Mid Summer Message

Most have heard the question, “Is the cup half-empty or half-full?” It is a common expression, a proverbial phrase used as a litmus test to determine an individual’s attitude or worldview. It demonstrates that a situation may be seen in different ways, depending on one’s point of view. Through the recent events we have experienced, it is easy to view our cup as half empty. However, I want to share with you my full cup experiences this past month. When the CLCA decided to proceed with the carry-out Memorial breakfast, there were so many unknowns. The board, volunteers, and our lake community came together and made it a successful event. As I was driving home after the event, I had a sense of relief and an overwhelmed sense of gratefulness. Everyone worked hard with a smile on their face, and our lake residents were the BEST, kind, understanding, and patient! The t-shirt, sweatshirt, and towel sales have been phenomenal this year. Once again, our lake community has adapted to a new way of doing things. The website has blossomed—what a great way to purchase items and communicate. If you haven’t noticed, there is a new Kids Section, which includes Red Cross safety, coloring pages, and scavenger hunt maps around the lake. When you see Don Kennedy, please thank him for all his work on the website. Look for more things to come! One of the most rewarding experiences I have encountered is meeting so many new people on Chapman Lake. There is a common thread with all I have met, we all love and have a connection with Chapman Lakes and are proud to be a part of this community. I have heard many stories of generations and how the family traditions at the lake continue to pass along. One family, in particular, is the Kilgore family on Osborne’s Landing. Ross Kilgore’s family has been coming to the lake since the ’60s. His family roots are from New Castle, IN, and he currently lives in Bluffton, IN. The week before Memorial weekend Ross, his wife, Ashley, and their two children, Naomi and Abel, were staying at the family lake house when Naomi picked up an old guitar in the house. Together, Ross and Naomi composed a song, “At the Lake.” Ross made a recording and video on Chapman Lake. I encourage you to go to www.chapmanlake.com and click on community to read their story and listen to their song and watch the video. I promise your heart will be full. Thank you, Ross and Naomi, for sharing with us! I feel so blessed to be a part of the CLCA organization and this lake community. Whether you are fortunate to live on Chapman Lake year-round or pack your bags and drive so far, lake living truly makes your cup overflow! Cathy Miller President