring. After the divorce, I would ask them to continue doing the leaf cleanups for their “old mama” (ha, ha). Unfortunately, they have severe allergies and asthma, which are exacerbated by the leaves, especially in the fall. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on hiring a company, I bought a riding lawn mower.

    Another benefit of a riding mower over a push mower is that I can attach a plow for winter snow removal. However, I have a rock driveway, so it’s a little tricky. Since my ex-husband is in landscaping, in the winter, he performs snow removal and ice management.

    When we were married, after a long night of snow maintenance work, he would back-blade our rock driveway with the plow adjusted so that it wouldn’t be at ground level, in an attempt not to remove or shift the rocks around.

    How to clear snow off a gravel driveway?

    After many years, it was inevitable, and we lost a lot of rocks when the snow melted and slid downhill; hence, we redid the driveway a few years ago. The driveway is a half-circle that heads uphill at its entrance and slopes downhill at its exit, surrounding a beautiful, large oak tree in the middle.

    Bray Topsoil and Gravel suggests that it is possible to clear off a gravel driveway: “Snow and ice can create a number of issues in gravel driveways, such as ruts, potholes, and washouts as the snow melts. And inevitably, gravel will move regardless of whether you remove snow from the driveway.

    Fear not! With a little adjusting to how you remove snow, your gravel driveway will fare just as well as an asphalt driveway would. Here are our top tips for removing snow from your gravel driveway.

    1. Rock salt and melting materials work best. Preparation is always best if you can swing it. Check your snow/ice melt instructions, but many work best if you put them down ahead of a storm blowing into town.

    2. Try a shovel first. The first thing to address should be the top layer of snow. Clear it just like you would an asphalt sidewalk by using a snow shovel. However, once you get to the bottom layers where the snow and ice mix with the gravel, switch out your tools. Then it’s time to…

    3. Use a garden rake. Got snow that’s heavy and wet? A garden rake is surprisingly effective at removing dense snow. It’s also perfect for getting into the bottom layers of snow while keeping the gravel somewhat in place.

    4. Got a snowplow? You can still use it. If you have a snowplow, prepare to rake or shovel the gravel back into place after the storm has passed.

    5. Blow that snow away,”.

    Huh, I never thought about using a rake – what a good idea!

    Health benefits of mowing the lawn

    In conclusion, whether you ride or push a mower, tending your lawn delivers real physical and mental rewards — and a little fresh air never hurt anyone’s outlook.

  • Knee Replacement Recovery Devices

    Knee Replacement Recovery Devices

    As a lifelong athlete and person who enjoys leading an active lifestyle, the fact that I have two torn meniscuses, one in my right knee and the other in my left knee, is not only debilitating but also discouraging because it has severely limited what I can and cannot do on a daily basis.

    In fact, since I am also in the throes of menopause and am suffering from sleep apnea as a side effect of my extreme hormonal changes, I keep gaining weight because I am unable to do any impactful cardio workouts, and my body is in a storing mode with the lack of quality sleep.

    Even though I make sure to go to the gym three times a week using a knee exercise machine and low-impact weightlifting routines, my efforts seem futile. I know that is not necessarily true, as I am strength training and moving, not sedentary, but I do feel disappointed, nonetheless.

    Fortunately, I do not need a total knee replacement. For the moment, I am getting by with cortisone injections and am on a wait list for gel injections. Eventually, I will have to have surgery to repair the tears, but replacement probably won’t happen for another twenty years or so.

    If I were to get a knee replacement, below are the potential recovery devices I would need, depending on the severity, to include, but not limited to the following:

    • Walker
    • Crutches
    • Cane
    • Grab bars
    • Proper railings on staircases
    • Raised toilet seat
    • Shower chair
    • Tub bench
    • Non-Slip bathmat
    • Reacher/grabber
    • Sock aid
    • Long-handled shoehorn
    • Elastic shoe laces or slip-on tennis shoes
    • Dressing stick
    • Long-handled sponge or brush
    • Cold therapy machine
    • Compression stockings
    • Knee slider (helps with knee bending or straightening in bed under the covers)
    • Yoga strap (helps with recovery exercises)
    • Foam roller
    • Bed tray (to eat or work on)
    • Post-op clothing specific to recovering knees
    • Dressing supplies for wound care

    According to the experts of knee recovery devices at X10 Therapy, “Why is X10 so Special for Knee Surgery Recovery?

    It allows you to avoid PT-induced therapeutic pain.

    The program is patient-centric. On X10 the patient is in control in contrast to manual physical therapy where the therapist is in control. So the X10 causes no pain while manual physical therapy can be extremely painful.

    X10 patients get more physical therapy than with any other method (they use it more because it doesn’t hurt).

    The X10 machine restores range of motion so quickly that patients rarely require follow-up procedures for scar tissue (Manipulation Under Anesthesia, MUA, or surgery to remove scar tissue).

    X10 patients who use the machine for strengthening before and after surgery eliminate the typical strength deficit of 30% in approximately three weeks; at the end of one month they have more strength than they did before surgery.

    The X10 restores patient independence in days or a few weeks as opposed to months to years.

    Wirelessly the X10 communicates your progress to your surgeon, therapist and coach daily.

    The X10 is particularly beneficial for patients who have other health problems as these patients are often prone to complications,”.

