May 6, 2013

Still grounded from riding, but trying to make the best of it.  If you are wanting to read about one of our rides, you might want to skip this one.

Today was sunny and in the low 70's.  We rearranged our schedule a bit, and headed up to Northport to start clearing the lots we purchased last fall.  A chainsaw wielding friend was unable to go with us, due to  health issues.  We were armed with shovels, rakes,  hand saws, and yard gloves.  Our main foe was raspberry bushes, and plenty of them.

After battling them for about an hour, and realizing that I should have brought pruning shears along, I headed to the local supply store and bought some.

After a little break, we were back at work.

Tony went to work with the saw, cutting what small trees and branches that he could, but it was obvious that some were too big for him to conquer.

 Our goal is to clear a semi circle, so we have an easy in and out with the camping trailer, and the cargo trailer.  This is part of the drive thru.  The less backing up the better.

50 feet back is where the camper will be.

In addition to my share of cutting canes, I also hauled them to an open spot, where they were thrown to await a fiery fate..

They did not want to give up the claim on this land, but we were determined to win.  Tony attacked with the saw, while I persistently kept after them with the pruners.  One by one they fell. Some didn't give up the ghost easily and others grabbed my ankles with their  spiked trendiles  as I walked by.  The tough guys fought me all the way to the death pile, wrapping thorned arms around to my back, latching onto my sweat pants, and drawing blood from my arms.

 Our original plan was to do some work, then stop and take a walk, but our energy was used up before the work at hand was completed.  We have the spot for the trailer about 3/4  ready.  Our Northport  neighbor is going to cut the downed trees for us, so we will be able to get our camper in.  Then we can get keep at it bit by bit.

The sandwich shop in Northport was closed, so after packing up, we stopped in Sutton's Bay and had supper at VI

Across the street there is a n old telephone booth, that has tourist info posted inside.

Next to that, is a colorful art gallery.

On the way back to the car we came across this.

Todays adventure didn't occur on a ride, but until we can ride again,  this project will keep us busy.