Princess, that storm looks familiar, we had this one bear down on us as we were trying to get out of the islands in early August. We were heading to Canada's Thompson Island, great way to start! It didn't last long but it was a strong one...gusts to 40 knots! We rolled up our headsail, double reefed the main and just kept going. It was kindof funny watching 5 or 6 other boats in the vicinity looking a bit confused about what to do, they all ended up running for cover. We felt like studs toughing it out, it was actually really fun because we were prepared for it.
JD, have you heard of the Lake Superior Solo Scramble? I ran in the inaugural running two summers ago. It runs opposite the Trans-Superior. It has two start lines, one in Bayfield and one in Duluth. Both start at 5:00 pm and sail all night out to a designated waypoint (different waypoints for each start), then turn and sail back to Silver Bay, 100 miles total length. I finished about 12:30 the next day. Potluck meal at the clubhouse in Silver Bay then head back at your leisure the next day. You should think about doing it this upcoming year. It is a solo event so it's all about you.
Princess, if you're still in the area, there's no rule against women in this event, it'd be fun to have the female side represented!
I posted a photo of my course.
<-- South Twin Island. POTL you probably recognize one of those boats. Its Jolly Swagman coming in to raft up, trailing the tender. 
You all should know this one...
Can get dreary out there too.... 
Docks in Corny....
