The predicted thunderstorms did not materialize and we were off at 5:00 AM as usual. When Carol and I caught up with Pam a few miles down the road, she was excited to tell us about her first spotting of a Wisconsin bear who was crossing the road. As Carol and I kept on the lookout for bears, we saw several white tail deer. Or it may have been the same deer, several times. We also heard many bird calls; woodpeckers, melodic cardinals, even loons.
At Tom's Country Cafe in Mercer we were amazed to see the place packed. We rarely see many other customers when we arrive in these small town cafes, so I asked what the occasion was. I heard, "It's Friday morning." As Tom, the proprietor, rang up my bill he asked about the ride, then spontaneously replied, "breakfast is on us."
Pam rode ahead the 26 miles into Boulder Junction. When Carol and I arrived close to town we noticed a fancy resort BIG BEAR HIDEAWAY. Rustic Luxury. It looked inviting and way too expensive for us so we continued pedaling. Then Carol spotted Pam's bike in the front. We made a U turn and discovered our luxury home for tonight. Pam had spoken to Bill Brockman, the manager. He called Jeff Stadelmann the owner who gave us the last cabin available. It is more than we could have imagined. It is stocked with all the comforts including cold drinks and snacks. We went from happily sleeping in the church basement to Ultimate Luxury.
Pam with Bill Brockman at Big Bear Hideaway
We had a lovely visit with Jeff's partner Donna who told us their motto is "we're here to say yes." We are here to say we are feeling incredibly grateful...again.
Jeff and Donna Stadelmann, owners
2 comments:
When I talked to Jeff He said, He follows the Lords Direction and I replied. Yes The Lord has blessed us and provided EVERY night for us. Our Paths will cross again. GOD Bless you Jeff. Pam
Wow, yet another night in the lap of luxury. It really is amazing. And I also have to say that I never would have thought about staying in any of these places, or even visiting them. But after reading your blog, there are a lot of places I'd like to visit and patronize. Maybe one day, although I probably will never ride a bike, I will travel across country in some leisurely way and stay in some of these places whose owners were so gracious to you guys. Your blog is good advertising for those of us somewhat off kilter!
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