the cottage

We've been going "up north" since I was small. My grandparents had the cutest little cottage on the cutest little lake. It was completely decked in 1970's kitsch, and small as a trailer. Sadly, they had to sell it when I was 12 or so. I have so many great memories of that place. These pictures remind me of how modest and cozy it was.

My parents bought some land in Northern Wisconsin this year. They are having a summer home built. Alas, I've seen the plans for my parent's "cottage". It will be quite big, and will have all the modern suburban home features. Granite, kitchen island, mud room, 2 car garage, big screen tv.....oh, and don't forget the wall plaque from Kmart "Live well, laugh often, love much".....barf.

I'm very happy for my parents. They're going for it, and getting what they have been saving for and dreaming of for a long time. And I will definitely enjoy taking advantage of the home and the land myself with my own family. But it simply won't be what I imagine a northwoods refuge should be.

Photos from J. Morgan Puett, and The Polaroid Kidd.