A Quiet October Day at Tawas Point State Park, Michigan

Leaving the excitement of Huron National Forest behind, we took to the road looking for a quiet spot to unpack our picnic. It turned out to be a very late lunch, but the view made it worth the wait.

A quiet local resident eyeing us curiously at Lake Huron.

It was quite windy, but we carefully held down our lunch and napkins to keep everything from blowing away. We finally settled down at a table with a beautiful, wide-open view of the lake.

Collie took care of the cooler bag, filling it with drinks and snacks, while I made the sandwiches. 😊

I made the sandwiches using Dave's Killer Bread, filling them with spicy meat, takeout salad, ranch dressing, and sliced cheese from the fridge. Also, I spread avocado oil and miso inside the bread, then finished with a tiny pinch of salt. 

Collie took a bite and said, “Not bad!” with a serious expression, but followed it with, “So many different flavors...” :3

Well, that’s because I used every leftover available to avoid wasting anything! But hey, it all came together perfectly, didn’t it? 😉

This is the view looking back from the lake. Tawas Point State Park has a lovely day-use area with a playground and picnic spots, making it a convenient stop during a road trip.

It was an impressive scene of the beach gently meeting the waters of Lake Huron. After finishing our lunch, we went for a stroll along the sand spit stretching out into the lake.

The finely layered waves one after another made us feel the sheer vastness and refreshing energy of the lake, which looked almost cobalt blue on a crisp autumn day. 

He was the one who found this soothing spot and brought us here. After our leisurely walk, we headed back south toward home, leaving Northern Michigan behind. 

It was a quiet, peaceful Sunday in October that we spent together.

The Epic 272-Step Wooden Stairs at Lumberman's Monument, Michigan

Exploring the Heart of Huron-Manistee National Forests

We made it to Lumberman's Monument in the beautiful Huron National Forest! Located in Northern Michigan, this historic spot sits high on the bluffs overlooking the stunning Au Sable River.

The pathway naturally leads you right to a wooden staircase that goes down into the woods. After getting up close and personal with the serene Au Sable River, reality hit us: the only way back was to climb all the way up. Going down was a breeze, but going back up... OMG! 😱

The 272-step wooden stairs

According to the USDA Forest Service, this staircase has exactly 272 steps! Oh man... I was huffing, puffing, and literally staggering my way up. And Collie, further behind me, was capturing my entire struggle on camera. LOL!

Cooke Dam Pond

But after finally making it to the top, the ultimate reward was waiting for us. This is a true Michigan hidden gem that only those who survive the climb get to experience!

What you’re looking at is the Au Sable River, but this lake-like section is actually called Cooke Dam Pond. This pond was formed after a dam was built downriver in 1911.

The autumn colors were like this when we visited in October.

Highbanks Hiking Trail

Afterwards, we were strolling along a peaceful forest trail. But Collie suddenly started sprinting out of nowhere! |o| I was so stunned that I completely missed the perfect photo shot. So, I asked him to run all over again so I could capture it... 😄 

There's no stopping Collie...

Meanwhile, my calves were sore for days afterward... 😂 I thought I was exercising well, but those stairs completely blindsided me! Needless to say, I've added calf raises to my workout routine since then. 

However, it was truly a fun and unforgettable autumn day in Michigan. 

Wishing you a cozy autumn day 🍁

Rose

Discovering the Historic Elegance of Clarkston, Michigan With Him

With the lingering warmth of a lovely lunch at 2 South Brunch House, we set off to explore downtown Clarkston, which welcomes you with a warm, refined charm.

Essence on Main, 4 S Main St, Village of Clarkston, MI

Before us stands Essence on Main, a gourmet specialty market. Its classic red brick architecture, echoing the late 19th and early 20th centuries, captures the very essence of Clarkston’s historic district.

Located about 34 miles northwest of Detroit, Clarkston is a small community tucked away in Oakland County.

My Michigan boy seems completely focused on our little expedition—his serious back is just too cute. ❤︎

Across the street, you can see a soft blue-grey building—Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen.  It’s a restaurant with a rich history, beautifully renovated from a church originally built in the 1840s. He took me inside to let me take in the atmosphere, fondly explaining how he used to be brought here as a child. 

Their signature dish is the legendary home-style Mac & Cheese. Right next door, the rustic brown brick building houses its sister property, a very popular American barbecue restaurant.

It looks like he’s on a serious smartphone mission...  :3

Back in Japan, I sent him all these back-view photos, and he actually got grumpy. I do want photos of his face, but every single time I aim the camera, he makes silly faces. -_-  I wish he’d just stay still for once! That said, his serious back views are so cute and special to me—I guess I just need to be a bit more selective about which ones I share with him.

