Author: Michael Hardy

Michael is the owner of Thumbwind Publications LLC. It started in 2009 covering Michigan and the Upper Thumb. Today, his Michigan Moments series has established a loyal base of 110,000 followers.

Michigan Maple Syrup from Battel’s Sugar Bush

Posted on February 28, 2021April 19, 2025 by Michael Hardy

We learned that it takes about 40 gallons of maple sap to produce one gallon of high-grade maple syrup.

Mark Battel and his family have organized and maintain over 400 taps with gravity and a vacuum-fed tube system that fills the collection kettles with pure Maple sap. Stop by their roadside stand and pick up some sweetness this season.

The Railroad at the Bottom of Saginaw Bay

Posted on February 22, 2021January 30, 2025 by Michael Hardy

A ship runs aground in Saginaw Bay only a few miles from its destination in Caseville. Leaving us a tale on the rails.

12 Free Things to do in Michigan’s Thumb

Posted on February 14, 2021November 11, 2021 by Michael Hardy

We went looking for over a dozen free things to in Michigan’s Thumb. This are fun for the family and only cost your time and travel.

Tundra or Trumpeter Swan Near Oscoda? – You Decide

Posted on January 29, 2021November 12, 2021 by Michael Hardy

We were treated to an interesting treat today, which is much appreciated. Amy from Oscoda spotted a swan paddling along

Rediscovering Bach General Store – Fading Days of A Joyful 4 Corner Town

Posted on January 29, 2021July 24, 2025 by Michael Hardy

The Bach General Store, long since closed. Once the center of the community, these shops were common in the days before Walmart and Dollar General.

The Lightship Huron Still Lights the Way on the St. Clair River.

Posted on January 27, 2021March 19, 2026 by Michael Hardy

One interesting little site, located in a county park, is the Lightship Huron. Lightships are floating lighthouses that could be anchored on the lakes where it was too deep or impossible to build a lighthouse.

4 Michigan Legislators Demand DNR Restore Commercial Fishing Licenses

Posted on January 23, 2021November 13, 2021 by Michael Hardy

Four Michigan State legislators demand the restoration of commercial fishing licenses for 13 fisher operations left in Michigan.

RV Rental in Michigan State Parks – 9 Motivations To Consider

Posted on January 20, 2021August 4, 2023 by Michael Hardy

The past pandemic has caused folks to curtail travel. However a new interest in camping now giving families safe way to be outdoors and explore safely.

Also the Michigan DNR has worked with local companies that offer RV and camper rental delivery and set up services in Michigan’s State Parks. This allows outdoor camping for those who want the experience of staying in a camper but not the ownership of one.