Book Review - 100 Things to Do on Mackinac Island Before You Die

About the Book
100 Things to Do on Mackinac Island Before You Die
Take a ferry ride back in time to Michigan’s Mackinac Island, the car-free destination in the Straits of Mackinac where the Great Lakes Huron and Michigan meet. Here, the streets are lined with Victorian-era buildings, and getting around is by foot, horse-drawn carriage, or bicycle. Centuries ago, it was a gathering place to the Anishinaabek, a sacred place. By the late 1800s, the picturesque island had become a popular escape for city dwellers seeking fresh air, scenic beauty, recreation, and amusements, and that appeal continues today. Explore the island from the bustling shops and eateries of Main Street to the trails and natural wonders of the state park, like spectacular Arch Rock. Take a Mackinac Island Carriage Tour for an overview of the sights. Explore historic Fort Mackinac, and sit a spell on the world’s longest porch at Grand Hotel. Sample the fudge at the many candy shops, and be sure to take home a slab or two as a memento. In 100 Things to Do on Mackinac Island Before You Die, experienced travel writer and photographer Kath Usitalo helps you explore this historic island. This book will assist you to make the most of a day trip and introduce you to the many reasons you could easily spend a night or several at this captivating spot.
My Take on the Book
100 Things to Do on Mackinac Island Before You Die instantly transported me back to one of the most charming places in Michigan. I’ve visited the island before, but this book gave me a whole new appreciation for just how much more there is to discover. From trails I hadn’t explored to spots I walked past without realizing their significance, it’s full of fresh ideas and little-known gems. Kath Usitalo’s insights helped me imagine new ways to experience the island beyond the fudge shops and Fort Mackinac (though both are still favorites!). The mix of historical context, scenic suggestions, and unique activities makes this book more than a checklist—it’s like a friend sharing insider tips. I’m already planning to return with this book in hand, especially to try a few of the guided tours I’ve never taken. Whether it’s your first or tenth visit, this book will deepen your connection to the island.


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Book Review - 100 Things to Do in Michigan Before You Die

About the Book
In a NASA photo of North America, Michigan’s handprint on the earth, surrounded by four of the five Great Lakes—Erie, Huron, Michigan, and Superior—is a standout. Labeled as lakes, they are really freshwater seas. You have to see them to appreciate their size, might, and incredible beauty. The only state comprised of two peninsulas, Michigan’s motto is, “If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you,” and each is distinctly different and worthy of exploration. Visit sites related to the first people who called this state home, such as the Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture and Lifeways, and learn about the 17th and 18th centuries at Colonial Michilimackinac. Tour the Quincy Mine and other vestiges of the copper boom in the Keweenaw Peninsula. Learn about Detroit’s musical phenomenon at the Motown Museum. Travel through American history at The Henry Ford, an indoor/outdoor complex that’s truly one of a kind. Explore the natural beauty of the national parks, including Pictured Rocks on Lake Superior and Sleeping Bear Dunes on Lake Michigan. In 100 Things to Do in Michigan Before You Die, experienced travel writer and photographer Kath Usitalo shares tips about this four-season destination. Take a road trip and discover the wonders of our pleasant peninsulas.

My Take on the Book
As someone who’s lived in Michigan most of my life, I didn’t expect to find much in this book that I hadn’t already done or at least heard about—but I was pleasantly surprised. 100 Things to Do in Michigan Before You Die is like having a travel-savvy friend whispering in your ear, urging you to revisit beloved destinations and venture off to new ones you’ve somehow missed. Kath Usitalo’s love for the state is clear, and her suggestions go beyond the typical tourist stops. From historic gems tucked away in the Upper Peninsula to flavorful food finds downstate, this guide offers a blend of culture, nature, nostalgia, and discovery. I especially appreciated the seasonal balance and the clear organization by category. It’s inspired me to plan a few new road trips and finally check out places I’ve always meant to visit. A perfect gift for Michigan fans and explorers alike.

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Game Review - Pickle Everything – Flippin’ Pickles

About the Book

•   A PICKLE-TASTIC MATCHING GAME! – Get ready to flip, match, and crunch your way to victory in this fast-paced pickle-themed card game! Match the right pickles before your opponents and claim the title of Top Pickle!
• THINK FAST OR GET IN A PICKLE! – Players take turns flipping cards and racing to find the perfect match. But beware—some pickles have a sneaky twist! Stay sharp, or you’ll end up in a real pickle!
• FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN FOR ALL AGES! – Designed for 2-4 players, this easy-to-learn game is perfect for kids, teens, and adults looking for a game that’s quick, exciting, and full of laughs!
• QUICK 15-20 MINUTE GAMEPLAY – NO TIME TO MARINATE! – A fast-paced matching challenge that keeps everyone engaged. Whether it's family game night, a party, or a travel game for road trips, Flippin’ Pickles brings the fun in minutes!
• A DILL-ICIOUS GIFT FOR GAME LOVERS! – If you’re looking for a funny and unique gift for board game lovers, party game fans, or pickle enthusiasts, Flippin’ Pickles is a must-have! Perfect for birthdays, holidays, and game night surprises!  

