There’s nothing like summer in Michigan.  In Michigan, summer is warm, quiet, peaceful, rejuvenating.

Sure, summertime in Chicago is amazing with Oak Street Beach, a Cub’s game or noshing at a great outside table.  EVERYONE in the city migrates outside to relax and enjoy the beauty of Chicago in the summer.  But, it becomes very crowded and I am quite aware that one of my favorite outside dining tables is right next to a busy street – one does need to make an effort to concentrate on sipping their wine instead of the exhaust from the bus that just went by.

My summer starts this weekend with a tour of the wineries in southwest Michigan.   I’m used to spending time in the summer ‘up north’ and at Mackinaw Island so I am looking forward to visiting the many different places Michigan has to entice visitors, locals – and escapees from the crowds of Chicago.

Even with Memorial Day still a couple weeks away, I am already feeling relaxed (complete with sunburn) and ready to enjoy the long, lazy days of summer.