I have now lived in Illinois longer than any other place. In the early years, I couldn’t see the beauty of this state.

Once I truly started looking, I realized that Illinois is deceptively beautiful. The massive corn and wheat fields lightly roll and are accentuated by some spectacular sunsets. The are many conservation areas, state parks, and forest preserves that allow people to enjoy nature, even though they may only be a few hundred feet from an urban center. The rivers and streams wind lazily through the countryside, meandering through various towns and cities. Not to mention, the mighty Mississippi River forming the western border of the state.

There is still a lot more to explore in the Land of Lincoln…