Remember when you would run, play and just not care about anything but having fun?

As a child, I remember running on the beach and feeling totally free. I saw this little girl chasing after the seagulls in Manistee and all those memories came back to me. Of course after I took this shot, I had to help her out and chase the seagulls too.

Manistee Beauty, Just 2 Hours from Grand Rapids

I just got back from a weekend in Manistee and was amazed at both the beauty and how few people were there. Here’s a link to the area I took this off Lakeshore Beach Drive. The first time I saw Manistee was about three years ago and I was blown away by what a hidden treasure this place is. There’s still time to soak up some summertime beauty, sun and waves up north, why not head to Manistee? It’s only two hours from Grand Rapids, check it oouuuttt!

Northport, Michigan Just Before the Rain Came

I just knew it was going to rain right around when I took this picture but just didn’t care because in upper Michigan it’s all good. Northpoint is another one of those spots where you’re immediately on vacation when you get there. I LOVE it!

The Harbor in Leland, MI

Leland, Michigan is also known as “Fishtown” around here. I suspect that the Leelanau Peninsula is one of the best kept secrets in the world and Leland is another of the reasons why. If you visit Leland, check out the Bluebird Restaurant or the Cove (yumbo!)

If you love basking in the sun by aqua blue waters on sugar sand beaches, maybe you should check out Charlevoix. It’s a beautiful seaside town along the shores of Lake Michigan. I took this photo in Boulder Park, please click here for a Google map link.