I am just ending a two-week vacation with my sister from Canada. We spent a week of it at the lake pictured above. There are a few other cabins on this lake, but they are hidden by trees. Motorboats are not permitted here, so it is QUIET – a precious commodity these days. We had a canoe, which we paddled around in.

The cabin had no television. We spent our evenings sitting on the screened porch, chatting and listening to the whippoorwills.

I brought my dog, who relished her time OFF LEASH (!!!) on 8  acres. She also loved going in for a swim whenever she felt like it. The entry was sandy and gradual – perfect for corgis.

She even accompanied us to a seafood restaurant for lunch and diligently helped us clean up any errant bits of lobster roll that happened to fall on the floor.

I believe that like people, dogs appreciate a break from their daily routines, as long as it’s with their families.

It was hot, and she had the sense to spend most afternoons hanging out in the shade.

Or sometimes, she would  sit in the water with a look of bliss on her face.

Speaking of bliss, my sister just had to have her favorite fried clams at one of our local diners. I managed to get this shot before she pounced and devoured them.

Many people, including my husband, have asked me why I would rent a cabin on a lake in RI when we live so close to the beach. Well, the beach is busy and crowded and noisy this time of year.

I needed peace and quiet – and trees. Lots and lots of trees.