Lake Reflections: The Greatest Guy on the LakeBy Shelley Hepler
Our family friend, Kenny, was the most interesting, fun man I knew as a kid. Our lake cabin was next door to his. Kenny was a guitar picking country western singer, comedic story teller, and a hot-shot water skier. He was a man who knew how to have a good time. I loved being at the lake when he was there.
Kenny coaching and encouraging me Even with old school wooden skis and life belts (yes, this was pre-ski vest era), Kenny cut a fine figure behind a boat. He was a grand slalom skier, high rooster tail and all. Yet, he was patient with us beginners. He coached me as I tried over and over again. Finally, he got the idea to sit my hind end in an inner tube. That way I was already half out of the water. Yep, this time when I said "hit it!" I actually got up. Kenny was pretty excited. And, so was I.
Yay! I did it! Thanks, KennySometimes he would drive his Amphicar to the cabin. That car was awesome; it was an amphibious boat car. Wow! Did Kenny ever create a sensation when he drove off the beach into the lake. I felt so cool when he took me for a ride. I sat in one of the seats and waived at boats as we “drove” by. Kenny usually wore a big cheesy grin and honked the silly horn. Most kids would be mortified at this adult behavior. But, because it was Kenny it was alright. What a kick.
Kenny definitely was the cool guy on the lake!
Evening entertainment was a full agenda of "Kenny." We either gathered around an outdoor fire or packed ourselves like sardines in his cabin. He pulled out his guitar and sang old western songs, a few I suspect he wrote himself. He yodeled and crooned; we all laughed and sang along. At the height of hilarity, he began to tell stories of his life as a boy. He was a wondrous story teller; each tale had a lesson couched in the reminiscence.
When my siblings and I recall memories of Kenny, we laugh and shake our heads at his funny stories and goofy songs. As a young girl I just thought Kenny was a great guy who all of us loved. As I look back, I realize he gave us a wonderful gift: adult friendship and acceptance.
Remembering times at the lake with Kenny are indeed charming memories of fun and sun, as well as love from the greatest guy on the lake.
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Bleu Cheese and Walnut Wafers
A cookie that's savory, not sweet. These rich tidbits are perfect with cocktails. You can bake the wafers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.
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