Big Bear Lake
Photo courtesy of Ashlee Reed
By Ashlee Reed
A few years ago my boyfriend took me up to his grandfather’s cabin in Big Bear. It was my first time visiting the quiet, in the off-season, town. I was awestruck. It was hard to believe that a town so beautiful and different could be right in my backyard. To my boyfriend and me, Big Bear has become a special place, a mini-vacation for us, one that we can afford and have the time for. We don’t do much except visit family, walk around the village, even attempting some hikes. We’ve have many memories there.
Our most recent trip up there was with a few friends. We walked along the lake, even when we’re not supposed to, enjoying every aspect. The partially frozen lake that we tried to skip rocks on. The light snow on the ground that we enjoyed throwing at each other from time to time. I personally tried to get pictures of the wildlife. The ducks absolutely did not want me around. As we go, there is something special about getting away. Something special about how close Big Bear allows me to escape from the stress of reality.
It seems hard to get away from everything when your job has you working nonstop. But you have to, because you need to pay bills or school. Maybe you’re a full-time student that volunteers and does as many activities as possible to get their dream job. Time does not allow some people even luxury to take one day off.
Let yourself enjoy the little things. When we’re so consumed by everything around us we cannot see what’s right in our backyards.
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