Dayle Grande Herstik does not live in the past but looks back on it and remembers what it was like "in those days," growing up in crowded neighborhoods and cities of concrete. In stark contrast stood the country house-a place of respite from frenetic times and noise, and lack of trees-in a magical environment replete with aromas of pine and balsam, water without chlorine, and activities like berry picking, hammock swinging, and rowing in a big wooden boat. As Herstik's essays welcome us into the summertime sanctuary enjoyed by generations of her family, nature's lessons unfold before our eyes and help us all lead a balanced life.