One Fish, Two Fish. Way Too Few Fish!

What started as a dreary, overcast, cool morning turned into a warm, bright, sunshiny day. Beth and Bill joined Tom and me for our fishing attempt today. And that’s pretty much all it was, i.e. an attempt. We tried every hotspot we had marked on the GPS in Pike Bay, and ended up with a total of two perch. There had been talk of a fish fry tonight, so when the cousins decided to delay it until Friday we were relieved, since we don’t yet have enough fish to feed our gang!

By mid-afternoon, Tom and I were ready to ride the Migizi trail–my first time on it this year. Although I still have bruises in several places from my fall on Sunday, I was feeling okay physically. However, the fear and anxiety were very much with me as I mounted my bike saddle for the ride. I was nervous that some unforeseen obstacle would appear in my path and cause another wipeout. Thankfully, that didn’t happen.

Instead, we enjoyed a peaceful, 17-mile ride around Pike Bay. As I rode, I listened to the “I hope you like banjos” playlist on Spotify–a perfect accompaniment to the lush surroundings of trees, wildflowers, and lake views. It was a good ride.

When we returned, I joined the other ladies at the beach, where we chatted about books we’ve recently read and authors we like. Chloe, my book lover, joined the conversation, giving her own recommendations and gaining new ones. While we talked, we watched Ben and Elle play in the sand and water (i.e. mud!), until it was time for everyone to grab some supper.

Our family had burgers, brats, and hot dogs on the grill, after which we all relaxed with our own entertainments. We are getting into a rhythm here with the five of us, but that’s about to change. Jared arrives at the Bemidji airport tonight around 10:30 p.m.! And tomorrow, Chloe’s friend (and former St. Olaf roommate) Mary arrives! We are excited to see them both and look forward to the ever-expanding circle of loved ones!