I have the good fortune to live just a few blocks from the beautiful shoreline along Lake Michigan. There are beaches for people, and beaches for dogs. You can rent a boat or picnic in the grass, and even take in the view of Chicago…

I quite enjoy a summer’s day at the beach, and I go prepared with fizzy water and snacks, a comfortable chair and an oversized sun hat. It is my time to catch up on reading, and the soothing sounds of the lake’s waves sound every bit as powerful as ocean waves…

And just down the block is Northwestern University, where many a youth is filling their head with intelligent notions. I love school. If I could make a career of taking classes, I would…

But along this wonderful shore, upon land owned by the university, there is a curious sight. Hundreds of enormous rocks, decorated with colorful messages…

Out on those rocks, people lounge in the sun, eat their lunches, and even fish…

And if you get close enough to read what is written, you will find interesting quotes, marriage proposals, individual memories and tributes. They are entertaining to explore (though somewhat precarious to walk upon)…

There are many rocks that make me smile and warm my heart…

And I find it a complete wonder to consider how many folks have trudged down to the lakeshore with paint buckets in hand over the years!

Some were decorated so long ago, that the messages are fading away under the elements…

There is much love to be found upon the rocks, which a community can never have too much of…

And writings that are very wise indeed…

We of course cannot leave out messages that instigate a giggle or two, for what is life without laughter?

Here’s wishing you a place of nature and beauty to enjoy, wherever you may live. Here’s wishing that you’ll visit it often and be filled with peace and happiness!