Nestled in the scenic heart of Culpeper, Virginia, Old House Vineyards is a destination that seamlessly blends history, craftsmanship, and the art of winemaking. With its compelling backstory, diverse range of wines, and innovative spirits, Old House Vineyards beckons both wine connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts to explore its enchanting offerings. Within a short drive of Lake of the Woods, Old House has most certainly become a favorite of LOW residents, even for those who simply enjoy the beautiful countryside and good food! On Mondays (except for holidays) from noon – 5pm, fabulous brick oven pizza is served from May to October. Additionally, each weekend from Friday to Sunday, your tastebuds will delight in the cuisine served up in the taproom by Green Ribbon (greenribbon.com). And if the pub is open, you can enjoy your meal there in the gorgeous space.
Old House Vineyards is more than just a winery; it’s a trifecta of craftsmanship, offering wine, spirits, and beer. The winery boasts an impressive selection of wines, each with its unique character and flavor profile. From the sparkling brilliance of “Petillante” to the complex notes of “Bacchanalia,” there’s something to delight every palate. Noteworthy is the “Chambourcin Dessert Wine,” aged in Woodford Reserve Barrels for an exquisite taste experience.
Winemaking at Old House is a meticulous process, with harvests taking place from early September to late October, ensuring the grapes reach their peak ripeness. The winemaking process includes gentle crushing and destemming, separating juice from the skins, and oak barrel aging in French, American, and Hungarian oak barrels to impart distinct characteristics to each wine.
The distillery at Old House Winery takes pride in its commitment to quality. Their spirits, such as “Diceros Barrel Aged Rum” and “Agave Nectar,” are meticulously crafted without shortcuts, resulting in rich and flavorful libations. Visitors can enjoy a trip back in time at the Distillery Tasting Room, designed to honor World War II veterans and filled with historical memorabilia.
For those who appreciate a well-crafted beer, Old House Brewery offers a range of session beers, focusing on refreshment and drinkability. There are also exciting plans for collaboration projects involving barrel-aged beers utilizing barrels from the winery and distillery, promising endless flavor possibilities.
Old House Vineyards offers the unique “Old House Trifecta Tour,” providing an insider’s look at the production processes of brewing, distilling, and winemaking. Led by knowledgeable family members, these tours offer a personalized and educational experience.
Old House Vineyards is also a stunning venue for weddings, with two beautiful locations for ceremonies and receptions. Couples can even participate in the romantic tradition of “Love Locks” on the property, symbolizing their enduring love.
Annual Events and History:
Throughout the year, Old House Vineyard hosts events to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and more, promising fun and excitement for all. Their dedication to history is evident in their WWII museum and the incorporation of love-lock traditions.
As Old House Vineyards continues to evolve and grow, it remains a testament to the Kearney family’s dedication to craftsmanship and the creation of memorable experiences. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, spirit aficionado, or simply seeking a unique and historical outing, Old House Vineyard in Culpeper, VA, is a destination that promises delightful discoveries and cherished memories.
Join the Kearney family on their journey and savor the rich flavors and history of Old House Vineyard. Your visit is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to share your experience with The Licata Group.
Stay updated on Old House Vineyard’s annual events by following them on Facebook, where they share details and ensure you won’t miss out on the fun they offer throughout the year.
Learn more about the rich history of Old House Vineyards and its growth over the years through the Kearney family’s timeline, showcasing their dedication to quality and craftsmanship.
Visit Old House Vineyards and immerse yourself in a world of history, flavor, and hospitality that reflects the heart and soul of Virginia’s wine country. Cheers to unforgettable experiences!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Welcome to Lake of the Woods, VA – a pristine landscape in Virginia’s heart. In this tranquil paradise, campgrounds in and near Lake of the Woods offer an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This comprehensive guide aims to navigate you through the top-rated spots for setting up your tent and embracing nature in this verdant corner of the world.
