Sunny Sky, Icy Water

May 5th through 11th, 2025

Lake Lucerne
Last week had plenty of warm days. To remind us that we are still in May, it also had a few frosty mornings. That, and no rain (or snow).
Lake Lucerne
The nights, for the most part, were clear and got brighter and brighter as the weekend approached. On Sunday after sunset, it was tempting to go with a mid range (SPF 8) tanning butter to assure no "moon burn".
Lake Lucerne
In the warmer part of the week, the northwood's aviary had an explosion of population, activity, and color.
Lake Lucerne
Local squirrels took time off from evil and tanned on deck rails.
Lake Lucerne
The warmer weather coupled with Friday's calm lake made it an ideal time to put in a boat or two.
Lake Lucerne
Being one of the first boats in always has a feeling of impending doom attached to it. If the motor that's been sitting for over half a year decides to quit, there's few to call for rescue and it's a long, crabby paddle back to the landing.
Lake Lucerne
Thankfully, the cruise to the north end of Lucerne was uneventful. Huzzah!
Lake Lucerne
Just after bunking the pontoon, the sky started to whisper rain. Just after sunset, the clouds broke up and the lake got none.
Lake Lucerne
The plants are waking up! On the weekend, the trees started to leaf. In a few days the hills around Lucerne will go from somber gray to vibrant green.
Lake Lucerne
Ramp season is in the fourth quarter. If you crave their oniony, garlicky goodness, you only have a few days left.
Lake Lucerne
The trout lilies are popping up all over.
Lake Lucerne
The fiddleheads are unfurling.
Lake Lucerne
Most trillium are starting to flower.
Lake Lucerne
Some trillium are in full bloom.
Lake Lucerne
With all the greenening, the first mowing of the year came as no surprise.
Lake Lucerne
Last week had a summery feel. That feeling goes away fast if you dip a toe into the lake.
Lake Lucerne
On Sunday, the air was warm, the lake lumpy, and the pontoon crane guys were putting in piers and lifts. There's still not many, if any, ski boats in yet, but that's fine. There are very few skiers pining to bop across the 49°F water. A lack of rain, plenty of wind, and the spring balmy has pushed the fire danger from Low to Extreme in just 5 days. No campfire for you! The lack of rain seems to be keeping the mosquito population down. We haven't see a one, but the shore is thick with mayflies. They are mindlessly fearless, annoying, and seem to have a special affection for Mrs Nemo's head holes.


-Nemo exclaims, "Guard your head holes!"