This exceptional cottage, on Crooked Lake, was a dream come true! I lived in Averill Park in my mid-20s and drove past this cottage every weekend, when driving to a local ski resort, where I ski instructed – Jiminy Peak is just a 25 minute drive away.

Sitting on the hanging porch swing brought me hours of peace and pleasure, overlooking the lake. My dog and I often enjoyed the lake on our canoe and kayak. 

The Crooked Lake Improvement Association (CLIA) is a strong and valuable asset on the Lake, too. Our meetings are held at Old Daley’s Crooked Lake House, which is a visible/walking/boating distance from the cottage. 

This 1908 cottage is one of the first homes to be built on the lake. I find it amazing that the first floor wainscoting lasted over 100 years without being painted. The improvements, such as bathroom, modern kitchen and bedrooms, upstairs, make for wonderful family vacation visits, entertaining friends and delightful days jumping off the docks and swimming in the clear waters. 

You can enjoy regulation horseshoe games on one side of the house and roast s’mores around the fire pit on the other side or just enjoy sitting on the large deck grilling and watching fireworks. 

Last year, I had two mini splits installed for heating and cooling. In the winter, the lake offers ice fishing, cross-country skiing and ice skating and the cottage welcomes you into toasty warmth. And, the a/c and ceiling fans offer comfort, inside, even on the hottest summer days. 

I’ve decided to travel the world and be with my grandchildren more, in Austin, Texas. I’m happy and fortunate to have enjoyed my dream cottage, as I hope you will, too. 

Nancy J. Wawrla