In the darkness off Highway 131, I opened the door to the rest area. A dozen roses adorned the counter in sight of the doorway. I was shocked to see the burst of color and floral finery in a normally austere setting. As I entered the functional restroom another table caught my eye. It, too, was decorated with red and pink hearts and flowers. My nose picked up the scent of a bowl of pretty potpourri.

I visited several rest areas on my trip up north today. But only Rest Area #533 featured an employee who took the time to decorate with a splash of color and thoughtfulness. I wondered who this person was that wanted to lift our spirits with something just a bit out of the ordinary. I offered them a blessing in return for the one they offered me.