When I was young at the lake, I remember how I was there with my dad.

We walked along the shoreline and skipped rocks across the water to see who could get it further, all along watching the waves crash in. I helped rake piles of orange and yellow and brown leaves by dragging the rake back and forth across the ground, pulling the leaves together into neat piles that the wind kept moving around. The lake felt endless and powerful and different from anywhere I had been before.

When I was young at the lake, I remember noticing everything around me, I would hear water slapping the rocks and leaves crunching under our feet and flags snapping loudly in the wind. I could hear the wind rushing past my ear and soft splashing of water along the shore, making a beautiful, calm, light sound. I smelled the damp earth, the fresh water and the cold air coming off the lake. Feeling strong and peaceful and calm being there listening to the beautiful sounds nature is making.

When I was young at the lake, I remember how it made me feel. Calm and curious and proud being there with my dad, I felt safe walking beside him, asking questions and learning as we went on a walk. I learned more about nature and how to slow down and pay attention to the world around me. Being there helped me feel more confident and comfortable around him, and it made me appreciate the time we spent together even more. The lake felt peaceful with a strong connection with my dad.

At the lake, I always remember the time I spent with my dad. I remember raking leaves and walking along the shoreline and laughing together at the jokes we made. We even saw a fat gray squirrel across the path stopping us for a second. It was the first time I felt close to him on my own, and those moments are special, meaningful and something I will always remember. After, our home cooked meal tasted warm and filling and comforting after a long beautiful day outside.