In 2001, my family traveled to northwest Wisconsin to visit a friend's lake cabin. After enjoying a weekend in the sunshine, reconnecting and rejuvenating with friends, we knew that we had to find our own little cabin paradise.
After months of online searches, weekend trips to visit new locations and talking with agents in the area, we finally found the one. Sitting right on Big McKenzie Lake with gorgeous views of both land and water, it seemed like the perfect place to create new memories.
Soon after purchasing the cabin, the first big project was to refurbish the logs that had been painted over years before. Several months later, the exterior revealed the original beauty of a traditional log cabin.
The last finishing touches included a new roof, an additional bathroom, new carpeting and interior wood paneling. While we enjoyed the busy and long weekends making this new place our own, we were definitely ready to start enjoying the place. And I must say, we certainly have.
This cabin has housed many memories. Whether it's boys golf and poker nights, girls getaway weekends or simply a time for our family to be together, our place in Spooner, Wis., has provided us with countless experiences and laughs.
From sunburn to frozen toes, our time spent at the cabin has not only been enjoyed but it has also been recorded. Each and every guest who comes through our doors signs our guest book. It is such a joy to reread all these entries and to reminisce about the friendships that have formed and the occasions that have been celebrated over the past 12 years.
My wife and I were also fortunate to have both our mothers spend a weekend at the cabin the year before they both passed away. That special time is something we can treasure and look back on with smiles on our faces.
We are so thankful for all of our family and friends who have made this cabin into what it is today. It is filled with such love — from countless photos and small mementos that have been collected — to the simple memories that have taken place inside the walls.
