The skies over Lac des Roches have been filled with flying objects and not just the hundreds of swallow fledglings. Several float planes have dropped in for visits, as they routinely do; however, the ultra-light planes that buzzed over the fields near the rest stop were an uncommon sight. None of the neighbours seem to know the pilots of these small craft, but we hope they had safe flights. Our unpredictable wind gusts have upset many unsuspecting windsurfers and sailboats and would surely be a challenge for these fragile flying machines!
Chilly playground
An improvement in the weather for the latter half of the August long weekend was a welcome bonus for the many lake users who braved our chilly waters. I especially enjoyed watching the antics of the skiing threesome as it brought back old memories of my four brothers and I, skiing together behind my Dad’s boat. The unseasonably cold weather and winds have kept the lake from warming to a pleasant swimming temperature we usually have in August but it appears that the weather was ideal for the annual Bocce ball tournament. Boaters are reminded of the law to reduce their boat speed to 10 km/h within 30 meters of all shores.
Sharing the land
I am not fond of some of the critters we share our property with. The gophers leave dirt piles and rocks that catch on the lawnmower blade. The crows start squawking way too early in the morning. The Bonaparte gulls harass anyone venturing into the quiet bays. No, I am not fond of these critters but it warms my heart to see their babies every summer. It is comical to watch the baby gophers chase each other in the grass and up and along the split rail fence. The line of baby crows hops along in a clumsy manner behind their mom, jumping onto the fence rails and teetering unsteadily. The fluffy baby gulls have discovered that the top of duck deterrent netting strung on our floating dock is a soft perch and under the netting is a safe haven from the many eagles perched above the bay. Although I realize these are critters-in-training, it is sure a pleasure to watch the antics of the babies every summer.
Outdoor garden
A resident has a solution to deterring the many deer, which regularly nibble in her outdoor garden. A beaten egg, mixed with a cup of water, sprayed on the leaves of the garden vegetables has successfully deterred the deer this season.
Best Wishes
There is a noticeable absence of many of our neighbours this year. Initially, there was speculation that the high cost of fuel may have kept some seasonal residents away; however, we have learned that several friends were not able to travel to the lake due to health-related issues. The community sends good wishes to you all with hopes that you can return to the lake soon.
Friends Host AGM
The annual general meeting of the Friends of Lac des Roches and Birch Lake will be held at the Bridge Lake School on August 27. The evening will begin with a drop-in social hour at 6 p.m. , complete with snacks and refreshments, followed by the meeting starting at 7 p.m. Highlights of the agenda are executive reports, a land use presentation and executive elections. All are welcome!