Michigan offers so many spectacular sights that many find time to explore all year round.  In November 2006 a group of friends from Schoolcraft Community College (Livonia, MI), including myself, set out to stretch our legs on the High Banks trail in Oscoda, MI; I feel this picture encapsulates the moment.  This was an opportunity to trade in the hustle and bustle of the city for the serene beauty of the gently drifting snow and cool breeze that Michigan in known for.  The trip was exhilarating and enjoyable for everyone.  Something about living in this winter wonderland makes me feel so alive.  The short drive home (Westland, MI) was wonderful as well.

I earnestly find myself drawn to the splendor and endless adventures of nature and thus have traveled in the United States, to the Caribbean, and Europe.  Still, I believe there is no place like home, and Michigan will always be my home.  Home is a place that you care for - you pour your heart and soul into - it's a safe place.

On a greater scale, "home" is what I envision for Michigan in the future.  Michigan has so much potential.  We already encompass some of the most helpful people you will meet living among us.  We have skilled workers, professionals, and students.  Yet we have brown fields, abandoned houses, and empty factories spoiling the landscape; these pollutants must be stopped and amended.  We also need to clean up the violence that is so prevalent in some of our major cities.

I look forward to a day when Michigan is truly utilizing all of our resources to protect the natural wonders we already possess while transforming urban areas into safe places to live; with "clean streets" and jobs for all.  I'm proud to be a citizen of Michigan.  If we can come together like a family, and pour ourselves into Michigan, others will see that we take pride in our home and that will make our state a place where people cannot wait to live.