Lake Anna Life

Christmas Around Lake Anna

2011-11-17T09:24:00.000-08:00

There are plenty of things to do around the lake this holiday season, starting with choosing your Christmas tree. You can choose and cut or just visit a lot and pick one up. One local tradition is a visit to Claybrooke Farm off Elk Creek Road on the lower, Louisa side of Lake Anna.

Claybrooke Farm will kick off the season with their first ever "Twilight Trees" on Black Friday, November 25, 6-9 pm in the Claybrooke Barn. There will be discounted Fraser Fir from 7-10', wreath making demos, bonfires, hot cider and family fun. For more information visit www.claybrookefarm.com.

Lake Anna Outfitters will also be selling the beautiful Claybrooke Christmas trees and wreaths starting November 26. The photo with this posting is of the new Lake Anna Christmas shirts exclusively available at Lake Anna Outfitters.

Christmas Open House Coming November 26-27

2011-11-14T08:08:00.000-08:00

Get ready for the Lake Anna Business Partnership’s (LABP) 2011 Christmas Open House Weekend to be held Saturday and Sunday, November 26^th and 27^th. These dates immediately follow the Thanksgiving holiday and often mark the start of the official Christmas shopping season. LABP organizers wanted a weekend where the most people are at Lake Anna and seeking something fun to do, and the Christmas Open House Weekend will be one way to bring folks to Lake Anna businesses.

Participating businesses and the LABP will offer a “Passport to Treasure”, where those who would like to win a treasure prize can have their special event “Lake Anna Passport” (sold for $1.00 at participating businesses) stamped at the Open House locations, making them eligible for the valuable treasure prize drawing. The drawing will be held on Sunday afternoon at Lake Anna Winery.

This will be a great way for participants to acquaint themselves with Lake Anna area merchants. Some businesses will even have special events like light refreshments, tastings, book signings and photos with Santa. The Christmas Open House Weekend will encourage participants to follow a treasure map from local business to local business and have their passports stamped along the way. Not only can you shop, you can also see what products or services participating businesses provide to the growing Lake Anna area.

Once the event passport has been stamped by each participating business, the completed passport is then deposited in the treasure chest, located at the Lake Anna Winery. A passport will be drawn at the conclusion of the event on Sunday evening for a “CASH” treasure prize! Now, who wouldn’t enjoy winning some extra spending cash for the holidays? You need not even be present at the drawing to win!

This will be a lot of fun and a great opportunity for LABP members, other local area businesses and area residents to become better acquainted. Please call 540-736-8218 with any questions and to request additional information or to sign up your business.

November 4 - Lake Anna Cup Approaching

2011-11-04T04:59:00.000-07:00

Lake Anna Cup is this Sunday. High Point Marina has the Welcome Anglers sign up. Event launches from Sturgeon Creek Marina with weigh-in/awards ceremony from 3:30-4:30 pm. You can still sign up to fish the morning of the event. Gates open at 5:30 am.

October 30 - Peak Fall Color On LKA

2011-11-03T08:48:00.001-07:00

It's here, that time of year when our shorelines blaze with color and you never want to come inside!

November 3 - New Look To Lake Anna Life Blog...

2011-11-03T08:02:00.000-07:00

We're firing up the Lake Anna Life Blog again with a totally new look. You just click on the pics that appear in chronological order and get the story. If you want a more interactive online experience, check out the Lake Anna Life Facebook site, too!

September 17 - PaddleFest!

2011-09-18T08:40:00.000-07:00

We held yet another first-time event this year in conjunction with the Lake Anna Winery called PaddleFest. Held at the lake front home of Arthur and Barbara McKenny, this day featured kayaks and paddleboards of all sorts that were displayed, demo'd and raced. We had the chimnea burning and plenty of LKA Wear sweatshirts donned, plus the Louisa Gators swim team provided excellent grilled concessions!

July 14 - Lake Anna Winery Events

2011-07-15T08:24:00.000-07:00

The Lake Anna Winery has many events throughout the year. The official start of summer is a cause for a party, as is just about any other weekend! The lush lawn around the vines is a great place to spread out your blanket/chairs and enjoy live music and your favorite Lake Anna wine. 540.895.8095 is their number. You can also visit www.lakeannawinery.com or the Lake Anna Life.com site for their Calendar of Events.

