A Child’s view of the Harbor

Posted on June 22, 2016 by Molly

We all have too many things. Kids especially do. So for our grandson’s 6th birthday we chose to give him an experience instead. Leaving his siblings behind, we took just Ben on the Vista Star tour of the lake and harbor. For days, he looked forward to it. And I have to admit, so did I. There is something special about one-on-one time with a grandchild.

I’d done the tour before. I’d heard most of the facts, figures and stories from the narrator before as well. But I saw and heard it all through fresh eyes that day. Everything becomes new when seen from a child’s point of view.

As always, the tour started with a jaunt out into Lake Superior. Before we could sail under the bridge we had to wait for a 1000-footer to enter the harbor. It felt like forever between the time we first saw the bow emerge until its stern finally passed by. That was one long ore boat.

Ben loves the Aerial Bridge. So we were mystified that he was anxious about going under it. The hands firmly planted over his ears and the fear in his eyes soon told us why. He knew exactly what was coming. The boat’s loud horn and answering blast from the bridge were indeed ear numbing. But once we cleared the bridge, Ben could relax and enjoy the ride.

There was plenty of shipping activity that morning, from a ship offloading wind turbine parts to tug boats awaiting a call for help and a classic ore boat taking on its cargo below the ore dock. All of it of great interest.The Vista Star itself proved to be fascinating to Ben. There were so many places to explore, from the top deck to the bow and the “restaurant” inside. And the best part about grandparents is that they succumb to requests for treats.

One never knows just what a little mind is taking in. Some of it we gleaned from Ben’s parents later. Apparently he regaled them with tales of his boat ride all the way home, proving that he did indeed listen to the narration and our explanations! One highlight was going under the Blatnik Bridge because “it was so cool to look up at it underneath.” I didn’t even think to look up. But I may have yet another chance. I hear that his little sister wants a turn next.

Time for Mom

Posted on May 8, 2016 by Molly

For every decision we make, there are consequences. Some are great outcomes, some less optimal. Moving back to Duluth has certainly weighed heavily on the side of positives. Easy access to the outdoors and the active pursuits we so enjoy. A simpler life in a smaller city with less traffic and smaller distances. The beauty of the Northland. And that big old lake out there. It’s a wonderful place to live.

But I left behind my family. Two of my three children still live in the Twin Cities, and it is now home to my three grandchildren. Gone are the days when I could spontaneously request, “Can I have a Grammy day tomorrow?” and spend time with those precious little ones. Shopping trips with my daughter and Brueggers bagel mornings with my son have to be sandwiched into our visits to the Cities. Truth be told, they all love coming to Duluth, but it’s just not the same as living around the corner.

And so as Mother’s Day approached I found myself quietly wallowing in self-pity. I would be here, and they would be there. Phone calls would be exchanged. I’d get caught up on the latest. But I couldn’t give them a hug.

Even as I headed out for an early morning bike ride, the feeling still nagged. Not even the cold crisp air, the long slant of the rising sun, and the stillness of Lake Superior could rid me of that longing. I missed my kids.

So imagine my surprise, as I emerged from the shower, dressed for church and stepped into the great room – to be met by Karen and Erik! There they were in the flesh, as if I had conjured them up out of sheer yearning. They fulfilled my every desire and my heart overflowed. Had Carl lived within reasonable distance, my trio would have been complete. But two out of three was a perfect score at that moment in time.

The next four and a half hours were filled with the simple joys of life. Lingering over coffee and sitting outside in the sun. Walking down to Brighton Beach to throw rocks in the lake and feel the chill of the breeze off the water. Talking, sharing, visiting. Just being together. The gift of time. It’s the prefect fit. It takes up no space, doesn’t require dusting and yet remains forever as a memory. It was just what I wanted, even without asking for it. Thank you, kids. For making time for Mom.

