Fishin report for Lake Iwanttobethere..

[Bobby Bass]

Hey Hey the gang is all here, well almost. Deer Camp here at Lake Iwanttobethere. The wet weather has continued right into opening morning here at camp. Sometime during the night the light drizzle turn into snow and in places where it is cold enough it has stuck. Looking out from the kitchen window the assortment of pickups and trailers have a thin covering of white stuff on them. I will not be hunting this year but still have made it to deer camp to help out as much as I can. Someone has to be around to remember to put wood in the old stove and not burn the eggs.

Yesterday afternoon the guys started to show up, the uncles and cousins and friends that make there way to deer camp each year. In the old days it might just be a hour drive for some or for me just minutes. But now some of the guys they have to catch a plane to get here. One of the uncles and his son had to drive through a blizzard to get here. We are getting just a mild wisp of that storm here now. To warm to really snow a lot and what snow we have will be gone by afternoon. What we do have is mud, lots and lots of mud. The trail coming into deer camp is slick and although there is no ruts there is some soft spots forming from all the traffic. Already the older guys are lecturing the younger guys about how they drive their atv's. Young guys won't be around when it comes time in mid summer to haul in some more rock and fill the holes. One of the cousins was made to strip out on the porch, he was covered in mud and we weren't going to let him drag that all in to the shack. He being new here asked where the shower was and was greeted with laughter as he was pointed to the creek.

Full house here on opening weekend. Like most deer camps there is a interesting mix of hunters here. The camp here is not a lot of family but just a lot of old friends and neighbors. The guys you hear me talk about all the time are here at deer camp. Of course Elmer is here, with his trusty 30-30 in the rack he has the bunk closest to the door. Chuck is here, that way we are guarantee Maple Syrup for breakfast. Reed the Realtor with a gag order on selling us anything. Sheriff Tim was suppose to be here but work called and he had to run to the other end of the lake. Frank the plow driver and Mark the mailman are busy in a hand of cribbage, that dollar they bet will just keep going back and forth between them. Hammering Hank and his father in law Marvin are also here for the first weekend. Elmer and Marvin have become friends so they are sipping Turkey and talking of things long before anyone else's time.

So as I look out the kitchen window here I can see tracks heading out like the fan on a turkey tail into the woods. Bout an hour from now guys will start making there way back to camp. I have chili simmering and rolls rising. I am sure there will be a few stories to pass on.. From Lake Iwanttobethere [84493]

[Bobby Bass]

Day two of deer camp brought on a few weather changes. The stove was still warm this morning when we got up as the young cousin decide that he would go through the night and keep it stoked. Seems that Elmer told him that as the NEW guy here at camp it is his job to make sure the fire stays burning. This morning the wind has died and the sun is out. Cold, crisp and clear just the way some of the guys like it. Two does were shot and a six pointer joined them hanging from the beam. Pressure is off as we have meat hanging and talk was loud and the smoke thick late into the night. Marvin, Hammering Hanks father in law shot his first deer, one of the does not thirty minutes into yesterday mornings hunt. Him being a city slicker from back east said it took him a long time to get his heart to beat normal and then he remembered you were to wait for awhile to make sure the deer was down. He forgot how long he was to wait and not until Elmer came by his stand to get him for lunch did he come down. Well everyone else was already back at the Hotel, as we call the deer camp and it took the two old guys awhile to drag that deer back to camp. When asked why they just didn't come back for help Elmer replied he did not want to have to walk back twice. Marvin as you can imagine was beaming through the night and was buying drinks. Elmer also told him that he had to put money in the cookie jar every time he poured some Turkey. Funny, this morning I looked in the cookie jar and all of Marvin's money was gone..

Marvin and Elmer slept in late this morning and are here sitting on the porch sipping hot coffee and waiting on who will return with the next deer. I added more fixing to the chili and now it has been simmering for about 24 hrs and getting mighty tasty. Some more rolls are rising above the old wood stove and there is Hamms on ice in the old blue cooler. Football game on at noon and I expected most of the guys will take an extended lunch and watch the game. Mouse problem is much better this year as the traps were checked during the week and I also brought to camp my two toms Buff and Smokie with me. The boys are three and a half and we have treated them like dogs. Meaning that they actually come when called by name and like the labs they do like to hunt. Smokie is about 14 pounds and his brother is just a tad smaller at 13 pounds, both are jet black and can only be told apart by their different colored collars. The guys being guys all raised objections when they came and saw the cats in the shack. But then as the day and evening went on the sound of mouse traps going off was few and far between but the cats were doing their job and they picked the young cousin to bring all of their catches to. As the evening wore on guys gathered around the big round table and cards were brought out. Funny how many laps the two black cats found their way to and how many guys were caught holding cards in one hand and petting a cat with the other.

This morning the two cats were sleeping at the head of the bed with Big Earl, we of course took a picture and will post in on the wall later. A big old chunk of prime rib is in the oven for supper tonight and wiping my hands on my apron I head out to the porch to see if anyone has come in. Sun is shinning but it is a bit nippy out. Elmer and Marvin are hunkered down in the chairs with their collars turn up against the wind. Marvin sees me and asks if I heard about his deer? I tell him yes and turn back to go in the shack. Elmer starts off by saying ' I remember my first deer it was way back in 19......" I stir the chili and add a log to the fire. From Lake Iwanttobethere {84530}

[Bobby Bass]

Midweek here at Deer camp, the weather has not changed and according to Sunshine Ray we are going to see several days of the same. Cloudy overcast skies, some rain and a few snow flakes. Things are looking pretty dreary. The only color is the splash of orange when you spot a hunter. Half the guys have return to town, Elmer and Marvin are still in camp, Marvin is enjoying his time here in the woods and away from his busy life back on the East coast. Even though he turned off his cell phone Elmer took the battery. No calls will be taken out here. The two of them did go into town last night, Even after a few days they did need a shower and they were running low on cigars and Wild Turkey. I brought the cats Buff and Smokie back to the cabin. They have done their job at the Hotel. Funny how when we were all playing poker the cats were missed by those whose luck at card playing had changed. The mice are not all gone and the sound of a trap snapping during the night can still be heard. Of course that is the least of your troubles trying to sleep in the hotel. Guys who always swear their wife's are lying about their snoring are now having contests over who can keep everyone awake. Hands down Big Earl is the best or the worst depending on how you look at it.

Well hunting has been slow, we have had four deer taken and all of them have been brought into Ma and Pa's for Pa to butcher for us. Food has been good and plenty of it. I will take credit for that as I am not hunting this year but am still at camp doing the cooking. I suppose I could have bought a license and I easily could just sit on the porch here and as the sun settles I could take a doe on the edge of the field. Every evening they move around the edge of the field and check out the feeder before heading back into the swamp. I have been doing some fixing and rearranging here during the day. Even playing with an idea of doing some expanding, maybe even a shower house would be nice. Of course everyone is in favor of that but no one wants to start working on that in the middle of season.

As far as I know no one has seen or heard anything about the big buck I call the Ghost. I am hoping he is still out there. The guys from the next shack down came by yesterday afternoon. They were looking for one of their "Guest" that seems to have gotten himself turned around. I asked in a round about way about the "Ghost" and they said they have seen tracks but, no they have not seen him.

I did make my way to the Lodge to check up on things and get a few cases of Hamms. Gus said the Lodge has been quiet during the day but has been busy after dark. A lot of blaze orange sitting in the chairs and a lot of stories being told. Rumor going on around about a big swamp buck being shot but no pictures yet. A young gal up the road shot her first deer the other day after asking her dad if she could sit alone. Her dad was in here beaming and receive a lot of congrats from other proud dads. Makes ya feel good when ya get to pass on a tradition. Bud and Barney were happy to see me when I picked up clean clothes back at the cabin and the wife had several apple pies waiting for me to take back to camp.

Well back to deer camp and I brought a few books that I have been meaning to read. No honey do list for me, at least for another week or so. So we will enjoy some quiet down time and see ya when we come out of the deep woods, From Lake Iwanttobethere [84664]

[Bobby Bass]

A mid week flurry and several deer are hanging from the beam. There is a little sag to it as a heavy doe and an eight point buck are hanging. With the second weekend of season coming to a close there are only a few tags left in camp. Today guys were out in the morning but everyone was back in camp for the football game and of course the disappointment of a loss. Some guys blame football for their drinking and other guys blame their drinking for watching football. Mark had the van backed up to the porch and we watched the game and did our annual repairs between plays. Actually there was not to much to do as it seems the guys are spending more time here on the off season. We looked through the log book kept on the kitchen table and everyone has made a trip or two and made an entry in the log.

We fired up the grill and did venison steaks for lunch today and a few of the guys who had there deer hanging went grouse hunting. Frank and Mark are still deep into their cribbage game and that dollar is looking pretty ragged. I lost count how many times it has been passed back and forth across the table. Still waiting on a nice day to show up, this past week it has been the same never ending cloudy overcast day the only difference is darkness interrupts it. A few snow showers and twice we woke up to a dusting on the hoods of the trucks. Soon as the wind came up the snow was blown away. The deer thermometer on the hotel wall has not dipped below twenty two nor has it risen much above thirty two. Wood pile has had a dent taken out of it but already we have dragged in some dead wood and this next week we will bring out the chain saw and do some cutting and splitting.

Marvin and Elmer have gone into stay at Elmers cabin for the rest of the season. They both scored on a couple of does and they hauled them to Elmers garage where Elmer will do his own butchering and make some sausage. I know the two of them are hoping for a decent sunny day to take the boat out and do some fishing. For now they have a blue tarp hanging on the railing around the edge of Elmers dock to block the wind. They are sipping something from a thermos that I don't want to taste. Even Elmer winces from time to time when he takes a sip from it. The only way you know they are out there is you can see there heads with their orange hats on bobbing behind the tarp and see two big red and white bobbers floating out front of the dock. Barney has gone out a few times to visit them but even he has given up on fishing. It does not take Barney long to return to the cabin and his spot on the floor in front of the fireplace.

I to am home for a few days, have some stuff that needs to be done and of course the never ending paper work at the Lodge. Don't want that to get to deep on my desk otherwise the only way to catch up is to just take it all and stick it in the fireplace. I have done that in the past and then people get upset with me for burning what they think are important papers. I figure if it is really important they will send it again. The new solar collector at the cabin is pretty much all done. Just have some fine tuning to do on it and until we get some sunshine I can't do that. I have plans on my desk for a new solar shed for out here at the lake. Got the approval from the wife but I have to take down two smaller sheds in exchange for building a new one. Now me if I need to store something I just build another shed, the wife things the property is starting to look like a compound so I have agree to take a few down in order to build a new one. I have not mentioned that I am thinking of a playhouse for the grand kids, but I'll let the grand kids work on grandma.

Well heading to the Lodge here, need to do some catching up with all the guys and I can hear a Hamms calling my name even from here. Heres hoping everyone has had a good deer season so far from Lake Iwanttobethere [85027]

[Bobby Bass]

Getting to be that time to start thinking about turkey day here at the Lake. I say that because I was down at Ma and Pa's checking up on our deer and I see there is a sign in the window about taking orders for turkeys and hams. Over at Amy's a sign also greets you when you come in asking for your pie orders to be placed early and don't forget to get plenty of dinner rolls. Seeing the sign I bought a bag of Amy's clover leaf rolls and brought them to the Lodge. No sooner had I dipped a bowl of chili and buttered a few rolls when the other rolls were quickly snatched up. A kind of quiet settle on that end of the bar except for the slurping of chili and the dipping of rolls.

That time of year to when it gets crisp in the morning. For some reason the smell of baked bread from Amy's seems to carry through the entire town on a day like today. She bakes everyday but when it gets cool the smell of bread just hangs in the air then. Traffic seems to slow when it goes past her shop. Another place is Del's Sub and Pizza shop. With most of the leaves down from the trees now, when Del shoots the pizza cannon off for a delivery the sound now carries across the waters of the lake. I am sure more then one new order has been called in because a pizza was seen skipping across the waters of Lake Iwanttobethere.

