A Trip to the Tulips and a Peak at the Dunes

Today is May 2, 2020. Almost the entire Country is still in some form of quarantine due to this COVID-19 pandemic. Michigan residents are currently under a stay home directive that doesn’t expire for another two weeks.  Other than a doctor appointment in early March, its been 9 weeks since I have left my home. Stir crazy has a whole new meaning.
 
The law states that we are to remain on our own property unless we need to go out for essential items like to the grocery or pharmacy. Going to parks is allowed for hiking, biking or boating.  It is recommended that you stay near your home and not travel far if you must go out for fresh air but today, we didn’t follow that recommendation.
 
We have been diligent about protecting ourselves and others in our community by following all the rules and recommendations, and although today, we traveled just over an hour to get our fresh air (which would be a bit farther than I assume the lawmakers want you to go), we stayed within the confines of our camper and never stopped for gas or food. 
 
We made sandwiches for lunch and used the bathroom in the camper.
 
Today was the best day we’ve had in so long!  The exercise of walking through Windmill Island Gardens, and hiking at Saugatuck Dunes State Park are no match for what today’s adventure did for our mental stability.
 
All of my inspiration, creativity and energy comes from exploring, adventuring and taking trips.  Today I feel rejuvenated.
 
Pretty sure the pups will be sleeping good tonight too!

​For as long as I can remember, I have had the Canadian Tulip Festival on my bucket list, so when we relocated to Michigan and I learned of a town called Holland and their annual tulip festival – I was thrilled!
 
We booked a camping trip for one of the weekends during the Tulip Time festival this year but sadly, like most events around the world – it was cancelled.  Since we were able to go see the tulips anyway, in a MUCH LESS crowded environment, we donated our two-night camping stay back to the campground. Told them we didn’t want the refund.  Don’t get me wrong, we have no money to burn and live paycheck to paycheck like most Americans but I need to make sure these small businesses don’t go out of business so that when they open back up, we have a place to enjoy!

After seeing the tulips at Windmill Island Gardens - we headed over to Saugatuck Dunes State Park since it was only a few miles away.  

Great hiking trails through the trees on sand covered pathways which lead to the sand dunes that overlook Lake Michigan.  Lucia and I really love the water so this was a perfect spot to take in the sights!

We kept this hike quite short and were at this State Park for less than an hour.  It was very crowded and I think I saw only 2 people wearing masks.  People seemed to be keeping their distance but being in a crowded scene didn't give me a warm and fuzzy, especially when passing people and they cough in your direction.

TRIP BREAKDOWN:

Expenses:
Gas - $50.00 (blew through ½ tank of gas)
Food - $0 (brought lunch in the camper)
Entry fees - $0 (all parks are open and free during this pandemic but are not staffed and no facilities, shops or information booths are open)
 
Trip:
195 miles - East Lansing to Windmill Island Gardens in Holland to Saugatuck Dunes State Park – then back to East Lansing

Creativity Inspired Shop Items:
 - Pocket Cards - etsy.me/3d7nPzS
​ - Journal Paper - etsy.me/3fns0JY
- Digital Paper - etsy.me/2YuMzxU