maps from a good kingdom

The picture used for the above titleblock was taken along Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Park, 450ft atop the dune overlook on Lake Michigan during one of our family’s frequent visits.  The blue-green waters of Lake Michigan are glorious, serene and (to first-time visitors) surprisingly ocean-like in color and in size.  Off-shore from the main dune lie two of the three sleeping bears, the cubs, Islands North and South Manitou; the mainland dune itself being the third or Mother Bear.  Naturally white-sanded beaches line the lakeshore enjoyed by families, hikers, campers, kayakers, wind-surfers and hang-gliders alike.  Located in the northwest corner of Michigan’s lower penninsula, Leelanau County is a place of harbors and history. Orchards and vineyards. Moving from west to east, marking that distance halfway between the Equator and North Pole, the 45th Parallel makes its way through M22’s jagged, triangular route entering near the town Leland and exiting Suttons Bay.  Throughout the region, kindly people integrate in equal parts a strong work ethic with an entreprenuerial spirit while boasting an active artists and writers community. And a protective love for the place they call home. The Third Coast.  Lake Michigan.  Unsalted.  No sharks.

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