Caffeinated Throwbacks

Posted on February 12, 2016 by Molly

Funny how these things go. In the space of two weeks, twice I have been transported back in time, merely by the sight of a coffeemaker. Never mind that coffee is a highlight of my day, sipping its sharp brew through frothy milk with a touch of vanilla sugar on top. That addiction came long after the memories these incidents evoked.

The scene is a small cabin in the middle of the Gunflint Trail. My friend Susan and I are preparing breakfast on the first morning of our annual XC ski trip. We’ve already spent time outdoors, and are looking forward to our morning feast, naturally accompanied by coffee. I’ve even brought my own deep mug and milk frother to create the perfect morning combination. Search as we might, we fail to come up with the standard drip coffeemaker. In fact, the cabin’s accouterments seem a bit slim (what, no wine glasses? the previous night’s discovery). So it brought a chuckle when we unearthed a percolator. Who uses those any more? Will it work with ground drip coffee? It would have to do. And given the circumstances, it tasted divine. Almost anything does after healthy exercise and fresh air, on vacation in a homey cabin.

My parents had a percolator later on in life. I remember its sleek design and shiny surface. But it was the vacuum coffeemaker from my youth that I identify with their morning coffee ritual. It was quite the contraption. Two bulbous silver orbs, one mounted above the other with a “glass rod” that sat in the slim tube that connected the two. Water in the bottom, coffee grounds in the top. As the water heated, it rose up past the glass rod into the top sphere to mingle with the coffee grounds. Once it cooled, science and gravity would flush it back down again with an audible “whoosh,” leaving behind the soggy grounds. The coffee was done.

So imagine my surprise. I sit at the counter with my laptop at my favorite local coffee shop, Amity Coffee. There in front of me is what looks like a science experiment. A bunsen burner sits under a round glass flask connected by a narrow tube to a cylindrical container up top. Sure enough, water in the bottom, coffee grounds on top. Today’s modern version of that relic in my childhood home. It even has a trendy new name – a siphon brew – and a fancy price tag to go with it, running from $60 to $200. I doubt those who order this specialty have any idea that they are drinking coffee from an old-fashioned contraption. Nor does it matter. I’m the one who has gained more than just ambiance from my morning perch.

Who knew that a morning spent with a latté would yield such caffeinated throwbacks?

Anticipation

Posted on January 22, 2016 by Molly

Dinner is over. The dishwasher is humming. Cookies are baked. The refrigerator is stocked. Beds are ready. And I eagerly await the arrival of our Minneapolis kids and grandkids – a total of seven offspring. It’s all I can do to stop myself from scanning the driveway, even though I know it’s far to early to see headlights shining and car doors opening. But it won’t be long!

The occasion – my birthday. After last year’s grand 60th celebration this is back to normal, but it’s a thrill to know the troops are gathering none the less. My daughter and son have promised to make my birthday dinner, so Rich is off the hook and I look forward to their culinary prowess.

My project since Christmas has been to replace the twin beds in the back bedroom with an arrangement that accommodates twice the numbers. We didn’t have enough foresight in planning our retirement home to realize just how rapidly our family members would multiply. To rectify the situation, we turned to our now retired home contractor. With a little arm twisting, and a lot of measuring and planning, he built us a custom set of double bunk beds that perfectly fit the available space. They are the sturdiest, most space efficient sleepers ever. Outfitted with European-style duvets to minimize the pain of making up those upper bunks, they are ready for their first occupants. Word has it, the two older grandkids (5 and almost-4) have dibsed the top bunks already.

I can’t wait to hug those little ones and to see my kids and their loved ones again. The weather looks to be perfect for playing outdoors – skating, sledding, snowshoeing and skiing are all great possibilities for kids and adults alike. Oh the anticipation…

Hiking, Czech Style

Posted on October 29, 2015 by Molly

You have to hand it to the Czechs. When hiking in the mountains, they do things right. How well I remember the first time we went hiking with our Czech daughter, Pavla, and her family. After toiling up the steep climb, wading through deep snow, slipping on the ice and marveling at the stamina of the locals we came to the summit. And a pub! Taking in the surprise registering on our faces, Pavla patiently explained that all such hikes terminate at similar establishments. After all, what would be the point otherwise? Good thinking. We decided on the spot that we liked hiking in the Czech Republic.

