The Camp from the dock in 1960's

Again a photo from Dorothy. This is a view of the camp from the dock. This is around 1968 (color). Several observations:
1. How small the trees look.
2. What happened to that cedar tree?
3.The dock looks like it always has.
4. The old red jeep sits to the right of the camp. Do you think it will start?
5. Someone just mowed the yard.
6. I'm glad the bush is gone. Good place for snakes.

The Viking Ship

Here is an old photo again from my aunt Dorothy that shows the old Viking Ship. My Dad and uncles made this out of barrels and plywood. The mast was a tent pole and it had a real canvas sail with the Celtic cross painted on it in red. The sides of the ship were yellow with red trim. It is hard to see, but there is a dragon head sitting proudly on the prow of our Viking Ship. What fun we had sailing around lick creek, jumping off of and swimming from the ship, and taking the craft into the "swamp". As I remember, the ship was eight feet wide and sixteen feet long.

The Camp 1966

My aunt Dorothy found this vintage photo of the camp taken in October of 1966. Five
things to notice:
1. The roof is flat (it leaked), before the gable roof was added.
2. The pump house to the left of the camp. We used to pump water from the lake, before we put in a well.
3. The old army jeep parked to the right of the camp. We used to ride to Doughtery Store in the jeep.
4. The wild rose bushes in the yard, gone now.
5. The trees in front of the canopy, cut down over the last few years because they cracked the concrete porch as they grew large.

Barn near the camp (photo by the beholder)

Barry took this photo of a barn near the camp. He added a special effect which I really like. Barry has a good eye for composition and I enjoy his love for photography. I would like to spend more time with him. This photo reminds me of why I love the camp so much. The thought that this bit of history still exists brings peace to my soul that is hard to explain. The sight of this shed seems to say to me that a slow, calm life still exists, a life where small, simple things are cherished, enjoyed and even preferred.

Dougherty Store (photo by the beholder)

Doughtery's Store was open when our fathers discoverd and built the camp in the early 1950's. Being typical youngsters, even with an exciting place to swim, play, and explore, we would beg to go "down the road" to get a coke and candy at Doughtery's Store. It was too far to walk. When we were old enough to drive an old army jeep our father's traded for, my cousins and I would drive to the store for these cherished treats.

A favorite passtime, a bit of fire, a book, a cup of tea, and a comfy rocking chair

Mimom and I love to sit in front of the fire at the camp. Regardless of the weather, the hearthside calls to us for rest, reading and love talk.
We also love to sit on the porch and watch the weather change right before our eyes. The colors and vistas of the change of weather and the way it affects the lake and wildlife are a pleasure to behold.

View of new dock

View of camp from the lake

View of old dock

don't even think about it

This is just a little warning to those who might be thinking of packing up and driving down to the camp this Fall. I wouldn't go there if I were you.....you know, mildew, smoky fireplace, mouse families setting up winter quarters, not to mention a snake or two cosily coiling to hibernate in the most unlikely places.
And then there is always the remote, but oh so possible visit from the dreaded "shell divers". They may pretend to be needing a glass of water or a twinkie, but these are a species of man that you do not want to cultivate a relationship with---they fly Confederate flags and don't need to call 911 for police assistance, if you get my drift.

Another reason to stay home this fall is the alarming lack of technology at the camp. There is absolutely no way for you to communicate on the world-wide web, or watch those long awaited football games. I would just settle back in your easy chair at home with snacks just a five minute drive away at your fully stocked grocery (unlike Big Sandy Market who has never even heard of
guacamole) and have a front row seat in the comfort of YOUR OWN HOME!

Someone has to check on the moldy place now and again, so just leave it to Phil and me and we will do it for you. Just think, you can have the peace of mind of knowing that someone is willing to brave all that inconvenience and mouse poop, while you spend your well-earned vacation time drinking margaritas on the beach, or eating fresh seafood just steamed in your spotless stainless steel kitchen.

There is absolutely no charge for our services. We believe that the reward lies in doing the right thing, regardless of the time spent away from our responsibilities at home.

Have a great fall and winter, and the camp will be ready for you next summer to ski, swim, fish, and play your hearts away in the warm sun and weedy water.
elaine

The Camp - Paradise

We've been considering a website for the Camp for quite a while. A place to share photos, news and ramblings about this wonderful place. I tried to get into web design (with Barry's help), but it is so overwhelming to learn. Just this week, Elaine showed me Julie Cottrell's blog "Travels of a Book Loving Mom". After looking at this blog, we think we can do this. So, this is our first attempt. More will come as we learn to use this tool. Later Phil Sr.