Saturday, August 2, 2025 – Day 354

Saturday, August 2, 2025

Good morning!

Today we leave the tranquility, fresh air, and lazy days of summer in the Northwoods. It’s been a great week—and the last full day did not disappoint.

Zack found an active fishing hole just a few hundred yards from the lake house, making it easy to take the boys out and teach them how to fish. It’s always funny to watch kids touch a fish for the first time. Just as you’d expect, they poked at it… then quickly pulled back, like they were facing off with a giant sea monster. They’ll be talking about that experience long after they get home.

Cindy and I took a short road trip in the morning to visit her 88-year-old Uncle Ed and cousin Chris. It was a brief visit, but it meant a lot to see her family while we’re up here. You never know when a visit might be the last, so we try to include them whenever we can on these summer trips.

There was more waterskiing yesterday—none for me. After my near-drowning incident earlier in the week, I decided I’d used up my luck and happily kicked back on the pontoon boat, staying out of trouble. Or so I thought.

Despite my abundant caution, I still managed to take a tumble while navigating the steps on the pier. Zack rushed ahead of me as I stepped down with my two canes, but I lost my balance going backward and landed hard on the concrete pad. As I looked down mid-fall, I knew it was going to hurt—and yep, it did.

Thankfully, nothing serious happened. I was especially relieved I didn’t fall the other direction—toward the water and the boat rails that extend from the boathouse. That would’ve meant an ER visit for sure.

So, as much as it pains me to leave, it’s time to say goodbye—possibly forever. I have so many incredible memories from these past 45 years. Every time I’ve left here, I make a point to go down to the lake, pause, and take in the beauty and magic of this place. I always think about how lucky we are to experience peace like this in such a conflicted world. I’ll get one last look this morning before we pack up and pull away in just over an hour.

By the time you read this, Lis and Steve will have already said their goodbyes to our group and will be preparing for some Sexton cousins who are arriving in a few days. As much as I’d love to stick around, our time has come. Thank you Lis and Steve for another great week having so much fun.

So long, Fence Lake. You’ve given me 45 years of happy memories with family and friends. I’ll miss you—and maybe, just maybe, I’ll see you again. But if not… let me close with this:

ALS took hold but not my love or laughter.., those remain with you.

Glide through Fence Lake’s glass laughter trailing in our wake… memories take root.

To those in my heart, you will walk these shores again with my love in tow.

One last northern breeze, shadows stretch across the pier… goodbye, old friend.

Have a great Saturday…I’ll talk to you from Crystal Lake tomorrow.

Love you guys!❤️