Mar 15 2010
Slice o’ Good ol’ Lake
Slice of Life Writing Challenge — Day #15
There is a lake up the mountain, 30 minutes away, that we visited many times last summer. It was totally our hangout; we called the little bar/restaurant on the water our “living- room” and the lake was our “pool.” It’s the most relaxing place on earth in the summer, and whether I was there alone or with others, it was always the best of times…
I remember the last day I was there, right around Labor Day. We were all back at school and very aware that our days of floating on the long green and pink foam “noodles” were probably over. My friends were up on the deck, already dried off and ready to start the party. I was still floating. There is nothing in the world that I enjoy more than floating…
My face was to the sun; my body completely supported by the cool water. It was all sky and light… and I knew it was the last time of the season. So I was conscious of the moment (for a change!) and told myself that this is what I need to remember whenever I am cold, or stressed, or sad… this is what I need to remember. And I have.
Many times in the ensuing months, I have gone back to that time of complete abandonment. My friends on the deck, laughing. The dog shaking water off her brown fur. The sun on my skin. The sound of water filling my ears and leaving again. The last day of summer. The last warmth. The giving and taking in. The pure act of attention…
And now it’s almost spring and maybe I’m going to float again.
What a wonderful memory to hold to when you need to relax.
Beautiful picture of the view from the living room. I’ve also been thinking of The Lake lately, and was floating along with you as I read your restful descriptions. I remember feeling a sadness as the season closed and school started. Now I can’t wait to go there again. I’ve been figuring mid- May could be the beginning of the 2010 float season, and on through the summer. Vivid memories of this jewel, can lift me out of my stresses and into moments of pure sensation with water and sun ruling my mood. Thanks. Janet
Want lake want floating want living room in the sunshine all right now. Perhaps that is why we live in New England – anticipation! Thanks for the peaceful reminder of the shimmer of summer dance.
I wanted to remember a moment from Aruba. But the crazy weather here is working against me. You have the moment in wonderful words and what an image as well.
I want to wear my sandals.
Bonnie
Today is supposed to be beautiful — in the high 50s, sunny — a nice change from the rains and winds and gloomy skies.
Kevin