My Life: The Lake

spent a lovely spring afternoon walking The Lake shore by myself

there truly is something addicting about "The Lake" yes, here in Michigan, it is a proper noun :)

one can find many reasons why so many of us, here in the lovely state of Michigan, cherish The Lake

and while not having scary sea animals and salt water constitute for a large portion some of the reasoning, many reasons are so much deeper. .. .. .

at times, i think our fascination is paired with the connection the lake brings to memories. .   ..... .

friendships cultivated

swimming lessons learned

earliest memories of playing at the beach

family time
cookouts enjoyed
Church gatherings and potlucks

holidays celebrated

school tests studied for

date nights and watching the sunset

Sabbath walks on the pier

other times, the attachment transcends these moments and expresses itself through a connection with something greater than ourselves .. .. . .. .

awe at the majesty of God's creation

insignificance as one gazes at the never ending horizon

natural beauty encompassed in its topaz waters

emotional and stress release

respect for nature as one discovers natural ice sculptures encasing piers

serenity found on its stretches of endless sand

amazement and awe at its monstrous sand dunes towering above creation

yet still other times, different feelings evolve as one watches the waves crash upon lighthouses and cascade across sandy shores ... . ... .

pride in being a small part in the states uniqueness

passion for remaining in the lakes presence - forever.

personalizing the scent of its shores 

privilege at having it as an ever present option, any time of the year

identifying with seagulls 

embracing the quaint culture of Michigan coastal towns

no matter the reason, we always come back and remain just a little longer to enjoy whatever it is that

first drew us . .. .. .. .... .

it is truly difficult to express a Michiganders love of The Lake in words .. ... . perhaps it's because it simply satisfies the soul.