July 9 - Lake Anna Life Beach Party!

2011-07-10T08:07:00.000-07:00

Today we had a great time at Camp Cocktail Cove with the Lake Anna Paddle Club and Lake Anna Winery. It was a beach party with all the trimmings! Accessible only by boat, this location is a magical place on Lake Anna. We'll hold another boat-in/paddle-up party in 2012, so stay tuned...

July 4 - Pig Roast On LKA

2011-07-05T08:20:00.000-07:00

July 4th is when the lake comes alive with dock parties, fireworks and cookouts! Here's a few pics of a fine pig roast and the evening's festivities.

Heading Into Summer Update

2011-06-14T05:15:00.001-07:00

So darn busy now that we are heading into Weekend #4 of our 16 weekend "Season" here at Lake Anna, it's difficult to keep up with the blog. I do post more regularly on the Facebook site, so you might check LakeAnnaLife.com out.

Our second Wine & Kayaks Paddle with Lake Anna Winery and Lake Anna Life Magazine will be held June 23, again out of Duke's Creek Marina and departing at 6 pm. A wine tasting and light appetizers will be available. The water is a delightful 86 degrees, so wear your suit and bring a squirt gun if you plan on attending. Call the winery for reservations. 895.5085.

Anna Cabana is for sale. This is a wonderful little restaurant located just inside Sturgeon Creek with docks for drive-up water access and an incredible view from the deck. If you are interested call Chris at 301.512.5698.

Verizon Wireless is coming to the New Bridge Landing shopping center. That will leave just one bay open as Dockside Realty took the other one for their rental business.

The Boardwalks at Lake Anna project is nearing completion. This new retail/restaurant center is located at the Rt. 522 "Harris" Bridge in the North Anna.

Lake Anna Life Magazine is here and it really sets the standard for a lifestyle magazine here at the lake. There are 30 LKA Must-Dos, Lake Anna Hotspots, How To Talk Like A Local, LKA Personalities, Building Your Dream Home and much more, plus over $1,000 in coupons, including one for a free Subway sub and a free appetizer at Ally's! You can pick up this magazine at most of the area businesses or view it online at www.lakeannalife.com.

May 26 - Wine & Kayaks 1

2011-05-31T04:29:00.000-07:00

What a fine evening we had with Lake Anna Winery and Lake Anna Life Magazine on the first Wine & Kayaks paddle. We departed from Duke's Creek Marine in five kayaks (three last-minute cancellations) and paddled roughly 1.8 miles to a secluded beach where Lake Anna Winery and LKA Life Magazine staff had set up a wine tasting with light appetizers and grill. The second Wine & Kayaks event will be held June 23 and departs from Duke's Creek Marina at 6 pm sharp. Call the winery for reservations at 540.895.8095. Cost is $20 per person. Rental kayaks are available on a first come, first served basis from Lake Anna Outfitters. 540.894.3540.

May 22 - Poker Paddle

2011-05-31T04:10:00.000-07:00

The Lake Anna Paddling Club had a fun Poker Paddle recently. Card #1 was chosen from a deck at LKA Outfitters, then it was on to Anna Point Marina, Island Mochas, the Black Pearl Boathouse and finally, Anna Cabana where a light lunch was enjoyed. The total paddle was about 5.5 miles. Prizes were provided by Island Mochas and LKA Outfitters for high hand.

Welcome Spring Paddle Pics

2011-04-18T06:50:00.000-07:00

The Lake Anna Paddling Club had an outing April 17 and here are some of pics from the trip. The route departed from Lake Anna Outfitters at High Point Marina and travelled into Pigeon Run along the Lake Anna State Park shoreline into a cove with a hidden waterfall at the end of feeder creek. Membership is open with a $15 annual fee that comes with a great LKA Oufitters t-shirt and LKA sticker. The next event will be the Poker Paddle held May 22. Go to www.lakeannalife.com and see the Calendar of Events for the paddling schedule or visit www.lakeannakayakclub.blogspot.com. You can also email lkalife@earthlink.net.