Being Michigan's smallest incorporated city, Clarkston overflows with timeless elegance. With every step alongside him, past charming brick pathways and beautiful Victorian homes, I found myself completely captivated by its quiet grace.

I am grateful to share the story and soul of this tiny, picturesque town.

Rose

The Vintage Charm of Downtown Oxford, Michigan: Classic Brick Streets

Walking into downtown Oxford feels like stepping back in time; it is a historic district recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. It beautifully captures the essence of the 'good old American Main Street' that exists in the hearts of so many.

Along N Washington Street, which runs through the heart of downtown, rows of charming brick buildings stand side by side, each filled with timeless character.

Oxford Jewelers

The warm red brick building at the center is a beloved local jewelry shop. The cursive text on its sign is so full of elegance. It blends seamlessly into the surroundings, where many historic buildings from the late 19th to the early 20th centuries still remain.

HomeGrown Brewing Company

And here is HomeGrown Brewing Company, a dream spot I finally got to visit. To see how I spent my time there, please take a look here:

A Charming Mishap at HomeGrown Brewing: My Dream Spot in Oxford, MI

Many of the brick buildings seen around here were built in the late 1800s, specifically between the 1880s and 1890s. The town has a history of rebirth; following a devastating fire during that time, it transformed from wooden buildings into resilient brick buildings.

Centennial Alley, leading to the patio of HomeGrown Brewing

Discovered that downtown Oxford was established in 1837—a true testament to its long and beautiful history. The nostalgic charm of this small town gently warms my heart.

Victoria's Bistro & Cocktail Bar

Lastly, Victoria's Bistro, housed in a charming 1878 brick building with its tasteful blue accents.

N Washington Street beautifully showcases the timeless charm of a classic 'Main Street, USA.' While America has countless lovely little brick towns, Oxford feels uniquely different...quaint? —there is something else about it. What is that "something"?

Well, I’ll leave that for you to discover when you visit.

Rose🌷

Discover the Vintage Small Town Vibe & Quaint Charm in Oxford, Michigan

Oxford is a charming small town in Michigan. My connection to this place began when Collie shared a little fact with me: 'It’s a sister city to Oxford in England.

Since my first visit, I've been captivated by the unique atmosphere of the downtown buildings—a place where 'quaint charm' feels like the perfect description. While America has plenty of lovely small towns with great vibes, there is something about downtown Oxford that sets it truly apart from any other.

Yes, it’s the unique vibe that these buildings give off—a street view of matching brick buildings.

This view was actually born from the scars of a fierce fire that once devastated the town, and the great determination of the people who decided to build a strong town that would never burn down again.

Knowing that this quiet, peaceful place survived such a turbulent history, the color of the bricks feels even deeper and richer.

Surely, this unique atmosphere comes from its history. It is different from just being 'cute.' The resilience of the ancestors who went through the disaster is reflected in the very soul of these buildings.

The powerful dark navy and deep red brick colors of downtown Oxford carry on that legacy.

Under the brilliant sun, I stood across the street, trying my best to capture a better shot of those buildings on North Washington Street. I wanted to do them justice.

I would be so happy if these photos and the story of Oxford leave a lasting mark on your heart.

The Warmth of Silence — Sharing a Michigan Sunset from the Passenger Seat

Resuming my Michigan reflections.

We were heading to his town, with him behind the wheel. The sky, which had displayed a rainbow just moments ago, had faded into a dramatic, multi-layered sunset.

It was a regular weekday. While I was on vacation, he had worked all day before coming to pick me up at my hotel. Taking care of me meant his night would be more hectic than his usual routine.

Yet, there was something incredibly special about sharing the sunset he sees everyday in his ordinary life. He usually drives this road alone, but now, I am sitting next to him. He is busy, yes, but I felt a quiet certainty that he was glad to have me by his side.

I wish I could drive so he could take a break. But even though I got my driver's license in Japan, I don't own a car and never drive. So, the best I can do right now is to keep my eyes glued to the road, trying my hardest to absorb how driving works here in America.

While he drives, I keep quiet so I won't distract him. Yet, there’s no awkwardness in our silence. By looking straight ahead and pretending I’m behind the wheel too, I feel like we are sharing the moment, even without words. Sometimes, I softly stroke his shoulder or take a quick look at his face.

That sunset, shared by the two of us, left a warm glow in my heart.

