Beaver Island, Lake Michigan

Entry #87:  N45.44.944, W85.30.670

Thursday, July 25th (Day 80):  I feel like a zombie.  I was physically and mentally exhausted.  Fortunately the weather was moderate in the upper 50’s, low 60’s with light to moderate winds out of the southeast and 2′ seas.  I decided to power sail and was able to maintain 5 to 5 ½ mph.  With the exception of almost running into a freighter, things were uneventful or more likely, missed as I fought to stay alert.  Throughout the 42 mile trip to Beaver Island, I would nod off only to be awakened by something I apparently had missed.

It was 4 pm when I reached Beaver Island Marina in James Bay.   Docked and fell asleep in excruciating back pain.

Friday, July 26th – Saturday, 27th (Days 81 & 82):  My mind was in a vegetative state and my body ached.  There was no motivation to leave my slip as I certainly wasn’t going to go out with over 30+ knot winds on Friday and Saturday.  So I spent the next two days relaxing, sleeping, eating, gift shopping and even updating my blog.

Last night I felt I anchored in no-mans’ water (land). Felt uneasy, exposed. I lifted anchor early without the assurance of a weather forecast (no internet/no I-phone connection). It was a long way to Beaver Island with no anchor points in-between. And, though very tired and sore I needed to get underway.
Veered off as I nearly got run over. Battling to remain focused and alert.
Beaver Island on the horizon. Yes!
Central Michigan University Beaver Island research facility.
Beaver Island Marine Office
Centre of St. James, Beaver Island (the largest island on Lake Michigan).
St. James Yacht Club
Uninvited visitor. Water snakes were everywhere.
Beaver Island had a King!

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