Windy the windmill is turning on top of the hill behind the Lodge. Has gotten that no one pays it much mind any more. Just like the recently painted water tower. We have gone through the summer and it is hard to remember what it looked like before the paint job. A slight dusting of snow fell overnight and most of it is already gone where the cars have driven down Main street. The sun comes out from behind the clouds for a few minutes at a time and slips back before it can do any melting. Earl down at the General Store was out on the porch with his broom and cleared his sidewalk before the first customer came through the door. The sale cart sits out on the sidewalk with window wash and a assortment of car brushes and even some of the long handled ones for pickups. The little bottles of yellow and red Heet are stacked on the bottom shelf, a reminder that it is going to get colder.

Masterbaiters shop has a few cars and trucks parked out front. It is a weigh station and a few guys in orange are talking outside the door. There is even a lonely pontoon trailer at the access, somebody is out fishing. Blaze orange is still the color of the day but there is but six days of season left. The other side of the lake is all done as they are in a different zone. Leaves are finally coming down off the apple trees and the deer have moved in to clean up around the base of the trees. They must be coming in during the cover of darkness because the wife said she has not seen them. A few apples still cling to the trees and of course there is enough for more pies but I can't reach them, even with the picker.

Hammering Hank and Skinny are having lunch and I have been told that they have Lodge work on their schedule for the afternoon. Picnic tables will be taken into the garage for storage and garbage cans will be moved closer to the trees so they won't get hit with the plow when the first snowfall comes. Windows will be washed and screens will all go to storage. We got a case of them new cfl light bulbs and they have been sitting collecting dust but Hank says he will get them all put in today. His wife Tess changed them all in his, I mean their cabin and they are a lot better then the ones he tried a few years back. Sounds like a lot of work to me so I am going to take the trail down to the bait shop and listen to some hunting stories and the soothing sounds of bait tanks bubbling, From Lake Iwanttobethere.. [85072]

[Bobby Bass]

Views from a stand, I was thinking the other day about all the different views from deer stands I have had over the years. Some were good and a few were almost perfect but it seems I always enjoyed the most the one that I was in at the time. When I was young high stands were the thing. I once climbed up a stand so tall that I was even with the crows that flew by. Had a great view of the swamp and I even got to watch from my vantage point a lone hunter walk into an island in the swamp and watch three deer sneak out the far side. Nothing I could do about it, I was so high and so far away and the tree tops were so skinny that even just a slight breeze made the entire stand sway from side to side.

My neighbor Pete took me once to his secret deer camp. After spending a night under the sleeping bag with mice running across the top of my head I was happy to throw some jelly between a couple of pancakes and follow him out to my stand. My stand was a couple of boards nailed between two birch trees. You needed a ladder to get from one rung to the next. He left me there and I just leaned up against the base of one of the trees, no way was I even going to try and climb that stand.

An uncle took pity on me and brought me to his camp for the weekend. The night before they drew straws for stands and I got stand number seven. Checking the map I made my way out to it the next morning and could not find it. I was told you can't miss it but I did. When the sun came up I did find the stand, well I found an ice house six feet off the ground. Making my way up the ladder the key that I was given did fit the padlock and I found myself in what some consider to be "the" deer stand. Carpet and a comfortable chair, even a heater and a shelf to put my lunch on. I didn't see a thing that day but I was comfortable.

Another buddy of mine took me out and put me on a trail, his instructions were to walk the trail and you will find stands along the way. Just spent some time in each stand and move on to the next when you start to get cold or bored. I followed the trail and spend time in a variety of stands along the way. Some were newer then others, all were uncomfortable as a stand needs to be built for the user. One stand that was only about four feet of the ground was constructed of pine branches. I climbed up and standing holding my rife in my arms heard a snap right before I fell through the floor to the ground. My arms hitting hand rails and the floor slowed my descent and I landed upright. I decided to finish the trail and avoid the remaining stands. When I told the buddy about the stand he just said normally you see a deer before you get that far.

As I get older I seem to have gotten broader and heavier. Deer stands are not as attractive as they used to be. I do a lot more still hunting now, Moving slowly down trails or through cedar swamps. My hunting partners who are all younger say I have a nack for it. Truth be known as you get older you just plain move slower. Now finding a nice tree to lean against or sit down on some pine needles is just as good as climbing that stand. Seems to be less wind down on the ground and I can see under the trees instead of having to look down through them. Lot going on down here. It may look quiet from up in the stand but there is a lot of things to keep you busy on the ground.

Everyone has spent time in the woods knows that after awhile things calm down and what looks to be lifeless is filled with life. It does not take long for mice to scamper across your boot tops or squirrels come to inspect you. If you are lucky they will say nothing and move on. If you are not so lucky they will broadcast that you are there and do a running play by play for anyone who will listen. Grouse will appear and they seem to know you are deer hunting and will strut in front of you and move along like an old girlfriend. You just don't exist anymore. Redheaded wood peckers will pick the tree you are sitting at to start slamming their heads against. The sound echoing out like a sledgehammer banging against a Buddha's temple gong. What was a quiet fall day is pretty loud here on the ground.

And just like that it goes all quiet, the mice disappear, the grouse are gone and the squirrel is quiet. You hear the fluttering of the woodpecker as it takes flight and moves through the woods away from you. You turn your head, cocking it to one side as you listen and hear something else in the woods. Letting your eyes follow your ears you see the movement of orange coming down the trail. Watching you can see and hear another hunter and then a second one off to his right. They move past you as you watch. Now you are stuck, do they see you sitting at the base of the tree? Should you wave or clear your throat.. You decide to stay still and watch. They move on by and in a few minutes they are gone from sight. You strain to listen to them and then their sounds are gone also. A moment later and the mouse reappears at your feet. The squirrel makes clucking sounds and you hear the peep of a grouse. Yes sometimes a stand does not have to be in the air a stand can be just about anywhere... From Lake Iwanttobethere [85126]

[Bobby Bass]

There is this apple that I can see from my window here at the cabin. I have been watching it since spring. Well I have been watching the same spot since Spring. The apple started off as a bud and then became an apple. I know it is the same apple because when I lean back in my chair here the apple is right behind the handle on the window. Just a little green round hard apple it started off as. Most of the time it was hid by leaves around it. As the summer went on the apple grew and after a time it got heavy and made the branch that it was on hang a little lower. The leaves reached skyward but the apple hung lower. We had a wind storm and a lot of the apples around it fell to the ground, but my apple, that apple, hung in there. Squirrels raided the tree late in the summer. Apples fell to the ground but still my apple hung in there.

Fall came and blue jays ran the squirrels off the tree. Using their long beaks they slashed at the apples, not eating anything just acting like a gang of bullies throwing their weight around. Guess what? My apple is still there. Grand kids came and picked apples, they missed my apple. Halloween came and trick or treaters raided the tree but they missed my apple. Every morning I sit in my chair and I check my e-mail, sometimes I have to wait to log in. I lean back in my chair and my eyes look out the window for my apple, still there, hanging from the tree.

Winter is here now, cold temps and more winds have stripped the tree of most of it's leaves. The apple, a bright ripe red hangs by itself. Almost like a Christmas decoration or a bright bobber. I suppose with the leaves all gone I could go out and pick it, be easy enough to see it standing under the tree. But I think I would rather keep leaning back in my chair every morning and check on it. It has already gotten me through Spring and Summer and deep into Fall. Maybe just maybe it will take me through Winter to another Spring and another fishing season.

I had this sitting in my writings folder, waiting for a good time to share it. Tonight as I sat in my darken den looking out the window with a cup of hot cocoa in hand I watched as a doe slowly worked her way around the bottom of the apple trees. Walking slowly she noses through the grass looking for apples. The ground has been picked bare but she came up to my tree and standing on her rear legs she reached up and plucked my apple! I got out of my chair and stood at the window, she must have seen my movement and looked back at me. I toasted her with my cup and gave her a short wave. She dropped down and looking at me chewed the apple and dipped her head, she looked like she needed it more then me. Tomorrow I'll start looking at that spot, just below the handle. In a few months perhaps, there will be a bud there. The start to another Spring and another Summer from Lake Iwanttobethere [85146]

[Bobby Bass]

Saw a funny thing this morning, the sun! Been almost two weeks of the same cloudy dreary overcast days. Matter of fact almost all of deer season has been spent with out a sunny day. Just as I was looking forward to getting out in it I stepped out on the deck and the wind took my hat away.. Bud soon ran it down and brought it back to me. I pulled it down a little tighter on my head and walked around the cabin to get out of the wind. Last weekend of deer season coming up and I have some things that just have to be done around the cabin before I head to the hotel for the last three days. For some reason the deck still has furniture on it and there are an assortment of plastic toys that the grand kids sit and ride on scattered about the lot. With my back up against the wall of the cabin I notice a lot of leaves in the yard also. Seems the wind is bring everything from Elmers yard to mine.

The lake does not look to inviting this morning, no ice but it looks cold. The reeds on the point are all brown and hanging over, their tops in the water. Not a duck or a goose to be seen just them flocks of small birds that fly like the blue angels, all making dips and turns as one. With the leaves down I can make out the squirrel nests in the Maple. Looks pretty big this year, hope that is not a sign of a colder then normal winter.

Was down at the General store yesterday, checking to see if Big Earl and his son Junior will be at deer camp. They have already filled their tags but it is kind of a thing for everyone to still show up on last day to eat, drink and tell stories of their hunt. No sooner had I came in the door and Earl took me to the side and told me I was just in time for some fun. A older gent who I recognized from a lake association meeting was just coming in the door. He was wearing a jogging suit like they do in the big city and had on one of them step counter things that you wear on your belt. He nodded at Big Earl and set off down the main isle. Earl unclipping the metal chain that blocks off the old wood stairs that lead up to his office waved me by. I went up the stairs and Earl re clipped the chain and followed me up.

At the top of the stairs behind a private do not enter sign Is the office door that leads to the command post of the General Store. Waiting for Earl to pull out his key ring attached to the chain on his belt I could see down from our vantage point the floor of the General Store. Following Earl in I was greeted by the tight confines of Earls office. Stacks of paper flyers and price stampers clutter his old oak desk. The phone with a couple of lights blinking and the microphone for making general announcements sat on the edge. Earl picking up a small two way radio clicked it on and said "Ready?" A double click could be heard in response.

Earl making his way around a few cases of Lake Iwanttobethere syrup and some sparkling spring water looked out the large window at the sales floor. Pointing out the guy in the jogging suit he explained to me what was about to happen. " See Bobby, that guy has been coming in here everyday rain or shine since he moved in, Lake Iwanttobethere does not have a Shopping Mall and since we are the biggest store in town he things this is his private walking gym. He never buys anything, just walks my isles with his nose in the air." I moved around the boxes of turkey platters and looked down through the glass at the sales floor, there moving briskly down the hardware isle was the guy in the suit. Earl picking up his radio said "Now" I could see Junior moving a pallet of windshield wash on a cart block the end of the hardware isle. Next he ran down the house wares isle to roll a cart of coffee makers blocking the end. The walker reaching the end of the hardware isle turn to find himself blocked by the windshield wash. He turned towards sporting but had to back track to house wares. Earl chuckling to himself continued to send directions to Junior who either removed or added pallets and boxes blocking the walkers path. Looking from our vantage point it was taking the shape of a maze! I joined in with Earl and now we were wrapped up in our own little game of blocking the walker. Taking turns we quickly made a side bet of five dollars on who could get the walker to go down the ladies hygiene isle. I lost and shortly thereafter the walker made his way to the main entrance and was out the door.

I offered the five bucks to Earl who turn it down. " Not a fair bet" he says " I have been doing this for weeks, it has only been your first time." Coming down the old wood stairs Junior is at the bottom waiting for us, a bottle of sparkling water in hand and dabbing his forehead with the end of his apron. " Coming to deer camp I ask" he nods yes and his dad gives him a pat on the back and the two of them start planning tomorrow's maze.

