fresh air equals fresh perspective

Autumn is my favorite time of the year. The colors of the leaves, the fresh air, honey crisp apples, fall jackets, and the chill of the changing temperatures, I love it all. Finding time to appreciate all of these things can be difficult when life seems so busy. I am making sure I set aside time to just appreciate the 'right now' of life and not let it pass me by. Getting fresh air and allowing myself to really see what is going on around me and in my life right now is the way that I gain some fresh perspective. Going for a run, a walk, or just sitting outside, it's a time where I can just be with Him. No distractions. Well, minus the occasional leaf blower or lawn mower. I am recognizing that right where I am in this very moment is right where God wants me to be. Changing my mindset to the present rather than the future is a challenge. I'm always up for a good challenge. 

Be in the moment. Don't let any thoughts about the future or even your tomorrow distract you from your right now. 

"And don't be wishing you were someplace else or with someone else. Where you are right now is God's place for you. Live and obey and love and believe right there." 1 Corinthians 7:17 [message]

Northern Living

The past week was spent up north in Harbor Springs, Michigan. Which is an adorable fancy pants town with very chic and expensive houses. Aka... where I should be living. I decided that I am going to live in a condo above this cute little fudge shop and work at the 

childcare center in downtown Petoskey. (hey... a girl can dream right?) 

It's weird how such a beautiful place like Northern Michigan can make you forget about all your responsibilities back home. For a week I forgot about them and dreamed up a northern living life. Biking was a way of transportation and salt water taffy was everywhere! 

Who wouldn't like that life? 

During the week my dad and brother went zip-lining. I put countless miles on my bike (including a 30 mile trip between Petoskey and Charlevoix). Running along the beach was a daily activity. I tried to even out my band camp tan lines at the pool. We shopped at local boutiques downtown. We crossed the Mackinaw Bridge and shopped in Mackinaw City. 

Overall the week was wonderful. A break well deserved!