During our recent vacation, my husband and I had the treat of meeting a wonderful waiter in a quiet café/bar.  After recommending this enticing espresso martini (for me) he mentioned he was from Romania so we told him we were from Michigan in the US.  In the conversation that followed our waiter said how he’d always wanted to visit Michigan and enjoy the snow.  My first thought was “good lord, WHY???”

Now keep in mind this was right at the climax of the infamous Polar Vortex which unfortunately followed a storm of ice that knocked out our power for close to a week. Oh, and this conversation was taking place in the Bahamas.

Later, as we traveled home (traversing every state from Florida to Michigan) I kept thinking about my reaction.

Even though I may not be fond of the snow, Michigan is indeed a winter gem.  From the crazy ice balls that can form in Lake Michigan to the hills of pure white snow that forever sparkle against a crystal blue sky – there is beauty abound this time of year.  If snow sports are your thing, you can find everything from skiing to snowmobiling to snowshoeing.  My goal for the winter is to try snowshoeing, I’ve always thought it would be a good sport to have a go at – and goodness knows we have enough snow.

Michigan should indeed be on your list for an enjoyable winter jaunt.  As for me, I will be dreaming of the warm sunshine, dozens of wineries and thousands of crystal clear lakes sure to be extra special this coming summer.  For now, I suppose I’ll strap on some snowshoes to take my daughter to school.