◇ Quick Update ◇

Just a quick tip if you're looking for my blog next time: my Pinterest will now pop up in the results by searching on Google for "Rose Charmed by Michigan," "Charmed by Michigan," or simply "jophielrose." My Blogger URL is linked right there in the profile, making it super easy to come back and read more!  Thanks for staying tuned, and I look forward to sharing more with you.　Best, Rose

June at Ebisu Garden Place: Turning the Page Back to My Michigan Journals

Feeling the gentle yet powerful energy of nature this beautiful June, I found myself reflecting on my life here in Japan, realizing it is time to bring one chapter to a peaceful close.

Until now, I have shared glimpses of my daily life in Tokyo on this blog. Moving forward, however, I want to return to what inspired me to start this blog and focus primarily on my beloved Michigan—sharing my travel journals and memories of the places I hold so dear. As for my Tokyo stories, I will only be sharing them once in a very long while.

If you originally visited my blog with the hope of finding Michigan content and found yourself disappointed by other topics mixed in, I am truly sorry. From now on, I am dedicated to filling these pages with stories that truly live up to the name of this blog: Charmed by Michigan.

June at Ebisu Garden Place, Tokyo, Japan

With heartfelt gratitude to everyone who visits my blog. I hope you will continue to enjoy my Michigan stories in the days to come. 

For more visual stories—including my memories of Michigan and various other moments—you can find them curated on my Pinterest here: https://jp.pinterest.com/jophielrose/

Thank you for being part of my journey.

June 2026

Returning to the Roots, Rose

【Michigan Travelogue Special Reels Vol.9】Sunset Along the Northern Michigan Coast

This is a special spin-off featuring video reels from my earlier days in Michigan, prior to my ongoing travel blog. I hope it brings back the beautiful atmosphere of that time.

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Rose | Charmed by Michigan(@jophielrose1)がシェアした投稿

During our journey, Collie told me about the most beautiful sunset spot he'd ever seen. It was located along the northern Michigan coast. We drove out there and made it just in time for the golden hour. This is the video I captured then. Please enjoy this quiet, mystical world woven by the grand nature of Michigan.

【Michigan Travelogue Special Reels Vol.8】Boyne Mountain Resort, Northern Michigan

This is a special spin-off featuring video reels from my earlier days in Michigan, prior to my ongoing travel blog. I hope it brings back the beautiful atmosphere of that time.

この投稿をInstagramで見る

Rose | Charmed by Michigan(@jophielrose1)がシェアした投稿

Boyne Mountain Resort in Northern Michigan. In this video, you can experience the breathtaking panoramic views, the beauty of the lakeside, and abundant nature.🌳  The air is so pure, and the lake breeze feels so refreshing.

【Michigan Travelogue Special Reels Vol.6】Morning Balcony, Royal Park Hotel

This is a special spin-off featuring video reels from my earlier days in Michigan, prior to my ongoing travel blog. I hope it brings back the beautiful atmosphere of that time.

この投稿をInstagramで見る

Rose | Charmed by Michigan(@jophielrose1)がシェアした投稿

Capturing a serene morning elegantly on the open balcony of the Royal Park Hotel in Rochester, surrounded by lush green nature. The chirping of the birds makes my heart race with excitement. There is nothing better than enjoying a cup of coffee while breathing in the crisp morning air✨

Early Summer Stroll in Higashi-Gotanda and a Verse for Your Soul

On a bright sunny day in May, I walked this path in Tokyo, surrounded by the city buildings. Moving forward under the lush green leaves filled my heart with hope and energy.

Nicely landscaped walkway next to Park Tower Gran Sky
in the Higashi-Gotanda area of Shinagawa. The wide,
tree-lined path makes for a very pleasant stroll, and
there is an Aeon Food Style supermarket right next to it.

Walking through such a vibrant, green path always reminds me of the power of refreshing our minds. Whenever you need a little encouragement today, I hope these words comfort your soul.

Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.

あなたの道を主にゆだねよ。主に信頼せよ。主が成し遂げてくださる。

Psalm 37:5 NRSV

May your day be filled with peace and light.

Like a Scene from a Movie: Discovering the Charm of Autumn in Downtown Birmingham

An autumn dream in Downtown Birmingham

It’s my last day walking around Downtown Birmingham, Michigan. While I’m here, I might as well wander down some streets I didn’t get to explore much this trip.

Serena & Lily, home design on West Maple Road

Since it was already October, pumpkins had started to appear among the flowers displayed at the storefronts.

I understand that for Catholics, All Saints’ Day on November 1 is more important than Halloween on October 31—at least, that’s how Collie sees it. I’ve heard him say time and time again that people get so caught up in Halloween festivities that they forget about the significance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

Tender Inc, women's clothes & accessories on West Maple Road

Tender sits in a white building just like the neighboring Serena & Lily, exuding an elegant vibe.

