Entries to Win Afghan

Sign up to receive the Books Leaving Footprints Newsletter. Comes out occasionally. No spam. No list swapping. Just email me! jhyshark@gmail.com Previous gifts include a short story, a poem, and coupons. Add your name, and don't miss out!

Friday, May 8, 2026

Taking MOWA to the Trail


The Michigan Outdoor Writers Association (MOWA) is having their annual conference this weekend... just over in Baldwin! But with Confidence Camp, I'm too busy to attend. But I did offer to lead a hike. Four of us did the 3.5 mile loop at Bowman Lake. I was delighted that a few people signed up!
hikers a Bowman Lake


You know Bowman Lake is one of my favorite places in our local area.
Bowman Lake


We all had a chuckle about this. Somehow a Skunk Cabbage got itself planted in this three-trunked tree.
skunk cabbage


A happy and clean painted turtle sun-bathing on a log.
painted turtle


And, ta-da! The sassafras are just starting to flower and get leaves.
sassafras flower


They took me out to lunch afterwards. A very nice morning!

Confidence Camp all afternoon. Hoping to finish the last major item this evening.

Miles walked in 2026: 162.2
Hike 100 Challenge 2026: 53.3

Bowman Lake area, Lake County, Michigan. North Country Trail 1.75 miles, Bowman Lake Trail 1.75 miles.

See Bowman Semi-Primitive Area

4 comments:

Ann said...

Glad you were able to take them out for a hike. Nice that they took you to lunch.
Hope all goes well with confidence camp

Sharkbytes said...

Ann- thanks! Down to the wire!

The Oceanside Animals said...

Lulu: "Our Dada says he has heard of sassafras, but he's not sure he's ever seen one before!"

Sharkbytes said...

lulu- Oh my! Sassafras is lovely. And it might be a good name for a fur sibling