I have lived in Michigan all eighteen years of my life.  Although I have traveled outside of this state and even out of the country, I seriously love this state with all my heart.  I truly believe that no other state would feel like home to me!  I have moved nine times in my life - all in Michigan.  I have lived in larger cities, small towns, and even on an inland lake!  I am continually amazed at the natural beauty that surrounds me everyday.  It is so easy to take our surroundings for granted.  However, I try to remember that not everyone has the same luxury I do.  I feel so secure in this state.  I turn on the news and am told of various natural disasters existing throughout the United States and the world.  Instances include:  forest fires out west, mudslides around the world, hurricanes in Southern states, rising flood waters, and severe snowstorms.  I am so thankful that Michigan does not have to battle most of those disasters.  Lately it seems that most are so caught up worrying about the state of our economy, that they are not taking the chance to breathe in scents of the seasons.  I would love to see the economy of our state reversed and the unemployed rate to decrease dramatically.  However, I won't forget that Michigan embraces four seasons of the year.  Yes, our winters are long and bitterly cold at times.

Then spring comes and with that the beautiful bright colors of wildflowers.  The ice melts and the lakes welcome waterfowl such as ducks and swans.  I lived on Wixom Lake in Beaverton and I can remember the change that spring brought.  Then summer would come and flowers bloom brighter than ever.  I now live in Reed City, about an hour south of Traverse City.  I know all about the cherry festival, of course.  Autumn is my favorite season.  Michigan has the most beautiful autumn I have ever seen.  Not all states have the good fortune of seeing the leaves changing color and gradually falling to prepare the numerous trees for winter.  I wouldn't trade this cycle for the world!  I envision that Michigan's future will be great.  Our state is in a rough spot and has been for awhile, but Michigan will overcome the multiple obstacles that stand in her way.  I believe it with all my heart.  I may be a bit naïve when it comes to economics and the problems with our state.  However, Michigan and her people will survive.  I just know it!