Chef Lee's Restaurant Opening Soon....

2011-04-12T06:29:00.000-07:00

The latest addition to Lake Anna's eating options will be open later this week. Chef Lee's will feature Chinese cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere as you can see from this pic. The restaurant is located at New Bridge Landing (Food Lion shopping center).

Lake Anna Veterinary Hospital Open

2011-04-12T06:21:00.000-07:00

Here's Dr. Dan Slovis demonstrating how digital x-ray technology helps him show his patients' owners what treatment is necessary. I had a fascinating visit recently. Cutting edge technology combined with genuine personal care is the mission at this pet clinic.

Controlled Burn in Ware Creek

2011-04-07T13:10:00.000-07:00

I was fishing with clients today and watched the interesting process of a controlled burn. Here are the pics.

More Pics of Spring on Lake Anna

2011-04-07T13:09:00.001-07:00

Today was sunny, calm and warm - just what the lake needed!

Spring Is Here

2011-04-02T04:00:00.000-07:00

Everywhere you look the signs of spring are obvious - red buds, wild cherry, dogwoods about to pop, kayakers, anglers and all those fish starting to return to the docks and shallows. We are ready for the change of season, aren't you? This looks like a fun dock to be at when it warms up!

Paddling Regardless

2011-03-27T14:27:00.001-07:00

Today was supposed to be the whole lake paddle for the Lake Anna Kayak Club. Because of the snow and the cold it was postponed. Mitch and I did paddle, though. That's a Thermos of soup he has in his right hand! Boat on the left is the new Emotion Comet 110. A $395, eleven-foot kayak perfect for the small to medium-sized paddler. The boat on the right is the $279, eight foot Comet, a great little boat for smaller paddlers. You can see them at Lake Anna Outfitters. 540.894.3540.

Snow On The Cherry Blossoms

2011-03-27T14:23:00.000-07:00

The big snow event today turned out to be little more than a wet dusting. It was a pretty and quick snow - the kind I can live with in late March. The cherry tree out front is beautiful with or without snow. It was all gone by noon. Enjoy.

Rt. 208 Bridge Repairs Progressing

2011-03-24T04:07:00.000-07:00

It might be now dubbed the "Rt. 208 Parking Lot" due to the stop lights on it but American Infrastructure is making good progress on Phase 1 of the project. The westbound deck is being cut up and removed and a catwalk has been installed for workers. The bridge is now No Wake for boaters to ensure no falling debris accidents or other incidents. Keep this in mind the next time you are out on the lake.

Kayaking Season Begins

2011-03-21T04:50:00.000-07:00

The Gensingers picked up two 2011 Emotion Temptation sit-on-top kayaks from Lake Anna Outfitters this weekend. LKA Outfitters Spring Open House/Demo Day will be held this Saturday (March 26) from 9-5 with great deals on kayaks, clothing and artwork.

Promoting Lake Anna at Fredericksburg Show

2011-03-19T04:42:00.001-07:00

Big Cheese Pizza & Kara Nails Now Open

2011-03-15T13:20:00.000-07:00

On your next visit to the New Bridge Landing Center you'll find Big Cheese Pizza offering $5.99 large cheese or pepperoni pizzas and Kara Nails open for business....

Gift For The Next 20 Followers To Sign Up

2011-03-09T06:10:00.000-08:00

Red Tail Hawk Nesting In Duke's Creek

2011-03-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

I snapped this pic of a red tail hawk just under his nest yesterday. See my red circle for the bird. The location is in the back of Duke's Creek. The hawk was enjoying a bluejay breakfast - much to the dismay of the other five bluejays squawking at him.

Lake Anna Is Back To Full Pool

2011-03-07T13:30:00.000-08:00

Three plus inches of rain in Madison and Orange Counties have raised the lake level 17 inches overnight. We now have a very full Anna. Now if we can just get the gas prices down. This pic was taken from the Rt. 522 Harris Bridge in the North Anna. The muddy water will clear in about a week or so with no more rain.

