My Day at Lake Mansfield

Sometimes, I feel completely overwhelmed, like i'm not in control of my time anymore. Now, coming from someone who works primarily for herself plus a small part-time job, that sounds a little absurd. But, when friends and husbands and pets and whatnot start calling, personal time tends to get placed on the back burner. Raise your hand if you know what I mean. 

I've been feeling like that lately. So, in my funk I drove myself out to visit my friend Rena in Great Barrington. She's a genius. I walked in and her first words to me were, "You need to learn how to tell people NO."

And she's so right. It's not an easy thing to learn though. When she asked me to go for a walk I said, "No." Then I laughed and said of course. The sun was shining. Her dog Austin was more than a willing participant. And when there is doubt, do it for the dog.

So, off we went. It was gorgeous, absolutely gorgeous. It was just what I needed at the moment. Beauty and quiet and nature. 

 

This is Lake Mansfield. It's right here in Massachusetts in Great Barrington. There is something magical about the way sunlight glints off lake water. It's like tiny crystal fairies scurrying just beneath the surface.

There she is, Aussie. She sniffed everything in site, half-heartedly chased a stick or two and apparently scared off some kind of small furry thing as we approached it. The sun filtered through the trees and leaves. It left dappled light all along the path. I wonder what it looks like when the moon is full and bright? I may just have to venture back again.

This is a vine. It looks like a tree trunk. It is humongous! There were several of these mammoth things snaking their way through the trees, which creaked and groaned in the breeze. Rena wasn't a fan of the complaining trees but I stopped several times gazing up at the pine tops.

Patiently waiting for the lazy ones in back to catch up. By the end of our walk, she was enthusiastically running after sticks which she then proceed to chomp to bits. I want some of that doggy passion for simple things. 

 And this is downtown Great Barrington. The main street is lined with these gorgeous trees that are all in full bud. Apparently the center of some local controversy, of which I know nothing, the trees are just beautiful. We ate lunch at BaBa Louie's. Pizza with eggplant, pepperoni, artichokes and mozzarella. Yum. When I visit, I don't want to come home. And, I feel very wanted as my friend doesn't want me to leave. 

It was a wonderful day, energizing and soul nourishing. I want to do this every week this summer. What nourishes you and your spirit?