Palatine Hill Wealth Management, financial planning on West Maple Road

The quaint black staircase and chic buildings feel like a scene from a movie.

Le Pecora Nera, Italian deli & cafe - Toast, breakfast restaurant on Pierce Street

I just checked Le Pecora Nera’s website, and I’m totally hooked! I’m leaving this here as a little note to myself.  https://lpnitaliandeli.com/  Their Signature Sandwiches look absolutely delicious 🥰

Mount-N-Repair, jewelry repair service - Crimson Rose Antiques - Maddog, ventures management 

on Pierce Street

As a Japanese person, finding myself walking through Birmingham, Michigan feels almost like a miracle. It may seem ordinary while it is happening, but looking back, I realize these moments may never come again. That was why I wanted to save the best photos I was capable of at that time.

The Townsend Hotel https://www.townsendhotel.com/ on Townsend Street

The grand and dignified Townsend Hotel became the finale to my strolling.

I felt so fortunate to spend time in Birmingham, Michigan, as a milestone in my journey. Even if I had grown up and lived in Michigan, I don't think I would have had the financial means to live here. For a few days, I lived as if I were a resident of this town, walking freely through the downtown and savoring the beauty of its cafés, architecture, and autumn scenery.  It felt like a dream—

A precious experience I will always treasure.

Charming & Fluffy: The Adorable Magic of Tokyo's Yaezakura

Yaezakura (Double‑Flowered Cherry Blossoms) 

These lush, layered blossoms bring an almost heavenly charm to Tokyo’s streets in late spring…

As the single‑petaled cherry blossoms fade away in late spring, the double‑flowered cherry blossoms begin to open, as if gracefully taking the baton to continue the season’s beauty.

Delicate pink Yaezakura double‑flowered cherry blossoms in full bloom, fluffy petals creating a romantic canopy over a tree‑lined street in Shinagawa, Tokyo.

Some sections along the quiet route are lined with various types of Yaezakura among many other cherry trees along the Meguro River, and it’s the Yaezakura that always puts me in a dreamy mood.

The single‑petaled cherry blossoms have a fragile, fleeting beauty, yet I am especially drawn to Yaezakura with their strong, lively, and adorable charm. Fluffy layers of Yaezakura are so lovely💕

The bouncy Yaezakura, where pure white and soft pink blend, also look dreamy.

These Yaezakura overflow with adorable fluffiness, yet they feel powerful and uplifting!

Pink petals gather along one side of the walkway beside the bridge.

Looking from that walkway toward the main avenue, I’m amazed at how such a cute, natural world can coexist with the city.

This season, why not discover the adorable fluffiness of double‑flowered sakura? A leisurely walk under these blossoms is the perfect way to fall in love with Tokyo’s springtime magic.

Rose

Cherry Blossoms Seen Through the Glass Hallway at Meguro Gajoen Tokyo

A Painting‑like View of Cherry Blossoms and City Buildings Along Meguro River

Meguro Gajoen Tokyo closed its operations on September 30, 2025, following the expiration of its lease agreement with the property owner. As of now, no official announcement has been made regarding its renewal or reopening. It’s truly regrettable, as the building was adorned with magnificent Japanese paintings and intricate décor throughout, harmoniously integrated with traditional Japanese gardens that showcased the elegance and beauty of Japan.

Unfortunately, I didn’t take any photos when Meguro Gajoen Tokyo was still open, but I took this earlier this week.

View of cherry blossoms along the Meguro River and city buildings in the background, seen through the glass hallway at Meguro Gajoen Tokyo, where the scenery blends beautifully with the architecture. It feels as if one were looking at a contemporary painting.

The cherry blossom season is often marked by unsettled weather, but whenever it isn’t raining, I try to go outside and enjoy the blossoms. Among the many beautiful spots, the cherry trees along the Meguro River also feel like one of nature’s gifts, offering us a gentle chance to appreciate the subtle beauty of the sakura.

Standing in front of the glass, you can see the entire view, and even look down over the Meguro River.

Although Meguro Gajoen Tokyo has closed its doors for now, I quietly hope that one day the doors will open again, letting us rediscover the beauty that once graced this space.

◇ Quick Update ◇

I’ve added a cute Instagram clip of the lovely waitress who served Collie and me at Whistle Stop Diner in Birmingham to the bottom of this post⬇︎

Returning to Michigan Memories: Healing at Airy Whistle Stop Diner Hope you’ll check it out💕