Unraveling the Appeal of Lake of the Woods, VA, for Camping
The real question is not why, but why not choose Lake of the Woods for camping? This spectacular region, embellished with dense woods, serene waters, and much wildlife, is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts. Irrespective of the season, Lake of the Woods delivers a captivating backdrop for camping, with a spectrum of colors in autumn, blooming life in spring, the radiant sun in summer, and the mesmerizing serenity of white winters.
Our top-rated campgrounds have been carefully selected considering a variety of factors. Amenities, activities, accessibility, and user reviews are all part of our evaluation. Let’s dive into this exploration and discover the charm these campgrounds hold.
In-depth Review of Top-Rated Campgrounds within Lake of the Woods
Lake of the Woods Campground
First on our list is the Lake of the Woods Campground. This camping paradise celebrates the beauty of the outdoors, offering a tranquil refuge for those looking to reconnect with nature, but it is also private and for members only. It provides all the basics – a picnic area for outdoor meals, a clean bathhouse for comfort, and designated fire pits for those quintessential camping nights under the stars. As a bonus, it’s conveniently situated near the starting point of the Aerial Tour of Lake of the Woods, a hot favorite among visitors. So if you consider it worthwhile, getting a membership should be on your list.
Wilderness Presidential Resort
Next up, the Wilderness Presidential Resort – a place where the rustic charm of camping meets the comfort of modern amenities. This resort’s unique blend of indoor and outdoor pools, fishing ponds, and bike rentals ensures a dynamic camping experience. Its proximity to historical Civil War battlefields brings an added layer of interest, making it an ideal choice for history buffs.
Lake Anna State Park
Lastly, we have the stunning Lake Anna State Park within Lake of the Woods. This haven offers a combination of camping and adventure, with hiking trails, a sandy beach, and a boat ramp. The vibrant wildlife is a major highlight, attracting nature enthusiasts year-round.
Detailed Review of Top-Rated Campgrounds near Lake of the Woods
Christopher Run Campground
A short drive from Lake of the Woods, Christopher Run Campground is a family favorite. The ample facilities, which include a game room, boat rentals, and a mini-golf course, promise a fun-filled family getaway. Furthermore, its proximity to renowned Fishing Spots at Lake of the Woods makes it an angler’s paradise.
Shenandoah Crossing
A unique entrant on our list is Shenandoah Crossing, where luxury and the great outdoors merge seamlessly. With an array of accommodation options – from Yurts and lodge rooms to townhouses, it caters to every kind of camper. The equestrian facilities and expansive golf course further add to its diverse offerings.
Misty Mountain Camp Resort
Another worthy mention is the Misty Mountain Camp Resort. Located in the beautiful foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it offers fantastic amenities, including a swimming pool, a playground, and live music events. The surrounding hiking trails and wine tours are added attractions.
Comprehensive Comparison of Campgrounds
To streamline your choice, let’s draw a comparison. Each campground holds its distinct charm. For a classic camping experience, Lake of the Woods Campground is ideal. Wilderness Presidential Resort brims with history, while Lake Anna State Park offers great wildlife encounters. Christopher Run Campground is the perfect choice for water-based activities and family fun. If you seek a touch of luxury, Shenandoah Crossing should be your pick. Misty Mountain Camp Resort stands out for a blend of music, hiking, and camping.
An Important Note on Safekeeping
While we’ve discussed the joy of camping and exploring, it’s equally important to mention the need for the proper safekeeping of your belongings. Especially when you’re going to be outdoors for a considerable time, it’s crucial to ensure that you store everything in a safe place. Packing your belongings for storage in a day might seem daunting, but it can be quite manageable with a little organization and the right storage solutions. Use waterproof storage containers for valuables and essentials, keep your food items sealed from wildlife, and secure your tent when you venture out. This way, you can enjoy your camping trip without any worries, knowing your possessions are safely stored.
Insider Tips and Tricks for Camping in Lake of the Woods, VA
As you plan your Journey to Lake of the Woods, be aware of peak seasons. The vibrancy of fall and the freshness of spring usually attract substantial crowds, so book ahead. Essentials for camping may vary, but a comfortable tent, warm sleeping bags, and insect repellants are non-negotiables. Also, remember to check availability and make early reservations to avoid last-minute disappointments.
