Vacation: Friday, June 17th: Chateau Chantel, Lighthouse and Dad's Birthday Dinner

We took a break from the water parks and drove up Traverse City's little peninsula. The drive was scenic! We stopped at two vineyards and tasted some fine wines. The first stop was Blackstar Farms. The second vineyard, Chateau Chantel, was a lot bigger and nicer. It was situated on a hill so we could see the bay. The views were so beautiful. I felt like I was in a different county! We tasted more wines and I experienced ice wine for the first time. It was very good--but maybe a tad sweet for me. I also liked the wines made from cherries that are prevalent in that region.

After the vineyards, we drove the rest of the way down the peninsula to the Old Mission Lighthouse. The shoreline was very rocky on the lake. There was also a log cabin that we could peek inside the windows. After that last stop, we went back to the hotel so the girls could nap for a little while. Jack and John tried out the outdoor water park. Then, since it was my dad's actual 60th birthday, we all went out to dinner. Crazy times at dinner!

The girls looking at the view--not sure they appreciated it like we did

John and Jack looking at the shoreline

I love this picture of Jack

The Hesler Log Home

Jack trying out the slide at the outdoor water park

Dinner at Sleders