There's something special about being on an island. Life is suddenly brought to a slower pace, almost forcing me to enjoy the present moment.

Maybe it's the fresh, brisk air that rolls off the water. Or maybe it's the sound of the waves crashing on the shore covered with rocks that helps me sleep a little bit more soundly.

It is almost as if I'm in my own personal fairytale waiting for the next magical moment to come and surprise me.

Maybe it is the fact that there are no vehicles anywhere to be found on this island. Just the simple clip-clop of horses pulling a carriage or bikers taking their time as they peddle their way to work or the store or no destination at all.

I sit on the boardwalk and watch the sunset at 10:30 pm. Maybe it's the longer days that make me enjoy this island that much more.

Couples walk by hand in hand, the last few carriages head back to the stable to call it a night. Families head back to their hotels or hop on the last ferry boat to the mainland and the island transforms into a place of solitude.

The hustle and bustle that was Main Street a few hours back is now uncrowded and lit by the glow of Victorian street lights. The only sound I hear is muffled music and happiness coming from the inside of the bar that stays open late.

Visiting an island for a day is one adventure but sleeping on an island is an experience that changes something inside.

During my 20 years of life, I've spent a few days each year on Mackinac Island. Each year, I fall more and more in love with it. Dare I say, it has become my Disney World.

Island life has not only taught me to slow down but it has helped form me into the person I am today. It has an impact on how I go about my day to day life.

I encourage everyone to spend a night on an island at least once. Find it's magic. Because, "Once you've slept on an island, you'll never be quite the same." -Rachel Lyman