Our latest visit with Pavla included a stay in Morovka, where she and her family spend most weekends in husband Pavel’s family home. It is a beautiful spot in a valley situated in the Beskidy Mountains. And right from the doorstep there are numerous hiking options. Blessed with a perfect fall day featuring peak foliage and brilliant sunshine, we set out shortly after lunch with extended family members to tackle the hillside.

The air was crisp and cool, particularly in the shade of the towering trees. It was good incentive to keep moving. We weren’t the only hikers on the trail by any stretch. And nearly all were family groups. What impressed us most of all was the way the young ones carried on without complaint. The youngest in our group was only four, and she covered nearly the whole 5 kilometer distance uphill on her own. She definitely earned the piggy back ride she got on the way down. Those only a few years older hiked round trip with energy to spare. Clearly, they were raised on this stuff.

This particular hike delivered in style. There were multiple resting spots along the way, with plenty of beverage and food options to refresh the weary traveler. At the first, we paused long enough to indulge the children in a pony ride. Our destination was Chata Kotar, where we happily gathered around outdoor tables to enjoy the view. And lift a glass or two.

The views were as spectacular going down as they were on the way up. We couldn’t help marveling at our good fortune with the weather. And there was no better way to enjoy it than traipsing through the colorful, rustling leaves with our Czech family.

Thank you, Pavla, for introducing us to hiking, Czech style!

At home in Ostrava

Posted on October 28, 2015 by Molly

Little did we know 14 years ago that our search for summer child care would forever tie us to the Czech Republic. It was a link through our children’s small Christian school – and fate – that brought Pavla to us. What started as just a summer job ended with inviting her into our home for her final year of post-graduate studies as a member of the family. Her babysitting duties were over.

Despite having to part at the end of that year, we have remained firmly connected ever since. We took the kids over to see her the following year, and we were warmly embraced by her entire family. Rich and I have returned several times since, most memorably for Pavla’s wedding. There we were honored to be recognized as her “American parents” and enthralled with the Czech wedding traditions. Nine long years have since passed. We were overdue for a visit.

It was a joyful reunion on the train platform when we arrived in Ostrava. With tight hugs and emotions raging we looked forward to an entire week together. Soon Pavla was ushering ushering us into their new apartment in central Ostrava. We marveled at the remodeling her husband Pavel had done, transforming it into a bright modern home. But more importantly we met their young daughters for the first time, Elenka and Beatka. Their English may have been limited, but we had little trouble connecting with them. Sharing their pet bunny and playing board games involved no language barrier.

Despite the passage of time, regardless of Pavla now shepherding a family of her own we instantly felt at home. And we were quickly assimilated into their family routine. Our time revolved around Pavla’s availability, as the realities of work, mothering and running a household took precedence. Early on we accompanied Pavla on her rounds to pick the girls up after school. It gave us the unique opportunity to peek into their classrooms and get a glimpse of their day at school.

When left to our own devices, we happily reacquainted ourselves with Ostrava. Far from being a tourist town, we enjoyed the fact that we never saw other Americans and immersed ourselves in the life of an ordinary Czech city. It didn’t take me long to get to know the coffee shops, and I enjoyed meandering along the city streets admiring the local architecture. The age and location of the city alone provided plenty for me to see. My favorites were the colorful detailed buildings and the onion topped towers.

We rambled along the Ostravice River daily, walking its banks until it reached the countryside on each end. The fall colors were vivid, enhancing its appeal and cancelling out the gray skies.

