This summer has been loads of fun, and pulling out George’s boat is a sure indication that things are winding down.

George takes the crew out to Houghton for lunch. Everyone enjoys the sights as they approach Hougton. On shore it’s time for lunch and then fun over at Chutes and Ladders. These photos can’t do a good job of showing just how hot it was today, but you get a hint watching Lindsey try to hide from the sun. Time to get back in the boat and head home. ...

Today I’m heading back home to Santa Cruz, but not before we take the boys out for some fishing on Lake Superior. Captain Gabe and Captain Zach take turns at the helm. While the rest of the kids enjoy a nice game of cards back home. Charlotte, Valri, and Gordon headed out to visit this very cool house they call the cord house. The wood sculptures and things he embedded into the walls are pretty unbelievable. ...

Today’s adventure is a trip to the Gratiot River. This is another great agate beach that keeps everyone busy looking for the next great find. Lunch is a nice medley of the usual campfire favorites. While the kids enjoy some fun surf. We head home via Eagle River and make a stop at the Sands Hill lighthouse. Then it’s an ice cream stop in Phoenix. ...

We head out with Gabe in Val’s boat to see what Portage has to offer today. Back home the evening is a great time for some quite fishing in the canoe while the sun sets. The rest of the family enjoys the view from shore.

We’ve got a big day ahead of us today. First on the agenda is some shooting up in the woods. Lindsey definitely takes the prize for best Beatrix Kiddo look alike. Then it’s a boat trip over to the Dreamland for some eats. George tries out a sepia shot for fun. On the trip back we run into a tired Karen in her kayak and give her a tow. She’s putting a lot of trust in Joe driving the boat. ...

We’re missing a few from the complete family, but there are more than enough to make a great family photo. We’re off to Calumet Waterworks today for water and rock picking fun. First stop is a visit to the cemetery to see Charlotte’s grandparents. No shortage of rocks on this beach. Charlotte captures a nice small snapping turtle hanging out in the area. A very successful day of agate picking today! ...

A boat trip to the sandstone cliffs is always a treat. We’ve done lots of these trips this year, and it’s easy to see why. George caught a great shot of lightning striking on the other side of Portage. Nicely done.

This morning the crew is headed out to Jacobsville. Zach lands a very nice bass that will be some great eating. Back at camp it’s the usual tubing and fishing routine. Today’s dinner is a group event over at George’s place. Gabe and Zach keep the fishing hopes alive.

Today Gordon is taking George and me out on Lake Superior to work on our salmon trolling technique. Captain Dave takes the helm while Gordon rigs up some poles. The run down to the south Portage entry starts a big foggy, but clears quickly. No luck with the fish on today’s trip, though it was a good learning experience.