My Take on the Game
Flippin’ Pickles surprised me with how much punch it packed in such a small deck. I brought it out during a rainy afternoon with my kids, and suddenly we were all locked in a fierce—and hilarious—battle to be crowned the ultimate pickle-matcher. Each turn feels like a race, with just enough visual trickery in the cards to keep you second-guessing even the closest matches. What seems like a simple memory game quickly becomes a test of reflexes, observation, and a bit of laughter when someone confidently flips a “Peace Pickle” that’s totally off. I loved that the game was quick to learn and plays in under 20 minutes, making it perfect when we want something fun without a long setup. Whether it’s for a road trip or family night at home, Flippin’ Pickles delivers fast-paced fun that kids and grown-ups can dive into together.


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Game Review - Pickle Everything Eat Your Words

About the Game

•   A WORD GAME WITH A TWIST! – Get ready for a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud guessing game where every answer starts with "C," "P," or "B"—but you MUST say "carrot," "pickle," or "banana" after your guess! Sounds easy? Just wait!
• THINK FAST OR GET IN A PICKLE! – One player gives a clue, and the others race to shout out the right word with the correct food name. Mess up, and you’ll have everyone cracking up!
• PERFECT FOR GAME NIGHT & PARTIES – Whether you're hanging out with friends or looking for a fun family game night challenge, this quick-thinking word game is great for 3-5 players who love a little competition.
• QUICK 20-MINUTE PLAYTIME – NO TIME TO SLIP ON A BANANA! – The rounds are fast, frantic, and full of fun, making it perfect for players who love quick-witted, interactive games without long rulebooks.
• A RIPE CHOICE FOR GAME LOVERS! – If you love word games like Taboo, Catch Phrase, or Scattergories, you’ll go absolutely bananas for this one! Makes a great gift for game night fanatics, party hosts, and wordplay lovers.  

My Take on the Game
Eat Your Words caught me completely off guard—in the best way. I expected a quirky little word game, but what I got was full-blown silliness mixed with lightning-fast thinking. Every guess has to start with a "C," "P," or "B" and be followed by a food word like "carrot," "pickle," or "banana." It sounds manageable… until the pressure’s on, and suddenly your brain short-circuits trying to yell “beach carrot!” while everyone else is shouting nonsense. The chaos is absolutely the charm. We played with a group of four, and it quickly became a shouting match of hilarious wrong guesses and creative food fusions. Rounds are short, which kept the energy high, and no one ever got bored. It reminded me of games like Catch Phrase but with a weirder (and tastier) twist. If you like word games and don’t mind getting a little ridiculous, this one’s a must-play.


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Game Review - G'Nuzzle – Fast-Paced Puzzle Game for Kids, Families & Adults

About the Game

•   🧩 PUZZLE, HUSTLE, G’NUZZLE! G’Nuzzle is the riotously fun, fast-paced puzzle game where strategy meets speed! Race your friends to drop all your pieces first — it's part game, part puzzle, all sizzle. Perfect for families, kids, and game night enthusiasts!
• 🥒 PICKLES AND PETS? DON'T MIND IF WE DO! From fuzzy furballs to crunchy cucumbers, G'Nuzzle serves up two hilarious puzzle themes in one box! Play the Purrfectly Peculiar Pets Puzzle for adorable chaos or the Picture-Perfect Pickle Puzzle for briny brain-twisters. Twice the themes, double the G’Nuzzle!
• ⏱️ 1 MINUTE TURNS, LIFETIME OF BRAGGING RIGHTS Each player has just one minute per turn to hustle, shuffle, and G’Nuzzle their pieces into play. Match your pieces with others or extend the puzzle board to outwit your opponents. First to finish, wins!
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 FUN FOR 2 TO 4 PLAYERS, AGES 7 & UP Whether it's a duel or a full-on piece-flying frenzy, G'Nuzzle is built for 2 to 4 players ages 7+. It's a quick-thinking, family-friendly game that’s perfect for after dinner, parties, or weekend fun
• 🎁 GREAT GIFT FOR GAME LOVERS & PUZZLE FANS Looking for a unique birthday gift, holiday surprise, or something new for game night? G’Nuzzle is the perfect mix of brainy and zany – with enough pizzazz to make Grandma giggle and Uncle Gary grumble!  

My Take on the Game

I didn’t think I’d love a puzzle game, but G’Nuzzle totally won me over. It mixes the fun of traditional puzzles with the thrill of racing the clock and outsmarting your opponents. Each player gets their own set of pieces and just one minute to add to a shared puzzle, which makes every turn feel like a mini adrenaline rush. I really enjoyed the quirky themes—yes, there’s a whole puzzle of pickles in people clothes, and it’s as ridiculous as it sounds (in the best way). The colorful pet option was easier to navigate, but the green-tinted pickle chaos added an unexpected challenge. It’s quick to set up, easy to explain, and great for both kids and adults. Whether you’re into puzzles or just want something new for game night, G’Nuzzle brings energy, laughs, and just enough strategy to keep everyone engaged. Definitely keeping this one in the rotation!

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