50 States of Pray

Mark Koopmans came up with this lovely idea to have a blogfest with 50 States of Pray.  I live in North Carolina, but am originally from Maine.  Maine is the known as the Vacationland state.  Why?   There is a wealth of activities to do: hiking the mountains, dipping your toes into the ocean, golfing, fishing, skiing and the arts.   There is a  state of mind, that comes over you when you cross the border and see the 'Welcome to Maine' sign.  Being a military spouse I have experienced this several times and want you to find this peaceful feeling in your world, your day

When you cross the border, you breathe differently and feel calm.  The clouds seem to part and the kite blue sky waves to you, "Welcome"!    The calmness permeates your soul and you are transported to slower pace, where you can smell the pungent knotted pine trees, the kiss of salty ocean air and be inspired to release your inner child.  Nature nurtures your being and you feel at peace!  A slower pace has taken hold and you will want to embrace it.     

 *****

 *****

 I climbed this mountain often, I grew up 20 minutes from this view.  Mt. Battie in Camden, Maine and the bay where my go to places when I needed time out.  I never wanted to leave, yet I married a sailor and did. 

*****  

This is my prayer-to slow down and embrace moments in your day.  Imagine it as a bike ride, there are moments of exhausting pedaling towards the peak, but once you reach the summit, make time to enjoy the view.  Find time every day to coast downhill.  Do the hard things first so you can find the joy, the calm in your day.  I hope you take your feet off the pedals and swing your legs wide free and shout into the wind! 

Sometimes we need to grab the hand of a loved one or friend and encourage them to find their calm. When you are in a crowded store, a grocery line be more thoughtful, open doors for strangers, smile more and remember life can be more of a 'Vacationland'-if you are open to see the good in every day! I once read that the people who are anger need kindness the most.  Pay kindness forward and embrace the Scrooges of the world-it will make you smile more!

*****

Maine has 61 Lighthouses-so be a lighthouse-a beacon of light shining goodness into someone else's day!  

Are you singing with me?!

    Merry Christmas to you n' yours~   

*****

From sight seeing to golfing or from skiing to the arts, Maine (Vacationland) has a wealth of things for you to see & do. - See more at: http://www.chacha.com/question/why-is-maine-called-vacationland#sthash.jDXKIdz0.dpuf

From sight seeing to golfing or from skiing to the arts, Maine (Vacationland) has a wealth of things for you to see & do. - See more at: http://www.chacha.com/question/why-is-maine-called-vacationland#sthash.jDXKIdz0.dpuf