    *Note: All content within this article is meant for informational purposes only and is in no way a replacement for professional medical or psychological advice or support. Seek immediate and appropriate care from a healthcare professional should you or a trusted loved one deem it necessary.

    What causes a meniscus tear

    As mentioned earlier, I have led an active lifestyle and am an athlete in many sports. Some of the sports and positions I have played since I was eight years old until I was in my late forties, as well as activities I participate in, include:

    • Softball – shortstop, third baseman, left field, and center fielder (forty years)
    • Track and Field – Two-mile relay anchor, fifty-yard and one-hundred-yard hurdles
    • Volleyball
    • Swimming
    • Backyard football (no pads-tackle with the boys when I was a young girl!)
    • Martial Arts
    • BMX bike riding
    • ATV trail riding
    • Hiking
    • Primitive camping
    • Sledding
    • Ice skating
    • Roller Skating
    • Boating and tubing
    • Snow skiing

    Out of all of these sports and activities, playing shortstop in fastpitch softball is probably where I have done the most damage to my knees. Potentially hundreds of times each game, a shortstop must pivot often, go from standing still to a full-on sprint, perform sudden stops and turns, and slam down on their knees frequently to keep the ball in the infield. When I was on the high school varsity team as a starting shortstop, I used to have water on my knees regularly and would ice and get cortisone shots often.

    Sure, running the hurdles wasn’t the best on my knees either, but I did not participate in track and field for as long as I played softball. The hurdles did cause my ankles to get weak, though! Of course, my knees also took a hit with volleyball dives, BMX bike jumps, and ATV trail riding over the whoop-de-doos.

    Let’s see what the professionals have to report on what causes a meniscus tear.

    The Mayo Clinic suggests the below causes and risk factors, “Causes: A torn meniscus can result from any activity that causes you to forcefully twist or rotate your knee, such as aggressive pivoting or sudden stops and turns. Even kneeling, deep squatting or lifting something heavy can sometimes lead to a torn meniscus.

    In older adults, degenerative changes of the knee can contribute to a torn meniscus with little or no trauma.

    Risk factors: Performing activities that involve aggressive twisting and pivoting of the knee puts you at risk of a torn meniscus. The risk is particularly high for athletes — especially those who participate in contact sports, such as football, or activities that involve pivoting, such as tennis or basketball.

    Wear and tear on your knees as you age increases the risk of a torn meniscus. So does obesity,”.

    Yep, I am middle-aged and a bit overweight because I cannot do the cardio necessary to lose the weight as a direct result of my knee injuries. Double-edged sword syndrome – ugg!

    What is the best treatment for a torn meniscus?

    Obviously, avoiding the activities that created the problem in the first place would be my first line of defense in treating a torn meniscus. I also went through a few rounds of physical therapy, received acupuncture treatments, cortisone shots, and have iced as well as rested. Sports rubs and lotions have also been helpful.

    An all-over-body therapy that I do nightly is to sit in my jetted bathtub for fifteen minutes. Then I turn the jets off and dump Epsom salt and essential oils into my bath to soak for another twenty minutes while I do my prayers and meditation to fully relax before bed.

    Knee replacement recovery devices

    In conclusion, understanding recovery tools and treatment options empowers us to stay active, protect our knees, and confidently navigate whatever healing path the future may bring.

  • Are You Allowed to Eat Food on Charter Buses?

    Are You Allowed to Eat Food on Charter Buses?

    The itinerary is locked down, the head count is confirmed, and the driver is ready to roll. In the first few hours, everything is smooth sailing, until the first tummy rumbles. That’s when the charter bus food question inevitably arises. Hanging in the air like the scent of that one passenger’s home-packed tuna salad. It’s one of the great existential questions of group travel: Are we allowed to eat food on charter buses?

    The short answer isn’t really short. Yes, it is generally allowed to eat food on a charter bus, but this permission is almost always governed by a crucial layer of rules: the specific operator’s policy and a heavy dose of courtesy.

    Charter buses represent a huge capital expense for a company. These are considered a crucial asset that needs protection from the worst road-trip scourge: the spill. The difference between a public bus and a charter is that the renter is ultimately responsible for the outcome. So, while the brain is screaming, “It’s a long trip; I need fuel! ” The bus company’s ledger is noting that one spilled soda could mean a non-refundable cleaning fee for a group.

    Rules are in the Rental Contract

    When a group charters a bus, whether it’s for a school field trip or a big wedding shuttle, they secure a private and temporary space. This isn’t public transit with fixed rules. It is a vehicle hired under a contractual agreement. That contract does not just mention a cleaning fee, as it provides details on the boundaries of the on-board dining experience.

    It is important to read that fine print because it is where specific liability clauses and code of conduct rules are. The cleaning fee is the company’s defense mechanism against the sticky horrors of a soda explosion or a curry spill. Simply put, if the bus smells like last night’s takeout, who is going to want to rent it tomorrow? Reputational equity is a serious thing in the transportation business, and lingering odors are a quick way to lose it.

    Navigating the Menu

    Reviewing the bus kitchen means becoming an expert in low-mess and low-odor cuisine. It is advised to have things that are easily contained, don’t smell up the cabin, and won’t stain the seating fabric. 

    Good Snacks

    These are the snacks that generally sail through because they leave minimal residue and have a low aromatic footprint. 

