It was a Marvelous Monday to start the week

We're still thinking about how beautiful Lake Superior is, the perfect weather and fun on Saturday. This is Agate Beach. Along with the trails, shelters, bridges and stone walls built by the CCC in the 30's, a swimming beach was made for those brave or hearty enough for the cold waters of the lake.

Yesterday was a great day in Brainerd and beyond. After we caught up on household stuff in the morning, it was time for recreation and fun! We went to the park and played tennis, the courts were dried off and there was perfect Sun. A few little clouds of biting gnats interfered some, but we had many good long volleys and laughter. Just breezy enough to keep from getting too hot, the Sun felt really good. Then we loaded up the bicycles and dog trailer later and parked at the Arboratum lot. The weather was just right for a bike ride. We pedaled to Merrifield on the Paul Bunyan Trail. Scooter and Charlie enjoy the ride after they get settled, the trailer pulls really well. A big fox ran across the trail in front of Peggy, it had grayish silver fur with some red. A nice surprise. In Merrifield, we took a little break for snacks and refreshment before pedaling back. 3 deer crossed in front of us on the way back, a doe and 2 fawn.... always great things to see on this trail, and the dogs woofed at them. It was the perfect temperature, warm but not sweaty hot, with a gentle breeze. A very nice 20 mile ride.

We got home and I fired up the Weber.... brats were on the menu! Baked beans with butter beans, toasted buns with garlic butter, green beans and special chips were a fabulous, picnic type meal for after our exercise and fun. I used some hickory wood chunks along with the coals and the brats had a great flavor...

Now back to reality a bit with the week and work, but we've got an awesome weekend planned already. There will be evenings of relaxing and fun to break things up a bit too. Oh Yeah!

It is warmer today and maybe the sunshine will give us some red tomatoes to have with our meals.... we hope! August is here, and Summer still feels like it is in full swing in Brainerd.

Peace!