Photo of the Week: 1 of 10,000 Lakes

Minnesota is known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes."  There are actually 11,842 lakes in Minnesota, but who is counting anyway?  Growing up in Minnesota, there was always a lake nearby to swim, fish, canoe, or water ski with friends and family.  Much of Minnesota's culture revolves around summer lake cabins, winter ice houses, and the mighty Mississippi, whose headwaters we claim.  In a way, the rivers and lakes define our state.  

Minnesota Lake on a fine fall afternoon

This picture was taken last November a couple miles from my house...one of the 14 lakes within a five mile radius!  It was the last nice day of fall before winter set in.  True to Minnesota's unpredictable weather, within a few weeks, the leaves had fallen, snow coated the ground, and a thin layer of ice covered the lake. 

Photo of the week is part of "Photo Thursday," started by Nancie at the Budget Travelers Sandbox.  Please visit her site to check out other amazing photos!