    Dry and Non-Greasy Snacks. Pretzels, granola bars, crackers, and trail mixes are the MVPs of on-board snacking because they are quick and compact, and a few crumbs are easily swept up.

    Sealed Beverages. Stick to bottled water, sports drinks, or soda cans with resealable caps or secure tops. An open cup of coffee or a sloshing fountain drink is a catastrophic accident waiting to happen. A tight-fitting water bottle is everyone’s best friend on a moving vehicle.

    Fruit (The Right Kind). Fruits like apples, bananas, or grapes are perfect as they are contained and easy to eat without a plate.

    Sandwiches with Dry Fillings. A classic PB&J or a turkey and cheese sandwich without excessive sauces or lettuce works well, as these have low moisture content.

    Foods That Might Get You Charged

    These foods are either profoundly messy, aggressively greasy, or have a high stink factor. If a food requires a fork, a knife, or a full napkin stack to consume, reconsider, as it is likely a bus disaster waiting to happen.

    Pungent Foods. For the love of the bus air circulation, avoid anything with a strong smell, such as tuna salad or curry. The next group renting the bus shouldn’t have to smell these for their entire trip. 

    Greasy and Saucy Meals. Pizza, wings, tacos, BBQ ribs, or chili dogs are a hard no, as the mess potential for these items is just too high. Imagine a piece of pepperoni sliding off the slice during a curve; now there’s a grease spot on the seat, which is a guaranteed cleaning fee.

    Hot Beverages. While sometimes technically allowed, hot coffee or tea is a burn hazard on a moving vehicle. It is advised to stick to lukewarm in a secure mug if you absolutely must.

    The Unwritten Rule

    Beyond the company policies, there’s a softer and more human element at play, which is the group dynamics and respect. This is where the emotional cue comes in. Think about the driver. They are responsible for the safety of everyone on board. Showing courtesy means not presenting them with a trash avalanche at the end of a long shift.

    Most drivers will appreciate if your group leaves the bus clean more than any tip. It’s not just about cleaning up each spot but ensuring the entire bus is clear of debris.

    Bring Your Own Garbage Management System. For a very big group, don’t just rely on the tiny bin near the front. Bring large and secure trash bags and appoint a group leader to do a final sweep before the deboard. This simple act reduces the chances of incurring a fee, and it’s the best thing to do to ensure a smooth exit.

    Clean up spills immediately. If a disaster happens, grab some napkins or wipes and address the spill right away. An immediate action prevents a small issue from becoming a permanent stain.

    Mind the Neighbors. In group travel, one’s actions are closely connected to the comfort of those around them. Eating that messy and smelly sandwich might make your seatmate feel nauseous.

    The Bottom Line: Leave No Trace

    The charter bus is a private rolling home for the duration of the trip. You must approach it with the care of a trusted guest in a friend’s new car. The answer to the question, “Are you allowed to eat food on charter buses? ” is a conditional “Yes, but you are accountable for the condition of the shared space.” 

    It all boils down to two simple principles. First, always read the contract to know the specific “no-go” foods and the cost of the inevitable cleaning fee. Second, make smart snacking choices. If a meal is drippy, greasy, or pungent, it belongs at a rest stop, not on the bus. A quick and contained snack is fuel, but a full and messy meal is a potential liability.

    Ultimately, group travel is a communal experience, and the charter bus is a shared environment. By following the two abovementioned principles, the group avoids that painful cleaning fee, and the bus is ready for the next set of travelers. It’s all about leaving the bus in the state you hoped to find it.

  • Best Walking Shoes for Senior Women

    Best Walking Shoes for Senior Women

    Dating back at least twenty-five years, I started wearing shoes that provided the best support for my aching feet after waiting tables all day. Although I am no longer a server, I still seek out shoes designed for shock absorption, such as running shoes, insole supports, and footwear recommended by podiatrists. Currently, I am wearing New Balance, but I am considering switching to Hoka’s as they are what my older cousin, who is a nurse at an elder care facility in Michigan, wears.

    Furthermore, supportive footwear is essential, especially when standing on hard surfaces like concrete. Shoes with proper arch support and cushioning are making a huge difference for me. Shoes specifically designed for people who stand for long periods are built to reduce pressure on the joints and provide better shock absorption, especially as we age.

    My cousin and I are no longer spring chickens, and from what I can tell, we are not getting any younger!

    In addition to footwear, my doctors have recommended physical therapy sessions, which have helped strengthen the muscles supporting my feet, legs, and lower back, thereby creating a more stable foundation and reducing compensatory movements that have led to pain, most notably in my knees, as well as in those areas. Exercises that focus on stretching and strengthening the hip flexors, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves also improve overall alignment and reduce joint stress.

    Let’s not forget about ergonomics! I have been using anti-fatigue mats to mitigate some of the harsh impacts of standing on my tile floors in the kitchen and on the concrete floor in my laundry room for years. However, I do not have an outdoor anti-fatigue mat yet, but I will be investing in one as soon as possible.

    The mats do offer a softer surface that reduces the strain on my body, but the pain is still there, just not as intense. In fact, I just ordered some new mats for my kitchen that are supposed to be more durable for my dogs. Their nails have scratched up the current set and are chipping.

    By maintaining an open dialogue with my healthcare providers throughout my injury and pain challenges, the pain management plans have reflected any changes in my conditions as well as incorporated new strategies and treatments as needed. Effective communication about symptoms and treatments will better inform the decisions I make, enhancing the management of chronic pain big time.