Well I guess I better get to work on that Honey Do List and then pick up my order at Ma and Pa's only a few more days of deer season and we will be back in the woods chasing grouse. From Lake Iwanttobethere [85219]

[Bobby Bass]

It's always something, I was getting ready to head out to the deer camp and I had the Dodge all loaded. I pulled out the drive and I noticed my blinker was not working either left or right. Knew right away what it was, a bad flasher. The Dodge likes to eat them for some reason. So I took a right and drove into town, a quick stop at the parts store and I would be back on my way. A few years ago Dan took over the local parts store from his uncle, a life long resident of Lake Iwanttobethere. From time to time we talk of Dan but mostly people around these parts know his big Saint Bernard Grace. Come to think of it has anyone ever heard of a small Saint Bernard?

I pulled up in front of the store and parked next to a big shinny pick up truck. Going in the store I got a nod from Dan as he was waiting on a guy at the parts counter. I chuckled to myself a little as the guy was the walker from the General Store. Not being in a real big hurry I did a little browsing. Coffee pot was on sitting over on the edge of the counter and I poured a splash into a foam cup. With a swizzle stick I stirred and wandered down the aisle. I saw a display of Turkey deep fryers and jugs of peanut oil. Turning back to the counter Dan was busy flipping through one of the many oil smeared parts books hanging in plastic binders on the counter. The Walker was tapping his finger on the counter saying something about getting the part cheaper in the big city and how Dan should price match the parts store there. Dan was saying he understood completely but you got to show him the price not just pick a number out of the air. About then Grace came wandering from the service area and walking up to the walker stepped on his white tennies with a grease covered paw. The Walker threw up his hands and stormed out of the shop. I slid up on to the wood stool at the counter and Dan closing the book poured himself a cup of coffee.

Grace found a spot on the floor, near the door and flopped down. The door open and J.D. walked in. Some what in a hurry he blurted out a quick HIYA and asked if he could cut in. I waved my hand and said go right ahead. J.D. Needed a thermostat for his Ford and Dan reached under the counter and pulled up the keyboard. With a few quick keystrokes he had a part number and turn behind him and place the box on the counter. J.D. paid and was out the door before Dan could close the register. " Say Dan, does the walker guy know you have a computer?" "Na, he thinks we are a hick town so when ever I see him drive up I just put the keyboard under the counter and make a deal going through the books, guy never buys anything anyway" With that Dan walked over to a shelf and tossed a flasher on the counter, You looking for that" he asked. " Yup, how did ya know?" "Saw the lack of turn signal when ya pulled in" Dan replied. I pulled out my wallet and paid for the flasher, Dan followed me out and yanked the old one out and replaced it with the new one. Lights blinked as I tested them.. Thanks Dan, no problem Bobby, from Lake Iwanttobethere [85275]

[Bobby Bass]

Lake Iwanttobethere has been on the Internet now for just over three years. Hard to believe that this little town on a huge lake in a county that no one can pronounce is still being followed. I thought while things are a little slow with deer hunting done and the ice not yet thick enough to walk on I would have a little quiz. Lets see how well you have been following the residents of the Lake and if you qualify to say HIYA

I am going to list some questions and all you need to do is fill in the blank, On Thanksgiving I'll supply the answers and you can check your score. Some will be easy and some may be hard and some you will not have a clue? Good luck!

(1) Bobby Bass manages the Lodge but also has a part time job, what is it?

(2) Bobby's dog Bud is known for what?

(3) Bobby dogs Barney is known for what?

(4) Bobby has another dog who is always in trouble, her name is?

(5) Name Bobby's two neighbors?

(6) Hammering Hank is the towns what?

(7) Hammering Hank married a year ago, to who?

(8) Name Hammering Hanks father-in-law.

(9) Hammering Hanks sidekick is?

(10) In the winter the Town of Lake Iwanttobethere is known for a big event, it is?

(11) Who lives on Root Beer Island?

(12) Del's Pizza and Sub shop is known for the one and only ?

(13) Name the windmill behind the Lodge?

(14) If you want to buy property on Lake Iwanttobethere you have to talk to?

(15) One beer you can always get at the Lodge is?

(16) If you need a shot at the Lodge there is always a bottle of _____ ______ open.

(17) Two brothers own the brewery, there names are __________ and_________

(18) Name the Towns doctor.

(19) How is the mail delivered in the summer?

(20) The paper boys name is__________and how does he get the paper to you?

(21) Who owns the sauna and hot house?

(22) The call letters of the local radio station are?

(23) Sunshine Ray is the weatherman but who is his new sidekick?

(24) Bobby's dream bass is known as?

(25) Name the towns bait shop?

(26) Amy's Bakery and Deli has a famous sandwich, name it.

(27) Name the owner of the General Store_____

(28) His sons name is?

(29) What does Chuck make in his garage?

(30) What is Elmer building in his basement?

(31) There is an ice thief in town, can you name her?

(32) What kind of bird comes every Spring to Bobby's shoreline?

(33) Can you name the law about mowers and chain saws?

(34) Name Bobby Bass fishing boat?

(35) Where would you find Alert 1

(36) What is the name of the Deer Camp Shack?

(37) The Sheriffs first name is?

(38) The Lodge always has _________ and ________ for lunch.

(39) Bobby drives a ________ (color)_______ (type)

(40) What happens when you say HIYA to a shop owner at Lake Iwanttobethere?

If you got them all right (40) you are the next mayor!

35 to 39 right A founding Father

29 to 34 right A Lodge Member

24 to 28 right A year round resident

19 to 23 right A summer resident

13 to 18 right A tourist

And less then 12 You need to read a little more about Lake Iwanttobethere! [86121]

[Bobby Bass]

Well another deer season is in the books, I came home on Sunday night and was greeted with the edge of the chair in my knee as I came in the door. The wife had taken the time to rearrange the furniture while I was gone. I stumbled out into the kitchen to get a glass for some juice and that had been moved to. The glasses had been switched to where the bowls are or were. So I drank from a bowl.

I did manage to get the yard picked up and everything is in storage or at least under cover. Pretty late getting to it this year but the weather has held and no snow has yet fallen. I even took the lawn tractor for a spin around the lot and mulched up leaves, cleans the deck to and another thing I can check off the Honey Do List. Yard and deck looks pretty empty now, nothing out, all the grand kids stuff tucked away. Just the chairs on the swing set swaying in the wind. Apple trees have finally given up their leaves, my apple is gone but there are a few at the very top of the trees along with my metal apple picker that came off the pole when I was picking apples last. Sooner or later the wind will bring the rest of the apples down and hopefully my apple picking basket will fall to.

Ice forming up on the bay out front of the cabin, I would not walk on it but it is looking kind of cold out there. I see even Elmer got his stuff put away. He was entertaining Marvin, Hammering Hank father in law for most of deer season and I hear they were at the Lodge just about every night. Took a few dollars from people playing team cribbage I have been told. The pink flamingoes have all gathered on the point I see. Will have to have Skinny take a head count and see if they are all out there for the winter. County has finally brought the orange barrels to the park for storage. I see they are all neatly stacked over by the picnic tables. I am sure Hammering Hank will have them moved by Thanksgiving just in case we do get some snow. Sunshine Ray forecast is calling for snow showers through out the week but no real snow as of yet. Might even see the sun a few days this week also. Would be nice as the new solar collector is pretty much all done and just needs some sunlight to work. Have some fine tuning to do with fans and such and setting timers but can't do that till the clouds clear.

Ice house has been pulled to the front of the garage and snow thrower is sitting alongside. Mowers and tiller are tucked back in the garage under the stairs and the ice auger has replaced the weed wacker in the hanger by the door. This week I'll go through the wood shop and pull all the small pieces of wood that can be used for fire starting and of course will haul some wood down from the big pile. Will dig out some apple firewood that I have back there to for Thanksgiving day. Everyone will be here at the cabin for dinner and of course Elmer will be invited Chuck already told me he can't be here as he is going into the big city for dinner with a lady friend of his. Met here haggling over the price of plastic jugs for his Maple syrup this past fall and they have taken a shinning to each other. Kids, grand kids, dogs and neighbors will all be here for dinner. Wife is on vacation so she will be running around the cabin baking and rearranging. My job Is to stay out of the way and peel apples for pies. Me and the three dogs will spend time in the garage working on the ice house and drawing up plans for this years ice house fling which is not all that far away.

Is it me or did this summer really go by quickly? I was laid up there for awhile and that took some of summer away but it seems like I just took the cover off the Puddle Humper and I had to put it back on again. I do know it sure does get dark quick and Christmas is just a month away. Snow, I think that might be the answer, we just need a foot of snow to brighten things up! Well I see I have to run into town, list here on my desk and if I don't get going here the list will get even more things added to it. Better go in to Amy's and order up some rolls and have a piece of apple pie. Pie is good for breakfast you know.. From Lake Iwanttobethere [86192]

[Bobby Bass]

Happy Turkey day!

Here are the answers for the Lake trivia, some of you have even sent your answers to me at [email protected] so far no one has scored a forty so the job of mayor is still open!

(1) Bobby Bass manages the Lodge but also has a part time job, what is it? BUILDING INSPECTOR

(2) Bobby's dog Bud is known for what? HUNTING

(3) Bobby dogs Barney is known for what? FISHING

(4) Bobby has another dog who is always in trouble, her name is? PEPPER

(5) Name Bobby's two neighbors? ELMER AND CHUCK

(6) Hammering Hank is the towns what? HANDYMAN

(7) Hammering Hank married a year ago, to who? THE WIDOW TESS

(8) Name Hammering Hanks father-in-law. MARVIN

(9) Hammering Hanks sidekick is? SKINNY

(10) In the winter the Town of Lake Iwanttobethere is known for a big event, it is? ICE HOUSE FLING

(11) Who lives on Root Beer Island? MINDY AND MANDY

(12) Del's Pizza and Sub shop is known for the one and only ? PIZZA CANNON

(13) Name the windmill behind the Lodge? WINDY

(14) If you want to buy property on Lake Iwanttobethere you have to talk to? REED THE REALTOR

(15) One beer you can always get at the Lodge is? HAMMS

(16) If you need a shot at the Lodge there is always a bottle of WILD TURKEY open.

(17) Two brothers own the brewery, there names are HOPPS AND BARLEY, The Johnson brothers

(18) Name the Towns doctor. DOC BURRIEM

(19) How is the mail delivered in the summer? BY BOAT

(20) The paper boys name is JESS and how does he get the paper to you? BY BOAT

(21) Who owns the sauna and hot house? MABEL

(22) The call letters of the local radio station are? KCUM

(23) Sunshine Ray is the weatherman but who is his new sidekick? STORMY CLEARWEATHER

(24) Bobby's dream bass is known as? MR. BIG

(25) Name the towns bait shop? MASTERBAITERS

(26) Amy's Bakery and Deli has a famous sandwich, name it. LOOSE MEAT

(27) Name the owner of the General Store BIG EARL

(28) His sons name is? JUNIOR

(29) What does Chuck make in his garage? LAKE IWANTTOBETHERE MAPLE SYRUP

(30) What is Elmer building in his basement? A WOOD BOAT/sail boat

( 31) There is an ice thief in town, can you name her? GRACE

(32) What kind of bird comes every Spring to Bobby's shoreline? THE OLD GOOSE

(33) Can you name the law about mowers and chain saws? CAN'T RUN THEM ON WEEKENDS

(34) Name Bobby Bass fishing boat? THE PUDDLE HUMPER

(35) Where would you find Alert 1 AT THE ICE HOUSE FLING

(36) What is the name of the Deer Camp Shack? THE HOTEL

(37) The Sheriffs first name is? TIM

(38) The Lodge always has CONEY'S AND CHILI for lunch.

(39) Bobby drives a RED DODGE

(40) What happens when you say HIYA to a shop owner at Lake Iwanttobethere? YOU GET THE DISCOUNT

If you got them all right (40) you are the next mayor!

35 to 39 right A founding Father

29 to 34 right A Lodge Member

24 to 28 right A year round resident

19 to 23 right A summer resident

13 to 18 right A tourist

And less then 12 You need to read a little more about Lake Iwanttobethere!