News From Elk Creek Store

2011-02-25T12:42:00.000-08:00

If you like ice cream, we have a scoop for you! Elk Creek Store will be extending their deck and creating a walk-up window for hand-dipped Hershey's ice cream this season. Moon will also be back with his famous Moon's BBQ starting very soon!

LKA Wear Arriving In Stores Now...

2011-02-25T12:29:00.000-08:00

Dickinson's Store just received the new LKA Wear adult and kid's hoodies, plus the new Virginia Tech and pink stretched oval LKA stickers today! There are plenty of gift items featuring Lake Anna themes.

Perfect Afternoon For Paddling

2011-02-17T15:00:00.001-08:00

Mitch (my eight-year-old son) and I paddled a little this evening as the winds abated. I tried the new Diablo Chupabapra hybrid kayak/sup and he paddled a Temptation Stealth. Both available at Lake Anna Outfitters. 540.894.3540. That Diablo is so wide and stable I was amazed how easy it was to stand up paddle.

February 17 - Warm Weather Sunrise

2011-02-17T13:07:00.000-08:00

One of the side benefits of being a fishing guide is the incredible sunrises and sunsets I see. I hope you like this one.

Lake Anna Business Partnership Social at Louisa Arts Center

2011-02-16T06:04:00.000-08:00

The Lake Anna Business Partnership held its monthly Social at the Louisa Arts Center last night with Doug Whitlock of Lake Anna Land Corp., University of Virginia Community Credit Union, Axis Land Surveying and Lake Anna Life Magazine sponsoring. Each sponsor told those gathered a little about themselves and their businesses. Obrigado catered the evening. Joe Caputi of the Arts Center tended bar. The event was held in the Purcell Gallery where Rodrick Rhodes' artwork collection was displayed.

Lake Anna Life played a game of LKA Trivia that included questions like; What is the longest running family business in the Lake Anna area? Dickinson's Store, and What is the original name of Sturgeon Creek? Sugar Creek..... all bits of information to be found in the upcoming Lake Anna Life Magazine.

If you want to join this dynamic group of Lake Anna area business folks please contact Keli Harold at kharold@kkhllc.com. She is in charge of new member recruitment and would love to tell you more.

Bluegrass Legend Ralph Stanley Coming To LKA Area

2011-02-15T06:48:00.000-08:00

Bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley will perform at the Louisa Arts Center February 19 at 7:30 pm. There will be a complimentary reception with wine and hors d'oeuvres before the event. The band will meet the audience during intermission and afterward. Only 200 tickets will be sold at $100. This is a fundraiser for the Louisa Arts Center. 80% of the ticket price is tax deductible. Call 540.967.2200 for tickets or visit www.louisaarts.org.

Another Favorite Place On LKA

2011-02-14T10:36:00.000-08:00

Do you know where this is? See the new edition of Lake Anna Life Magazine in the coming months and find out.... Hint: It's definitely a great place to have lunch and enjoy the sunshine in the down lake region. I stopped by today and snapped this pic.

February 7 Sunset

2011-02-08T08:26:00.000-08:00

I caught this sunset heading home over the Elk Creek Bridge after an evening on the water. Too beautiful for words.

Lake Anna Life Magazine Now Online

2011-02-04T14:11:00.000-08:00

If you'd like to read our 2010 Lake Anna Life Magazine online or show it to your friends, you can! Just go to www.lakeannalife.com and click on the link that takes you there. Enjoy.

Richmond Fishing Show Promotions

2011-01-24T05:04:00.001-08:00

Here's our booth at the recent Richmond Fishing Expo at the Meadow Farm Event Park. Nice facility and many, many folks interested in visiting Lake Anna came to this event.

What You Got From Food Lion If You One Of The 200

2011-01-19T05:46:00.000-08:00

You handed in your ticket and received a fine sample bag of groceries and.... a mini LKA sticker!

Food Lion Lake Anna Ribbon Cutting

2011-01-19T05:31:00.000-08:00

Lake Anna Life was there at 7:26 am and we were one of over 400 folks in line at the New Bridge Crossing Food Lion Grand Opening. The first 200 shoppers received a ticket for a bag of Food Lion brand products and a mini LKA sticker!

