My sketchbook contains glimpses of a happy summer spent in Lanesboro, Minnesota, several years ago with my husband Dave. Lanesboro lies in the southeast corner of our state and is a town of antiquity. It has an old world charm and is inviting to artists, nature lovers and those who like to explore places off the beaten path. Limestone bluffs and the Root River are part of the landscape that create a peaceful haven.
The town was set up on two levels , an upper level which was more up to date and the lower level which contained many antique shops, a winery, Mrs. B's Bed and Breakfast and other tourist attractions. The buildings were reminscent of times gone by, as they stood tall and untouched by updated versions.
We rode our bikes along the paved bicycle trails that lead beneath the limestone bluffs, through lush meadowlands and passed some farming country where fields of baled hay dotted the landscape. Birds were plentiful and filled the air with song. The air was sweet with the fragrance of new mown hay.
Sunday morning, we were awakened early to the sound of church bells peeling from a large church atop the bluff in the newer part of town. Their music echoed throughout the valley below and spoke of harmony and peace. Somehow, I often think I see the world through rose colored glasses because I find such comfort in quaint and beautiful out of the way places, where time has stood still, even for a little while.
I have not been to Lanesboro for years now, and hope to go there again soon. Will I be disappointed to see that the memories I have of once upon a time are no longer there? I hope not. Nevertheless, I have my memories and they remain in my treasure trove.
As we travel along the paths of our life, we see and do so many things that at the time will seem pleasant because we are living them at the moment. However, they are also the sights and happenings which warm our hearts and carry us back to our younger self, when life was fresh and full of wonder. Time has a way of sifting out any bad memories and embellishing the good ones. It heals and restores that which is good for us and enables us to know peace within.
My wish is that all of us, young and old, have within us that store room of happy times to enjoy this gift of life which we all have for a brief time on this earth.