    *Note: All content within this article is meant for informational purposes only and is in no way a replacement for professional medical or psychological advice or support. Seek immediate and appropriate care from a healthcare professional should you or a trusted loved one deem it necessary.

    Why does standing on concrete hurt?

    While standing on concrete and my stone driveway for about thirty-five minutes or so, and after grilling dinner for my family, I can barely walk or stand on my left leg because of intense pain in my hip. There is severe pain in my knee as well. None of this is very odd to me, except that I have had somewhat of a period of respite from five-plus years of chronic pain. Chronic pain that has been, at some point, debilitating in the following areas:                                                 

    • Left shoulder
    • Right shoulder
    • Left hip
    • Lower left back sciatica
    • Lower right back sciatica
    • Torn meniscus on left knee
    • Torn meniscus on the right knee
    • Old neck injury

    The reason why standing on concrete hurts my back, knees, and hips is that, unlike other surfaces, concrete has no give, and its inflexibility affects the body, especially for middle-aged women like me, who often feel as though they have no shock absorbers left when standing on hard surfaces.

    For example, when standing on hard surfaces, I am notably susceptible to backaches, knee pain, swollen legs, and sore feet. Because this specific pain has not been treated yet, I experience a flare-up of old injuries and suffer from chronic pain.

    Some of my best pain relief techniques involve soaking in an Epsom salt bath for at least twenty-five minutes, once a day. It makes a huge difference for me. Throughout all the years I have been in sports recovery, I have employed the following:

    • Chiropractors
    • Orthopedics
    • Physical therapists
    • Acupuncturists
    • Massage therapists
    • Cortisone shots
    • Taking it easy
    • Sports rubs
    • Epsom salt baths

    As you can see, I have tried just about everything short of getting surgery, and unfortunately, it looks like I will end up needing knee surgery after all. But now I am wondering where this recent pain is coming from. Is it coming from my hip, or is it something in my feet? Let’s find out more below.

    Link between feet and back pain

    Because all the treatments and efforts to relieve my chronic pain have not completely eradicated it, I am now wondering if the pain is coming from my feet. Well, I can tell you that every source I have researched said yes, the bunion on my foot can most definitely cause hip, back, and knee pain.

    According to podiatrists at Kew Foot Clinic, “They (bunions) are however more than just a cosmetic problem. They can become a major medical problem for several reasons. The main problem is:

    Having a distorted big toe joint along with this joint becoming rigid in its range of motion changes how a foot pivots through propulsion. When a foot can no longer pivot at this joint it reduces knee and hip flexion causing stress on these joints.

    A bunion deformity can also change the alignment of the knee and hip causing excessive internal or external knee rotation leading to scoliosis of the spine,”.

    My healthcare team told me that if I suspect my feet might be the culprit, it would be wise to consult a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation. Custom orthotics might also be beneficial, as they can provide the support needed to correct your gait and distribute weight more evenly, potentially alleviating some of the strain on my knees, hips, and back.

    Best walking shoes for senior women

    In conclusion, supportive shoes, smart ergonomics, and open communication with healthcare providers can make all the difference—your feet truly are the foundation of whole-body wellness.

  • Last Detroit Team to Win a Championship

    Last Detroit Team to Win a Championship

    From the time I can remember, I have always watched and been a fan of Detroit sports teams, as well as a University of Michigan fan (college sports). My grandfather (Papa), my cousin, and I would watch sports together. Sometimes it would just be me and my Papa listening to Tiger’s games on the radio with Hall of Fame announcer Ernie Harwell commentating with that signature voice.

    I will never forget that October evening when my friends and I were playing outside, listening to the Tigers play the final winning game in the 1984 World Series at home in the historic Tiger Stadium. You would have thought a bunch of eleven-year-old kids had just won the lottery! In fact, we sort of did because, sadly, that would be the last time our beloved Detroit Tigers won a World Series.

    The Detroit Tigers have won a total of four World Series titles and eleven American League (AL) pennants. Baseball is divided into two leagues – the American and the National. We’ve made it to the World Series a few times, but only came home with winning the following years:

    • 1935: Defeated the Chicago Cubs, 4 games to 2
    • 1945: Defeated the Chicago Cubs, 4 games to 3
    • 1968: Defeated the St. Louis Cardinals, 4 games to 3
    • 1984: Defeated the San Diego Padres, 4 games to 1

    Unfortunately, our Detroit Lions have not had as many title wins as the Tigers have. Of course, we won championships before there was an official Super Bowl, defeating the Cleveland Browns in 1957! Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed watching the Lions football games with my Papa. He made it quite interesting by making bets of 50 cents (or as he called it, “two bits”) with me and then magically letting me win every time!

    My cousin, who’s more like my brother since we are only four days apart and neither of us has siblings, learned so much from our Papa about football. To this day, both of us love the game very much. We used to play mini games with an imaginary football with our Papa on the living room floor while we watched the Lions games. We would also go outside and play one-on-one in our grandparents’ front yard, with our Papa commenting from the front porch.

