Sunshine on Moon Lake


The last time I visited Moon Lake, the former counter park turned state forest, it was permeated with an air of faded joy, decay, and abandonment.  The grass was overgrown, the buildings were spray painted and boarded up, and the picnic tables were weathered and well, splintery. 



I recently made a return visit and was pleasantly surprised by the improvements.  My dad had revisited the park beforehand and had told me of the changes. Of course seeing them gave me a complete picture of how much the park is changing. 
Save for the stone work and pavilion, the entire pool area has been demolished and filled in.  While I’m sad that the pool could not be saved, or be explored Adam the Woo style, it’s comforting to know that grass, flowers, and trees  can now grow once again.   
Before
Before



























After 
After































Before
After 





I felt the same way about the lake house and the education center, sad that they could not be restored or explored in their decay, but glad that they could no longer be damaged and that their absence made way for new life.   













The picnic tables have all been replaced and joined by charcoal grills under the pavilions.  The local airplane club still operates on the grounds, and shiny, new signs guide visitors to the picnic, tent camping areas, and the dock where boats can be launched.
            During my visit, I noticed several boats on the lake, some people were fishing, and others seemed to just be enjoying the water.  People were walking around the lake and while it’s a bit too early in the season for picnicking or tenting, I’m certain people will take advantage of those options as well.
            It was very encouraging to see not only improvements but the potential as well.  It reminded me that no matter how dismal a situation looks, that there is always hope and sunlight, that with God all things are truly possible.    


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