We all have used or heard the excuse "I'm sorry I can't hang out this weekend, I'm going to my lake house." I personally have heard this phrase more than I have gotten to say it. The magical sound of "lake house" distills a beautiful image of a small, wooden cabin on a sparkling lake, the water lapping up onto the beach where the jet skis and kayaks lay. For people in Illinois, they tend to fly to the upper north of Wisconsin, where a sea of trees blankets the land and creates the coziest of sanctuaries. This past week I had the privilege of visiting my boyfriend at his grandfather's lake house, and these are just a few of the things that I love:

1. Sounds of nature

Being in the deep part of northern Wisconsin away from the suburban area brings more opportunity to interact with nature. Going to eat breakfast in the backyard can become a breakfast for two, with a doe eating the damp grass in the distance or the blue bird that has found refuge in the large oak tree. Nature is all around you, and a lake house emphasizes that we do not appreciate the little things as much as we should, even if it's just the crash of the waves or the sight of an eagle soaring across the sky.

2. A Beautiful Lake

Water is essential for our survival so we flock towards it. That could be one reason why we all feel a certain serenity when we are at a lake house, or it could be the absolute beauty of the lake itself. Yes, lakes are not the best smelling places in the world, but just the sparkle of the sun hitting the blue/green water is something that can not be properly described.

3. Calmness and Serenity

Nature has a way of centering our minds and making some of our biggest issues seem small. This can be one of the greatest impacts that a lake house can do for you, helping you reevaluate what is important and what can be let go.

4. Water Fun

The best part of a lake is everything that you can do on it. My favorite lake activity is taking a boat out and holding on tight to the inner tube as I'm being whipped around the lake, holding on tighter as I hit the waves, and feeling a sense of excitement and freedom that only the lake can bring to me.

5. More water fun

Another fun water activity that I love to do at the lake is jet skiing. There is something unique about jet skiing. Maybe its going over 60 miles an hour across a whole lake, the wind whipping your face and your hair, as I practically walk on the water. The thrill sends your heart beating a hundred miles a minute and such a joy that you want to scream!

6. Even more water fun

Now for those who do not find water sports enjoyable, you can always sit back, relax, and fish. The lake does not discriminate and there are so many possibilities for anyone for any interests that they might have. You can fish off the dock, the boat, or find your own spot off of a local bridge.

7. Distance

Sometimes we need to step back from our daily lives and appreciate what we have. The distance from your every day life can help you find the answers that you have been searching for by taking a breath and really thinking about the situation in a less threatening environment.

8. Relaxation

A lake house can just be another house that you visit to just watch a sunrise or sunset. It can be your fishing spot where you find the best fish. It can be your yoga studio that brings enlightenment to your mind. A lake house is whatever you make it, but it always ends up being a place of relaxation and peace.

9. Appreciation

We all have failed to appreciate everyone and everything that is in our lives. The relaxation and distance from your everyday life can help you reflect more on what or who is important in your lives, and bring a more appreciative tone about your mindset.

10. Absolute Love

Being around your family and friends can be the best part of visiting the lake house. You can create memories that will last a lifetime, in an environment that radiates love and appreciation.

So even if you do not have a lake house, I am telling you to take any opportunity to visit one for a weekend. Don't pass up an opportunity to enjoy the beauty that a lake house gives. Enjoy the beauty and enjoy your summer!