Labor Day is quickly approaching, which means my favorite time of the year is sadly coming to a close: lake season. Some of the best memories of my life take place at a lake, whether it was at my grandparents' old cabin or my current lake house. Anyone who has spent time in these wonderful, carefree environments can vouch for me when I say that lake life is truly the best life. Here are some reasons why.
1. Endless Activities
You truly can never be bored while at a lake. You can kayak, sail, surf, paddle board, boat, swim, ski, snorkel, fish... The list goes on and on. I love being able to wake up and think, "What am I going to do today?," and have an endless amount of options. Everything you do from the time you wake up until the time you go to bed is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
2. Local Food
For seafood fanatics especially, lakes are the place to be. You never fail to discover shore-side restaurants where you're welcome to tie up your boat and relax for a while. Their seafood is guaranteed to be delicious (and most likely fresh), and their atmosphere is friendly and charming. It's the perfect place to relax during the day and have a good time once the sun goes down.
3. Swimming
One of the best ways to cool off during a hot summer day is to take a dip in the lake. You can either swim off boat docks, stand around in shallow water, or anchor in the middle of the lake and deep-water swim. You don't have to deal with the tides of the ocean or the chlorine of pool water--it's the perfect happy medium.
4. Lake Time
When you're at the lake, you're on absolutely no schedule at all--you're on lake time. I always find myself asking someone, "What time is it?," or even, "What day is it?" because I never keep track when I'm there. It's such a reassuring feeling to not have to worry about being somewhere, not to mention putting my phone away for a few days at a time. It's freeing. You can simply distract yourself with the fun activities going on and not worry about being on a set schedule.
5. Sunsets
There are few things as breathtaking as watching the sun set on the water. Everyone seems to gather around in the evenings and watch the sky together. The colors are truly beautiful, and it's one of the best parts of the day.
6. Friendships
The friends you make at the lake remain your friends forever. There are guaranteed to be plenty of others your age surrounding you, and there's something about a lake that helps everyone get along. Personally, I met my college roommate and one of my all-time best friends right next door. I have memories with her and her family that I'll cherish for my entire life, and we'll always have the lake to reunite at, no matter how much time passes.
Lake season is what I look forward to the most every year, and it's something I know my family and I will always appreciate. If you haven't yet this year, get yourself to a lake and enjoy the amazing and unique atmosphere.