Thanks for taking the time to read about the lake. I enjoy writing it and enjoy comments about how it reminds people of their lake. You can always e-mail me with an idea or of course add your own story to the lake. From Lake Iwanttobethere.. [87,000]

[Bobby Bass]

Hiya can be heard through out the town this morning as shoppers head to the general store and all the others places of business. In the Big City they call it Black Friday, here it is just the day after Thanksgiving. At Lake Iwanttobethere saying the word HIYA gets ya the local discount everyday. The cabin was quiet this morning as the my wife and daughters did go into the big city to shop. Armed with sale flyers they left before the sun came up and I don't expect to see them till latter this afternoon. They took the daughters van so they have room to store their purchases. Like many they are not going to spend as much as in years past but they are also more experienced as each year they work on their battle plan of shopping. All three are armed with cell phones and their fingers have callouses from practice texting.

Grand kids are out with their dads doing some pan fishing through the ice straight out from the cabin. About 6 inches of ice there and safe enough for them to be out. Barney has been walking the ice looking through the clear ice and following fish. No snow on the ice so to speak of and it has been making good ice at night here all week. After a breakfast of flapjacks they all dressed up and headed out on the ice. Fire pit has a fire going and from time to time they will make their way back off the ice, up the hill and get warm by the fire. Kids will be here all weekend and I expect I will find some chores for them to do. Elmer pulled his sled out of the garage and dragged it out on the ice. He has taken over one of the holes and it must be a good one as Barney is sitting close looking down into the water. The sun is starting to come out and I see from my vantage point a few more people are out on the ice.

Later this afternoon they will go over to the golf course and do some sliding. Golf course has been closed for a while and a few days ago with no snow yet on the ground. Ronnie got out his snow making machine. The home made snow machine consists of a air compressor, a garden hose and a twenty inch used box fan and an old hot water heater shell. With the help of Dug and some duct tape the thing actually makes snow. Nothing like them big snow cannons on the mountains but enough if you let it run for awhile it will make enough snow to slide a plastic sled on. Kids will go and ride later.

Nothing to do around the cabin, a lot of the Honey Do List was completed over the last week. Well I mean there is always something to do but just nothing that HAD to be done. When the grand kids come back from sliding I'll take the oldest grandson out back and with Bud we will take a walk down the trail. See if we can scare up a grouse or two. More likely we will take a slow stroll and examen rocks and sticks, Stop and watch wood peckers pound on trees and try to find out what Buddy thinks is so interesting by the pine top that came down last year. If we make it far enough down the trail we will start looking for a Christmas tree. By the time we return the ladies should be back and supper should be ready. It will be leftovers from yesterday but there will be pie! From Lake Iwanttobethere [87072]

[Bobby Bass]

The Lake has quietly found it's way to December. But just a few blaze orange coats to be seen around town. A few orange hats to can be seen perched on top of heads walking down main street. A quiet time at the lake, no tourists. A few fishermen out on the new ice, not to far from shore. You can see them sitting on five gallon buckets. Vicki at the Masterbaiters shop has gone on vacation and a sign on the front door says she will be gone for a few weeks. Those in the know will walk around to the back door where just inside a tank with a few gallons of crappie minnows bubbles away. It's on the honor system, you scoop what ya need and drop the money in the mail slot. I stop by once a day or so and check on the minnows and add to the tank if needed. A light dusting of snow fell over night and you can see the dragged marks of boots on the path leading to the back of the shop. The old notebook on the table has Elmer handwriting in it saying he bought a dozen minnows and is heading off to Root Beer Island if anyone wants to join him. I check the minnow tank and sharpen the pencil for the notebook.

Taking the trail back up to the lodge I spot some rabbit tracks in the new snow. Bud is with me and he is busy walking and sniffing the trail as we make our way to the Lodge. Sun is trying to get through the clouds but all you can see is a bright spot overhead. Snowing, but not here. Other side of the lake is getting some and I even heard a few guys down at the Sunshine Cafe saying they may try and get their sleds out soon. Taking my time I stop and rest on the path. Must be getting old or I find more reason to stop and look at things. Bud pauses and looks back at me. Sees that I have not found something he might have missed and continues on up the trail with out me. A little higher up the hill and now I can see out over the ice of Lake Iwanttobethere. A lone fishermen is moving out off Root Beer island, I figure it must be Elmer.

Gray clouds move slowly across the sky, wind has died down to nothing. Just a few patches of snow on the lake ice otherwise it is gray like the sky. A a matter of fact as I look around there is really not much color at all. Trees around me are all with out leaves. Just a mixture of different size branches all gray or black. Some snow on the ground and just the brown of Bud and his bright red collar moving up the trail.. Even the smoke rising from the Lodge is gray and disappears quickly against the sky.

A few pickup are parked in the Lodges parking lot and a snow mobile trailer. No sled rests in the trailer instead there are several pine trees. As I get closer I see it is Juniors truck and now I know the trees are headed for the General Store. I follow Bud inside the front door of the Lodge and stomp my feet to knock off the dirty snow. Inside the fire is burning brightly and finally there is some color as yellow and red flames dance in the fireplace. Hammering Hank turns to greet me, his outstretched arms covered in garland and tinsel. The table next to him is buried under cardboard boxes marked Christmas decorations. Tess, his wife appears from behind the boxes and drapes another strand of silver garland on his arm. Junior and Skinny are busy with a saw trying to shape the bottom of a tree to fit the stand. Gus behind the bar is stringing up color lights. A pile of tangled light strands lay on the bar. Bud heads to the tree and begins to lift his leg before Hank calls his name. Bud looks at the tree and at Hank and walks away.

I hear the chug chug of the eight track player as it changes tracks and then the voice of Bing Crosby floats across the room ." I'm dreaming of a white Christmas...... Yes, a quiet time here at the lake. From Lake Iwanttobethere [87223]

[Bobby Bass]

Well time to announce this years ice house fling here on Lake Iwanttobethere. Posters went up today and the sign up sheet is here at the Lodge at the end of the bar. We are looking for ten brave souls. Er I mean we are looking for ten out going adventures individuals with good health insurance that will sign the waver form. This years fling will be held on Dec 13th a Saturday and we are hoping that we get some snow by then. If not we will have to water down the hill in front of the Lodge where the bungee cords are. Here is a listing of the rules.

1) Houses may be any size and shape up to a 12' by 16' there is no mim size for launching.

2) You may dial in the length of pull from the bungee cord. You will be asked to fill out a "launch sheet" a guess at your weight and the pull of the bungee, ¼, half, ¾ or a full pull!

3) You must sign the release form and have a next to kin present, this makes things easier for the launch committee.

4) You must have a way to launch flares. A white flare for all OK and a red flare for if you need assistance at the end of your run.

5) All houses must have at least two runners at launch

6) You may have passengers but must have a fishing hole in the house for each passenger and you can not charge a fee to your passengers.

7) Drinking is not allowed, however once you have entered your house and are in the launch area what you do is up to you.

8) Your house must be painted, white is not a color, we need to be able to follow the flight of your house from the launch area.

9) Once your house has been launched and it comes to a complete stop you will not be allowed to relocate your house for 30 days. You may rotate it up to 360 degrees. You will be a marker for the rest of the town to follow.

10) The house tossed the farthest from the launch site will be declared the winner and will be awarded all prizes from the merchants award list. The merchants do require that the house be intact and they will be allowed to place logos on up to two of the intact walls.

11) The farest tossed house will also be awarded a plowed road directly to the said house, this will be at no charge to the winner.

12) All houses must be at Dug's garage the morning of the launch. They will be fitted with a sling connector, we strongly encourage that a wall be reinforced for this. Also the house owner must provide a tarp or covering for there house. House will not be revealed to the general public ( tourists) till one hour before schedule launch.

13) This years launch date is December 13th at noon.

If you have questions or would like to sign up please contact the committee at [email protected]

[87268]

[nytelyter]

been spending the last two weeks polishing and slicking up the runners of my house and will take a full pull again this year. i have a fresh made batch of chili and some homegrown habeneros for flame color. i am going for that sweet spot behind rootbeer island again this year and have redone my steering mechanism. the big green will take on a new coat of paint next year but is still john deere green this year and with all of the reflectors will act as a nice marker for town to ice travel by again this year. just hope i dont have to deal with that polaris powered ice auger again this year drillin all those holes around my shack. bobby ill be up on the 12th and the first turkey with a hamms chaser is on me. ... paul

[Bobby Bass]

Busy, suddenly things have gotten busy on this end of the lake. Crappies have started to bite at sundown and the locals have been out on the ice. Elmers secret spot off Root Beer island was discovered when he accidentally dumped his five gallon pail when loading it into his truck. A couple of guys saw the crappies fall out of the pail and the next day they followed Elmer around as he drilled holes. Not locals, they were guys who were staying at one of the camps. Yesterday they became a pain as Hammering Hank and Skinny were out on the lake drilling test holes. The holes are needed to make sure we have enough ice to launch the houses here on the 13th. Hank would drill a hole, check the thickness and move on. The tourists would have a line down the hole before Skinny and Hank could get on the Bomb-A-Deer and move on.

Later in the day there was some words exchanged as Hank and Skinny had the test log out and were testing the bungee for the fling. The test log if some of you remember is an old hollow out log that is used by the launch guys to check out the bungee and also to see if the lake ice will support a house. Well the tourist were warned that the area directly out front of the Lodge and inside the orange barrels is a test fire area. This is also the area where the test holes were drilled. Well it seems the tourists refused to leave all of these fresh holes and when the siren sounded they just sat on their pails and watched. Hank and Skinny loaded the test log into the sling and only doing a 1/8 pull on the bungee they released the log.

Well right away they was a problem as with out any snow on the ground the log hit the bottom of the hill and went airborne. Landing on the ice it sent out a shock wave which scattered the tourists on their pails. That was a good thing as the log seemed to gain speed as it slid across the ice. With a little rotation the log started to spin as it gathered speed and with a perfect hit right in the pocket scattered the pails like they were bowling pins. Skinny set off with the Bomb -A Deer to retrieve the log and was greeted by angry fishermen.

Sheriff Tim arrived and made his way out on the ice. Order was restored and during this time Skinny brought the test log back up the hill and while Hank and Skinny had lunch they borrowed the hose from the softball field and were watering down the hill. For some reason one of the fishermen decide he wanted to go across the slope to get to his car and found himself frozen to hill about half way across. The water had to be turned off and a rescue was needed. It being just the first week of the month we hit the siren on the roof and put out a call for the Lake Iwanttobethere volunteer fire dept. We figured we could get our monthly meeting in as well as practice our "tourist caught in the ice on the hill drill" Well a few minutes later the fire dept. had arrived and were standing at the top of the hill offering suggestions at just how we should recover the fishermen who now had his sorrels frozen securely in the river of ice.

We first tried the Bomb-A-Deer running up the ice, only to lose traction and slide back down the hill. After everyone had a try we then moved on. Sending the test log down was discussed but ruled out. A rope was thrown down but that quickly stuck to the still freezing water. Several of the volunteers were getting cold and retreated to the Lodge. From inside holding cups of hot cocoa they offered encouragement and chatter between everyone on their two way radios. Sheriff Tim's dog Bailiff arrived along with our lake rescue dog Grace. Dan, Graces owner gave some directions to his dog and the dogs walked across the ice to the fishermen. When they arrived they each took a boot in their mouth and tugging away they pulled the tops of the boots away from the rubber bottoms. The fishermen fell to his back and holding onto the leather tops the two dogs dragged the fishermen to the grass at the side of the hill. To some polite applause the fishermen was helped to his truck and the dogs were soon surrounded by the members of the fire dept.

