Winter Magic

It may not be snowy white fields as far as the eye can see because winter in Detroit is its own kind of lovely magic. It’s dodging the bitter wind by racing down the sidewalks staying under the shelter of the historic buildings. It’s the smell of campfires, yes campfires, as you find yourself getting closer to Campus Martis. It’s stepping into the friendly coffee shops with a local barista who joins in your giggles as your nose loses its rosiness. It’s the heartfelt joy in hearing the volunteers chime bells next to the ever symbolic red kettle.

I went for a walk downtown recently when I began to really notice how truly different the surroundings are here compared to where I grew up. I used to think there is nothing better than winter in the country because it was peaceful and charming. Detroit though is a remarkable kind of beauty, one that you wouldn’t notice unless the snow was actually crunching under your feet on Woodward Avenue. 

At first I assumed it was the extravagant city décor, which has grown exponentially since last winter. From the lights to the signs to the natural snow calmly covering the trees lining the streets, these are all part of a great outer shell but not the real reason why this is such as remarkable time in the city. These characteristics are only skin deep, and just like a well oiled machine needs properly functioning internal mechanics, the heart and soul is really found in the people.

This is one of several times out of the year that the Detroit community purely lets go of the angst and downtrodden times the city is currently facing. Rather, with open arms, they welcome newcomers, friends and family to feel the magic. It’s the humble nature of the general ambiance that keeps me coming back for more with nothing but a smile on my face. Isn’t that what this season is all about?  It’s about remembering the magic comes from the experiences we share and not the material items we can take away. A genuine memory is a gift that belongs to you forever. 

It’s the season of giving and for a city that provided the world unconditional love through icons, objects and automobiles it’s only natural to keep that tradition alive. Come see for yourself. Love always, Detroit.

Contentment & Happiness

Contentment and happiness… two words I frequently associate with positive and uplifting feelings. We’ve all experienced those impromptu occurrences that we can describe as a time when we were content and happy, but what about the occurrences where you can actually expect these feelings? Life can certainly throw a rough curve-ball every so often making you feel like there isn’t enough coffee in the world. These are the times that I am thrilled to know I can rely on my favorite locations to lift my otherwise downtrodden spirits. Spots that I can go to escape, think and reconnect making me content and happy once more.

There are a number of places I consider to be my “favorites” but two in particular stand out because I’ve leaned on them more than once… and they are both in Detroit.

Campus Martis Park

My “go to” spot is none other than Campus Martis Park located in the center of the city. I love this spot for a number of reasons but I mostly find myself affixed to a chair next to the Woodward fountain. Its peaceful ambiance always leaves me content because it puts me in a trance allowing me to forget everything that creates a scowl. The sound of the flowing water as it shoots into the air and crashes back to the base is a reoccurring moment that continually makes me smile. Campus Martis is also a fantastic place to simply observe and reflect. You don’t necessarily have to be sitting next to the fountain because there are so many other spots in the park that offer serenity in an otherwise noisy life.

Pure Happiness

 My “go to #2” spot is the Detroit Riverwalk located near the Renaissance Center along the Detroit River. This quickly became one of my favorites because it is truly the definition of peace. As a busy human being, much like many of my fellow peers, we’re constantly preached to about how important it is to take time to calm the mind. Whether it be meditation, exercise, religion, etc. everyone is different with their own calming methods. With that in mind has anyone ever told you how peaceful it is to gaze at the passerby freighters? These undoubtedly massive vessels just float by on the Detroit River at a leisurely pace as simply as a bird glides through the air. It’s fascinating to think how easy it is for these freighters to drift by undisruptive, almost makes you think it should be that easy in our busy lives…no need to cause a stir.

Pure Contentment

Detroit Renaissance Center

Everyone is different, different ideas, needs and wants. However what we do share is the desire to let go of the stress and meaningless dilemma’s that seem to overcome our being. As the City of Detroit is beginning to let go of the angst, it’s blossoming into a desirable getaway fit to fill the void with contentment and happiness. Love Always, Detroit.