The sound of nothing but the leaves rustling through the trees overhead create a long, sought-after peace for a busy soul. The smell of fresh air, mixing with the fragrance of pine trees and the aroma of the lake fill the lungs adding to the calm of the summer haven. The colours, the greens and blues from the sky and trees, reflect exquisitely on the smooth surface of the beautiful lake. The pergola and deck are the ideal spot to just sit and to take in the view. A perfect spot to allow the stress of life melt away and provide a space for the peace of this scene to fill the body and soul.

This lake, Lorbin Lake in Hanover, is a stunning spot to unwind, to reflect, to rejuvenate. I spent a glorious weekend here enjoying all the sights and sounds and scents as they refreshed me. 

Sounds of the birds sweetly singing filled the air.  The blue jays, the robins, the cardinals, the frogs and crickets all filled the air with their distinctive songs. Just reflecting on this scene brings me back to that day, not so long ago, when I savored the calm serenity of this setting.

Sometimes I wish that this is where I could stay; sometimes I wish I didn't have to leave this place of peace, this scene of beauty. But sometimes, in order to realize the blessing and tranquility of this summer retreat to its fullest extent, we also need to live and breathe the busy-ness and stresses of life. In order to appreciate the quiet of a summer retreat, we need to experience the "noise" of everyday life. 

Looking at this painting reminds my spirit to take the time to stop and to find the beauty around me. I don't have to be at a cottage on a lake to find these mental spaces. I can also find them in a quiet drive along a peaceful road or quietly sitting on a bench at the river's edge or walking down a deserted path through a forest of trees or even in a quiet paddle on calm stream.  There are always moments that will give us the peace and tranquility that our souls need. All we have to do is slow down and look for them. 

As darkness descends on the tiny building called "Home," a bright fire glows softly spreading its light and comfort throughout the little space creating a warmth within. As the last gleams of the day’s sunrays fade into the horizon and the darkness settles, there can be a sense of fear and foreboding. The colours of the evening are glimmers of browns and golds that remind us of the warmth of "Home."

This piece instills a feeling of "home" in me. What does home mean to me? Home is where someone loves and laughs and learns and plays. It is a place where one is loved and respected and cared for.

"Home is where the heart is." We all have a place where our heart is; a place where we feel safe and secure; a place where we feel protected and sheltered. Home is a place where you feel an emotional connection. "There's no place like home!"

The yellowy/orange glow coming from the windows and the glimmers in the sky and landscape portray a warmth. There is safety pictured in this scene; a safety even as the approaching darkness can present a sense of anxiety and dread. "Home" shelters us from the apprehension and worries that descend upon us much like darkness in the evening. 

I am thankful for the sense of "home" and the sense of safety and love that this picture represents.

​What does home mean to you? What do you see in this painting?