Everyone then went to the Lodge and roll was taken. It was entered in the log book as a successful ice rescue. Bailiff was given a beer and Grace a bowl of ice cubes. Was decided we need some snow or we will have to make more ice on the hill. So far Nytelyter has signed on for the ice house fling along with Skinny, Elmer, Big Earl the Johnson brothers and Tess. I am thinking it might be safer to sign up for the fling instead of being in Alert One. There is already a house down at Dug's and it is under a tarp. We don't know whose it is but it came in by truck two days ago and Dug's says he has been sworn to secrecy and was paid twenty dollars to keep it under wraps. A few raised eyebrows but no one wanted to leave the Lodge and go look at it. Sunshine Ray says we may get some snow this afternoon, I hope so. Big Earl was talking about putting in an order for plastic sleds for the luge, but no snow, no luge.. Fire dept. meeting was called to order, minutes read and new business discussed, meeting was then adjourned. From Lake Iwanttobethere [87508]

[Bobby Bass]

Some welcomed snow has fallen here at Lake Iwanttobethere over night. Having some snow gives us a new look and takes away that black and gray we have had since the last colored leaves blew away. The ice fishermen who was rescued by the lake fire dept. is fine. He spent the afternoon at Mabel's hot house getting warm and returned to camp late that night. Now with the new snow, the hill at the Lodge is covered with ice underneath. For some unknown reason the ice fishermen return to the Lodge and decide to go look for his boots. He did not make it far across the snow and ice covered hill before he lost his balance and ended up on his back, sliding down the hill to the lake. Like the log when he hit the edge of the ice he went airborne and landed in a heap on the lake ice. Some of his buddies were fishing off the orange barrels and loaded him back into his truck. Last we heard he was back at Mabels.

More snow falling as I write this, not the heavy stuff, more like the ivory snow flake type. Looks pretty but does not pack well. Hammering Hank and Skinny are down on the ice with the AVT's. They are plowing what little snow we have to the base of the bungee hill. We hope we will have enough to take out that jump that is there so we will still be able to launch houses as scheduled. Hunterdown has added his name to the ice house fling list but we still have a few spots open. Lodge is all decorated up, Tess has gone out of her way stringing up lights and has gotten Gus to help her. The tree is up in the corner by the Lodge TV and there are bulbs and garland and tinsel hanging from it. We still have a smaller tree near the fireplace that is decorated with beer coasters and swizzle sticks and the gold foil from cigarette packages. There is even a ribbon tied around the gallon jar of pickled eggs on the bar countertop.

Just a few notes here, the Lodge Ice fishing contest has started, the chalk board is clean and waiting for the first entries to be written on it. Also League drinking will start next Monday. There will be a rules meeting held that night and also a vote will be taken if league drinking night is to be six or seven days a week. Want to also remind everyone that Lodge dues are due for the year at the first of the year and also locker rental fees need to be paid at that time also. You can also sponsor a new Lodge member this month, so if you would like to join the Lodge or sponsor someone you need to get your name on the sign up sheet. Also with the snow the shooting range is closed. However the pigeons on the roof are still fair game to the pellet gun club. Tuesday night the basement if off limits to everyone except those in the archery club. They will be holding practice shoots down there. If you need something from your locker you need to go down before or after the shoot.

We also want to remind everyone riding into the Lodge on either AVT's or on your sleds that you should park behind the ice house and please no riding down the launch hill till after the launch. I think that is about it for Lodge news. Ice house fling next Saturday and then Christmas party on the 20th. Guys at the Lodge will exchange gifts on the 29th as this month we have both a Lodge meeting and a Town Hall meeting this month. Should be a busy week that week with New Years Eve the day after. Hope you are working on your houses, were making ice! From Lake Iwanttobethere [87,734]

[Bobby Bass]

Well two weeks out from Christmas here at the lake. Snow has been falling nightly and the Christmas spirit is growing. All it took was some of that white stuff to cover the ground and Christmas lights started to go on. Evening here at the lake now has the twinkling of lights and the quiet sound of light snow falling. Morning greets you with a fresh sheet of snow, not falling hard enough to call it a blanket. Today the wife is home from work. She started digging out the boxes of decorations. With dogs and cats following her around the cabin like kids not wanting to miss anything she started unpacking decorations. As each box was emptied a cat would jump into inspect it. Dogs would then nudge the boxes around with the cat inside. When you have three cats and three dogs things break. Lucky for us we are down to but a few glass bulbs and they were packed away in a foam box. Yesterday with a trusty ax the little woman went out and hacked a tree down. Taking Buddy with her they went to the stand of pines and with a few well placed blows they were soon back at the cabin, tree laying on the deck. Bud sitting next to the tree with a look on his face like he had done something.

With some trimming the base of the tree found it's way into the tree stand and was secured in the corner of the living room. It did not take more then a few minutes for the cats to be inside the branches of the tree and the tree took on it's own life as it shook in the stand. Cats are getting bigger so I did add an extra support wire to hold the tree up. I then retreated to the garage to work on the ice house. At least that is what I told the wife. Sitting in the ice house with the heater on and my feet up on the kick rail I could just make her out through the window as she made her way around the cabin. With the sun dipping behind the trees the lights in the cabin came on as did the strings of Christmas lights that she was hanging inside the windows. Looks like she must have seen Big Earl and gotten some more lights. I still don't know where she hides all this stuff. I made my way into for a refill of ice for my Wild Turkey and had to wade through empty boxes with cats inside them and all three dogs sitting at the base of the tree acting innocent.

Hands on her hips she was holding her breath and I could see her thinking. Not good I turned but did not make it to the door. " Honey, I need you to hang a few things for me" With hammer in hand I made my way to the living room while my ice for my Wild Turkey melted. It took most of the afternoon and well into the evening before she announced that she was done. The dogs had left and gone to sleep in the bedroom away from all the clutter. The one cat Buff was laying in a mess of colored ribbon that he had gotten a hold of. The tree shuttered a little and gave away where Smokie his brother was hiding. My glass held nothing but clear water and I was a little parched. The cabin was decorated, except for the bottom three feet of the tree. Dogs, cats and grand kids always take care of the bottom of the tree. From dogs walking by and knocking things off with their tails to the cats finding decorations to bring to the far reaches of the cabin. Grand kids will decorate the bottom of the tree when they come to visit and that is an ongoing project.

As soon as the wife put on the Michael Bolton Christmas CD I made my move for my coat and back out the door. Telling her I had to turn the garage lights off I made it outside. Barney followed me and the two of us walked to the garage under some light falling snow. Looking back behind us our tracks stood out in the fresh snow and the blinking light from the cabin windows. Standing in the garage doorway, out of the falling snow the cabin did look good I must admit. Fresh snow on the deck and a few small icicles hanging from the eve. The flat ice of the lake and twinkling of lights from the neighbors across the bay. No tracks in the snow but ours and the distant sound of Christmas music faintly heard from the cabin. OK, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.. From Lake Iwanttobethere [87,842]

[Bobby Bass]

Just a few days from the ice house fling and the final sign up sheet has been posted. The draw was made and here is the order of this years fling. Skinny's, Tess, Nytelyter, Big Earl, Johnson brothers, Hunterdown, Bobby Bass the Secret shack and the sparrow club's entry. Friday night the pre launch gathering will be held in the Lodge and courage will be poured and emergency plans discussed. Skinny will be doing double duty this year as he is also going to sit in Alert One this year. After my experience in Alert One last year no one really wanted to go in it. Skinny says it has been reinforced and during summer tests it was dragged behind a speed boat and remained dry inside.

Now that we have some snow the cold has followed. We are making ice at night and I am guessing we are still doing it during the day as it has not gotten anything close to be called warm during the day. Hammering Hank this years fling director, has had to post signs on the ice announcing the fling. The tourist who are fishing from the big cites still for some reason think the only place they can fish is inside the area where the orange barrels have been placed. They do tend to scatter some when the test log is loaded into the bungee and they hear the tractor pulling the bungee back. Hank and Skinny have not launched the log for a few days but they seem to enjoy watching the fishermen scatter.

Lots to do in the next few days as we are getting deliveries in and we, the Lodge will be having a tent down at the landing. We have to make up batches of chili and Coney sauce and of course we will have some Hamms on tap and the bar will be stocked with Wild Turkey. We should have more information for you on fling day otherwise a full report on Sunday.. From Lake Iwanttobethere {87,990}

[1lkstage]

Well, I certainly hope it's not to late to enter. You wanted 10, and only have nine! This has been such a great tradition, we could pass this oppitunity up any longer.

Been polishin' the heck out of the 316 stainless steel bottom of our small 6x8 with our special ingredient(GOLD) for the last 2 weeks.

Not worried about where we end up,(as long as it's on the lake)Hopefully, with the shiney bottom, the fish will react to the bright reflection and come right in, shutting down the rest of the lake. We will also want to go with a 3/4 pull(Michelob is not a big mouth) So the waste/littering should not be a problem. The pull should get us away from the middle of the lake and onto the shallower water off the deep hole. We realize that this puts us way off the main road, that will only save on the fish population. A sacrifice we must make to save the future of the lake.

[Bobby Bass]

Burrr, we are making serious ice now!!! As I write this it is a minus 5 here at the lake and we have both fireplaces in the Lodge going. Bud is by one and Barney by the other and neither has moved other then to move away from the fire when their coats start smoking a little. We have added another flinger so to speak to the list. A late entry 1lkstatge has signed on and has gotten his shack to Dug's in time. This means that Skinny will not be flung but will be in Alert One the entire launch time. I had failed to list Elmers shack so we did have an opening. Our forecast is in for the fling.. Temps to rise in to the upper 20's and a good chance of snow in the afternoon. A snowstorm is predicted for Sunday and then it is going to get really cold for even these parts as Sunday night it will be in the -20's Good time to get the houses on the ice, bank them with snow and then hunker down for a few days.

A few other notes here, There has been a rumor going around about some of them environmentalists showing up at the fling. They are going to protest that we are using trees to anchor the bungee cord to. If they show up, Hammering Hank says he already has a plan in place to remove them from the area. We, in the committee have been told it involves a test ride from the fling.. Also Lodge members are reminded that with cold weather here you are asked to stop by the wood pile on your way into the Lodge and bring in a stick or two with ya. We don't want anyone going out to the pile in the wee hours of the morning after drinking Turkey and get themselves turn around out there. The fling is a mandatory Lodge event, and we expect to see everyone here. There is a sign up sheet on the end of the bar for things that need to be done. If you don't sign up then you will be assigned tasks as needed. There are still slots open for Alert two, Slope groomers, beer tenders in the tent, Gus could use a hand with the BBQ and parking never has enough guys. With snow in the forecast a few more spotters would be good and bonfires will need to be kept burning.

Remember the fling party for all flingers will be held tonight in the Lodge and there are insurance wavers to sign and also Reed The Realtor will be here to sell life insurance to ever one who is interested. Lots to do today but we want to keep you up to date. If you need to get a hold of me I will be at Dug's garage doing some last minute adjustments to my shack from Lake Iwanttobethere {88,063}

[Bobby Bass]

Welcome to the Ice House Fling!

Well the day after the fling. Right now we are in the middle of a blizzard. Here at the Lodge you can just see the landing and parking area below the Lodge. Between gusts of wind and snow coming off the Lodge roof I can just make out what looks like the base camp of an abandon arctic expedition. Actually we did not have time to put things away before the storm hit. The main tent is still standing but the doors are flapping in the breeze and already enough snow has started to drift that the orange barrels are nothing but mounds of snow with a dash of orange color on top. Several ice shacks are stacked along the shore, they did not make it out on the ice. The mini donut trailer is chained to the softball fence and does not look like it is going any where real soon. We can't see any of the ice town that is out on the ice, to much snow and wind. With the CB crackling over in the corner of the Lodge we are staying in contact with several residents who have decide to ride out the storm in their shacks. For them it is an adventure, at least that is what Elmer said when he filled a baggie with pickled eggs from the bar and along with Marv headed out on the ice..

It being a silently Sunday I am left alone with my laptop here by the Lodge main windows so I jotting down some thoughts about yesterdays launch. The day started off cool with just a light breeze. For the past several days we have gotten a little snow overnight. Last year we had two snowstorms right before the launch and actually we had to much snow on the slope and on the ice itself. This year we just managed to have enough to allow a somewhat smooth transition from the slope to the lake ice. Ice fling director Hammering Hank did a fine job of organizing the launch, as we had no major problems.

