Tuesday, July 1, 2014

A Three Hour Tour...


We recently visited friends in Michigan and had a great time, but one particular adventure stands out among the rest.  My friends are great!  They know how much I like lighthouses and planned a boating trip to Charity island, on Lake Huron, so I could see and climb the lighthouse there.  They have made this trip several times before and assured us what a fun and relaxing day it would be. 

The day dawned beautifully!  It was 70 degrees, sunny and the water in the marina was calm and empty of any other boats.  Perfect!  We went on a Thursday, so as to miss the weekend crowds.  Everyone climbed aboard and we launched the boat.

Once past the jetty, the waves began to increase.  A little wave jumping just added to the thrill of the adventure!  However, about half way to the island, when the boat hit a large wave sending the driver out of his seat and onto the floor, we all grew very quiet.

We made it to the island with no further complications and were rewarded with a wonderful view of Charity Island Lighthouse.  We waded to shore, climbed the lighthouse and were given a tour of the keepers residence.  The owner of the house was surprised to see us, given the small craft advisory. She had cancelled her own tour boat that was to come that day.  Now the lack of ANY boats on the lake made more sense. Yep, that is right.  We, a small craft, were out in troubled waters.  Oops!

She was kind enough to give us her cell number and said she would leave the emergency radio on.  That was comforting...I think.  This was not exactly how I pictured the end of my life.  So, off we set into the wind and waves.  It was perhaps the longest boat ride I have ever taken, or at least it seemed like an eternity.  The motion sickness didn't help matters.  At least we were all turning an equal shade of green, except our trusty captain, who seemed to be enjoying the ride. 

Once on firm, dry ground I could look back on it as an adventure to remember, even chuckle a little at our folly.  There is a lesson in this, and the scripture that was brought to mind was Proverbs 12:15 which says, "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But a wise man is he who listens to counsel."  Next time we will check the marine forecast!

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