I don’t think it was hard work alone that got me here, but it wasn’t just luck either. The reality of it is probably somewhere in between. I’m not going to spend too much time determining exactly what steps landed me in New Hampshire. I’m just going to continue to be grateful that I’m at such an awesome host site. The gratitude has hit me time and again, in exactly the places and ways you think it would. Hiking in the Whites, diving in the lake, and serving on our beautiful campus, just to name a few. But I’ve found myself being grateful for things I wasn’t totally expecting. Especially when it comes to just how great all the people are and how much I enjoy my new living space.
The landscape is something I will never get tired of. It continues to impress and excite me. Hiking has been by far the best way for me to enjoy it. I’ve done a few of the 4,000 footers, plus a couple in the Squam Range. The views are incredible and the satisfaction of finishing a long hike is a fantastic feeling. Coming from Michigan, I’ve never had the opportunity to experience this type of hiking. I love my home state, but it is flat. Exploring the White Mountains has reaffirmed my passion for preserving natural landscapes.
I knew I was going to love diving. It was always something that intrigued me, especially spending all of my summers on Higgins Lake back home. That being said, nothing could prepare me for how breathtaking the experience would be. On my first open water dive, I got to swim in beautiful clear water with fish all around me. I remember stopping and reflecting on how grateful I was. I just could not believe I was getting to do this. I had a similar feeling this week on my first dive pulling milfoil. It isn’t just something to have fun with in the water, I also get to help protect this unique watershed.
The SLA campus is a wonderful place to report to service each day. The environment is enjoyable, plus the view out of the cove is stellar. The projects we’ve been working on around the property have been enjoyable while also being challenging. Interacting with all the excited campers and boat renters can be fun as well. People are happy to be there and I’m happy to answer their questions. Once they return, I love hearing about their experiences out on the lake and I really appreciate getting to share in their experience.
Months ago when I began thinking about what my adventure would bring, I expected to be enjoying the things I’ve described thus far. What I didn’t expect was to be making such strong friendships with such interesting people. Don’t get me wrong, I figured we would all get along. But the strength of the bonds we have already formed has surprised me a bit. The diversity of all our backgrounds makes it all the more interesting. Everyone has different perspectives and life experiences which has equipped them with unique skills. I am so grateful to have the opportunity to serve with such wonderful people. I’ve also had a great time arguing about pronunciations of certain words. Or laughing about all of our different sayings. It’s called a drinking fountain, people.
At the most basic level, humans need three things, food, water, and shelter. I’m fairly capable of providing myself with the first two. But where I was going to shelter for my five month stay was not up to me. I must admit, I was nervous about this aspect of the service. Having my own space I can call home is important for my day to day. Thankfully, my anxieties have been quickly put to rest. The rooms are adequate and the cabins, where we do our cooking, provide everything I need. But the best part about it is White Oak Pond. I had no idea I would have such a beautiful lake in my backyard. The beach is sandy and the water is clear. Jumping in the lake has been my go to activity after a long day of service. Plus, the view of the strawberry moon a few weeks ago was epic. Once again I found myself taking time to reflect on just how grateful I was to be here.
If you couldn’t already tell, I am very happy to be in New Hampshire. June has gone by in a complete blur and I hope that the next few months slow down. I want to soak up as much of this place as I can. The continuous feeling of appreciation has also reaffirmed to me the importance of conservation. I want future generations to be able to experience the same things I have.I am so eager to continue my quest at playing a role in doing that. Whether it’s here serving at the SLA or wherever life takes me next. I must help others get a chance to feel this way too.
Peter is part of the half-year crew serving at the Squam Lakes Association. He graduated from The University of Toledo with a degree in Environmental Studies and a concentration in Urban Planning. Learn more about Peter here!