B is For Bemidji, Bunyan and Benevolent!

Things about Bemidji, Minnesota that I did not expect upon arrival:

1. It is home to the American folklore legend Paul Bunyan (oh yeah- there's a statue and everything. Pictures will follow).

2. There are absolutely beautiful sunsets here (also, pictures will follow).

3. Everyone is so flippin' nice!

For real! I love Manhattan more than any big city in the world, but it's been so refreshing (also, it's literally full of fresh air here) to be around people who are just being nice. I can't tell you how many times I was out for a walk or just sitting outside, and people would wave or say hello for no reason other than they were being friendly. To be honest, it seemed a little odd at first (I kept second guessing if people were actually talking to me), but hey- I'm all for spreading the kindness!

This message also came across to me while I was exploring the area- near the infamous Paul Bunyan statue and museum (seriously, everything is an ode to this guy around here- Paul Bunyan Gift Store, Paul Bunyan Sub Shop, Paul Bunyan Drive...you get the picture), I discovered an adorable little boutique. It had a hipster feel and was decked out in shabby chic decor that naturally I had to wander in. The shop had a lot of really neat furniture pieces, clothing and jewelry, but what caught my eye was a row of bracelets on display. I'm a big Alex & Ani fan, and these bracelets had a similar look. They're made by a small business called Luca + Danni (check them out at http://lucadanni.com/),and one of their designs especially spoke to me- a simple, silver bracelet engraved with "#payitforward." I mean, how ironic- I was just talking about how sweet everyone in this little town has been, and I literally find words about it right in front of me! Needless to say, I bought it, and it's been a friendly little reminder to pay it forward and spread some kindness.

As I mentioned, one of the other beautiful things about Bemidji is the lake. The hotel I'm staying at is right along the water, and even has a dock around the back. By walking on the dock, you get even more amazing views of the lake, and the absolutely most amazing views of the sunset. The past couple of nights I've made it to the dock to watch the sunset, and words can't even describe how beautiful it is. Seriously, when the sky looks like it's exploding balls of fire or painting with cotton candy pink, how can you not be impressed?! I'm by no means an experienced yogi or meditator, but ending my day with a view as serene as this has such a calming and cleansing quality. For real, pay it forward and go watch a sunset. You won't be disappointed.

I've had the past couple of days off, which has obviously been enjoyable and much needed. I was happy to be able to see a bit of Bemidji in addition to spending time studying my script and practicing some sweet dance moves. I'm back to rehearsals tomorrow- I can't wait to get this show on the big stage! Spread some kindness and pay it forward, and go watch a sunset!

Peace, love, and dance,
Shelby

#shelbyseesthestates #payitforward

I also found a farmer's market!

Some jam from the local farmer's market- this stuff is delicious!

There he is! I wasn't lying!

 

These are the bracelets I was talking about! Check these guys our at http://lucadanni.com/ 

There's so many random statues on the street corners!

This view like are you kidding me??

Clearly the most important thing I did was find a Dairy Queen. 

The bracelet I bought! Again, check them out at http://lucadanni.com/!