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.