Paris Landing State Park Narrative

Paris Landing State Park Every person has at least one significant place that is cemented in their memory more than others. No matter where it is, it appears much more richly in our minds than most other places, and triggers a series of emotions and recollections. Some of the most prominent memories of my childhood spring from my family’s annual Christmas spot in Paris Landing state park. This little stretch of cabins in the woods is one of the most vivid and precious memories I have. As we drive towards the cabins, the grey road twists and curves through the hills. Trees loom above and surround us, with their warm toned leaves falling and blanketing the ground beneath them. The lake nearby reflects shimmers of light through the gaps in the tree line that hit my face as I gaze out the window. As we near the cabins, their dark green roofs come into view, with their auburn, wooden siding almost blending into the woods around them. Family members in warm sweaters stand outside, some unloading their cars, while others stand in groups and catch up with the recent events in one another’s lives. We are greeted with warm arms and helping hands as we unpack our car and begin to settle in our home for the week. Our family Christmas reunion has always started this
High pointed ceilings with wooden beams loom over our heads, and dark green floors are warm under our feet. A stone fireplace travels up the full length of the wall, combatting the chill outside. The scent of fresh food and red wine fills the air and relaxes my senses. People fill the rooms, eating, speaking, drinking, and laughing together. The roaring laughter from my grandfathers and uncles can be heard breaking over all other sounds for particular instants, a sound that is colorfully fixed in my memory. Those who break away from conversation long enough to look out the windows meet a very different