Places to visit in Traverse City, Michigan.

Since I've been in the cherry capital of the world for the past few days, I thought I'd do a review on a few of the stores I was able to visit in downtown Traverse City, Michigan.

Green Island Earth Friendly Goods, an eco-friendly shop, was one of the particularly interesting stores.  Upon walking in, there was a huge mural of South American birds.  The items that dominated the store seemed to be soaps, dishes, and baskets. Though many of the items were a little pricy, the durability may be worth it.

If you enjoy cooking with oils and balsamic vinegar (think European) then Fustini's is for you.  Filled with fine oils infused with interesting and exotic flavors like wild mushroom and Persian lime, and brimming with aged balsamic vinegars with accents of peach, lemon, and even lavender (yes I said it - my mom and I bought a bottle!)

Finally, once you're all tuckered out, pep up with a great cup of coffee at Espresso Bay. The homey yet hip atmosphere accompanied by the smell of coffee and a full gelato selection creates a great place for conversation or to just rev up. The vanilla latte and chai tea were delicious.

Whether you have been to Michigan or not, it is definitely worth it to visit Traverse City.  With their combination of specialty stores and friendly people, this is a place to be.

Looking at rain in a different way.

Rain.  Seems like one of those loaded words, doesn't it?  Rain is one of those neutral things that we make into a connotative word.  No longer is rain a part of the intelligent design of the water cycle by the One true God.  Instead, we see rain as a disappointment.  "It ruined my day at the pool."  "It got my new shoes wet."

I think this is how we view rain.  Though rain is so good for plants and other organisms, it seems to be a negative thing to us.

Sounds like life sometimes, right?  When something doesn't go our way or lifeis tough, it's so easy for us to focus on the problem rather than seeing the bigger picture.

“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?... And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?" (Matthew 6:25, 27 ESV)

It's often easier said than done, but when we ask The Lord for strength and a heart of perseverance and trust in His plan, He will give it to us!

So next time you see rain that seems so dreary, remember that it makes the grass green. And remember hard days are for a purpose too - to make you rely on Him who created you.

~Hannah