After being greeted by the staff, we then witnessed the official ribbon-cutting ceremony and bring it to you here at Lake Anna Life. Doug Straley and Supervisor P.T. Spencer presided with the store manager George Harding.

Think LKAers were ready for a grocery store? Consider the astounding number of people that waited in line to be some of the first customers in the store.

Lake Anna Food Lion Now Open

2011-01-18T16:06:00.000-08:00

Lake Anna Life went to the Pre-Grand Opening Party at the new New Bridge Crossing Food Lion tonight to see the new store and meet the staff. Looks like Chase Development has done an outstanding job on setting up the store and beating the initial estimates of opening day. There's a bakery, pharmacy, deli, coffee bar and great cheese section, plus many other things we've never had at LKA. The produce looked great. They will be open at 8 am tomorrow morning, right after the ribbon cutting ceremony. LKA Like will be there with the Nikon. First 200 shoppers in the door get a bunch of free stuff! Welcome to LKA, Food Lion.

Lake Anna Job Opportunity

2011-01-18T05:42:00.000-08:00

Lake Anna Life is looking for Associate Editors. Think you have what it takes to be part of our team? Email us at lkalife@earthlink.net or call 540.894.3540 and let's talk.

Special Winter Rates at High Point Marina

2011-01-17T12:54:00.000-08:00

If you were considering a visit to LKA this winter, consider this special rate offer from High Point Marina and the Lighthouse Inn. For a limited time, you can get a $59.99 per night room rate with a three-night minimum and the last night is free. The Lighthouse Inn is the ONLY on-the-water motel at Lake Anna. Request a second floor room and view is astounding. You can tie you boat up in front and ground floor room have a walkout patio. If you are a Laker and have folks coming in for special events you should also consider this option. Thought you out-of-towners would like to know about this great offer. HPM is where I meet clients. Call them at 540.895.5249.

Grand Opening Of Food Lion....

2011-01-17T12:47:00.001-08:00

According to what we've heard here at LKA Life you will be able to shop at Food Lion starting January 19, this Wednesday. The store has seen a massive amount of activity in the past two weeks and it appears to be ready. LKA Life will be attending the Dignitary Pre-Grand Opening Night celebration and will bring you pics and news from the event at New Bridge Crossing. Remember, in addition to the Food Lion there is the Lake Anna Veterinary Hospital, Subway, Big Cheese Pizza and Chef Lee's. Looks like there will also be a Kara Nails at this new shopping center.

Lake Anna Business Opportunity

2011-01-17T11:53:00.000-08:00

601 Market will be sold by Public Auction by owner on February 5, at 10 am rain or shine. The location is at 6261 Lawyers Road, Spotsylvania, Virginia 22551. This was a successful business until it’s closing due to health reasons and now to be sold to the highest bidder by the Owner. Everything goes with some store equipment and two parcels of land totaling 5.451 acres consisting of 1 Commercial lot, and 1 lot zoned Agriculture. Store is located one mile from entrance to the State Park and one mile off major Route 208. Owner may consider financing to the SUCCESSFUL BIDDER the balance of the Auction Sales price with a $235,000.00 down payment. (Perfect Business for a family run operation). Extra lot suitable for building a new home on in back of the store. If you are the winning bidder you must have 10% to put down on the day of the sale with a closing to take place within 30 days of the sale. A preview of the business and property will be held February 4 from 10 am to 4 pm. All interested parties requiring additional information please contact BRUCE DRAPER at 434-531-6759.

Island Mochas Worth A Visit!

2011-01-06T14:26:00.001-08:00

Lake Anna Life stopped by Island Mochas today and picked up some fresh baked cupcakes and took the grand tour. This is a wonderful place to eat breakfast or lunch or just stop in for some fine treats. There are two internet stations, plus a flat screen and comfy chairs. Bag lunches are available, too!

Asian Cafe Recommended

2011-01-06T09:28:00.000-08:00

I had the good fortune to share a meal with fellow LKAer, Chuck Meeks today at the new Asian Cafe. It's located next to Ally's in the LAI Center. Chuck ordered a Hibachi Lunch and I ordered the Sushi Lunch (choice of two rolls for under $8). We had hot tea and our cups were never empty or even half full. Service was excellent. Our food was served properly and it was very tasty. The menu was extensive. The atmosphere here is comfortable. There are about 14 booths, a large table and a mini sushi bar. I can recommend it to you and encourage you to try it.

