Get Back to Nature in Lewiston, Michigan

Forest, lakes, and fresh air are what we were looking for. We found it in Lewiston, Michigan.

Take a walk through the woods and listen closely. You can hear a variety of birds singing and find large feathers lying about, maybe from an owl or quail. Maybe you'll find both. Smell the air and you'll immediately notice the scent of earth and fresh air that you're probably not quite used to unless you're lucky enough to live far enough outside the anxious city life.

If you walk though the woods during the day, you will notice the sun shining through the canopy of trees overhead. Collect leaves and rocks while you walk trails that others have walked before you. Walk at dusk and you'll hear more wildlife. Take your significant other for an evening hike through the woods to enjoy the scenery and each other without technology - leave the children at home too for a romantic stroll. You'll see a deer running away from your scent in the distance. Look at the ground and notice the coyote tracks that walked the same trail you are now! You're aware that there are dangers that live in the forest, like coyotes and bears, but your enjoyment of nature around you overrides your caution, except for the flashlight you don't turn on or the large stick you hope not to have to use. The sun is setting, the light above is dark now, giving your evening hike an eerie quality. Stop to look at a double tree trunk and notice the beautiful caterpillar that wedged itself between the bark to hopefully go unnoticed. Stop at a clearing and look up at the darkening sky and then look around at the trail ahead and notice how dark it has become. Take your significant other for an evening hike through the woods to enjoy the scenery and each other without telephones or technology - leave the children at home too.

If water is more your fascination, there are plenty of water spots to choose from. Our choice was Tee Lake, where my husband's parents live. Take a kayak out for an early morning row before the world wakes up. Paddle the paddle boat around for a little exercise while enjoying the views. Want more activity? Go tubing around the lake, bouncing over the waves your boat, and the others around, are quaking up for you. Rent a canoe and take a turn at Au Sable River for a couple hours of family-friendly fun.

If you prefer to remain stationary, just sit back, relax with a refreshing drink, and enjoy the sights and smells around you. It's a nice break away from your daily life. It's time taken out for you to refresh, rejuvenate your soul, and remember that life isn't all about cell phones, meetings, and deadlines.

Slow down and enjoy what nature has to offer.