The lake is good for the soul. There are so many reasons that we seek refuge from our hectic lives, and the lake appeases all of that need for relaxation. I'm writing this as I drive to Dale Hollow Lake in excitement. As I picture the sun-soaked weekend that lies ahead of me, I recount all of the best things about this particular kind of vacation. If you haven't yet spent days on the water, surrounded by luscious forestry and great friends, here are the top 5 reasons why you should plan the trip ASAP.

1. No cell phone service.

This seems like it would be a negative, I know. Honestly though, not having the option to be consumed by technology is one of the most liberating privileges ever. You are forced to take in the beautiful mountains and calm lake breeze while making memories that will last a lifetime.

2. Being on lake time.

We spend Monday through Friday counting down the hours until 5 o'clock, but we don't do this on the lake. Time is not even a factor when you're in captivity to the lake life. You spend the day doing whatever comes to mind and even the sun going down doesn't stop the party.

3. You don't have to wear real people clothes.

There's no place like a place where it's the norm to lounge around all day in a swimsuit. 'Nuff said.

4. You've worked hard, and now you can play hard.

While the lake is the perfect place to relax after a long work week, you still want to take advantage of the water. There are endless types of water sports to try out, whether is be jet skiing, wake-boarding, or loading all of your friends up on a tube and holding on for dear life. And if you're not quite the boating enthusiast, no one will object to simply laying out on a raft and catching a nice tan.

5. Meeting new friends.

It might be the tranquil environment, or it might just be luck, but the people you meet at the lake are always so friendly and inviting. You meet some of the funniest people there, and there's something strangely awesome about making memories with strangers. We all live the lake life. We're all in this together.

So as you can see, there is no vacation quite like this. I hope that everyone gets a taste of this lake life I've so frequently referred to. I could go on and on about all of the great things about it, but I've got a vacation to get to!