Route 208 Bridge Under Construction!

2010-12-22T15:09:00.000-08:00

Lakers will have to endure a stop light now installed on the Rt. 208 Bridge for at least a year as construction crews attempt to essentially reattach the deck to the pilings as well as resurface the road. Here's what it will look like now.....

The Perfect Gift For A Laker...

2010-12-21T05:54:00.001-08:00

Have you ever heard of the Hei Matau necklace? Probably not, but you might have heard of the "Saftey Over Water Necklace". The host of Amazing Race wears one. I've worn one for a year, as I'm on LKA a lot! My daughter has one, my son has one, too. They are stylish and have meaning for folks that live for the water....

The stylized fish hook design, known as the Hei Matau, has its origins in Maori Legend. The legend holds that the north island of New Zealand was once a huge fish caught by Maui, the great Mariner, using only a woven line and a bone hook. For the Maori, the Hei Matau represents Strength, Prosperity, Fertility and a great respect for the Sea. It is worn by travelers to provide good luck and grant Safe Passage over Water.

Lake Anna Outfitters has these necklaces in all styles for $19.95. Call or email quickly if you want one for a special gift. 540.894.3540.

Island Mochas' Grand Opening...

2010-12-21T05:47:00.001-08:00

The Rusticks are holding their Island Mochas Grand Opening on January 2. This coffee shop is located at the new Lake Anna Island building on the Louisa side of the Rt. 208 Bridge. They will be doing a Hawaiin Blessing, so don't miss this special event!

Tree Trimming

2010-12-18T07:05:00.001-08:00

The children still love to do this and I am grateful. Skipped a LABP Social to trim the tree and made the right decision. We're almost ready for Santa now here at LKA!

Pics of Near Winter

2010-12-18T07:02:00.000-08:00

I've seen some interesting things this week in the office. Hoarfrost on mailbox and bushes out front make for interesting pics.

First Martini @ Ally's

2010-12-14T04:36:00.000-08:00

While I don't think this was the first martini ever enjoyed around LKA, it has been confirmed as the "first ever ordered from Ally's Restaurant" on Lake Anna.

Last night we visited this new restaurant and Chrissie and I shared an extra dry martini, extra jumbo olives. The restaurant had just received its liquor license that morning and owner, Ally, had gone shopping at the ABC store. The bartender was our neighbor, Chris Taylor, so we had to set a precedent.

The restaurant is now open, Tuesday through Sunday. Like all new businesses, it's a work in progress, so be patient and understanding if you go in the coming weeks and check back here often for updates.

December 13 - It Snowed!

2010-12-13T08:28:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics we shot this morning on the lake for you to enjoy!

December 12 - Claybrooke Christmas Tree

2010-12-13T08:17:00.000-08:00

Each year we cut a Christmas tree at Claybrooke Farm off Elk Creek Road. We like the Norway spruce, but there are Canaan Fir, Douglas Fir and other trees to choose from in the fields. There are even trees already cut. The gift shop is always filled with holiday goodies and Jen and Burchie smiling and gracious. Tyler Carroll helped us with the tree this year, taking over for his father, John. Our little puppy Fergus helped, too. There's one more weekend to get your tree from Lake Anna! Check out www.claybrookefarm.com

Let The Christmas Parties Begin!

2010-12-12T07:35:00.001-08:00

Chrissie and I visited with Jim and Maria Wilkins for their Christmas party recently and were treated to a spectacularly decorated lake home. Maria began in November to prepare their home for the holiday and it shows. I lost track of the Christmas trees! Mitch and I's favorite was Jim's personal Star Trek and Star Wars tree he keeps in his office.

Great party with some great Lakers. Thank you, Wilkins for bring us all together.

December 11 - Lakers Welcome New Businesses!

2010-12-11T08:02:00.000-08:00

Wow, this has been a busy week here on LKA! We have much news for you.

