Appreciating an emotional journey: A buck stops on a meadow near Mary’s Lake to feast on winter grass. PHOTO BY OMAYRA ACEVEDO[/caption]

Have you ever stood by a lake and thought about drowning? I have. I thought about this as I stood at Mary’s Lake in Estes Park. I contemplated all the times I felt so overwhelmed with misery that I thought my only solution was to end it all.

No, I would never. But I am human, and my brain sometimes goes to places I would rather it wouldn’t. This day, however, the lake was welcoming for different reasons. Through the wind, blowing snow, and freezing temperatures, I only saw beauty and hope. I stood alone with nothing but the beat of my heart.

The sensation of inhaling the cold weather was invigorating. As I stared deep into the lake, I began to see things differently, including myself. The peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park reflected across the lake, painting a perfect picture.

Mary’s Lake is a reservoir that’s part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, with two dikes on the one-mile shoreline. The reservoir has approximately 42 water surface acres and 175 land acres. The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, making it a great fishing hole. Visitors can also picnic, view wildlife, and enjoy camping during the summer. No boating is allowed.

I took a moment to close my eyes to imagine the numerous anglers that might catch their share of fish. I also pictured the 138 campsites filled with tents and RVs perfectly aligned across the campground while kids yell around a campfire and summer sausages cook on grills.

Campground services provide two full-service shower houses and a convenience store. I swore I could hear the noise of warmer months. Upon opening my eyes again, I found a new appreciation for the calm of the winter season. I found the appreciation of the emotional journey.

I turned to take in the 360-degree view, including the lodge. In the distance, a buck crossed one of the meadows. My heart raced as I yelled to myself, “a deer!” Seeing wildlife roaming freely always feels magical to me.

I haven’t felt like I was drowning or wanted to drown in a long time. That makes me happy, and it reminds me of the importance of managing stress. After reflecting on my emotions and contemplating all the things that have led me to where I am, gratitude became the most profound experience at Mary’s Lake.

Mary’s Lake is located adjacent to the Mary’s Lake Campground at 2120 Mary’s Lake Road, Estes Park, CO 80517. They can be reached by phone at 970-577-1026. To learn more visit https://evrpd.colorado. gov/marys-lake-campground.

If you’re in the Nederland area, check out Barker Reservoir at the edge of town. The reservoir is a water supply that provides water to a downstream hydroelectric power generating facility, and its reservoir provides water to the City of Boulder. It’s a beautiful place for picnics, photos, and enjoying the beautiful nature in Ned.