    Although neither of us played football (he played hockey and I softball), we are huge Lions fans. He loves it so much that he has season tickets and does some serious tailgating at all the home games. We’ll either ride with friends or rent a charter bus to downtown Detroit to watch the Lions play at Ford Field. And guess what? Our Lions are actually a winning team right now! Especially under the leadership of Coach Dan Campbell and the ownership of:

    • Sheila Ford Hamp Principal Owner & Chair
    • Martha Ford Morse Owner/Vice Chair
    • William Clay Ford, Jr. Owner/Vice Chair
    • Elizabeth Ford Kontulis Owner/Vice Chair
    • Martha Firestone Ford Owner/Chair Emeritus

    The last Detroit team to win a championship was the Detroit Red Wings, winning the Stanley Cup in 2008. That same year, the Detroit Shock (women’s professional basketball) won the WNBA championship.

    The Detroit Pistons basketball team also has a history of being a strong competitive team for many years, most notably winning championships in 1989, 1990 and 2004.

    More recently, my alma mater, the University of Michigan Wolverines men’s football team, won the 2023 College Football Playoff National Championship – GO BLUE!

    What is the most successful Detroit sports team?

    The Red Wings have historically had many winning seasons. I remember going downtown Detroit to watch them win many games at Joe Louis Arena in the 1990s, with Stevie Yzerman at the helm as our longtime captain, skating alongside Sergei Fedorov, who was also a captain at different times. In total, we have won eleven Stanley Cups – there is a reason we are known as “Hockey Town”!

    According to Pro Stock Hockey, “The Red Wings have won 11 Stanley Cups, the most of any U.S.-based NHL team.

    1935-36, 1936-37, 1942-43, 1949-50, 1951-52, 1953-54, 1954-55, 1996-97, 1997-98, 2001-02, 2007-08.

    The Red Wings have retired numbers for seven players:

    #1 — Terry Sawchuck, Red Wings goalie in the 1950s and ’60s.

    #5 — Nicklas Lidstrom, Wings defenseman from 1991-92 to 2011-12.

    #7 — Ted Lindsay, left winger who played 13 seasons for the Wings in the 1940s and ’50s.

    #9 — Gordie Howe. The legendary Wings right winger is certainly one of the best to ever take the ice. Able to shoot right- and left-handed, Howe set scoring records during his long career that stood for years until Wayne Gretzky came along. He played a league record 26 seasons in the NHL (tied with Chris Chelios, another Red Wing), and was also the oldest player to play in the NHL when he was 52.

    #10 — Alex Delvecchio, who played 24 seasons, all for the Wings, in the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s.

    #12 — Sid Abel, center who played 12 seasons for the Wings in the 1930s, ’40s and ’50s.

    #19 — Steve Yzerman, center who played his entire 22-year NHL career with the Red Wings, and he was team captain for 19 seasons — more seasons than any team captain in any major professional sport,”.

    What is the biggest rivalry in Detroit sports?

    Off the top of my head, the biggest rivalry in Detroit sports, I think, is College football: University of Michigan (U of M) vs. Ohio State. In fact, when my oldest son was in middle school, he asked if I would be upset if he went to Michigan State University, since I went to U of M. I said, “Of course not, sweetie, we’re friendly in-state rivals. But if you go to Ohio, I will disown you!” I was just kidding, but it is that serious of a rival.

    There is also the Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks rivalry. Most notably, when I think of rivalries, I think of the games against the Green Bay Packers (22), the Chicago Bears (19), and, most recently, the Minnesota Vikings (5) versus our Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day. This longstanding tradition began in 1934, and we have played 84 games in total so far.

    Let’s not forget the Detroit Pistons’ longtime rivalries: Chicago Bulls, Boston Celtics, and the Los Angeles Lakers.

    Wikipedia notes that, “The Tigers–White Sox rivalry is a Major League Baseball rivalry between the Detroit Tigers and the Chicago White Sox of the American League Central division. The series has been one of the oldest in league history. Both teams were founded in 1901 as charter members of the American League,”.

    Last Detroit team to win a championship

    In conclusion, although we were hopeful for the Tigers this year, they unfortunately lost to the Seattle Mariners in one of MLB’s longest postseason games, which lasted fifteen innings. We are still hopeful for the Lions this year as they have had a good start to the season so far. The Red Wings look good as well. But as it stands, the last time a professional team has won a championship was in 2008.

    (Photo Credit: Pure Michigan )

    #DetroitVSeverybody !

  • Should I Massage A Torn Meniscus

    Should I Massage A Torn Meniscus

    After many years of dealing with multiple injuries as a result of my athletic, active lifestyle, in addition to utilizing exercise tools such as a knee recovery machine or a stationary bike, I found that massage therapy also helps with my torn meniscus in both the right and left knees.

    Massage therapy is also a great way to show yourself some love while taking care of your well-being. Here are some of the benefits massage therapies offer:

    • Induces a relaxed state of mind, reducing stress
    • Promotes circulation and range of motion
    • Relieves muscle tension, pain, or aches
    • Increases mental alertness while improving one’s mood
    • Energy boosts with better sleep patterns

    According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), self-massage helps conditions like knee injuries or osteoarthritis (OA) because there is, “…a correlation among quadriceps weakness, increased pain, and altered walking patterns in aging people with OA of the knee. And it appears self-massage of the quadriceps muscles may help improve function and correct dysfunctions.

    Self-massage is the application of various massage strokes to the body’s soft tissue for therapeutic purposes. You might use self-massage to soothe tired hands and feet, for example, or to ease tension headaches.

