Lake Shore

Crashing waves. Spraying mists. Lapping water. Floating driftwood. Sparkling droplets. Memories of time spent by Lake Superior. A decade or two ago, my husband and I took yearly vacations "up north." We stayed in cabins along the large lake and enjoyed the cool breezes of water as far as the eye could see. The large lake provided the perfect climate for this tundra girl. I am never ready for the onslaught of summer's heat and humidity so a respite from such oppression is always appreciated.

We usually begin our lake time with a stop in the harbor town of Duluth. The view from Enger Park, situated above the city, is worth the journey through winding, sometimes confusing, streets. The park is filled with manicured gardens and leisurely walking trails. It is a great way to observe the sights and sounds of the city and the lake from afar.

The best way to experience the lake, of course, is walking along its shoreline. Canal Park is a well developed area nestled against the lake, perfect for observing the comings and goings of the big ships taking care of business. The old aerial lift bridge slowly raises it hulking deck for ships as they glide through the harbor. The ships hail from around the world, thanks to the lock systems of the Great Lakes. It is mind boggling to watch a vessel from Italy or Hong Kong chug along in upper Minnesota. Everything from grain to beet pulp to iron ore pellets are loaded for delivery to far flung places.

One particular ship viewing session found my husband and I in a torrential downpour. We were determined to weather the storm and watch the ships but the rain got the best of us. A coffee shop nearby provided the shelter we needed. This was before there was a coffee shop or java kiosk every 50 feet so the experience was purely delightful. We queued up with other dripping wet beings and ordered a hot cup of black, brew-of-the-day, coffee. The windows in the shop gave us peek-a-boo views of the harbor through the pouring rain.

Coffee always tastes good to me but that Caribou cup transcended all other cups for a moment in time. The rich brew permeated our senses with warmth and well being. The disappointment of not being able to fully view the ships was completely negated by two cups of coffee, one cozy corner and unobstructed conversation. Many years later, I still smile when I remember that day.

We hope to return to the big lake some time soon. Hopefully, we can even make the circle tour around the lake, venturing into the foreign land of Canada. Until then, I can enjoy a cup of Caribou coffee on occasion so I am able to experience a lake picture in my head and almost hear the bugle call of the gulls overhead.

Coffee. More than just caffeine.