Shack Herf 09 - Our Perspective

Having heard all the chatter over the last few years of the epic event called Shack Herf, I knew I needed to attend at least one. In my wildest dreams I could have never imagined what was in store for us. Being a trooper, my wife agreed to take the trip. Both of us lead rather stressful lives so a quiet weekend on the shores of Lake Erie sounded like a perfect weekend. We arrived around noon on Friday and were greeted by our host Dave. First impressions are often misleading but as the weekend went on I found my first impression of Dave would be spot on. Mine of Dave was a quiet man, not needing to be the center of attention but very capable of making his presence known in necessary. Gracious and warm, his early concern was that we felt welcome and comfortable.

There were ample places to relax and unwind.





As the crowd began to grow and the day went on we found ourselves overwhelmed with good food, plenty to drink, cigars everywhere you looked and what turned out to be the gem of the weekend, great friendship. Being able to put faces to names, shake someone’s hand, sit in a small slice of heaven and share a cigar is the part of this weekend I will remember forever. As the day winded down we found ourselves sitting on the shore watching the sunset, sharing cigars and enjoying one another’s friendship.



With so much to do and absorb the first day was a tad overwhelming. As we pulled out of the driveway on day one my wife looked over at me and said "If they do this again we better be coming back". We both woke up early Saturday morning and found ourselves rushing to get ready at the Hotel. Arriving earlier in the day on day 2 we decided to take the scooters on a ride around the island.



The scenery is breathtaking and humbling.



Cont…

On the island is a Civil War Cemetery and as we walked quietly through the hallowed grounds I was reminded of the sacrifice and price those who came before me had paid for my ability to enjoy the life that my family and I far too often take for granted.



After more food than anyone could possibly eat, we ventured out on the Jet skies.





What a wonderful way to release stress, doing 60mph on the lakefront. The sound of corn bags hitting plywood was as prevalent in the background as the waves hitting the shore. The tournament took 2 full days to complete and it wasn’t hard to find someone telling stories of their match.



In the barn there were nightly poker games for those poker players and based on the crowd sitting at tables each night, someone walked away with a nice pile of cigars. After a long weekend of sharing the pleasures that a man has obviously worked very hard to achieve I found myself honored to be included. Over the weekend we witnessed the best this community has to offer; and for that I will be forever grateful.

Thank You!
Chuck

Click the following link for a slide show of all my photos: ( Link )

[Bax]

Great pics! Sounds like a wonderful time!

[G G]

Wow Chuck, thanks for sharing.

[DPD6030]

Great photos Chuck. I'm glad you and the Mrs. enjoyed the Shack. I'm sad I missed this as I was stoked to be able to go and then work prevented me from going. I hope to make it if they have this again next year.

[WildBlueSooner]

Makes me sad to have missed it!

[Smokin Gator]

Thanks for sharing... sure looks like it was an absolute blast!!! A bucket lister for me for sure!!

[68TriShield]

It was great meeting you and Linda,and yes,I agree SH is everything everyone says and more

[Ender]

Like I said Klugs, this weekend was an absolute blessing. I don't think any of us could thank you enough. Your hospitality, generosity and character quality are impossible to top.

[Ender]

To everyone that made me look like a chump next to your generosity...thanks! What a increadible bunch of people. Can't wait to meet up again sometime.

[kelmac07]

Thanks for the pics Chuck...looks like a great time was had by all.

[Noodles]

Thanks for the pictures.

[alley00p]

Thanks for sharing your pics, Chuck.... Wish I could've gone!!!

[massphatness]

Looks and sounds like a fantastic weekend. Thanks for sharing.

[BORIStheBLADE]

Looks like a good time.

That third picture looks like the one in the CA banner.

[King James]

great pics of not only the shack, but around the island!

[icehog3]

It was great to meet you and Linda, Chuck....thanks for the great photos too.

[elderboy02]

Great pictures and a great story Chuck. It was a pleasure seeing you and your wife again.

[MedicCook]

Thanks for sharing your stories and pictures Chuck. Looks liek a great time. I wish I was able to join everyone.

[colimo]

great pics and a nice perspective....makes me want to get there