The day before and after the Chequamegon Bay Birding and Nature Festival in Ashland, my mom and I spent time at our family’s cabin in St. Germain. I try to make it up there at least once a year because it is such a special place.

No, it’s not a giant log cabin with floor to ceiling windows. It is quaint, apricot-colored and nestled behind tall pines and birch with a glimpse of Fawn Lake. More than the setting, it is the feeling I have when I get there that puts a smile on my face. Here, I am content.

It has become a ritual: Driving down the dead end road with my windows open, looking for deer. Turning around a sharp curve and spotting the neighbor’s giant rock, knowing our grass driveway is next. Hearing the screen door creak and slam behind me. Breathing in the cabin’s familiar smell. Walking down to the pier. Anticipating a crackling fire and smooth boat ride.

During this visit, I was able to do all of those things with my mom. We especially enjoyed being out on the lake, where we spotted a green heron, turtles, kingbirds, buffleheads, a loon and an eagle.

Later Saturday night, we went for a walk and saw almost a dozen deer. Most were gathering at our neighbor’s house for an evening snack.

We ended our night with s’mores by the fire…

…and listening to the sounds of the lake.