At ten a.m. with some light snow falling we had the parade from Dug's garage through town to the public access. The shacks remain under tarps during the parade but after being unloaded at the park the covers were taken off for final inspections and public viewing. The first thing we noticed is that there has been a lot of thought into these new shacks. Someone has had a lot of free time on their hands over the summer. I toned my shack down this year, I was just launching the center section and will add the solar dome later along with the bowling alley, skeet shooting deck and of course the built in flip out BBQ. Also the wine rack was removed for safety reasons along with the keg holder. I did have the converted barber's chair secured with extra bolts to the floor.

Elmer put a lot of time into his shack as he covered one entire wall with the crappie scales. Kind of like a heat shield. I don't even want to guess how long it took to do that but as Elmer says when you get old that is all you have, time. Big Earls shack was the same as always, a big old block of a shack made out of logs, but he did go a little modern as his lights on the outside that spell out THE GENERAL STORE are all LED's. At the park he was busy handing out 2009 calendars and shaking hands. The inside of his shack is empty except for the folding chair that is tied to the center post. Once the shack is on the ice Earl will load it up with goods for sale.

OK, so while the houses were open up for a final inspection the crowd started to grow. Already the better spots off to the sides of the bungee were taken up. Small bbq's were in use along with a few of them turkey deep fryers. The main tent was busy as cocoa was being served and the mini donut wagon had a line. Hot pretzels on a stick steamed in the cool air and most of the teenagers were at the softball field now converted into a skating rink. The local ATV club was at the edge of the shoreline ready to act as a chase team if needed. Sunshine Ray and Stormy Clearweather were doing a remote for the radio station KCUM and handing out bumper stickers. They were down near the shoreline and they had a large weather balloon on a tether. This year they were not leaving it unattended as the local kids shot up last years balloons with pellet riffles.

Parade this year was pretty uneventful, went off without a hitch. Even though we have snow on the ground it was nothing like last year so there was no one on cross country skis and only one person was seen using their snowshoes. Just about everyone from town is at the hill and there is low rumble of noise from all the conversations going on. Last years snow queen who was pregnant was given a second chance and rode the flatbed trailer with her court again this year. All the ladies and their kids looked great. The bust of cheese in her likeness made it with the crackers to the main tent. With the lack of snow this year there was no need for Frank the plow driver to make a path for us. He did how ever bring up the rear.

We did come up with our ten needed shacks for the flings, Some are regulars and are here every year and as always we have a few new ones. Some who were here last year are not with us. Tess in her baby blue eggshell shack is back. We have found out that she is a strong woman and if Hank was not going to let her be flung then he was not going to be flinging anyone. The luck of the draw had her going out second. I should give a little history here as some people who come to the fling are new to the town or have not been here long enough to have been at a fling. It has become a tradition here at Lake Iwanttobethere to move the town to the ice come winter. Ice fishing is a big part of the town and we have what we pride ourselves in as being the best ice town anywhere. To be fair we have what is called a "fling" a long time ago the Lodge came upon two very large bungee cords and now we attached these two bungee cords to two sets of trees on the slope just below the Lodge. Using our tractor we can pull the bungee back and we insert ice shacks that have been reinforced for such a launch. The bungee is then pulled back anywhere from 1/8 pull to a full pull and released. Depending on the weight and construction of the shack it will sail down the hill and on to the ice.

Ten shacks are selected for the launch with the shack flung the farest winning a plowed road for the winter and a special prize package. In the second bungee our rescue shack name Alert One is on stand bye the entire fling. Loaded with equipment, if need be it can be flung after a shack in trouble. Such things as a life raft and bottles of Wild Turkey are standard in the Alert shack. There is also an Alert 2 but that is only used as a back up. After the ten houses have been flung other houses are free to use the bungee for their launch or like most people they are dragged out onto the ice. The area between the ten houses is where the town will set up. Houses can be placed out side of the flinged houses but they will not be provided with plowed roads and electricity.

After the houses are inspected and the general public has there one hour of walking through them they are dragged one at a time to the top of the hill. Even though Skinny will be spending the day sitting in Alert One he still wanted his shack shot out onto the ice. Skinny's shack as always is a converted fiberglass outhouse and it is placed in the sling and only a 1/8 pull is needed to send it skipping down the ice and in the general direction of Root Beer Island. It seems the shack had gotten one of the runners stuck in the grove made from firing the test log down the ice covered slope. Skinny gave a thumbs up to the location and with an assist was secured in Alert One and the door closed.

Tess's baby blue house with the pink curtains was then loaded in the bungee and with a wave to her husband at the control took a ¾ pull and was a blur as it flew down the slope. Hitting the ice it took to the air and landed on the ice like a figure skater and gracefully flew across the ice. A pink curtain streamed out along the house and we later found out that the landing had broken a window out. Using the spotter scope we watched as with the lack of snow Tess's house just continued to glide across the ice. Finally coming to a rest we saw Tess get out of the house and set off her flare letting everyone on shore know she was OK. Actually the shack was closer to her and Hammering Hanks cabin then the landing, I think that was the plan.

Next up was the tell tale John Deer painted shack of Nytelyters. There was a delay here as we could not locate Nytelyter and he was finally found behind some cases of root beer with Mandy. After securing the shack in the sling and Nytelyter giving the thumps up from a window the Shack was launched also with a ¾ pull. This shack was heavier and we could see Nytelyter in the window as he roared down the slope. Hitting the ice he was in the same grove as Tess untill the side wall of the shack folded down reviewing fireworks motors. Clear of any spectators the fireworks were set off sending rolling balls of fire across the ice. The crowd on shore yelled and clapped loudly. With just some trails of smoke coming from the side of the shack we can see here on the slope that the shack was doing a slow curl towards Root Beer Island. A few minutes later it came to a stop and a final burst of fireworks headed skyward. The signal that Nytelyter and his shack were OK. Skinny clicked on the radio and said he was ready to go, we told him Nytelyter was OK and there was no fire, just sit tight. Skinny double clicked back and went back to his crossword puzzle.

Elmer's five by 10 foot shack was loaded in the sling with the crappie scale front. A ½ was requested and Elmer entered his shack. He was wearing a special suit of sheet metal and we strapped him into his seat and applied expanding foam as requested. He had one of them nascar helmets with the strap on to hold his head in place and yelled at everyone to get out of the way as he was in a hurry. With no fan fair the horn was blown and the shack was flung down the hill. Following the same track as the others before it things look good till it hit the ice. For some reason it flew up on its nose and skidded across the ice. Fish scales flying in all directions. It came to a stop and the crowd was quiet as we waited. The door popped open and a grappling hook shot out from inside the house. Elmer appeared at the doorway and pulling the rope the house fell back down on its runners. Elmer then shot off his white flare and the guys on the rescue ATV's turned their motors back off.

Next up was the General Store's Log Cabin shack. We had to get several guys from the Lodge to assist getting the shack into the sling and a ½ pull was requested. Big Earl wearing his carharts and bright red apron climbed in and secured the door. The led lights were turned on and started flashing. The horn sounded and the bungee groaned as it was released. Slowly the shack started to move down the hill, the two runners digging ruts in the slope it plowed through the hump at the bottom of the hill and with a slight turn to the right from a bent runner came to a rest just a five iron shot away from shore. Big Earl came out of the shack and just waved at everyone. Retreating into the shack he reappeared and put his chair on the roof to watch the rest of the fling.

A town favorite the Johnson brothers carried the shell of their VW bug to the launch site. Several other guys from the lodge pulled the toboggan with their supplies along side. A keg of Needabeer was locked into place as a runner and a keg of WhynotAle was secured on the other side. With one brother going in through the trunk the other entered through the engine compartment. A 1/3 pull was requested and with everyone pushing up against the boundary ropes the bug was shot off down the hill. As expected from previous launches it was a train wreck. The first contact with the ice and the bug went end over end, spinning sideways with an occasional flip the bug skidded across the ice. From our vantage point behind the bungee we could see it was heading towards Big Earls shack. When it looked like they were going to hit for sure the far side keg broke loose. The bug hit the shack with a glancing blow and looking like a kid's top lost forward motion but spun like a giro. We stood on shore and watched the spinning bug slowly move across the ice, finally it slowed and then came to a stop. The hood popped open and one of the Johnson brothers hit the ice running, In a straight line he retrieves the lost keg and returned to the bug. Anyone else would have been dizzy and dazed and would never have made that run but it being the Johnson brothers they most likely had been drinking since yesterday in preparation. The brother climbed back in the bug and the hood slammed closed. A few seconds later a white flare was seen tossed out from the other end.

One of the more interesting shacks was in the sling next. Hunterdown, a new Lodge member must have spent to much time getting advice from our bartender Gus at the Lodge. Hunters shack which did meet launch approval is a converted pontoon. Where the deck house would be is now a 6x6 shack bolted to the decking of an old pontoon boat. A nice safety feature having them pontoons come spring. The interesting part was the deer stand on the tripod legs on top of the roof of the ice shack. I suppose it would be a good vantage point to spot schools of crappies moving beneath clear ice. The entire shack was painted in a white and gray camo pattern and per rules it had to have some color. A wide red band of red paint encircles the entire rig and it did kind of look like something the coast guard would sail. The rig was placed in the sling and no one could find Hunter. He was there all the time as he was wearing matching gray and white camo and no one noticed him standing next to the side of his shack. With a half pull the horn sounded and the shack made its way down the hill. Actually it was one of the better launches as with the ridge on the bottom of the hill flatten and the shack's pontoons riding above the ruts it gracefully slid out on the ice to disappear. It came to a rest and Hunter climbed the tower and held his flare overhead waving it from side to side.

Now our rivals the Sparrow club from across the lake entered an unmanned shack built from cardboard milk cartoons. Last years papermache shack was cut in half from the bungee and rules were rewritten to out law a repeat of that. This year they built the cardboard shack and with the 4x4 in the rear it did pass the support inspection. There was question about not having a rider but the rule was waved for them as we didn't want to get in to a long argument with them. The shack was loaded in the sling and with a 1/8 pull was shot down the slope. It took a straight path to the General Store shack where it exploded on impacted! Big Earl did look somewhat surprised as the cartoons came tumbling down around him. Not being wasteful Earl set off a white flare that he was OK and then preceded to put the flare into the center of the remains of the Sparrows club shack. The members from the Sparrow club immediately sought out Sheriff Tim looking to stop the Fling and press for charges for destruction of property. Sheriff Tim listen to them and then wrote them a ticket for littering.

Another resident and first timer to the Fling with a small 6x8 house Stadge was loaded into the sling. Asking for a ¾ pull we scratched our heads a little. The ¾ pull was announced and the crowd gather up spotting scopes and binoculars. The horn sounded and the small shack flew down the slope. The light from bonfires were reflected off the stainless steel runners under the shack. With just a little air it skipped across the ice quickly flying by Earls and then the bug. A moment later and Elmers shack was left far behind. Only the spotting scopes could see the reflection of the runners as the small shack sailed across the ice. Gus with the big spotting scope on the Lodge deck said he could just make out the shack on the other side of the bay, It looks to have come to a stop just pass the bluff. A puff of white smoke was seen by Gus and it was relayed to the crowd that the little shack was OK. Looks like we have a winner for the farest shack.

Now the big boy was hauled into the sling. This shack came in on a flat bed a few weeks ago and it did pass inspection but we have not seen the owner yet. A converted Air Stream trailer it was a thing of beauty for these parts. Resting on hand polished oak runners it was all of thirty feet long. Had a dish TV mounted on the roof and a wine rack almost as big as mine. The fireplace was an added touch. A rather lanky looking guy wearing a full face shield came to the sling and producing a key undid the lock and waving to the crown stepped inside. A moment later and the rear window open and a hand appeared giving the thumbs up signal. A full pull was on the release sheet and the bungee was pulled back all the way. The tractor puffed black smoke as it dug into the snow and then the release. Looking more like a silver bullet the shack flew down the hill, gaining speed as it rushed pass the crowd. Hitting the ice the satellite dish popped off the roof and bounced along side the shack. Traveling across the ice it made graceful, control turns across the ice, this thing was being steered! It flew pass Earl's missing it by a few feet, with another course correction it slid past the Johnson brothers. Heading directly for Elmers shack it made a smart correction and drifted around Elmers shack, but there was a problem as the dragging TV dish snagged Elmers grappling hook on the ice. With a lurch Elmers shack broke loose and was being dragged behind the Air stream. Not as graceful now the Air stream started sliding sideways across the ice. It came to a rest with Elmers shack bumping to a stop along it's side. Elmer was out in a flash and looking like the tin man he stormed the Air streams door. With our binoculars we saw the door open and the helmet come off the driver. It was Marv! Tess's father. The two of them pounded each other on the back and climbed inside the Air stream. We found out later that day that Marv has retired and has decided to move to the lake. He wanted to surprise Elmer and so he did.