    Since self-massage research is in its infancy, there is little significant data to support its therapeutic value. Historically, however, self-massage has been employed as an integral part of the treatment and management of chronic medical conditions,”.

    AMTA also noted that, “The current combination of treatments include exercise, physical therapy, weight control, supportive devices, medications and surgery. However, conventional treatments often don’t provide enough symptom relief, and so more and more people are turning to proven alternatives for pain relief, including massage therapy,”.

    *Note: All content within this article is meant for informational purposes only and is in no way a replacement for professional medical or psychological advice or support. Seek immediate and appropriate care from a healthcare professional should you or a trusted loved one deem it necessary.

    Meniscus tear treatment

    After I saw my orthopedic doctor, had x-rays and an MRI, he said that I did not need surgery and could use a round of physical therapy. Additionally, I focus on trying not to twist, pivot, or suddenly stop, and to limit the number of trips up and down the stairs.

    A physical therapy organization suggests, “Manual therapy: Helps reduce pain and stiffness in the knee joint by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and increasing range of motion. These techniques involve hands-on pressure and movement to manipulate the soft tissues and joints of the knee, promoting healing and reducing pain, and include:

    • Massage – Deep tissue massage, myofascial release, or trigger point therapy can help reduce muscle tension and improve circulation.
    • Joint mobilization – Gentle movements of the joint can improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness.
    • Manipulation – High-velocity, low-amplitude thrust applied to a joint can restore normal joint movement.

    Therapeutic Exercises: Therapeutic exercises are essential to physical therapy for meniscus tears. Strengthening exercises can improve stability and support of the knee joint, reducing strain and promoting healing. Exercises may include leg presses, squats, and resistance band exercises. Flexibility exercises can also reduce stiffness in the knee joint. Your physical therapist may recommend specific exercises based on your needs and goals.

    These techniques can help reduce pain and inflammation, promote circulation, and accelerate the healing process:

    • Heat therapy – Applying heat to the affected area can increase blood flow and reduce muscle spasms.
    • Ice therapy – Applying ice to the affected area can reduce inflammation and pain.
    • Ultrasound therapy – High-frequency sound waves can generate heat and promote healing.
    • Electrical stimulation – Applying electrical currents to the affected area can reduce pain and improve muscle function,”.

    Which reminds me that I can also utilize my TENS unit for pain management.

    Holistic pain management techniques

    If you knew me, you would know that I do not necessarily like to take medication for pain; instead, I typically seek out a more holistic route to pain management techniques. For example, a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) unit has been extremely helpful in managing my pain.

    TENS is a non-invasive form of therapy that involves sending small electrical pulses to the painful areas of the body to block the brain’s perception of pain and stimulate the body’s natural endorphins. The electrical pulses are delivered through electrodes placed on the skin for up to thirty minutes per session, with the ability to adjust the intensity of the stimulation, as well as the frequency and duration of the sessions.

    This type of pain management transmits a low-voltage electrical current to interrupt and block nerve signals before they reach the brain, while reducing muscle spasms and increasing blood circulation. It also breaks up lactic acid, stimulates muscle fiber, and re-educates the muscles.

    In addition to employing massage techniques or using tools such as TENS units, I have also explored and found numerous benefits in seeking acupuncture treatments, including both traditional forms and alternative forms of physical therapy with a dry needling professional.

    Dry needling (also known as trigger point dry needling and intramuscular stimulation) – according to Wikipedia, “Is a treatment technique used by various healthcare practitioners, including physical therapists, physicians, and chiropractors.

    Acupuncturists usually maintain that dry needling is adapted from acupuncture, but others consider dry needling as a variation of trigger point injections. It involves the use of either solid filiform needles or hollow-core hypodermic needles for therapy of muscle pain, including pain related to myofascial pain syndrome. Dry needling is mainly used to treat myofascial trigger points, but it is also used to target connective tissue, neural ailments, and muscular ailments,”.

    Furthermore, I try to eat a gut-healthy diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods and drinks like turmeric milk or tart cherry juice as well as heat and cold therapy, soaking in an Epsom salt bath EVERY NIGHT before bed, essential oils, and practicing mind-body techniques such as meditation, specific stretching exercises each morning, and low-impact weight training three times a week.

    Should I massage a torn meniscus

    In conclusion, while massaging a torn meniscus might offer temporary relief, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and technique. Relying solely on massage could worsen the injury if one does not seek professional medical advice to ensure a safe and effective recovery.

  • What Are the Best Natural Lakes in Michigan?

    What Are the Best Natural Lakes in Michigan?

    After twenty-five years of living in the beautiful Lakes Area of northwest Oakland County, Michigan, I finally had the opportunity and the gift of exploring a nearby part of the Huron River that I have had my eye on for more than ten years.

    Over a decade ago, I was taking my oldest son to middle school, driving down a dirt road I normally didn’t go down because he was running late, and it was a shortcut to his school. Traveling down this dirt road, I noticed an inlet to an opening of the Huron River that appeared to be a good spot to drop in with kayaks. The view was picturesque and looked like a scene out of some travel advertisement for somewhere Up North.

    The area of this section of the Huron River was so beautiful and breathtaking that it became a mission for me to explore. The problem was that I did not have a kayak or canoe, but we did have a fish and ski boat that we took out on our lake – the largest private lake in our township.

