From Swimming Snakes to Bird Poop: My Unforgettable Weekend on a Maine Lake

This weekend was one of those perfect Maine weekends that reminds you why summer here is so special. My sister and I spent the entire weekend on the lake, and honestly, there's nothing quite like staying in your bathing suit for two straight days. The sun was shining, there was just enough of a breeze to keep it comfortable, and the lake was warm enough that we never wanted to get out.

Allyssa Marson

Of course, nature decided to keep things interesting. For the first time ever, I saw a snake swimming in the water just an arm's length away from me. Before I could even process what I was seeing, the dog jumped into the lake like it had a mission to catch it. The snake disappeared after that, and somehow not knowing where it went was the scariest part. Then, as if that wasn't enough excitement, I was sitting on the dock when a bird pooped on my head. Luckily, I was wearing a hat! I've since learned that folklore says it's actually a sign of good luck, so I'm choosing to believe that.

Weekends like this remind me that the best memories are usually the simplest ones. If you're planning your own Maine lake getaway, here are six things that are absolutely necessary: