The leaves are falling, a crispness is in the air and the lake has a deep blue mirror like look to it. Activities at the lake have slowed down as the season has come to another close, boating is limited to the fisherman with his rods and kayak enthusiasts enjoying the serenity of a calm lake. The snow birds are packing up planning their annual trip into the deep south while closing their summer homes once again. As these events unfold, a life long tradition continues !! The enthusiasm and the energy of a pick up game of touch football along the lake front. No longer just a game between the young but one including all ages and sexes. It has the excitement of a high school homecoming, people are jockeying for their favorite positions while enjoying a picture perfect view. You would think this day would be enjoyed by the participants alone , but here that is not the case. The community turns out to socialize and cheer, golf carts and ATV's line the parking lot as coolers filled with food are taken to the pavillions. As the game continues a bon fire is lit to take the chill out of the air and provide a gathering area for chairs and those desired beverages. The large grill already is filled with burgers, kielbasi and hot dogs. The picnic tables are laid out with chips, fruit and potatoe salads of all types. As dinner is served everyone talks of the game and its highlights, they laugh at their failed attempts while having just one more drink. The funny thing is noone remembers who won the game and noone cares. As the bonfire dims and the packing up proceeds we enjoy another day in paradise.
Lake Living has many advantages, the beauty of a pristine lake, the potential of catching the Big One, swimming, boating, canoeing, water skiing and nature. But like anywhere, it is a sense of community which makes it special. Living in a community where people take pride of their surroundings, go out of their way for eachother, greet one another with a friendly conversation and know eachothers names goes a long way in an era filled with indifference. I hope your community has qualities that make it special to you.