June in Lake County has a way of sneaking up on you. The mornings are bright and golden, the lakes are like glass before any boat disturbing the water, and there's a stillness to the air that somehow doesn't feel humid but feels more like an invitation to take it slow.
If you have been living here for a while, you know exactly how it feels. And if you are new here, or looking to become new, then June might be the month that convince you to stay forever. So here are some ideas for what to squeeze in this month, and a little reminder for yourself to actually do them.
Visit the Village Market
You don't really have an excuse to be downtown in Mount Dora but Village Market is pretty good. Buy yourself a cup of coffee then just start to walk around. You will find local honey, fresh flowers, soaps with better scent than in your entire bathroom right now and treats you will wish you bought two of. But the best part actually are the people. The vendors really like to talk, and you might come away with more than you expected, like a few favorite spots you will want to go to again.
Enjoy the Water
If you haven't yet gotten yourself on the water this summer, let this be a friendly reminder. You are in Lake County. There is no reason to not be.
Bring the boat to the Harris Chain. Buy a pontoon, and pack a cooler. Take the kayak off the shelf and paddle through the cypress trees at Lake Dora before the sun get to high. It's still cool and the herons are still out, and you will find yourself smiling.
And if you haven't done an eco-tour on the Dora Canal yet, this is the year for you to do so. They are usually something we locals do not think of until a guest from out of town ask if you have done it and you finally go and realize you have been missing out all along.
Watch the Sunset
There are some amazing and free things to do in the county. Head to Gilbert Park at around an hour before sunset in Mount Dora, find a bench or a spot on the boardwalk and just stop and look. Watch the boats roll in. Listen for the herons. Let it end the day as Florida does, with a sky of pink and orange and purple. It's the little things like that which remind you why you chose to live here.
Enjoy a Glass at Lakeridge
If you have never visited Lakeridge Winery at Clermont this is a good excuse to go. The tastings there are fun and not as intimidating as they might seem, the scenery is beautiful and you can always catch a free show if there is live music on the terrace. It makes a lovely afternoon especially if you have family in town and want to do something different than just go out to eat again. Bring a blanket, bring some friends and please bring a designated driver with you.
Prepare for the Fourth of July
It is only a month away and if you have ever tried to grab the perfect spot on the lake for Freedom on the Waterfront then you know that all the lake front seats are taken quite fast. Think ahead and reserve the place, decide whom you want to be there with you, and what to bring. The fireworks on Lake Dora are truly the most impressive in Central Florida.
A Back-up Plan for Hot Days
Be honest; you know the afternoons can get incredibly hot in June. So some days it might be smart to raise the white flag and go inside for the rest of the day. These days it's a joy that downtown Mount Dora is a great alternative; explore antique shops, stroll through boutiques, or just cool off at a cafe with a chilled drink. Renninger's antique center is always a fun place for hours of searching, and the Bay Street Players in Eustis put on great shows although you might think you don't "do theater".
Your Real Estate Update for June
If you're considering making a move this year, know that June marks the start of some of the busiest times in our market. Families are busy trying to settle in before school year starts, and homes are going quickly at the right price. Whether you're just curious about your home's worth, looking to expand, downsize or you finally want to make the jump to Lake County that you've dreamed of for years, now is a great time to begin to at least start thinking about it. You don't have to list the very next day.
The Loretta Maimone Team is always available for you when you need us. Visit us at www.Maimone1.com.
