Our week at Lake Michigan is coming to a close. Even though I used to live here, this is actually only the second time that I can remember coming to the lake. The first time was at a big state park and, this time, a private residence with a quiet beach.

Growing up, whenever we went on the water, it was usually the Atlantic Ocean. I wasn’t a fan of the way the salt water made my skin feel, the sand everywhere, and the beating hot sun. I was more of a mountain person than a beach person. After this week, I’ve clearly turned.

Months of 100°+ temperatures and high humidity at home set me up perfectly to enjoy this week. The cool lake breeze and temperatures in the low 70s at night have been like a drink of cool water. We had rainy days, windy days, cloudy days, and sunny days. I spent a lot of time out in the kayak and building fortifications to protect Benedict’s sand castles. I particularly enjoyed floating in the open kayak with my legs overboard.

My favorite activity this week was going out in the lake and existing. If I was out on the kayak, I’d sit and let the waves pass me by. I also walked out 40 yards onto a sandbar and body floated. Existing in the tranquility of the lake was rejuvenating.

The sunsets have been phenomenal, as have the aunts and uncles, running around with the children while I blogged, journaled, swam, and read. We picked up the tradition of cooking a meal each night by different members of the family, and I’ve really enjoyed getting to share those meals out on the deck.

All good things must come to an end. If I lived at the beach, I’d take it for granted. This place is too special to go to waste. Instead, we’ll decamp to our Western homestead, and enjoy a completely different ecosystem. I’ll always remember this week at the lake, and count the days until we do it again.