I talk about the lake a lot, I know. But once long sunny days blow in after my least favorite season of the year – spring, I’m lookin’ at you – I’m instantly drawn to the water.
On our recent last lake visit over the 4th, nostalgia set in. Maybe because Emmett is starting to interact with his surroundings more. He took his first official lake dip & watching him splash around was truly surreal. I grew up riding a bike to the beach, carrying a swimsuit in my drawstring bag to change at a moment’s notice. We jumped off docks, learned to wakeboard, soaked up the sun on any boat we could find – as long as we were on the water, the summer days were endless. And on visits like this, I’m reminded just how special – and rare – a childhood like that is.
Where we lake
Frequently, people assume we’re headed to Okoboji when I mention pointing north for a getaway (see what I did there?). Our little oasis is situated southeast of that popular summer hub in Emmetsburg, the little town I reign from. Much smaller, much quieter. However, over the years we’ve watched more and more surrounding land being developed. Waterside houses being built by locals and newcomers, an improved golf course, a new walking/biking trail and an association dedicated to lake improvements. All the while, everyone still seems to relish the quiet, escape-like qualities of the lake named after it’s mysterious islands. I know we do.
Essentials for a lake weekend
My parents have had a house by the lake going on eight years now. We’re getting things down to a science. Except for my packing habits… it’s a work in progress. Here are some maybe-pretty-obvious essentials for lake weekends. It really doesn’t take much!
Swimwear
Obviously. I am noting this because I need somewhere to document my love for Summersalt swimwear. I bought a one-piece from the body inclusive brand last summer after being desperate for something comfortable, cute and covering. Loved it and dove back in again this summer for one of their two piece options (pictured above). Quality and comfort get 5 stars. An investment, but well worth it as they will hold up for multiple seasons and still look brand new.
Easy outfits
I’m notorious for over-packing for almost any occasion. And lake weekends need the most improvement. For whatever reason, I always pack excess. Probably because we never have any set plans. Regardless, all you really need are easy outfits. Something to throw on over a swim suit, or better yet, something that works as a cover up or an outfit. I recently picked up this terry cloth romper at Old Navy for $20. It’s perfect for whatever we’re doing. I also love this waffle set from H&M – I wear the pieces separately and together. In case we do end up with some sort of plan, jean shorts and a simple tank do the trick.
Sunscreen
Since entering my 30s, I’m now trying to erase all the damage caused by my teenage years of no sunscreen. Dang, those were good times, but the reversing makes me wish I would have at least dabbled some on. Oh well! I’m absolutely diligent about sunscreen on my face now. And truly, over my whole body because the thought of a severe burn makes me cringe. Then there’s Emmett to whom I’m constantly reapplying. Here’s our favorite brands.
What a lake weekend looks like for us
A lot has changed since having Emmett – no more 8 hour days on the boat, coming in red-faced and tipsy. But we still get plenty of fun into each mini vacation. Besides Emmett’s schedule, we really have nothing dictating our days. Golfing in the mornings if we can, coffee on the deck, maybe a kayak venture if the water is glass. Nap time has been a time for mom and dad to escape thanks to very willing grandparents. We float on the water, ride the jet skis or take Coop for a walk around the town. Once E wakes up, we’re full on entertain-the-toddler mode. He wasn’t so sure about the lake at first, but after a little time and coaxing, we had him splashing around in no time. At the end of the day, he is beyond tired. Which makes for a restful night for all of us.
How lucky are we to be showing Emmett summers like this? I will never take it for granted. Weekends always fly by at the speed of lightning but we squeeze in everything we can. Summer will disappear again soon. But for now… cheers to more lake weekends!
xoxo. B