We were fortunate that Pavla’s job teaching business English in the local university gave her a varied schedule. And we made the most of her free hours. She made sure we got out to see some sights, so we took the girls to the zoo and visited the Tatra Museum in a nearby city. As always Pavla spoiled us by making Czech meals, remembering the foods we most enjoyed. But the best times were the quiet hours we had together. Spending a morning over coffee visiting. Having an evening together when the girls were happily playing. Accompanying her on errands in the city, always walking. Those were the moments when we relived memories. Laughed together. Analysed life. And treasured.

As always, the time went too quickly and it was hard to leave. Instead of saying goodbye, it felt better to say “See you soon.” Because I know we will. And I know we always have a home in Ostrava.

The Wedding Cocoon

Posted on August 20, 2015 by Molly

Weddings, funerals and the birth of a baby. In my limited experience, those three life-changing events stop the world. While life goes on, news events happen and the clock ticks forward, for those closely involved all that ceases to exist. Only the event at hand matters.

That certainly was the case for me this weekend during the wedding of our son, Carl, and his new bride, Chelsea. From the moment we arrived at our hotel until our trip home, I happily surrendered email, board responsibilities, writing assignments, coffee dates and my to-do list. All that mattered was on the detailed schedule developed by Carl and Chelsea – my life was theirs for three plus days. And it was a wonderful ride.

It was easy and exciting to get pulled into the final preparations for the outdoor reception to be held on the lawn of Chelsea’s family’s farm. Despite being kept in the loop as plans progressed, nothing could have prepared me for arriving two days before the wedding to see the final production in full swing. Everything was carefully staged in Chelsea’s parents’ expansive great room, with armies of friends and family pitching in to put it all in place. The large white tent stood majestically in the expansive manicured yard, surrounded by trees, a wall of cornstalks and large shed lined with sunflowers. The dance floor was under construction, tall tables were being moved into place for the social hour, and large scale photos from parents’ and grandparents’ weddings were being mounted on trees. Flowers had just been cut from the garden where they had been planted specifically to grace the dining tables. Boxes containing the lace tablecloths, unique china plates and hand-made napkins were labeled for distributing to each table. And the pièce de résistance, 15 red vintage tractors carefully restored by Chelsea’s grandfather stood as lawn ornaments among the trees. It was magic in the making.

Events began in earnest with the rehearsal. Having met at Wartburg College nearly ten years ago, it was entirely fitting that Carl and Chelsea chose the college chapel for their wedding ceremony. Dinner was in the “Castle Room” of the college, a warm wood paneled room reserved for special events where we shared a memorable meal with those closest to Carl and Chelsea.

With a perfect weather forecast, the wedding day went off without a hitch (well, if you don’t count best man Erik’s missing pants – but even that ended well). The chapel quickly filled with family and friends and the moment we’d all been awaiting finally arrived. From my front pew, I could clearly see Carl’s eyes fill with tears as Chelsea entered the back of the chapel with her father. His emotion triggered mine, and I’m sure many others as we witnessed the love of this young couple as they came together to be joined as man and wife. From there flowed a very personal and meaningful ceremony performed by Pastor Steve, a long-term friend of Chelsea’s family. It was gratifying to see our entire family involved with Erik as best man, Karen and Matt singing, Katie as an usher, and Ben and Mya as Ring Bearer and Flower Girl.

By the time we arrived at the reception, the Iowa heat had broken for the day and in the shade of the trees and tent it was delightful. Guests filled the lawn and mingled as they explored every detail of that special venue. Snacks were artfully arrayed, wine and beer were flowing, lawn games could be played. It wasn’t long before the wedding party exited their party bus, following the requisite stop at Dairy Queen (a Hoeg tradition…), ready to celebrate.

All the important elements flowed flawlessly – the Iowa barbecue dinner, the toasts, the couple’s first dance, cutting the wedding cake and special Twin’s hat groom’s cake. In the warmth of the evening air it could not have been more perfect. And yet, there was one more detail to be revealed. A secret planned by Chelsea’s parents and not revealed to a single sole, including the wedding couple.