Well, that bring us to me. Like I said before I am just launching the center section of my ice house and after looking where everyone has come to rest I asked for just a ½ pull. Climbing in I strapped myself in my barber's chair and gave the thumbs up signal. I took a nice pull and like a curler I brought the hammer home to rest in the center of the new ice town that is Lake Iwanttobethere. {88,157}

[Bobby Bass]

HIYA from Lake Iwanttobethere. We are a week out from Christmas and it has almost been a week since the ice house fling. Been kind of busy around here and like everyone there is not much free time to be had. Since the little blizzard we had the day after the fling the town has settled down. The snow was nicely timed as people were able to get their houses out on the ice and then they had snow to bank them. Hammering Hank was out with the plow and the roads are all in and with banks they can clearly be seen. Perch Drive and Crappie Lane already have their signs up and Main street has it fire barrels out and community fishing holes. Vicki from the Masterbaiters shop is back and she is open and doing a brisk business. Once again it seems the crappies are hanging out near Root Beer Island and a lot of houses out that way. Mindy and Mandy have their shop open and the hot cocoa is at the ready.

More snow in the forecast for this weekend, Sunshine Ray and Stormy Clearweather agree we are in for another storm. They just can't come together on how much we are going to get. During the last storm there was a report of three inch snow flakes coming down. Not to hard to believe as this is Lake Iwanttobethere. Bungee and the test log are back in storage and we have a good base for the luge. If we get the snow like they are saying we should have the run open before Christmas eve. Already some of the guys are leaving the Lodge and taking sleds down the slope and out on to Main street. The General Store ice house is stocked and Earl is spending a lot of time down there. Pretty good job as between customers he is fishing. I guess when you are the owner there are some perks.

I did get the solar dome installed on my shack, but there has not been a sunny day yet to see if it is working. With the forecast it may be several days before I will find out. Elmer has been spending his time out in the air stream with Marv. Marv has decided to retire and has moved to the lake to be closer to his daughter Tess and his son in law Hammering Hank. When he was here Marv and Elmer hit it off and the two of them are making an interesting pair. They do come in to the Lodge in the evening and are hitting the cribbage tables as a doubles team. Winning a lot they are quickly becoming the team to beat. Skinny is busy trying to figure out their "code" then he and Gus will challenge them. Reed the Realtor is looking for a cabin for Marv and Marv has shown some interests in the nudist cabin out on the point. Don't know if it is for sale or not but Marv mentioned he liked the view on that end of the lake.

Lodge has it's Christmas party coming up, Town Hall meeting and also Lodge meeting all in the next two weeks. First ice fishing contest will also be held and the prize list for the longest shack fired from the sling was posted. This years winner received coupons from Midgets Dirty Air Ducts cleaning service, Mini Blinds from Tess's, Two extra large pies from Del's Pizza and Sub Shop. Ten free tanning sessions from down at the car wash and a Sleigh ride from old McDonnell farm. Of course they also get a dozen crappie minnows a day free from the Masterbaiters shop and a plowed road for the winter to their shack.

Starting to snow here and I do have to help Skinny with some projects around the Lodge. We still have not blown out the big ice shed as we just got the snow thrower repaired. Seems some one did not secure the Christmas lights on the Lodges eve very well and when the side walk was being cleared it grabbed a fallen end of lights and the auger pulled the lights off the Lodge and wrapped them around the snow thrower. We ended up bring it inside the Lodge to thaw and then it took us almost a entire bottle of Wild Turkey to untangle the mess. We were in no shape to climb ladders to put the light string back up so it had to wait a day. Also there was the problem Skinny was having with his arms as the lights were turned on when the snow thrower grabbed them. Did you know that a snow thrower will conduct electricity from Christmas lights? With Skinny not being able to use his arms for awhile due to the dumbness, excuse me I meant to say numbness he had to drink his Turkey through a straw. We all did the same as a sign of solidarity and we saw he was drinking more turkey then us that way. Hope to see your shack out on the ice soon and just a reminder that there are still a few more shopping days left before Christmas. Hope ya are thinking of getting yourself something nice, I know I am.. From Lake Iwanttobethere. {88,278}

[Bobby Bass]

Merry Christmas from everyone here at Lake Iwanttobethere..

Lodge is busy today it being Christmas Eve the members have their kids and grand kids here. Lodge is holding a Christmas party for the kids and this gives a last minute break for the parents to get some late shopping in or just a plain break if needed. Early this morning Tim's Dairy dropped off a thousand of them 4 oz ice cream cups along with the little wood spoons. Funny how even on a cold day no one can turn down free ice cream. Actually the sun is out and the bass thermometer has climbed up in to the middle teens, above zero! Wind is nothing to talk about and the snow has finally come to a stop. This morning we plowed the Lodge parking lot and the ice town is all plowed out. Public access has plenty of parking and we are proud to announce that the Luge is up and running. With all the snow of the past several days we did not have any problem at all building a pile big enough for the take off point. Plastic sleds can be rented here at the Lodge and then left down on the ice at the General Stores shanty. Even a few of the wood toboggans have made the run with Hammering Hank being the first to take the trip down the hill. The pair of Elmer and Marv were the most interesting pair to go down as they tried to balance their full minnow bucket and thermoses. They did make it to the bottom of the run and then dragged the toboggan the rest of the way to their ice shack. With all the kids going down the luge it seems to be getting faster and the runs are going farther out onto the lake ice. Lodge members are taking turns dragging kids back up the hill using the bomb a deer.

A little excitement this morning as Big Earl was dressed up as Santa and was standing a tad to close to the fireplace. Well he caught his backside on fire and was the center of attention as he ran around the room. He finally was tackled and knocked to the floor where a perfectly good pitcher of Hamms was poured on his backside. Earl was OK as he was wearing his NASCAR fire suit underneath. Don't ask why he had that on. Tess was here and with her ever handy sewing kit she made repairs to the suit. There was however a loss of maternal and Skinny had to take over as Santa. Something about a tall skinny guy as a Santa with a gut that is a little scary.

Gus is on the grill and hamburgers and hot dogs and the occasional burned brat fills the air. Mindy and Mandy are here and root beer is free to all. Mini donuts fill the air with the smell of cooking oil and the sound of the paper bags being filled with air and then smashed against the side of a leg to echo across the ice. Ice fishing contest going on from noon till four. Prizes will be awarded then and we will call it a day as the sun will be going down. Lodge will still be open but it being Christmas eve it will be quiet here. I may stay around to play a few hands of cribbage and make sure the grill gets put away. Christmas lights are all back in working order and the tree is decorated and presents will be tucked under it for tomorrow.

Between kids here I just wanted to say Merry Christmas to everyone. Hope you have a fine holiday and hope to see you here at the lake soon. Always room in one of the shacks for you to come and sit a spell or an empty bar stool here to park it. From Lake Iwanttobethere {89,208}

[Bobby Bass]

Another Christmas here at Lake Iwanttobethere is coming to a close. A good day weather wise, cold enough to remind you that it is winter and some sun to keep you outside. At the crack of dawn grand kids made the assault on the tree in the living room. Parents sat on chairs with steaming cups of coffee made from one of ma's gifts. Some flavored imported stuff and tiny cookies from the plate left for Santa. As usual the smallest one found the empty boxes and wrapping paper more fun to play with then the gifts. That is until she came to the box with the stuffed monkey. Compressed inside the box as the ribbon was broken the monkey expanded and grew in front of the tot. The two wide eyes of the stuffed monkey met the two wide eyes of the tot and that was all she wrote. The two of them spent the rest of the day arm in arm. Grandpa picked the right gift.

Adults exchanged gifts and grandma's boxes of hats and socks and gloves were open. Gag gives were exchanged and some fishing tackle found it's way into waiting hands. A few gifts required assembly and tool boxes were open along with glasses dangling on the end of a nose peering over instructions written by some one who went to MIT. After awhile things were all put together and the extra parts were stored in boxes and set off to the side. Wrapping paper is gathered and stuck inside the big black garbage bag. Order is somewhat restored and the living room floor has the look of a battlefield with toys and ribbon scattered about. Grand kids with nothing but the whites of their eyes head out the back door. Properly bundle against the cold they are released to play in the snow and try out the new sled. Dogs follow the kids and with in minutes the once trackless lot is now covered with footprints. Parents gather at the windows and watch as the oldest pulls the sled and the others follow in the deep snow.

The smell of turkey in the oven and potatoes boiling on the stove, steam on the windows and a mixture of candles burning in the arch way. Some sticks of apple from the tree that went down a few years ago burn brightly in the fireplace. Hot cider with cinnamon sticks clink in mugs and the lights on the tree twinkle. Soft laughter and the cabin is cozy and warm with family. After dinner we all bundle up and pulling sleds we step out onto the ice to fish for a few hours. The silence of the ice is disturbed with the auger blowing blue smoke up into the air. Ice shavings spin off the blades and kids quickly move to the holes to look down into the water. Rigs are set up and pails tipped over. The big blue cooler is open and kids take off mittens to reach for grandma's fudge. The son in law is first to strike with a small perch. His brother in laws quickly shame him into releasing it back down the hole. The grand son catches an even smaller fish and is rewarded with praise on his fishing prowess. No more fish are caught but it is still a successful day on the water.

Back at the cabin the ladies head to the kitchen and the kids return to the toys. Menfolk sit with feet up and watch as kids find ways of using toys for things other then they were intended. Lincoln logs are mixed in with tinker toys to create walls to be attacked by GI Joe's. The wall holds up till the battery powered four wheel drive pickup trucks ram them. Mothers come out of the kitchen to correct their children in the proper way to play. Men encourage the kids to double the Lincoln logs and reinforce the walls with couch cushions. Late supper is served and turkey sandwiches and pumpkin pie soon has everyone ready to go to bed. Kids say goodnight and grabbing their new found favorites head to the bedrooms. Moms clear a path and with glasses of wine snuggle with their spouses. Old stories of Christmas past are retold and we all sit in the light of the Christmas tree and the flickering of the fire in the fireplace. With the day coming to a close and with the sound of the grandfathers clock chiming out eleven bells we decide to call it a night. Standing up and stretching I am the first to see the two does walking across the yard between the cabin and the lake ice. They stop and give us a perfect picture as they stand still for a moment and we get to watch them and the moonlight reflecting on the snow covered ice of Lake Iwanttobethere {89,326}

[Bobby Bass]

A balmy plus thirty-six out as I write this. Here at Lake Iwanttobethere it is our turn for some mixed weather. After receiving several snow storms in the past few weeks now we have unseasonably high temperatures today. Just waiting for the other boot to fall as this is all going to freeze as soon as we get cold again which is a given. Last night we had drizzle and I took advantage of it today as I have already cleaned off all the decks of snow and we are right down to the bare wood again. With all the packed snow I was thinking it might be awhile before I saw the deck wood again. Critters will have an easier time of it as soon as this freeze comes back as all the deep snow will have a hard crust on it. The dang gray squirrels are out and have spent the morning raiding the bird feeders. I should run the Dodge down to the car wash and give it a good rinse but I called Earl and he said there was already a line down there.

