It’s 3:30pm on the first day of school in Pequot Lakes, MN. From my desk I can hear the roar of school buses outside… There will always be a few who think summer ends on September 21st, but we all know the last day of summer is also known as the first day of school.
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But let’s rewind….One of the very best things about living in Minnesota’s beloved Brainerd Lakes Area, is having the opportunity to photograph so many wonderful people who visit here. This area is home to award winning resorts & cherished family cabins – It’s the place where hoodies smell of campfire, where sand & flip flops are piled near the screen door, where the sound of loons rock you to sleep, and where Adirondack chairs are the perfect place to savor your morning coffee. It’s the place where giant ice cream cones take the place of supper, where sunscreen is applied liberally, and where docks and beaches are the place to be. The “up north” experience nestles itself into the hearts of those who visit here, and it becomes a place where traditions are started, memories are made, and simply put: it’s the place where families gather. Between the months of May through September, I am given the humbling opportunity to join families for a smidgen of their vacation. My purpose is to document an occasion that is sometimes YEARS in the making. The commitment to gather as a family despite work schedules, sports commitments, and long distance travel is something I have long admired. The reward is laughter, togetherness, good food, and summer fun.
As I look back on the pages of my daily planner, I am overwhelmed with gratitude by the sheer number of extended family sessions I had the privilege of photographing this year. From Grand View Lodge to Madden’s Resort and Clamshell Beach to Chase on the Lake and every little cabin in between, I found myself meeting beautiful, close-knit families each week. THANK YOU. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for inviting me to be with you for a short time. It is my hope that the images I captured become irreplaceable treasures to your family and you look back on them with fond memories of your time in Minnesota’s beautiful Brainerd Lakes Area. It is because of you that I am able make this summer haven my year-long home.
With Deep Gratitude, Chelsie