The band announced they were taking a break, and asked guests to clear the dance floor. Just moments later, the first burst of color exploded over the cornfields. It was followed by additional pops and flashes as an extraordinary display of fireworks proceeded. We were treated to ten minutes of non-stop sparkle as the night sky lit up with continuous tributes for this special occasion. It gave me goosebumps just standing there as the brilliant illuminations reflected off the faces of Carl and Chelsea and the assembly of guests.

The whole weekend was memorable. Snapshots of time, faces and emotions will remain with me forever. Now that I’m back home, I’m having trouble picking up the pieces of “life as usual” and resuming my normal routine. I’m still basking in the joy of the moments of that wedding cocoon, when all else paused for Carl and Chelsea’s marriage.

Wedding Finery

Posted on August 17, 2015 by Molly

For weeks I’ve been working under wraps. I eagerly volunteered to sew the outfits for my grandchildren’s roles as Ring Bearer and Flower Girl for my son Carl’s wedding. And like many wedding plans, it meant staying mum about the details until the big day.

Finding sewing patterns turned out to be a lesson for me. While I naturally began with Simplicity, McCalls and Butterick, my daughter took a different route. In short order, she sent me an email with links to dress, vest and tie patterns online – all through Etsy. I’d never gone that route before, using patterns created and shared by creative sewers that I could download and print right at home. I was a little concerned about the quality and fit of the patterns, but soon found that they were well designed and included excellent instructions.

Selecting fabric was also informative. With the bridesmaids wearing yellow sundresses of their own choosing, my daughter, Karen, and I sought coordinating prints in yellow tones. We found a few at a chain fabric store, but before finalizing the selection, I checked out Hannah Johnson Fabrics right in Lakeside. There I feasted my eyes on beautiful prints all displayed in color families. I quickly honed in on a brilliant floral piece and several good options for companion fabrics. Knowing that these fabrics were 100% cotton aimed at quilters, I expressed my concern about sewing a dress for a toddler that might wrinkle easily. The helpful owner of the shop quickly allayed my fears, explaining that quality cotton would wear beautifully without wrinkles. I took her advice, paid the premium for the beautiful fabrics and didn’t regret it for a moment. She was absolutely right, and I know I’ll be a repeat customer.

Half way through the creative process, it was a great joy to finally begin the sewing. Clothes for little people go together quickly and are so darn cute. I couldn’t resist snapping photos of each piece as I completed it, sending it to Karen and bride Chelsea to see. One project led to another, and as soon as baby sister Isabel came along, I sought out patterns for her wedding outfit as well – all on Etsy, of course. To my delight, I found patterns for a newborn dress and diaper cover for free. It was hard to stop, so I went one step further and created fabric flowers for Mya to wear in her hair, and a matching headband for Isabel. I’m sure given more time I’d have found more details to add.

During one of my try-on sessions with Ben and Mya, they took off outside to show their mommy. Running around the yard, romping and chasing each other, they wiggled and rolled in their “fancy clothes.” To my own surprise I was not worried at all, thrilled with their delight in their wedding clothes.

The good news is that the Flower Girl and Ring Bearer performed their roles beautifully and charmingly – an outcome by no means guaranteed. And I think they were as excited as the bride and groom to don their wedding finery that day.

Dock Time

Posted on July 22, 2015 by Molly

I’ve waited 25 years for this. When we first bought the cabin, it came with an ordinary but serviceable dock. Hand made of wooden planks and supported by metal poles, it mimicked all the other docks on the lake at the time. With only two 8-foot sections extending out from shore and another 8-foot L across the end, calling it small was an understatement. After many years, Rich added another eight feet to its length, which seemed a major addition, but has since been taken for granted.