The sign went up at New Bridge Center/Food Lion this week as you can see from the pic. We'll soon have Big Cheese Pizza, Subway, Chef Lee's and the Lake Anna Veterinary Hospital, plus more soon to be announced at the intersection of Kentucky Springs (Rt. 652) and Rt. 208 (New Bridge Road).

Also, in the LKA news this week is the opening of Ally's On The Lake Restaurant, Lake Anna Island Mochas and Chameleon & Co. Salon at the Lake Anna Island complex on Rt. 208 just over the Rt. 208 Bridge, Louisa side. These businesses are NOW OPEN!

Lake Anna Life stopped in to wish everyone well and met Chef Frank from Ally's and Dana from Chameleon & Co. Ally's biggest seller so far has been the Lake Burger, Steak & Cheese and Prime Rib. There's a cozy restaurant and bar that awaits your first visit and seven days a week access. I am looking forward to my first visit and will share it with you.

Chameleon & Co.'s crew are some lovely ladies that know how to take care of folks. They offer haircuts and styling for men, women and children, coloring, highlighting, perms, manicures, pedicures and many more personal services. I think they will do well here at LKA.

Lake Anna Island Mochas is sure to be a big hit with warm drinks in the winter and ice cream in the summer!

So, the next time you are here for a visit or driving along 208, stop in and "Shop Local, Shop LKA." These are exciting times to be a Laker!

December 5 - Pooches of LKA Outfitters

2010-12-05T14:02:00.000-08:00

Today was windy and cold but inside LKA Outfitters it was warm and cheery! A dusting of snow had us all in the Christmas spirit and we had many visitors come to enjoy hot cider and LKA Santa.

A photo of your pet with Santa is always fun and we had a bunch of Lakers come with their pooches. The outdoor fireplace was blazing and the Christmas music playing inside. If you didn't make it, I'm sorry we missed you. For those of you that visited with us (Pete, Michelle, Jim, Kathy, Dave, Terry, Larry and so many more), I am grateful for you.

Thanks to Linda Salisbury who came to sign her books including the newest; Treasure In Sugar's Book Barn. Many thanks to Santa!

Folk, life is short. Have fun. Join us kayaking on the lake in the spring or just at the lake period.

LKA Outfitters Open House Day One

2010-12-05T04:58:00.001-08:00

We had a fun afternoon at LKA Outfitters. Many thanks to the Gensingers who purchased two Temptation kayaks for some great adventure with the LKA Kayak Club in 2011, the Jeff and Jean Martin, Nancy K, the Moberlys and the other fine folks that came for a visit. We had hot cider, ham biscuits and a great looking Santa for photos with the kids and pets.

Come on by today and get a signed copy of Linda Salisbury's newest book. Anne Fisher Neale will also be signing her book today! And Santa will be back if you missed him yesterday. Noon until 4. It even snowed last night to put us all in the Christmas spirit.

Major Changes Ahead For LKA Region

2010-12-02T05:02:00.000-08:00

The new alignment of Rt. 652 (Kentucky Springs Road) and Rt. 208 opened today and despite some remaining connection bumps it looks to be a nice fix. It also takes you conveniently right by the NEW FOOD LION! I never thought we'd have a major grocery store and 10 add-on businesses about a two miles from our Lake Anna home, but it's coming. Look to be shopping at The Lion by March.

November 30 - Pa Turns 98

2010-11-30T04:55:00.000-08:00

Today is my grandfather's 98th birthday. We celebrated with presents, cake, ice cream and a bit of Dewars. If you have a loved one that you'd like to be close to you here at the Lake consider Louisa Health Care.

LKA Outfitter's Christmas Open House Invitation

2010-11-21T07:32:00.001-08:00

Join Lake Anna Outfitters December 4 & 5 from noon until 4 pm for a lakeside Christmas Open House featuring the year's lowest prices on kayaks and paddleboards, paddling accessories and great LKA gift items including tee shirts, hoodies, stickers, mugs, hats and more. Bring your pet and have a photo taken with LKA Santa! Hot, spiced cider for all, too! Local authors Linda Salisbury and Anne Fisher Neale will be present on Sunday to sign their books. Salisbury will have here newest; "Treasure In Sugar's Barn". LKA Outfitters is located at High Point Marina off Rt. 208. 540.894.3540.

