Michigan's 175th Birthday

On January 26th, 1837, President Andrew Jackson signed Michigan into statehood; today marks Michigan's 175th year, and although it has seen good and bad, the state's beauty and the resilience of hard-working Michiganders makes me proud to call the state home.  

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Michigan Symbols:

Nickname: Wolverine State, Great Lakes State, Mitten State

Bird: American Robin

Flower: Apple Blossom

Gem: Isle Royale greenstone 

Stone: Petoskey stone

Tree: White Pine

Motto: Si quaeris peninsulam amoenam circumspice ("If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you")

Happy Birthday, Michigan!

Thirty Word Description

My birthday was August 28th, and I am officially a "thirty-something". I celebrated with homemade apple crisp for breakfast. The rest of the day was just as laid-back.

Photo via Disney Family Fun

I am excited to embark on my thirties. When I turned 25, I was not happy with where I was in my life. I think my thirties will be fun. I am starting a new life, and I not going to let past fears hold me back.

In honor of my 30th birthday, here are thirty words that describe me:

believer. bohemian. bookworm. creative. compassionate. dedicated. dreamer. entrepreneur. frugal. geeky. independent. indirect. introvert. loyal. dry humor. discreet. musical. subtle. natural. gardener. observant. passive. philosophical. quiet. sensitive. silly. sincere. thrifty. thoughtful. writer.

My list was inspired by celebrating thirty-five written by Vanessa of Colour Knits. I also like Bonzai Aphrodite's post 30 [little] Things I Love At Age 30.

Free Bead Drawing at Lorelei's Blog

Lorelei of Lorelei's Blog--Inside the Studio is giving away free beads in honor of her birthday.

If you love jewelry-making, you have to take a look at the eight lampwork beads she is giving away. An $89 value, some lucky crafter is going to win big on Friday, May 22. Just leave a comment at Lorelei's blog to be put in the drawing.

Amazing, gorgeous work, Lorelei. Happy Birthday!