Despite its diminutive stature, our wooden platform has served us well. Many a boat ride has initiated from that dock, kayaks and canoes launched, sailboats docked and fishing lines cast. Of equal importance, it has been the focal point for swimmers with its L delineating the wading area for the youngest in the family. The opposite side became the shoving off point for those seeking deeper water. And of course, it has been the launching point for sauna lovers to throw themselves into the cool refreshing lake. It has also served as a viewing point for star gazing and Northern Lights displays.

For me, the dock is far more than the center of water activity. It’s a place. A feeling. An attitude. It is the epitome of cabin life. I haven’t been to the cabin unless I’ve had my Dock Time. Positioned in my beach chair at the end of the dock, coffee and hearty homemade toast at my side, a few select magazines handy – following an energetic run through the North woods and capped with a brisk swim, of course – I’m in my element. It’s my relaxing place. My need to accomplish and be productive falls away, as I lose myself creating dreams from the magazine stories and absorb the water and nature sounds around me. The afternoon equivalent is a similar perch with a good book and a cold drink under my chair. Sporting my swim suit, I’m ready for a dip when the urge strikes.

For all its qualities, I couldn’t help but aspire to an enhanced dock. The appearance of modern, sliverless docks sure turned my head. The idea of a surface devoid of nails that poked up each spring before I attacked them with a hammer was appealing. But what I most lusted after was having a true deck at the end of the runway. A spot where I could sit with a friend, and still allow others to pass by would be ideal. A place where wiggly grandkids could maneuver past my chair without threat of falling in the water would be heavenly. Room for family to gather and share my favorite spot was only a dream.

Until today. After all these years, the old dock was hoisted out of the water for the very last time. It was none too soon. As luck would have it, just this past weekend (with the dock already on order) the end section collapsed while unloading the boat. It was a sign. Its demise was near. In its place now stands a sleek new dock, of the slick roll-in variety with a light gridded top that allows water to drain off rapidly. There is even a ladder for swimmers, perhaps a nod to my declining agility in hoisting myself out onto the dock after I swim. I prefer to focus on how it will benefit the grandkids.

Apart from the practical nature of this upgrade, I finally got my wish. Although this dock is no longer than the previous version, it has one key feature. Despite Rich’s protests that it was too large, I stood my ground and insisted on the 8×12-foot deck. Everything is relative so in comparison to the old, this new space feels expansive and decadent. My little beach chair is swamped by its size, and I have the option of infinite positions for my sitting spot depending on whether I am seeking or avoiding the sun.

It didn’t take me long to put the dock through its paces. Reading on the dock came first, followed by a kayak trip then the post-sauna jump and swim. It performed admirably. Despite its 25 year history, I lack any nostalgia for the old dock. I am already anticipating an enhanced Dock Time in the morning.

Newborn Showstopper

Posted on July 10, 2015 by Molly

New life. It’s all consuming and the rest of the world seems to fade away. From the moment we got the phone call that our newest grandchild was on her way into the world, it was hard to concentrate on anything else.

Never mind that it wasn’t me having the baby this time. It didn’t matter that my only responsibilities were to cuddle and admire. Once in that hospital room nothing else mattered. I couldn’t tell you what day it was, how much time had passed or what I had originally planned to do that day. Everything outside that space was immaterial.

Even with two grandchildren already, I had forgotten how engaging those little people are. Isabel managed to captivate me with the way she scrunched up her little face and the barely audible squeaky noises she made.

It was difficult, but I did share this little bundle. And it’s pretty obvious that she kept us all quite entertained. I will shamelessly include some of my favorite photos.

Welcome to the family, Isabel. You’re quite a showstopper.

Superior Footprints

Life and the Outdoors in the Northland

Category Archives: Family Footprints

A Child’s view of the Harbor

Time for Mom

Caffeinated Throwbacks

Anticipation

Hiking, Czech Style

At home in Ostrava

The Wedding Cocoon

Wedding Finery

Dock Time

Newborn Showstopper

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