Mackinaw Labor Day Weekend Recap

A birthday weekend with the hubs is beyond what I could wish for, but getting away after not traveling much since what feels like forever was the best way to celebrate my birthday for Labor Day weekend.  My husband surprised me with a road trip up north to visit a new spot we haven't visited together before. Sunday, not only did we start with an amazing breakfast, we hiked our fannies off.... over 12 miles we hiked/walked on the island. We took the ferry over early after breakfast...after searching desperately for a Starbucks- we finally found one and we were out on our way to trek! This post is somewhat delayed, sorry internship takes priority over almost everything these days, but I wanted to still share some of the places we enjoyed & our experience traveling since it's been so long. 

Lots of great food of course and drinks were enjoyed. This was one of my favorite dinners at Rusted Spoke Brewing Co. across the streets from our hotel. Salmon, veggies, & rice. The atmosphere was great here however, the manager was walking around with his mask down below his nose, which I thought just screams - " I don't care about your health. " So that wasn't great, but none the less it was a nice dinner. This town seems to be in a desperate need for a re-vamping... many establishments to include the hotels seems out dated and for the exaggerated price, it didn't really sit well with me. I'm sure there's some nostalgia there I'm not privy to however, it just really would benefit from some upgrades. This restaurant was new and the menu and drink selection was on point. 

Of course we went down by the water after dinner to enjoy the waves & fall like temps which at the time seemed quite chilly & now they are reality and the norm. I can't believe it's already fall & soon there will be snow. I'm hoping this next year we will get back to our traveling & destination setting. Anyone love Michigan in the winter? I don't do well in the cold! 

Your girl loves a good salad, but it has to be at least two things: big enough to satisfy & has to contain all elements of a satisfying meal to keep me full. I ordered this Mango Quinoa Summer Salad from The Hook Lakeside Bar & Grill and it was amazing and did just that. The mango paired with the lemon vin dressing was perfect. The view from this spot was like no other. This was our first nights dinner and it was a nice intro into our trip. We enjoyed our meals over the water watching a nearby dock load passengers into speed boats for adventures. It was a great meal and location. 

Sweet tooth Ariel was beyond pleased with a trip to the Sweet Spot in the cozy & cute downtown area. How could I not mention my favorite birthday dessert. The Sweet Spot, was the neatest place I've ever been to. They had over 20 different flavored cones and over 75 different types of ice cream & unlimited toppings. It was overwhelming to say the least! What a way to usher in another year, 34 will be a fine time. 

I know I haven't shared too much travel lately, but considering the circumstances I was happy to at least have this small trip. I'm hoping to be able to plan a trip in the spring and possibly visit some places we may look for jobs. Internship is going well & I'm ready to get to studying for the RD exam. Hope you all have a wonderful week.