A paddle around Community Lake, a favorite spot.

A quiet and peaceful paddle in a remote spot.    What more could I ask for?

Tall green trees meeting the sky…

Sparkling dark cold water…

The sun begins to shine.

I push my small canoe

from shore

gently stepping in.

A quiet balance…

I paddle around the bend.

Alone on the lake…

not a soul in sight.

I lean back and trail my fingers through

the northern waters.

Sighing, I rest.

The sun is warm,

yet the air is chilly.

Ducks look at me tentatively,

wondering.

The lake is the same

as I remembered.

Comforting me.

Welcoming me.

Giving to me.

My heart holds this lake close

when I am far away.

My mind relives the simple, sweet memories.

You were still alive.

I am thankful that I have…

My canoe. My lake. My memories of you.

Sheri K. Hoff