<p>
	<img alt="" src="{filedir_5}Lindsey Photo2.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 201px; float: right; " />8 a.m. on a Saturday. I wake up to witness the first sunrise in the two weeks since I have lived in my snowy cabin beneath the pines. Having taken for granted such a spectacle, I sat quietly in my room as I watched the colors come alive. In its slow emergence, I begin to see the forest around me fill with life. The squirrels begin to pair up as they bounce from tree to snow then back onto another tree. Some stay on the ground that&rsquo;s blanketed by snow, playing so graciously that they appear to be dancing on a sparkled floor.&nbsp; The blue jay flies down to witness the dancing pair. He dips his beak into the snow and ruffles his feathers with each return, showing off his presence to the pair. The squirrels divide and scurry off past the blue jay.</p>
<p>
	Sitting in the Atlanta airport before my arrival in Michigan, I sat with nerves and anxiety as I watched people pass by. I hadn&rsquo;t felt nervousness until that moment. Up until that moment I had feelings of excitement. I mean I&rsquo;ve traveled on my own to many exciting places; however, this time was different. This was going to be a whole new world to me. I vaguely remember having snow days every now and then when I was younger, but they were there and gone the next minute.&nbsp; Was I prepared? I really didn&rsquo;t know. Flying into Michigan I saw my first snowstorm. It was beautiful.&nbsp; Cancelation of my flight led me to the large glass windows where I sat in admiration of millions of falling crystals. &nbsp;Nerves changed to neutrality.</p>
<p>
	Freezing toes, hands, and nostrils were familiar feelings during my first week at Au Sable. With days barely reaching the teens and nights in the negatives, I was even more nervous than before. Was I crazy?&nbsp; A question often asked by local residents.&nbsp; I began to think I was indeed crazy for leaving the south (which was experiencing 50-60 degree weather). Outside of my comfort zone I quickly became negative in my thoughts. For&nbsp;someone that accepts challenges and refutes negativity, this was beginning to weigh heavy on my mind, soul, and body. This was the first time I think that I have ever been challenged in every sense and way possible. &nbsp;On January 30<sup>th</sup> I wrote in my journal words of encouragement and food for the soul: &ldquo;Today: Push yourself until your fears and weaknesses become your accomplishments&rdquo;. From this day forward I made myself stay outside longer and play in the snow more. &nbsp;On afternoon hikes I often giggle at the thought of the old me that would have rather stayed inside on such a cold day. I have found a new love for winter. She brings appreciation for so many things: the colors of a buttered sky of beech trees, the warm embrace of an occasional sun. I found exhilaration in discovering strength beyond my wildest measures, that which drives you past your fears and limitations.</p>
<p>
	<img alt="" src="{filedir_5}Lindsey Photo1.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 165px; float: left; " /></p>
<p>
	&nbsp;</p>
<p>
	God is with her,</p>
<p>
	She will not fail</p>
<p>
	Psalm 46:5</p>
