Over half a century ago Robert and I lay on the banks of Lake Travis near Mansfield Dam dreaming of our future.  Our dreams included finishing college, getting married, buying a boat and having children, all in that order.  Years later, after more hard work than I care to remember, and lots of prayer, all of our dreams were fulfilled (and even some we didn’t think of:)  Who would have ever dreamed we would have two of the most beautiful grandchildren living within sight of that dam?  The kids invited me back to house sit (and pet sit) while they traveled to Tokyo and California.  While some might see this as a chore, I couldn’t wait!  Austin became my vacation spot. New paddle board in hand, I hit the water.  First there was Lady Bird Lake with amazing views of downtown Austin, then on to Lake Austin just below the dam in my backyard, and finally back to the Lake Travis marina where Robert and I once kept the sailboat.  It is even more beautiful than I remembered.  Austin air is dry and clean, the water is sparkling greenish-blue and the hills still hold some of the most beautiful lakefront houses.  As much as this salt water soul loves the beach, this time of year it feels amazing to dive into that crystal clear, cool lake water.  Today I’m buying a few lottery tickets.  You’ll know if I won, because one of those lake houses will be mine!