A Simple Stroll Around the Lake

I get off work and hurriedly rush to my cabin to cabin into a more casual attire, eager to meet my friends for our last evening walk together.  It's 9:00 P.M.; the sun long set.  The spring night air is cool, but comfortable.  Six close friends of mine, plus myself, set out for a brisk walk.  As we journey down the road, we are beneath a grove of freshly budding, spring green branches, though the darkness hides this from our view.  A nearly full moon illuminates the path before us.  Through the leaves above, we can occasionally catch a glimpse of the milky way.  We are so blessed to be in the country, away from the distractions of city life.  A simple stroll around the lake is very relaxing, soothing to the soul.  I've attended a spiritually refreshing conference all week, and now that it has come to a close, this seems to be a perfect ending.  We continue walking through the woods for a long time and then detour to the lake's shore.  We come across an old seriously rusty International truck, sunken into the mud.  The tires are no longer in pace, but the original wipers can be seen, paused in motion.  We turn back, wanting to save time for a ride out on the lake.  Canoe time!  We daring fit into two canoes, hoping a leak doesn't spring.  The only sound we hear is the paddle stroking through the water.  Out on the water is is ever so peaceful.  Its calming effect becomes even more present when a small rain cloud passes over, spewing small raindrops pitter pattering beside us.  The sound is indescribable, the serenity so unique.  God's creativity is sweetly revealed to us in the moment.  Once back on dry land, it's just about time to head back to camp, but we take a few minutes to sit out on the dock.  It must be getting very late by this time.  As we all sit, floating on the water, we all silence our voices to hear a serenade.  A serenade of deep voiced bullfrogs croaking to their heart's content.  There must be hundreds of them, singing harmoniously in unison with a handle of crickets.  The stars are twinkling on the still lake and the moon reflects off one corner.  Unfortunately all good things must come to an end and we climb the hill to our cabin, but in my mind this night will forever be labeled as one of the best!