I am going to share a little hobby my husband enjoys that perhaps some of you also share. About once a month, he texts me a fabulous condo or house that has gone on sale at Smith Mountain Lake. He loves dreaming about living on the lake — and I don’t mind it one bit!
We live nearby, so we can easily get to the lake to enjoy all of its amenities. Yet, there’s still the allure of waking up in the morning and sipping a warm beverage while taking in that sparkling view that being on the water provides.
If you’re also dreaming of living at the lake we have a couple of articles you won’t want to miss. The first explores the journey of finding a SML home and the key considerations of this unique geography. The other article examines what to do if the search leads to the property of your dreams — but not the home of your dreams! When you are faced with the question of whether to do an extensive renovation or tear down and start fresh, there are many factors that add to the calculus.
On the other hand, if like me, living on the lake just isn’t possible right now, you can live vicariously through the photos of some gorgeous SML showcase homes in this issue of HOME. Each one offers special inspiration for homes anywhere, but especially if you can see water or mountains (or both!) from your deck, living room or bedroom.
On the water or off, we have some fabulous ideas for living like a laker. One of my favorite special additions to this issue is a piece by Jason Arbusto, owner and chef at Milano’s Enoteca & Italian Ristaurante in Lynchburg. He uses his food expertise and travels to give you an appreciation of the art and science of the sommelier.
We also offer practical advice on keeping some of your landscaping safe from deer, creating beautiful and compliant pathways to the lake, planning the perfect slow cooker meal and so much more! And don’t miss our list of 10 unexpected things to do at the lake.
We hope you enjoy this issue of SML HOME wherever you are. Lake life is the best life! Someday, my husband will get me there, too!
Donna Dunn
donna@jamesrivermedia.com