Hi, Sandra, yes, my mom is still living in Michigan, still painting, and still selling her paintings and taking on commissions at Painter’s Place in Northville. She keeps busy as well as being young and beautiful! I’ll pass your e-mail address on to her today.

Ah, Coleen, my dear friend Bronwen! “Island time” is the best time!

I would not have guessed a beaver. So that is a good camera catch. Yes yes, a friend indeed. Ms. Bronwen Gates was just telling me about your book, your Island travels, and her adventure to the Dossin Museum. I will be picking up a copy of your book. So very excited that you have written it and love the island time. We also love Beaver Island camping.

You are close, Coleen! Here are the correct answers: a green heron on Wooded Island (in the Jackson Lagoon, Chicago, Illinois); koi on Belle Isle (in the Detroit River, Detroit, Michigan); a North American beaver in the lagoon on Presque Isle (Lake Erie, Erie, Pennsylvania), and yes, a white-tailed buck on Ontario’s Bob-Lo Island (also in the Detroit River).

Do we have a friend in common? (Sorry if I missed something here.) The book was launched Wednesday. With or without it, I’ll bet you’ll love camping on North Manitou and South Manitou Islands. Enjoy!

I have heard wonderful stories of your island visits from my friend, and plan to “rough it” camp this summer at the Manitou Islands. Cannot wait to see a copy of your book! Coleen