Smart & Fluffy Forever

Smart & Fluffy continued their adventures after I stopped writing BelleIsleHome. We crisscrossed the state in my all-terrain Ford Escort hatchback and a tent. IRL, their names were Gracie and George. My constant companions were great campers. Gracie loved to swim. Georgie didn't swim, but he loved to stand in the water up to his belly to cool off. We traveled from the Ohio state line to Lake of the Clouds in the Porkies, from Manistee to Harrisville to the Mouth of the Two Hearted River campground in the UP.

Gracie stalking minnows at Black Lake

We had a great run. At the age of 12, the pups and I hiked up to the Honeymoon Cabin in the Pigeon River State Forest. Although on the way back, I did have to put 25lb George in my backpack and carry him a bit.

Georgie made it to April 2018, a perky old man of 14.

Gracie at the Honeymoon Cabin, Pigeon River State Forest.

Georgie with a look-alike Christmas gift

At Big Bear Point

Closer to home at Miliken State Park in their later years.

Gracie poses with portrait and her artist friend Pepper

Gracie was sometimes uncharacteristically somber for a month or so after Georgie passed, but rallied for one last memorable summer and winter, leaving us in May 2019 at 15 years young. With her giant heart and spirit, she was as joyful as ever, but her body just couldn't keep up anymore

Gracie's last summer, at Manistee

George's last summer

Gracie at Ossineke State Forest Campground (I think)

I still miss them so much, but they never had a sad day in their lives, so I had to continue my adventures in their honor, a little further afield.
 

George at Harrisville