This had to be an early morning, as we had a great deal to accomplish on this day. Miles to travel, supplies to purchase for the cabin week, and then even more miles to travel. Since Grandma and Grandpa are now senior citizens, they have to stop for "stretch breaks" much more often than a kid who is residing in the back seat with a bag of books that must weigh 30 pounds, and an iPad with podcasts and games. Or she might even decide to take a little nap!

Because we have been doing this route for many years, we have developed our favorite stopping places. Tobie's in Hinckley is the supplier for wonderful loaves of bread, and also delicious truffles for a snack. Finally, we make a stop at the nice produce stand in the parking lot, where we buy a variety of fresh fruits, veggies, and corn on the cob.

We had considered going by way of Cloquet so that we could stop for lunch at Gordy's Hi-Hat, but in the end we opted for Two Harbors. It was a bit of a surprise to find Two Harbors crawling with people (there was an art fair in town) and a major wait at all of the restaurants. We tried the Vanilla Bean first, and it was a no-go. So we decided to go to the grocery store and purchase our food for the next few days/week. After that we considered Betty's Pies and decided that they would be slammed, too. Finally, we stood in line at Judy's Cafe. Eventually we were seated. The loaded hash browns were such a big hit she ended up ordering a second helping!

The next stop was at the lookout for Split Rock Lighthouse. We always stop here. It isn't like the lighthouse ever changes, but it is the welcoming scene for feeling like we are really on the North Shore and headed for Grand Marais!

As always, Jerry Vandiver, via CD, "sang" us up the last section of the North Shore. About 3:30 we arrived at Grand Marais, where the temperature was a comfortable 74 degrees. A quick stop at the Holiday for milk, and then it was time to head up the Gunflint Trail to Cabin #4 at Rockwood Lodge on Poplar Lake. This would be our "home" for the next week. This will be the fifth time we have stayed at Rockwood Lodge (hence, "Volume Five"). The cabin has a beautiful lake view and is very comfortable.

Anna claimed the loft area with two queen beds. It gave her privacy, and a place to read late at night after Grandma and Grandpa had pooped out.

We settled into our rooms and put away the groceries. Then there was a spirited game of "Five Crowns", which Grandpa won. Later on we had a dinner of steak (which Grandma did her best to ruin in a stainless steel pan), sweet corn on the cob, and fresh strawberries. After that we tried a game of "Rat-a-Tat Cat" which Grandpa also won. We were all tired and an early bedtime seemed in order. There would be plenty of time for games and adventures.