Saturday, June 21st, is the first day of summer, the summer solstice. After Saturday, the days begin to get slightly shorter. For many this is just the start of summer. Vacations are coming, work time slows down, and the sound of gleeful children in the great outdoors abounds. 

I'm sharing with you a special quote that seems appropriate for the start of summer. In the busyness of the year, we forget the little things that can sometimes make a big difference. Nature has a great way of helping us see that. Whether you take a beach vacation, or camp in the woods, or are planning a staycation, make sure you get out and see and appreciate the beauty of nature. It seems so small, but feels so vast.

"The volume of life can creep up slowly...

          The white noise of the daily routine...

                 Distortion of unnecessary busy-ness...

                       Groans of a big picture lost in a to-do list, 

                                                         As the peaceful voice of our own nature seems to grow fainter and farther away. 

                                                         Up North you can turn up the silence of divinity."

                                                                                                                     - Jimmy Brandmeier

This quote was taken from the book, Up North - Reflections, Moments & Memories. Published by Tristan Publishing, it is one of a collection of books we have discovered and introduced recently in our gift collection. 

Enjoy your summer and take time to enjoy nature.