The Kindness of a Stranger

I knew his shoppe was different the second I walked through the door. I had been greeted just as enthusiastically at all the other shops I had visited, but those shopkeepers were also quick to tell me about their end of season sale, and exactly what items were 30% off.

When I entered his shoppe I was greeted warmly but instead of being told about end of season sales I was told about his shoppe. "There are antiques on this main level, upstairs, and on the lower level. Please be sure to check out the walk in bank vault in the back left corner of the main level. There is an intercom on every level and I answer to pretty much anything." Well how can you argue with that, I set  off to explore. Working my way towards the bank vault and then to the upper level and finally the basement.

I hadn't intended to stay very long, I still had so many things to see in town. I really hadn't intended to buy anything, but coming up from the basement I spotted a couple of beautiful vintage teaspoons that would make great photography props for my still life work. Once I had those in hand, I figured I might as well go back and get those vintage ice cream scoops I saw on the second floor. On my way back to the main floor I spotted a vintage glass cake stand that needed to come with me as well. With both hands full I headed towards the register.

This is were the fun really begins. He asked me what I was going to do with these items, and since I had my camera slung across my body, I said they were going to be photography props for my still life work.

We got to talking and I said I was out exploring backroads for the day and photographing interesting finds. He told me he preferred backroads as well. A kindred soul.

He asked me what I liked to photograph the most, I said "Anything old, decaying , historic, rusty".

He reached under the counter for a key and said "I don't do this very often, but go up to the second floor, at the end of the hall is a set of wooden doors, this key unlocks the padlock on those doors.

Go up the stairs and at the top you will find an old Masonic Temple.

All the fixtures, hardware...

Bathroom tile and fixtures...

are original.

Original transom windows above all the doors...

The main meeting room ceiling and stenciling on the wall...

He told me to take as many pictures as I wanted, which I did, but I could have still taken more. When I was done all I had to do was re-lock the doors with the padlock and bring the key back downstairs.

What a wonderful unexpected gift he gave me. You never know when striking up a conversation with a stranger will lead you to an amazing adventure.

Thank you so much Dan for indulging my desire to photograph old and decaying.

Taking the Backroads - My Heart Lies North

Last week I went south from where I live to explore backroads, and that was okay. This week though I went back to what I love, exploring northward.

Plus this Starbucks is so conveniently located on my northward route.

My starting point this week was Stoney Lake Road which is located near New Era, Stony Lake and Silver Lake.

My necessary equipment was by my side.

The Corner of Stony Lake Road and 52nd Avenue

I found quite a few treasures on just one corner...

This classic 1903 school house with the original Bradyville School bell, now a year round residence, is for sale. List price $70,000 - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths.

Just look at all that lovely detail.

Next a sign for a Winery that Glen and I have never been to. Must check this place out.

Their literature says "We offer a vast selection of wines from dry to sweet - there's something for everyone to enjoy". Sounds perfect, since Glen likes dry and I like sweeter.

The next thing you just don't see for sale alongside the road everyday.

The funniest thing is that I know somebody that would buy a truck like this. I took a picture of it and the information and sent it to his dad. That's what friends are for right?

Stony Lake

Stony Lake is very much a quaint little summer cottage village. The above photograph shows a walkway and building that are part of a summer camp.

Ever on my quest for vintage playground equipment I found this wood plank floor merry go round at the local park.

Route B15

Once out of Stony Lake I was on B15. I think this road will be filled with beautiful color within the next week or two.

Shortly out of Stony Lake I came across this gem.

I haven't seen gas pumps like that one in quite a while, so obviously this little convenience store that is, of course, for sale has been empty for quite a while.

Silver Lake

Silver Lake Sand Dunes are very popular with the Off Road Vehicle crowd. I did these dunes once quite a few years ago on a jeep ride and let's just say I have motion sickness issues :)

Pentwater

I stopped at this great park for a bathroom break, snack break and a stroll out to Lake Michigan.

I just love dune grass and blue skies.

Pentwater - The Other Side of the Channel

Once going around the channel you get to the other side of Pentwater. The part that has their lovely downtown. Glen thinks we have been here before, I have no memory of this.

This is where my next story takes place. I don't mean to leave you hanging, but I have run over my allotment of photographs for today, and I want to do a little more research first. I will give you a couple of picture hints though...

I hope to have this post up tomorrow...especially since it is suppose to rain.

Joining my dear friend Helen for her Weekend Walks