A Week at the Lake

When I think of summer I often think of the time I spent with my grandparents in their lakeside cabin in Upstate New York. Waking up to eat the fresh donuts my grandfather had grabbed that morning from a local shop while reading the comics with my grandmother. The days were spent fishing, swimming, or canoeing on the lake with evenings filled with family and, when I was really lucky, a bonfire!

With both of my grandparents having passed away in last decade I haven't been back in a long while. With my daughter going off to college, I thought it was about time to relive some of my childhood memories and create some new memories with her. What would be better than a week at the old cabin?!

To make the trip even better, we had all 3 generations for the trip as my mom was able to come too! She grew up spending summers and weekends at the lake, so it was really awesome for her to relive some of her old memories as well.
 

Our Week at Conesus Lake

After over 24 hours in the car we were so happy to have finally arrived at the lake. And what a spectacular view we had to great us! The sun was just setting over the ridge line on the opposite side of the lake, creating a gorgeous mix of soft pastels that reflected off of the water. This is how you kick off a week at the lake!

 My plan was to not have a plan. Relaxation was the name of the game. This swinging wicker bench had such a great view, and since it was in shade most of the day it was a great place to sit with a book.

I spent most of my time on the dock though. First thing in the morning I would head out to the end and watch the split-tail swallowtails as the swooped and played above the water. Later in the day it was time for some sunbathing. While we had board games and cards inside, thankfully the weather stayed gorgeous so most days were spend out of doors.

One of the best things that happened was getting to see my mom reconnecting with friends from her past. Here she is with one of her besties, Donna. It's always fun to watch your parents revert to their younger, more carefree selves. It reminds me that we're not all that different at all.

No trip to the lake would be complete without the ubiquitous bonfire and the inevitable smores. I was so proud of my little fire! :)

 How did I neglect to mention the surrounding countryside?! It's so simple and bucolic. We stopped at a roadside stand (set up in a shed in someones front yard) and picked up some homemade jam and fresh veggies. And I mean fresh... the beets were still covered in dirt. Can I just tell you how tasty they were? We also spent an afternoon picking blue berries right off the vine. (or would it be bush?) I've got to say, now I get that whole 'farm to table' movement. The flavors you get from super fresh produce is amazing!

 

 

 At the end of the week I was reluctant to leave. But at least I know I can always go back. I can't wait!!