From my vantage point here at the cabin the ice town looks to be pretty busy. Can make out a lot of colored coats moving between the houses and snowmobiles making the run out past Root Beer island. Smoke coming out of the workshop over at Elmers. Looks like he has a project going on as I can see his snow blower parked out on the drive and the doors are wide open. Bud and Barney are sleeping in the living room, with no presents under the tree they now climb under it to sleep. Boys have taken the grand kids out on the ice to fish and the ladies have all gone into the big city to shop. I guess there are no bad days to shop. Looking a the new years Honey DO List. adding a few things and making sub lists. Just about time to start thinking about doing taxes and books for the Lodge. I like to get a head start on that but today I think I am going to stay here at the cabin and enjoy the peace and quiet. I do have the snowshoes handy and I am thinking a walk on the trail might be in order. With this warm weather if the sun peeks out at all I am sure the grouse will be out. Bud lifts his head and looks at me. Sometimes I swear that dog can read my mind. He must have overheard me thinking about grouse hunting.

Still eating leftovers, Ham and Turkey from the fridge and tins of cookies on the countertop. Rolls are all gone and I do have that on my short list to go to Amy's and pick up some more. I was looking for fudge but that is all gone. Had to dig out the fire pit yesterday and wrapping paper that was to torn to be salvaged was added to the cardboard and burned. A few broken sticks were added and the kids roasted some marshmallows in the coals after the paper was gone. Always something nice about hearing the crackle of an outdoor fire when you are surrounded by snow. Winter does have it's own sets of sounds that you don't hear in the summer. Sitting on the ice and hearing the deep, sharp crack of ice is still unnerving the first few times of a new season. Hearing the wind as it comes across the ice bring swirls of snow with it. The clanking of someone pounding on metal from the other side of the lake just seems to carry in the winter. The ten o'clock freight working it's way around the far side of the lake is always a winter favorite sound.

Well next week will be busy here at the lake, we have the end of the year Lodge meeting, town hall meeting, New Years Eve party. New Lodge members will be sworn in, ice fishing contest. In the next month we will have more ice fishing contests, Ice will need to be harvested for the Ice House, Winter carnival, Beer tasting days. Something else we are working on will be a Luge contest and the ladies of the Lodge are in the planning stage of a big sit down fancy supper. I have to add that on to my list here, another calendar so I can keep track of everything that is going on. Well the sun does not look like it is going to come out but it has gotten a few degrees warmer. I see the grand kids have made it up off the ice and are now busy making a snowman. Well that is something that I can surely help with, I have a long history of making snowmen. Perhaps one in the center of the driveway as a surprise to the ladies when they return from shopping is in order. From Lake Iwanttobethere.. {89,440}

[Bobby Bass]

Happy New Year everyone! Well in a few hours anyway. But then when most of you read this it will be the new year. I am hiding out here at the Lodge in my office. Taking a break from tending bar as it has been a long day. A little after ten here and most of the people are off the ice of Lake Iwanttobethere. Fishing is done for the evening and after today's events a lot have gone home for the night. We still have the fireworks display to be held at Midnight and under the lights we will be having a Luge contest on the Luge run. We will be sending down sliders side by side armed with roman candles so we can track their progress in the dark. We were hoping for a clear night sky but clouds have moved in. Not much of a moon out anyway but with the clouds the temperature has been slowly rising. Of course there are several bon fires going on down on the access and hot cider is being served. There is also some of that bayless stuff mixed in with some cocoa making the rounds.

Lodge meeting and the town hall meeting were both held this week as there were five Mondays and Five Tuesdays this month. Town is in good shape and the Lodge will be introducing several new members. Rather then just lumping their names all together here I will introduce them from time to time. I will make mention that Hunterdown has been made a full Lake Iwanttobethere Lodge member in good standing, and Hunter if you see this you need to settle up with Gus for the round that all new members buy. Sorry that all the members of the Lodge were here and you went over your credit card limit. Been awhile since we all had a drink from the top shelf of the back bar.

A little cool today out on the ice but it was sunny. I know the guys who were out curling had a good time and after the confusion with the guys who wanted to get in a few boccie games in was settled everyone was happy. It might not have been such a good idea putting the horseshoe pit out there so close to the curling, surprising how far them shoes can bounce on ice. Doc Burriem says the one guy should be fine when the swelling goes down. It was just good that there was some Hamms out there that could be applied to the swelling right away. On a dare Frank the plow driver was going to take his grader out on the ice to widen the curling rink. But someone had heard about a front end loader that had gone through the ice on a neighboring lake and we figured the grader weighed as much if not more. We like Frank and don't want him to lose his job so we passed the hat and gave both Frank and the tourist five dollars and called it a draw.

Mabel's Hot House and Sauna has been very busy ever since she dragged a ice house onto the lake that is also a sauna. She is set up just a few doors down from me on Main Street. Kind of disturbing to be in the shack jigging with the door open and see some one like Skinny pretty much buck naked running from the sauna to his shack. Even more disturbing is when Hammering Hank has locked Skinny shack and he has to make the run back to the sauna. If ya didn't see him going, ya sure saw him coming back.

A lot of cross country skiers have been out on the lake also. Taking the trail from the golf course they are making their way on to the snow covered ice and then coming off right below the Lodge. They stop in here to warm up and of course use the rest rooms. The yellow bucket sits near the door and you can hear Gus mumble as he has to mop up behind them as they tend to track a lot of snow in. Well looks like some more people have come in so I better get back out and help Gus. Not having a balloon drop this year at midnight but we did manage to get several dozen intertubes. We have them hanging from the ceiling and that should make things interesting. They being all black you can't see them up there in the rafters. Well you all have a happy New Year and we will see you all here at Lake Iwanttobethere...{89,700}

[Bobby Bass]

Well, I just returned from Senior Camp. As one of my Christmas presents I was given a few days at senior camp here on Lake Iwanttobethere. Having turned 660 months old this past summer I qualified to go. Senior camp is held when the owners feel like it. I was lucky enough to have receive a tip that camp was going to be open for a few days and I jumped on the chance to start off the New Year going to camp. Now I am sure some of you reading this have an idea already about what going to camp is all about. This is not like what your kids or grand kids go to in the summer. No computer camp no leadership camp no boy scouts or girl scouts. No intercity under privilege youth who sold cookies or tins of popcorn door to door. This is senior camp where old fashion values are at a premium and everyone is not a winner. As a matter of fact everyone is a loser. You don't get a letter for your jacket for perfect attendance. No certificates for spelling your name right and they only take cash, no credit cards.

Breakfast is at seven and plates are cleared at seven thirty. Chalkboard in the dinning room has the day's menu on it and you put a check behind what you want to eat. Sounds pretty ruff and nothing you would actually pay to do you say. But.... After breakfast the day is yours. No phone calls are accepted. The computer sits under a 80's plastic dust cover in the corner. Several cigar boxes sit on end tables next to well-worn lazy boy recliners. The chairs are so well used that there is no hesitation when you sit back into them. The leg rest glides out and locks in place and just a little forward motion returns the rest back into it place and the back comes up to let you exit the chair. Snow mobiles with full gas tanks and keys in them are lined up under a awing at the shoreline. You can take a sled and head out to the shanties or if you like someone will drive you out. You can spend the day or an hour out fishing and when you return you can clean your own fish or someone else will do it. If you want them for supper you tell the cook.

No TV but there are recliners facing the lake and if there are no clouds in the sky you can watch the sunset with a cigar in one hand and some warm brandy in the other. Their white sheepdog Merlin will sit by your side and search out your hand so he can get petted behind his ears. When you return to your room nothing has been touched. Your pants are wear you left them on the rug and your slippers are still on the floor of the bathroom. Farting is encouraged and crumbs on the floor are acceptable. Every story told is taken as fact and some interesting hunting and fishing stories are exchanged. Wife's and girlfriends are not allowed but stories of grand kids are. No one tells you to wipe your feet, but you do anyway. You buss your own dishes and it is just as easy to pour your own brandy as it is to wait to have it done. After a few days of this relaxing you find yourself ready to head back home.

So why do they call it senior camp? A good question. I guess because it makes you think you are out on your own when you are really always on your own. It makes you say thank you for things you take for granted and sometimes it is just nice not to have to put gas in the gas tank Guess it also proves to yourself you are not as big a slob as the wife makes you think you are sometimes. After going to senior camp I know now why the wife gets a beauty day from the daughters. Guess there is something to someone else cutting the cucumbers slices to put over your eyes. I missed the snow storm but returned to the cabin in time to do the cleaning up. I would say it is getting old but that is part of living here at Lake Iwanttobethere. One hundred and twenty days out from the beginning of a new open water fishing season. One hundred and twenty days and I'll be chasing Mr. Big again. One hundred and twenty days and shoveling snow and trying to warm up cold fingers on top of the toaster will be nothing but a memory. Senior Camp, hard to beat in the dead of winter. From Lake Iwanttobethere. {90,025}

[Bobby Bass]

From time to time I get asked the question what is the difference between Lake Iwanttobethere and say the lake just down the road from your house. Well really nothing, but sometimes things happen around here that just seem to make Lake Iwanttobethere a tad different. I had an example last night. I was out doing some shopping with the daughter. We went into the big city but decide to eat at a small drive in that stays open year round on our way back.. It is just outside of the lake but close enough that we consider it part of the Lake Iwanttobethere area. Well anyway we had ordered up some burgers and fries and a couple of there double thick double rich malts, which is why we stopped. So we are sitting in the Dodge eating and I see a rabbit hop out of the brush and sit next to the Dodge. I'm thinking to myself that this is just like the city, but we don't have seagulls waiting for handouts we have rabbits. I rolled down the window of the Dodge and tossed a French fry out the window. Sure enough the rabbit with nose twitching found the fry and proceed to eat it like Bugs Bunny and a carrot. So there is a difference here at the lake. We have rabbits instead of sea gulls at our drive in's

Been several days since we have any snow fall here, Temps the past few days have been in the mid twenty's which is almost like a heat wave. Ice town has been busy as people have been down in force on the ice. With shanty doors open during the day shovels are out and banking with the fresh snow is complete. Street lights have been up for awhile as well as the burn barrels along main street. Mabel Sauna and Hot House continues to do a brisk business. Big Earls general store shanty is also a busy place as with the rental of the plastic sleds for the luge run people are coming and going picking up soda and pop. I guess there is another difference here at the lake. We call pop pop but a lot of the tourists who come into fish call it soda. So Earl has a sign stating he has soda and pop for sale. Hammering Hank and Skinny have been busy making wood deliveries and keeping their bins filled. Vicki at the Masterbaiters shop is changing some displays around with an end unit showing off some new top water lures. I think she is looking forward to open water already.

Elmer and Marv have been busy fishing out in the silver fish house. The lights are on late into the night and they are up early as they are among the first having breakfast at the Sundown Cafe every morning. Dug down at the garage has been keeping up with repair work on snow throwers and it has been a good year for snowmobiles. The other day I saw the county trail groomer parked outside. Needed a quick weld job and a cup of coffee. Christmas decorations are nothing but a memory as they have been packed away till next year. Town looks good. The new snow we have been getting keeps the place looking fresh. Banks are getting kind of high along the streets and the county came in along the highway with their big snow thrower and cleaned out the ride share parking area. With the snow cut back you can see the layers of snow and how many snow falls we have gotten. A few weeks ago now we got that warm day and now there is a crust on the snow, add a few more snow falls on top of that and the deer are walking tall. One of my neighbors down the road has a bank of cedars he is trying to protect from the deer and rabbits. He put 6' netting up around the long row of trees. With the snow and new crust the deer and rabbits can now walk right up and chew over the top of the fence. He is not happy.

Lodge has been a steady place. Quite a difference from the summer. We are busy in the summer but it is a different kind of busy. During the winter the door is always open and closing. With the luge just outside the door and cross county skiers coming through to warm up. Add the Lodge members storing fishing equipment in their basement lockers and the pot of chili always on, well we stay busy. After the evenings bite we get people in but by nine or so it is quiet again. In the summer nine would bring in the pontooners tying up at the dock and coming up for a beer and a cigar. The one thing that does not change is the ten o'clock freight weaving its way around the lake.

No Lodge meeting till the end of March so it will be awhile before all the gang is together. I do have to schedule a volunteer fire department meeting for the month. The countdown board for open water fishing needs to be started to. Already halfway through winter, it just seems to go quicker every year. Might be because I am getting older? Maybe I should have saved Senior Camp or maybe I'll just go back again.. From Lake Iwanttobethere {90,172}