Somewhere In Time

When Lee and I watched the movie Somewhere in Time with Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour, we had expressed a desire to see The Grand Hotel where the movie was made. I remember looking at the movie credits to see where this hotel was located and saw that it was on Mackinac Island in Michigan. To tell you the truth, I never thought that we would ever go there in a million years.................. or so I thought!!!!
Well today was the day and it didn't take a million years. Today we took the ferry from Mackinaw City (about 30 minutes north of Petoskey) to Mackinac Island.
It was like taking a trip into the past. The surrounding Victorian homes were just gorgeous with their expansive flower gardens. Only Horse and Buggies and bicycles are allowed on the island; absolutely no motorized vehicles. So Lee and I walked up to the Grand Hotel. We were able to see the hotel from the ferry as we approached the island but nothing could prepare us for what we saw up close. The Grand Hotel is an amazing piece of living history which keeps in touch with the present but always reminding you of the past..... the velvet couches, the wallpapers, the sconces, the pictures, the lamps, the silver. I could go on and on. Even though we were allowed to wear comfortable casual clothing, I have to admit that this environment warranted more formal attire at all times; not just in the evening as the hotel requires. Wow!!!
We purposely arrived in time for their renowned Grand Luncheon Buffet in the main dining room. Talk about GRAND. What a selection of food!!!! I really wished that I had a bigger appetite since there was so much choose from. I did, however, indulge with dessert. How could I resist a mini cannoli with chocolate chips and a mini fruit tart?? It was worth all the calories since it added to the entire dining experience.
After lunch, Lee and I took a tour of the hotel. There were so many rooms for people to gather and talk; the parlor level being one of them. The hotel boasts of a large front porch with chairs overlooking the gardens. There was an art exhibit in one area; they have a theater; a library; they have a numerous bar areas; one of which is the Cupola Bar located at the top of the hotel. It used to be an open space but now it is enclosed and has a two sitting areas. The views from this bar is, of course, just awesome!!
When we returned downstairs to the parlor level, they were getting ready for Afternoon Tea which consisted of champagne, sherry, coffee, tea, petit fours, mini sandwiches, etc. It was a shame that we couldn't stay since we had a ferry to catch and had little Sammy waiting for us. Where did the afternoon go??? It was like a dream. All I can say is that we had a magical experience that will remain forever Somewhere In Our Time!!!