Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Laguna Lake

Laguna Lake has the interesting phenomenon of being almost completely ignored. Everyone knows it is there, but in a casual, offhand sort of way. It’s never mentioned in the same context as other lakes—as an exciting nexus of summer recreation. Only one road, Madonna Road, passes close to the lake, and only for a few car lengths. On many occasions I drive past without even remember a lake is there at all.

The part next to the lake is a very peaceful setting. Paths twist and turn away from the parking lot, carrying me between scattered trees. I am surrounded by fields of short, golden grasses. The lake extends into the distance, away from the road. Most of the lake is difficult to see, except from along its shores or from above.

Different times of day bring about unique experiences. There are two times of day at which the lake is especially breathtaking. Early morning, after a fog shrouded night, wisps of mist appear and fade in an eerily supernatural show. My favorite time to see Laguna Lake is during that time. Steam rises from the water, giving it a feeling of life. The other time is during late afternoon, as the sun makes its way down to the horizon. Everything is vividly colored. The greens are richer, the golds brighter, and the shadows contrast with all of them. Laguna Lake glistens in the sunlight, and the breeze sways the lazy trees in a gently rhythm. My house is a single block away from this peaceful place.

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