I would like to give a formal welcome to the Rob Up Front blog. The concept is simple: I talk about whatever I want and you get the privilege of reading. Today December 22nd, is the winter solstice, which means the sun sets at an early 5:06 pm. With imminent darkness approaching, I figured, what better day to remind ourselves why we live in Michigan.
From an outsider's perspective, Michigan is about as attractive as a dead porcupine. On top of the bitter cold winters that last until the end of March, there is the 10.6% unemployment rate. As a result of the outsourcing of Michigan's manufacturing jobs, Michigan as a state is seeking a new economic identity. Tourists looking to travel do not even consider Detroit, Michigan because of its reputation for crime. However, from an insider perspective, Michigan becomes an attractive state.
The list of commendable amenities of Michigan starts with the Great Lakes. On the west side along the coast of lake Michigan lie many charming towns and cities. No one can deny the attractiveness of Traverse City or Grand Haven in the summer months. For the bargain vacationer, the east side of the state is a great option. My family vacations on Long Lake near Alpena, Michigan, and we enjoy the solitude of the beaches as an escape from the real world. The picture on the right shows my sister and me pretending to like each other. 
In recent years, Michigan has seen a steady decrease is population whereas states such as Arizona and New Mexico have seen consistent population growth. This demographic shift has caused a new problem: there is limited water to support population growth. The Ogallala Aquifer shown is the largest source of freshwater for the surrounding regions. The chart shows the decrease of water up to the year 1995 and with the population increase and increase agricultural use for the water, it is only a matter of years before it runs out. After the Ogallala Aquifer runs out, there will simply not be enough water to support the people living in the surrounding states. What will they do? Am I suggestiong a possible reversal of the sunbelt movement? Absolutely! Sit tight people, because in about 10 years, we will have millions of Americans eyeing our Great Lakes longingly. Think about what this will do for our housing values as well as our economy. People will want to live in Michigan, because of the accessibility of the water. Although we are sitting in Michigan on a cold dark day, the future is bright for we who are willing to stick it out and live happily in our state. 