Regardless of your religion- or lack thereof- there is something wonderfully representational as Easter as the symbol of renewal- fresh as Spring.  The awakening of the senses at this time of year is heightened from many perspectives- geography, history, culture, innovation- to name a few.

Innovation you say?  Consider this- before social media with channels such as Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Yelp..LinkedIn ❤ – how would we have ever been able to establish a digital identity for RWP, and in the process, meet the wonderful LeAnne Mawby Sowa (@artsygirl)?  LeAnne revealed not only that her great grandfather, Dudley Smith built RWP, but that he also built it in 1910! We had been told 1926 when we became stewards for RWP in 2015.

“Innovation” and renewal also because in 2006 (we think!), local business leaders and entrepreneurs Danny, Greg, and Mike took RWP down to the studs and rebuilt it on the great bones that had been established–to fortify and modernize it, while maintaining its core character.  As a side note, Danny, Greg, and Mike are prolific in renewing Douglas-Saugatuck with both residential homes and their incredible business, the Dunes Resort.

What’s amazing about the area also known as the Art Coast of Michigan is that these stories aren’t unusual.  Our dear friends, Michael and Doug, took a storied early 20th Century mob hideout that had been overrun with raccoons, and turned it into present day Red Gate Farm. Awakened, renewed– sense a theme here?  🙂

Although all this innovation– in the form of awakening and renewal– is happening right here in SW Michigan, one thing that is consistent with Easter and Spring renewal is the perennial parade– of new colors coming from nature and people.  And that aspect is wonderfully reassuring, particularly in turbulent times,such as present day. What’s old is new– but in a familiar and comforting way.

Unique to the Douglas – Saugatuck area is a smalltown, throwback feeling of yesteryear.  How many small towns still hold parades at every holiday that involve all the residents? Again, as much as the Art Coast of Michigan is keeping up with the times and being relevant, we recognize that part of the relevance is maintaining some stability and charm as a beacon for what could be, and what is.  A community celebrating simple things such as honoring the past, while looking to the future.

As you’re either celebrating Easter– or simply Spring awakening– on this Sunday, I’d encourage us to all reflect on the good things that abound in our world: renewals, innovation, values (in the sense of equality of human–and animal– rights), and yes, Style!

Until Next Time!