Interestingly, the appeal of Lake of the Woods often extends beyond temporary visits. The allure of this magnificent region convinces many to make a permanent move. Imagine the joy of transforming your vacation spot into your residence and having such splendid natural beauty right at your doorstep every day! While the appeal can be very tempting, remember that moving can be a daunting task. That is why our friends at Best Movers in Florida recommend finding a reliable moving company to help you relocate to your dream destination.
Conclusion
In essence, the campgrounds in and near Lake of the Woods offer not just mere camping spots but portals to experience the grandeur of nature. Each has its unique features, catering to different preferences and styles. From taking the Aerial Tour of Lake of the Woods, and discovering the best Fishing Spots, to exploring historical sites, camping in this region is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the many shades of nature’s beauty. So pack your bags, set up your tent, and embrace the captivating outdoors at Lake of the Woods. Here’s to memorable camping adventures ahead!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Welcome to the angler’s paradise! Lake of the Woods, Virginia, teems with more than just natural beauty. It’s also home to various fish species, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves fishing. But how do you navigate this vast aquatic wilderness to find the best catches? That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve researched and are excited to bring you the best fishing spots at Lake of the Woods, VA. Identifying the right spot is just as important as having the right gear. It can distinguish between going home with a fish tale or a pail full of prize catches. We’ll delve into the hot spots that provide the best opportunities for fishing success. From the tranquil, tucked-away coves to the bountiful main channels, each location holds unique opportunities to cast your line. Stay tuned to reel in this knowledge!
What Makes Lake of the Woods, VA, a Perfect Fishing Spot?
Tucked away in the heart of Virginia, Lake of the Woods is a fishing haven like no other. A combination of its rich history, breathtaking geography, and diverse aquatic life make it a must-visit destination for any angler. From novices to experienced enthusiasts, this beautiful lake has something for everyone.
Rich Diversity of Fish Species
Lake of the Woods is home to an incredible variety of fish species. Whether you’re hoping to reel in largemouth bass, catfish, or crappie, the lake offers a unique opportunity to catch different types of fish. The diverse aquatic life adds a level of unpredictability and excitement to the fishing experience, which keeps anglers returning time and again.
A Popular Destination for Anglers
Its popularity among the angling community isn’t by chance. The sheer size and topography of the lake, with its abundant coves and deep channels, provide the perfect conditions for fish to thrive. Anglers can explore different fishing strategies, as each spot has unique challenges and rewards.
Maximizing Your Fishing Experience
Consider seeking local expertise to make the most of your fishing adventure at Lake of the Woods, VA. Just as you might let local experts help you and hire local movers when relocating to a new place, reaching out to fishing experts in the area is worthwhile to navigate this vast lake. Their knowledge of the lake’s layout and understanding of the fish’s behavior can significantly enhance your chances of a successful catch.
Whether you’re in it for the thrill, the tranquility, or the prospect of a big catch, Lake of the Woods, VA, is undoubtedly an ideal spot for fishing. The remarkable fishing spots it offers have become well-loved features of this beautiful lake.
The best fishing spots at Lake of the Woods, VA, give you the unique opportunity to reconnect with nature and its tranquillity.
Best Fishing Spots at Lake of the Woods, VA
Like buying a house for the first time, finding the ideal fishing spot can be exciting and a little daunting. Let’s simplify that for you by exploring some of the best fishing spots at Lake of the Woods, VA.
The Main Lake
The main lake is the community’s centerpiece spanning over 500 acres and depths reaching up to 30 feet in some areas. This lake is a favorite spot for fishermen seeking largemouth bass, which are plentiful here, thanks to the diverse underwater terrain, including weedy flats, deep channels, and plenty of fallen timber, creating an ideal habitat. Notable spots include the vicinity of Clubhouse Point and Veterans Memorial Island, where the water is deep and the aquatic vegetation rich. The area around the dam, with its deeper waters, is another prime location, especially during the hotter months when fish seek deeper, cooler waters.
