The Imagine Lake

The car wheels held tight as my husband took a quick turn onto the country road. Guarded by simple wire fencing, it was only footsteps from flowing water … the Imagine Lake. I hardly flinched as we rallied in conversation, our eyes glancing back and forth. Then I looked over at the freshwater expecting the swan family to ease by with elegance and grace, necks high with deliberate focus.

But something else was happening … quite peculiar. 

There was a hush. I leaned toward the windshield as my husband eased on the gas pedal. Billows of frothy mist suddenly floated around us and over the peaceful lake. The dense vapors followed alongside the car changing into thinning streaks. A thick smoke like haze began rising from the scattered ice patches. It danced and swirled as it climbed into the fog of sky. It was an atmospheric phenomenon showcasing a mystery-like drama … a crescendo of height and ebb. Witnessing this spirited scene was a feast to our eyes.

A plethora of guttural, happy noises poured from my lips. Grinning, my husband remained silent. We drove easy around the hovering blue fog that whirled around the lake… yielding to this graced moment.

Such was a special encounter that I affectionally call a “happen-on.” This is a chance meeting with someone or something that might be missed if not paying attention. This lake visitation was nudging from memory of other such incidences.

Another occurred one weekend when my children were in their middle to high school years. My husband and I decided to take a mini-vacation to the lovely state of Maine. Our two daughters had other plans, but our sons were on board as they quickly circled maps and packed suitcases. Featured at the Inn was a menu bursting with tasty dishes highlighted with a plethora of lobster. Appetites were teased; they couldn't wait. One afternoon, after a huge sampling of offerings on the buffet table, all three of my guys fell into a leisurely summer nap.  But not me. It was time to explore!

Tying tight my shoelaces, I took myself to the oceanside footpath that was featured in the hotel’s list of sites to see …that was right around the corner!  The gust of ocean waves pulled me along as I stepped onto the simple trail. When I immediately halted. Large bushes lined the walk, their branches heavy with brilliant, pink sea roses. I stood still as their lovely scent filled my entire being. So intoxicated, I journeyed along a good way before I came upon a formation of rocks and sat. In awe, I took in the expanse of the ocean … it’s width and depth, melting into the distant, cerulean sky.  This moment had so graciously presented itself. And I had taken it.

Another fortuitous encounter came to mind. 

Some years ago, I drove to the city to assist placement of a client in hotel food service. Advised to use the rear entrance, I scurried between dumpsters and an assortment of delivery trucks and went into the building. Once finished, I headed to my car. I abruptly startled. A whoosh of wind went by; then other. Two dark-colored stretch limousines quickly parked near the edge of the sidewalk I had just stepped off. They appeared to be important, but I decided to mind my own business. But hearing voices urgent in tone, I looked over my shoulder. There were several men in dark suits briskly walking a man to a car … when abruptly, this fine-suited gentleman turned his head, his eyes meeting mine. Surprised, his face became a wry grin. I smiled and nodded as he was carefully ushered into the rear seat. He didn’t wave or look back. Yet I knew that he knew— I had just witnessed the President of the United States.

I had almost missed him.

In silence, my husband and I drove home from the lake … lingering in this remarkable moment; grateful for having had such an experience.  Ever hoping we would be ready for the next one.    

… “and that’s how I live it.”  

Postscript - Enjoy the " happen on" of a wintry scene painting inspired by looking out my kitchen window.