Midwest Staycation

We have learned that within a few hours drive from Chicago, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and other Midwest cities lies an interesting town, full of significant modern architecture. Here's a taste to share with you:

"Driving up to visit our grandkids for a long weekend, we stopped for a few hours to learn more about Columbus, Indiana. One of our friends had told us about all of the beautiful public architecture there - a library designed by I.M. Pei, a bank by Eero Sarinen, among many others - and we wanted to see them for ourselves. In the 1950's the townspeople had made a decision to live in attractive environment so they contracted with famous as well as up-and-coming architects to create an atmosphere of beauty. They even placed a stunning Rodin sculpture in front of the library.


Finding that their new schools, churches, corporate offices and other buildings would be enhanced by landscaping, they also created lovely gardens and green areas around them. We were struck by the commitment of the townspeople to actively pursue a serene yet rewarding atmosphere for their daily lives.

We found that even the smallest detail had been addressed. When we wanted to stop for an afternoon refreshment, we were directed to a restored ice cream parlor, filled with one hundred year old counters, syrup and ice cream machinery, and musical instruments. And the vanilla malted milk was delicious!


As we drove out of town, over an impressive bridge, we thought about how we too could work to add beauty and grace to our daily lives. It may be a slow process but we can build on a strong foundation from the ground up and leave a legacy that we will be proud of."

Let us hear from you Sandwiched Boomers about your thoughts - about this post, your own staycations or your plans to improve the quality of your own lives. And for tips about how to become more joyful and positive, click on the post title above. It will take you to our website, www.HerMentorCenter.com and our article 5 Steps to Gratitude Despite a Tough Economy.