Keaton’s Lake (also known as the Fishing Lake)
Keaton’s Lake is a 35-acre fishing lake with an exclusive fishing experience. The lake is known for its high concentration of crappie and channel catfish. The shoreline around Hollyfield Park is a popular fishing spot, and the floating dock is perfect for those looking for accessibility and comfort. Several fallen trees and submerged stumps around the lake serve as excellent habitats for fish, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Beach Areas
Lake of the Woods boasts several sandy beaches that offer relaxation and great fishing opportunities. The flat and shallow waters are known for their abundant sunfish and bluegill populations, making them an ideal spot for beginners and young anglers.
Community Marinas
Lake of the Woods also hosts two private marinas – the East and West Marina. Each location provides boat access to the water and can be a fantastic fishing spot for anglers. You will have opportunities to catch largemouth bass, catfish, and the occasional northern pike. Check with the marina staff for any specific rules or restrictions.
Tips and Tricks
When it comes to fishing, timing is everything. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times to fish at Lake of the Woods, when fish are typically more active. Also, consider the season. Springtime is usually the most productive, with fish often in shallower waters.
Regarding gear, a lightweight tackle is generally suitable for most fishing spots here, though a heavier setup could prove useful at deeper spots like Hollyfield Park.
Safety First
While fishing is a safe activity, always prioritize your safety. Ensure you’re well-equipped with safety gear, especially when fishing from a boat. Also, take heed of the weather conditions and always let someone know where you’re going.
How to Respect and Preserve the Best Fishing Spots at Lake of the Woods, VA
Respecting and preserving the fishing spots we enjoy is crucial to having a great fishing experience. Taking a page from our friends at ACME Relocation, who advocate for carefully handling our belongings when moving, we must treat our natural spaces with the same respect and care.
Respect Fishing Regulations
Adhering to fishing regulations is an essential part of responsible angling. Always ensure you have a valid fishing license and know the local rules. That includes understanding size and bag limits for different species and adhering to specific fishing seasons.
Practice Catch and Release
Catch and release is a practice that helps maintain healthy fish populations. Whenever possible, consider releasing the fish you catch back into the water. Handle them with care to increase their chances of survival after release.
Leave No Trace
Just as you would clean up your old house when moving out, ensure you leave the fishing spots as clean, or cleaner, than you found them. Dispose of your litter properly, including fishing lines, bait, and hooks. They can be harmful to the aquatic and terrestrial wildlife.
Share with Others
Share these practices with your fellow anglers. Educating others is a great way to ensure the longevity of our beloved fishing spots. As the saying goes, “Take only pictures, leave only footprints.”
The best fishing spots at Lake of the Woods, VA, offer exceptional fishing experiences. Let’s ensure future generations can enjoy the same by respecting and preserving these wonderful locations.
Conclusion
Discovering the best fishing spots at Lake of the Woods, VA, is an exciting adventure. Each spot offers unique fishing experiences and opportunities. If you love fishing, Lake of the Woods might be the perfect community for you to consider your next home. Furthermore, as we cherish these fishing gems, let’s preserve them, ensuring future generations can enjoy the same thrill of casting a line into these abundant waters. Here’s to finding your perfect catch in Lake of the Woods, VA. Happy fishing!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Welcome to 1115 Lakeview, a fantastic cottage that’s simply perfect for a primary residence, vacation home, or vacation rental! Completely renovated in 2015 (from the studs out), you’ll fall in love the moment you enter! Beamed ceilings and walls define the interior, while decks, screened porch, and patio complete the exterior. There’s plenty of room for a firepit on this large, level lot for smores and more. Having served as a vacation rental recently, the home is nicely furnished. Please ask for particulars. This spectacular home is located in a private, gated, secured community, Lake of the Woods, that offers anything and everything you could possibly want. Home to two lakes (the 550-acre main lake and a 35-acre “fishing lake”), a golf course, an equestrian center, a fire and rescue department, and a church all within the gates, Lake of the Woods simply has it all. Whether your passion is boating, water skiing, kayaking, golfing, horseback riding, or simply taking in the breathtaking views from the clubhouse while enjoying a fabulous meal, from your own deck or yard, or from one of the beaches, you won’t be disappointed! Perhaps you’d like a game of bridge or volunteer your time and talents…Lake of the Woods offers more than 60 clubs and/or organizations from which you may choose to become involved. Located in Orange County, we are fortunate to enjoy low real estate taxes. Coupled with home prices ranging from $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the perfect community for both full-time residents, as well as weekenders. But don’t take my word for it, please come see for yourself! I will gladly give you a tour of Lake of the Woods by boat and by car so that you may experience what’s to love in Lake of the Woods!