Our Stand Up Paddle Boarding Experience

I finally did it! I finally tried stand up paddle boarding! It was awesome. Here is how it all happened:

R gifted me 2 all day paddle board rentals for my birthday. 1 for him, 1 for me.

We picked a day to rent the paddle boards...and waited patiently for Saturday, August 8th to arrive. 

I scheduled a sitter. Thanks again sis.

We packed a beach bag and snacks for the day.

Then picked up the boards at MACkite. They were nice enough to help us strap the boards to the top of the car. 

First stop was the State Park. I knew Castle Grande was taking place so I figured we could kill two birds with stone. 

After all, I couldn't miss out on SUP on Lake Michigan.

We hauled the inflatable boards down to the water (these things are huge by the way.) I was seriously so excited I could've jumped up and down. It was one of those moments where you feel like  everyone around you is starting at you and the whole world needs to know what you're about to do.

Thankfully the water temp was 75. Or I wouldnt have gone in....okay, yes I would have because SUP has been on my bucket list for awhile now.

It was not easy pushing the boards through the waves at first but as R knew once we got to the sandbar it was easier.

Being on Lake Michigan just floating around was so peaceful. Even though the waves were rolling up and down we both stood up a few times. R was more brave than I and attempted to stand more than I did. He fell in 3 times and came out of the water laughing each time.

After awhile of paddling and an exciting experience with a low flying aircraft that skimmed right over our heads, we decided to find calmer waters. 

We found this adorable little beach in Spring Lake. After feeling so calm and happy on Lake Michigan I didn't think we could find anything better. I was wrong. I once again felt so lucky to have beautiful bodies of water so close by. I am so happy to live in this wonderful state. 

I actually did stand up paddle boarding! I stood up and paddled a few times. It was so exciting. I never fell in the water either. 

SUP my first time was awesome. The day, all though overcast was perfect. I couldn't have asked for a better birthday present. 

Keep loving.

A good, no. A GREAT holiday.

I hope everyone had an amazing, beautifully wonderful Christmas. It's day 4 of my Christmas stay-cation and I have to say it's been a great week/end. Between the holiday hustle and bustle I found peace and quiet to enjoy crocheting and cross off items on my holiday bucket list.

1. Send Christmas cards.

2. See my Grandparents.

3. Make handmade gifts.

4. Donate time.

5. Be happy and healthy.

I came pretty close to completing the list. I am just a little bit frustrated that I wasn't able to donate time. I was invited to a nursing home to bring cookies and paint the nails of elderly ladies, but the timing didn't work out. I wish I would've been able to go.

However, I am rather satisfied with the things I did accomplished. Next year I plan on sending out more Christmas cards, especially if I am able to get them at a good price like I did this year. I will also make sure that R helps me with my list of recipients. In all the rush to get the greetings addressed  I missed a couple people that he wanted to send cards to. :( I'll do a better job next year.

#2 was the best part of my whole holiday! Spending time with my grandparents and parents, with my family by my side. I realized that my grandpa gives the best hugs. We didn't stay long but just to see my Grandpa and Grandma for awhile was wonderful. I have to say this was the best gift of the season.

Coffee trip, Christmas Morning, Penny & Papa & Heading up north

Also, I completed all of my handmade gifts just in time this year. I think this year I need to start crafting in July so that I am not painting and crocheting at 11pm on Christmas Eve. But, everyone loved their gifts and I really enjoyed seeing the smiles on their faces when they opened them, which makes it all worth it.

Be happy and healthy. I'm thankful to say we are all happy and healthy (minus E's runny nose)!

Once again, I hope everyone had a great holiday. See you next year. 2015 is just around the corner.

Keep Loving.