    Our lake is wonderful for boating and fishing, but it’s very difficult to kayak on, as there are so many boats that create large wakes – for which I have no desire to battle. Furthermore, I choose not to run the risk of water damage or loss to Michigan’s best natural lake in Oakland County. Well, at least it’s my favorite natural lake!

    Although I am obviously partial to the waterways where I live (nicknamed the Lakes Area for good reason), according to the State’s official travel and tourism website, Pure Michigan, they chose the following as the best natural inland lakes in Michigan:

    1. “Lake Michigamme – This lake, 40 miles west of Marquette in Michigamme
    2. Big Manistique Lake – Curtis
    3. Lake Charlevoix (Charlevoix, Boyne City and East Jordan)
    4. Lake Leelanau – Leland and Cedar
    5. Torch Lake (Elk Rapids, Alden and Bellaire)
    6. Higgins Lake – Roscommon 
    7. Black Lake – Cheboygan and Presque Isle Counties
    8. Lake St. Clair – Mount Clemens
    9. Pontiac Lake – Waterford
    10. Gull Lake – Augusta
    11. Kalamazoo Lake – Saugatuck and Douglas
    12. Silver Lake – Mears
    13. Reeds Lake – Grand Rapids
    14. Muskegon Lake – Muskegon,”.

    At least one of our Lakes Area lakes made the list: Pontiac Lake. Also, one of my favorite lakes Up North: Silver Lake. We will be vacationing on Silver Lake in Mears in a couple of weeks, and I am very much looking forward to it!

    What are the hidden gem lakes in Michigan?

    Yesterday, I finally took advantage of the opportunity to drop my kayak in at the Huron River inlet I discovered on the nearby dirt road near my home. Thankfully, I now have two kayaks, so I invited a friend to join me on this exploration.

    It was everything I imagined and then some. Kayaking in this area of the Huron River was fairly easy-going, with beautiful scenery and a hidden gem of a lake. You can only get to this gem of a lake by way of the river or from the larger, private, adjacent lake.

    It was quiet, clear, clean, and teeming with large fish. However, because we were in kayaks, we did not get to swim in this little gem, as I couldn’t get out of my kayak without dumping everything in it, let alone get back into it from deep water.

    We paddled on to the larger lake, where we encountered some neighbor friends who invited us to climb aboard their pontoon. We spent a few hours there swimming, drinking plenty of water, and snacking.

    As a lifelong camper, scout, scout leader, and boater, I ventured out for the day prepared. We had the following in my cooler on an ice pack:

    • Two large bottles of water
    • Three sparkling waters
    • Carrot sticks
    • Hummus with cayenne pepper
    • Sweet and spicy rice crackers
    • Wine cheese chunks
    • My iPhone was in a waterproof case (water splashed up onto the back of my kayak while we were shored up, soaking the cooler and my shoes, but thankfully, because it was in a case, it did not get water damage)
    • Swiss army knife
    • Drink cozies
    • Napkins

    A Healthier Michigan reports these, “5 Lesser-Known Michigan Lakes Perfect for Summertime Fun:

    1. Spider Lake – Traverse City
    2. Big Star Lake – Baldwin
    3. Lac La Belle Lake – Keweenaw County
    4. Crystal Lake – Benzie County
    5. Higgins Lake – Roscommon,”.

    Can you swim in Silver Lake, Michigan?

    Earlier, I mentioned that we are taking a trip Up North to Silver Lake. I am beyond grateful to take a one-week summer vacation to stay at a cabin near Silver Lake and the infamous Silver Lake Sand Dunes. My adult son has a Jeep that we will ride on the dunes with, and we will play on Silver Lake with his twenty-foot fish and ski boat.

    The boat is not large enough to take out on the Great Lake, so we will spend a couple of days on the beach at Lake Michigan and enjoy the stunning sunsets in the evening. My younger cousin is coming up from North Carolina to join us as well, and we will make unforgettable memories to cherish for a lifetime for sure.

    The State of Michigan’s official government website has this to say about Silver Lake State Park where you can swim in both Silver Lake and Lake Michigan, “Silver Lake State Park is home to nearly 3 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, 2,000 acres of sand dunes, a modern campground, a day-use area, a boating access site and the popular 450-acre Silver Lake ORV Area and more.

    Little Sable Point Lighthouse provides opportunities to climb the 100-foot tower, an experience facilitated by the Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association. Mac Wood’s Dune Rides operates an interpretive, 40-minute dune tour in the summer months, and special fat-tire bicycling and horseback riding seasons take place in the winter months.

    Silver Lake ORV Area is home to 450 acres of dunes open to ORV riding adventures! The scramble area – the only motorized sand dune riding opportunity east of the Mississippi River – where you can ride ATVs or UTVs, rent one locally or embark on a guided tour. Before you hit the dunes, be sure to familiarize yourself with the park’s parking voucher system, specific rules and safety tips,”.

    What are the best natural lakes in Michigan?

    In conclusion, exploring Michigan’s natural lakes offers unforgettable experiences, from kayaking to hidden gems and vacationing on picturesque shores, embracing the beauty and adventure these lakes provide creates lasting memories to share with friends and family alike.

  • What is the Most Popular Sport in Canada

    What is the Most Popular Sport in Canada

    Growing up in the Mitten State, one that borders Canada and shares coastlines with Lake Erie, the Detroit River, Lake Huron, and Lake Superior, we Michiganders are no strangers to Canada’s most popular sport, hockey.