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Friends of Wildlife at the Lake (FOWL) and Old Rag Master Naturalists (ORMN), our co-sponsor, cordially invite you to our first wildlife education event, FOWL Fest, on Saturday, October 22, 2022, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the LOW Community Center. This is a free, family-friendly event! Participants will have the opportunity to meet the professionals who are leaders in wildlife conservation, who inspire citizens to value the outdoors and their own role in nature, as well as the professionals who care for sick, injured, and orphaned animals, and those who provide educational opportunities and resources to the public. Learn what their individual roles are and how they work together to benefit wildlife and habitat in Virginia. Our presenters will include: ● DWR Wildlife Biologist ● Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary Director ● Lake Anna State Park Chief Ranger ● Orange County Animal Control Officer ● LOW Security Officer ● Dispatches from the Forest nature-based educator Bring your questions about local wildlife and their habitat. Find out how to resolve conflicts between humans and wildlife and learn what you can do to help create a wildlife-friendly environment at home. Special Features: ● Meet native wildlife from Lake Anna State Park and Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary ● Milkweed seed give-away ● Children’s activity table ● Virginia Master Naturalist exhibits on Spotted Lantern Fly, native plants and more ● Virginia Native Plant Society exhibits on native and invasive plants The event is free, but registration is required*. Last day to register is October 20th. Please register here: https://www.oldragmasternaturalists.org/event-fowl.html No dogs other than service animals are permitted. We look forward to seeing you there! *Attendees from outside of LOW must register in order to be put on a guest list at the gate. LOW residents are encouraged to register for an accurate count. To learn more about FOWL, visit our website: www.fowloflow.org or our Facebook page: “Friends of Wildlife at the Lake PUBLIC GROUP.”
Join the LOW Adaptive Water Sports Foundation, Sunday, July 10th from 9AM to 3PM for a FREE fun day on the water! Bring your friends and family for the annual event that brings watersports to differently-abled people of all ages, walks of life and their families!
The carnival is held in honor of 2 women who left the world far too soon and young. This is a time to come together as a community and support each other with unconditional love and support.
There will be adaptive water-skiing, tubing, pontoon rides, kayaking, paddle-boarding and many outdoor games to play and participate in! This year, they are partnering with Therapeutic Adventures – IndependencePlus Adaptive Sports to bring adaptive paddling!
All attendees MUST pre-register. You can register here. If you don’t want to participate, come out and show your support! Check out the fun from previous years below!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my homeworth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
We love all the seasons of the lake and we love our community members! We combined both by creating a fun contest to showcase all of the beautiful seasons the lake has to offer. What does this entail? We are asking members to submit their top 2 favorite photos (they’ve taken themselves-please, don’t steal/borrow photos!) of or around the Lake of the Woods community for each season. The Licata Group (EXP REALTY) team will select the top 3 best entries for each season and these finalists will have their photographs posted on Facebook for Public Selection of the Final Season Winners. Season winners will receive a gift card. Entries must be submitted by December 31, 2022. You can choose to participate in ALL 4 Seasons, a few seasons or just one! However, there is a 2 photo max limit per person, per season. Interested in participating?? Submit your entry here!! Invite your friends and neighbors, they can visit licata-group.com to join too!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
On Sunday, May 1st from 9AM to mid-afternoon, visit the Lake of the Woods Equestrian Center (located at 100 Tally-Ho Lane, Locust Grove VA 22508) for their Hunter Series Horse show. There will be a food truck on site, an ice-cream truck and free parking. Admission is free for spectators, so if you or someone you know has love and admiration for horses, don’t miss this show!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
