It takes a little work to find elevation in Illinois.
But, for those who persevere...
it can be found.
On Saturday afternoon we drove thirty minutes North to Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve. The site of an old fort built to keep the peace during labor riots in 1880s Chicago, the Preserve is one of the last remaining open prairies and bluffs along the Illinois coastline of Lake Michigan. The view is stunning, especially with the icebergs floating in the lake and the fresh snow from the blizzard.
Having lived my entire life in places with hills I sometimes feel strange living in such a flat place as Illinois. It is wonderful to have the sense of elevation, to be above the trees, and to enjoy a breathtaking view of the lake. The sledding is too steep for the girls but provides plenty of adrenaline to satisfy Jason for a few days. I can't wait to return with a kite and a bottle of wine for a summer picnic on the bluff. Ahh...summer. Sigh.
In Sunday School yesterday we talked about how God's love for us is so great that the Scriptures say that He "dances over us with His love." I love that image. Deep joy. Deep celebration. Deep love. This is who we are in the image of the One who made us and in whose grace we live.
Think on that one today.
What a lovely setting! Really beautiful. I love the wide open space and the water in the distance....my love of wide open sky comes from living in Kansas, Texas, and Colorado! But, I too am feeling the "ah, summer" longing right now. It is a long trek for us in Fort Collins to summer.....
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