I Feel It In My Bones.
The car fell completely silent — it always does at this spot on the highway. Everyone inside holds their breath, eyes fixed on the horizon, as we continue to drive forward. We anticipate the foothills slowly dipping down as we close on the last section of highway, revealing the first glimpse of the water…
“I SEE THE LAKE!!!!!” we all scream in unison. (Props are given to the person who shouts it first.)
This is a game I’ve been playing for as long as I can remember because this is our family’s tradition: we go to the lake.
The past weekend, my aunts, cousins, uncles, nieces, parents, nephews, and sisters all met up for the afternoon at the lake. It was time to breathe, to swim, to play, to chat, and to remember that this is something we do.
(The traditional kick picture is always good for a laugh, and because I care deeply about these women, I assure you this is the most flattering for all. Sorry, Kiley, but it’s true.)
In today’s new video, I want to take you somewhere really, really special to our family. Our lake. The lake our family shared with us… and that we are now sharing with our children.
Unlike the droves of people who now visit the lake from all over the country, growing up, it was simply a spot for locals. For us. Summers were spent at my Great Aunt Marilyn’s cabin, grilling salmon, playing cards, and jumping off the dock into the crystal clear blue water. It smells of fresh water and pine pitch.
It’s one of my very favorite places in the entire world. (Besides home. And Italy.)
Do you have a place like that? A place deep in your bones, reminding you who you are and where you came from? A place that reminds you of self-discovery, family, and tradition all at once?
A place that somehow brings a vibrancy to your soul like no other?
It’s still a wee bit chilly this time of year, but that didn’t stop us.
One… two… three… JUMP!
Have a beautiful weekend, my friend.
PS: The hummus recipe we make together today will be featured in August’s Cooking Community recipes. You can learn more about joining our private community right here.