What prompts life’s journeys can be most unexpected. My now one-and-a half-year journey with Carl, the lone mute swan, began on my first viewing of a waterfront home for sale at Lake of the Woods in April of 2008. My husband liked the house, which was in need of extensive updating and repair. I loved the house; I saw tremendous potential in it becoming our home. And then, of course, the added allure of the swan! Did he, too, convey with the house? Each of the three times we visited prior to closing, the swan was right there at the dock—my personal welcoming committee of one—so, naturally, I assumed that he did. By most accounts, I am a normal woman. Always somewhat of an “animal person,” as a child I brought stray dogs home, and once, even a bunny. I tried to hatch robins’ eggs on the old coal furnace in my grandfather’s cellar year after year. As I began my own family, cats became the pet of choice. I donate to the ASPCA regularly and would most likely get into a car accident to avoid hitting any animal running into the street. But that was the extent of it. Now, however, I find myself caring for, and worrying about, Carl. My days begin and end with looking for him to confirm his safety. My husband has even lovingly indulged my passion by announcing “Your bird’s here!” when he is the first to notice that Carl is gracing us with his presence. Honored that Carl has “adopted” me, I believe it is my duty to know. I spend time researching information regarding swans and their behavior through the Regal Swan Foundation’s Ask the Swan Specialist forum. I want to learn; I want to understand; I want to participate. My journey with Carl has been interesting, exciting, and rewarding! The first time he came into my yard and approached while I was sitting on a chair, I panicked. I jumped up, knocking the chair on its side, and ran. Carl didn’t waiver, though. He just sat next to the chair. I finally got the courage to sit in it, and we sat there, side-by-side, for an hour. And so our bond was formed. I’ll never forget the first time I walked into my family room to see Carl sitting outside the door on the patio, which is now a regular occurrence. Then, even more incredibly, was the fist time I heard-and saw-him knocking on the door, now also a regular occurrence! Or when we first got our boat, how he would escort us out of the cove to the main lake and wait for our return to escort us back to our dock. Or how he followed us out on the lake to watch the fireworks on the 4th of July and stayed with us until it got too crowded. Or how he scrambles into my yard for refuge when the younger, stronger male swans come through the cove. Or how he now is so used to the leaf blower, that he doesn’t even move when my husband blows the leaves around him. Or how me acknowledges me, my husband, and our guests, through his snorts and bleats. Like many Lake of the Woods residents, I’ve hosted a great deal of company. When I hear from my past guests, each one asks about Carl. I’ve received calls from concerned neighbors to check on him when his behavior seemed unusual. When I asked my friend to care for my cats for a few days while I am out of town, she asked, “What about Carl?” A resident who regularly fishes in “my” cove introduces Carl by name to his guests. Carl is becoming a celebrity in his own right! As part of this journey, I’ve tried to understand why Carl is important to me, and I initially drew the conclusion that it has something to do with being a nurturer and being needed. My only child, a 21 year old daughter, is away at school. But Carl, as an older, disabled male with challenges, needs me! And I am happy to provide him with a friendly place to rest. Carl has given me the opportunity to truly commune with nature to a degree I could have never imagined and to participate in what the lake has to offer in that sense. But is it that simple, really? Or does it go much deeper? Will someone be so compassionate to me should I become old, disabled, and/or alone? Will someone provide me a safe harbor? Will someone be there to protect me from others who want to prey on my weaknesses? Will someone be there to assist me in keeping my dignity through my golden years? Through Carl, I’ve learned that journeys are there to be taken if you open yourself to the possibilities. I’ve learned that caring is contagious. I’ve learned that we are fortunate to live among great people at the lake. I’ve learned that the tides have turned; I am now Carl’s personal welcoming committee of one. To my utter delight, I’ve learned that Carl did convey with the house! If you stop by to visit, most likely you will find Carl perusing the cove or napping on my beach or in my yard; you will find me immersed in the beauty and wonder of it all!
This story was written in November of 2008. In December, Carl
disappeared. I can only assume he succumbed to the harsh winter.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by home owners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
