The launchpad for daydreams

We’re all pretty familiar with the various ways people here enjoy the water in summer.

But you know, the truth is, you really don’t have to leave home to do it. One of my favorite forms of water recreation doesn’t really require being anywhere near a lake.

I like gazing at photographs of canoes.

My favorites are the ones without people.

I don’t know what it is, but something about photos of canoes beckons the imagination.

Of course, I’m not the only one who feels this way. Producers of everything from calendars to cable TV screen savers love images of canoes.

Perhaps these photos say something about a yearning for that one, perfect summer. Or maybe they are a tribute to the simple serenity of the outdoors.

But I seldom see one without mulling the prospect of strapping on a life jacket and easing away from the shore.