    Furthermore, because we share a great love of hockey with our fellow North Americans, we in Michigan are also familiar with the Canadian National Anthem, as it is played at our hockey games as well. Both the United States flag and the Canadian flag are flown at most hockey arenas in our area, too, and you can talk about these sports with a renogoldfree virtual friend online.

    Additionally, if you live in Michigan, you will also run across Canadian coins hidden in the mix with our money, and you’ll also find that most retailers accept these coins along with our U.S. currency (at least the change/coins, not necessarily the paper money).

    I wonder if Western states like Washington accept Canadian coins like we do from their British Colombia neighbors or claim hockey as one of their favorite sports as we do in Hockey Town (also known as Detroit/Motown/The Motor City). We have a few very fitting nicknames!

    As fellow neighbors to Canada, a local Washington radio station, 92.9 The Bull, reports these are top four sports in their area:

    4. Soccer

    3. Baseball

    2. Football

    1. Hockey,”.

    According to Alliance Visas, “Canadians value several Canadian sports not just for fun but also as a means of fostering the country’s unity. A wide variety of popular sports in Canada offers perfect opportunities for Canadians to display their talents and compete at the international level, including Canada at the Olympics medals standings,”.

    Below is what Alliance Visa considers Canada’s top five most popular sports to be:

    5) Cricket:

    Although Canada is not sanctioned to participate in test matches, the national team is allowed to participate in One Day International Matches. The country has had a very competitive women’s cricket team and the U-19 that has taken part in three U-19 World Cup events.

    4) Baseball:

    Baseball has a long history in Canada and is one of the most popular sports in Canada. The oldest baseball park in the world is still in operation in Labatt Park in Ontario. The country has only one Major League, the Toronto Blue Jays.

    3) Soccer:

    Soccer has gained popularity in Canada over many years. Although soccer in Canada was played under a variety of rules, the main concept of soccer was there. The first soccer game had taken place in Toronto in October 1876 between two local clubs. The Canadian Women soccer team has succeeded numerous times at an international level. The team qualified for the 2012 London summer Olympics and performed remarkably well throughout the tournament.

    2) Lacrosse:

    Lacrosse was declared a national sport of Canada in 1859 and a summer sport in 1994. It is played by thousands of people across Canada. Lacrosse is governed by the Canadian Lacrosse Association formed in 1925.

    1) Ice Hockey:

    Ice hockey remains the most popular sport in Canada, as the sport has been named as the official national sport in Canada. The Canadian Ice hockey league, “National Hockey League (NHL)” is established both in Canada and the United States. Canada has 7 teams currently playing in NHL, namely Calgary, Edmonton, Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, and Winnipeg,”.

    So, yes, I was correct in guessing that Washington, like Michigan, also loves hockey since we share borders with our Canadian friends. However, I would not have guessed that baseball made the list, too. It’s very cool to know because it is my all-time favorite sport to play and watch!

    What is the national sport of Canada?

    Canada’s official government website declares, “The game commonly known as ice hockey is hereby recognized and declared to be the national winter sport of Canada, and the game commonly known as lacrosse is hereby recognized and declared to be the national summer sport of Canada,”.

    Well, that makes sense, as all of my friends with kids who play hockey also happen to play lacrosse. In fact, some of my friends’ sons who have already graduated and went away to a Michigan college got to go on a sports scholarship for lacrosse. It has been a growing sport here in the Mitten State, and I understand why.

    Inside Lacrosse reports about the teams at the University of Michigan, “The Michigan lacrosse story began in 2011, when Wolverines athletic director Dave Brandon announced on May 25 that the university was elevating both the men’s and women’s lacrosse programs to varsity status. 

    While the men started their journey into the NCAA the following season, the women’s program began in 2014 under the program’s first head coach, Jenny Ulehla,”.

    Yay, GO BLUE! It figures my alma mater would have a strong men’s and women’s program. They already have a fabulous women’s softball program and, of course, a first-rate men’s football team that recently won the Big Ten Championship game in 2022 after an undefeated season of 15-0, despite hardships and controversy.

    Is lacrosse good for kids?

    Yes, lacrosse, like soccer, has a ton of movement that is good for cardio health, and it encourages a strong development of hand-eye coordination, agility, and stamina. I wish the game had been an option for me as a little girl – I would have played it for sure.

    Metro Parent writes, “Widely perceived as an East Coast sport, lacrosse programs are now growing in the Midwest – and being offered at some Michigan schools beginning as early as third grade. Travel teams, where kids try out to play competitive lacrosse, also have emerged in the area. And the number of Michigan high schools that currently carry the sport has grown to 100 for boys varsity lacrosse and 68 for girls varsity lacrosse for Division I and Division II, according to the Michigan High School Athletic Association‘s website.

    In Metro Detroit, kids’ involvement in the sport can range from participating in community recreation leagues to playing it year-round through a combination of school and travel teams, leagues, summer camps, private lessons and clinics. Regardless of where kids fall on the continuum, according to several area lacrosse experts, coaches and players, one thing is for certain: Once kids start playing the game, they’re often hooked – because there’s nothing else quite like it,”.

    What is the most popular sport in Canada

    In conclusion, Canada’s diverse sports culture reflects its rich heritage and community spirit. From hockey to lacrosse, sports unite Canadians, fostering national pride and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.