Lake Anna Business Partnership After Hours

2010-11-17T08:20:00.000-08:00

This month the LABP met at Tavern on the Rail, the guests of owners, Kenny and Melody. This is a great restaurant with the kind of decor that really makes me feel at home. Cozy seating with portraits of the Old Dominion's finest on the walls, a wonderful bar downstairs, outdoor seating and delicious menu selections make Tavern on the Rail a good choice for special occasions and for when you are entertaining guests at the lake. www.tavernontherail.com.

The Lake Anna Business Partnership is a diverse group of Lake Anna area business folk that have banded together to promote the kind of tourism and economic growth that is good for the lake. Full memberships and social memberships are available. The social memberships permit you to attend the 12 After Hours that include sponsor-provided food and great networking with LKA "glitterati". Please contact me if you'd like to join us or visit www.lakeanna.org.

Lake Anna Island Almost Ready....

2010-11-17T08:15:00.000-08:00

I spoke with the owner of Ally's Restaurant & Bar at the Lake Anna Business Partnership After Hours event last night and she noted the soft opening of her restaurant would be in early December. This is good news for Lakers. She is planning on being open seven days a week. Her son is an accomplished chef and there will be a bar.

I also drove over the new building for a look and noted the Asian Cafe is coming right along as well. I snapped this pic of the directory to the building. Of special note is the Lake Anna Island Mocha coffee shop (congratulations to the Rustics) and the Fisher's Gym.

Lake Anna Cup 2010 Results

2010-11-15T07:17:00.001-08:00

  After months of build-up the day finally arrived when the best anglers in the region convened at Anna Point Marina on Lake Anna for the 2010 Lake Anna Cup. At stake was over $3,000 in prize money and merchandise as well as the challenge to Claim The Cup. Winners get their name on the cup for the year and title of annual Lake Anna Cup Champions.
   This year’s event drew 71 teams from all over the state and Maryland. After a nearly two-hour fog delay all teams were oozed off by 8:43 am, due back for a 3:30 pm weigh-in.
  Tournament Director Dave Fauntleroy oversaw this elaborate process where the teams bring their best five, 12” or longer bass to his scales. The fish are then quickly weighed and returned alive to the lake. The young men and women of the Orange County High School Anglers took care of this critical job and reported a 100% live release. Nikki Craft tallied and noted each team’s weight.
   When all fish were recorded, the duo of Darrin Bache and Craig Hayden had the best five bass, weighing 14.48 pounds. They narrowly missed having the biggest bass of the tournament, too, with a lunker of 6.25 pounds.
   Bache and Hayden took the top prize of $2,000 plus they will put their names on the Lake Anna Cup trophy. Bache was part of a team (with Larry Meadows) that won the LKA Cup in 2008, so he is the first repeat winner.
   Bache and Hayden told the crowd they caught their fish in the upper Pamunkey Branch of the lake using lipless crankbaits on rocky points.
   Second place finishers Timmy and Jeff Jones had five bass that weighed 13.68 pounds. They took home $500, a pair of Habervision sunglasses and two Country Chevrolet hoodies. This team reported fishing mid lake rock piles with Bandit 300 Series crankbaits.
  Congratulation goes to David Chisholm and Wilson Bradley for overcoming some early engine troubles and finishing third in the LKA Cup with five bass of 13.49 pounds. This team won $200, a pair of Habervison sunglasses and Country Chevrolet hoodies. Chisholm and Bradley noted they fished both the upper North Anna and Pamunkey Branch with crankbaits and jigs on hard cover, too.
  Anglers were also asked to bring in the biggest striper they caught during the day. The team of Mike Patterson and Mark Finley did just this. They won a tee shirt and hat combo from LKA Outfitters for a striper weighing 6.09 pounds they caught on a crankbait while bass fishing in the upper North Anna. Patterson and Finley swept the big fish honors because they also had the event’s big bass at 6.59 pounds.
  Overall fishing was tricky for many of the teams. Five-bass limit catches were challenging under clear skies and an extended high-pressure system that had fish tight-lipped. The day dawned cold at 32 degrees and ended with a beautiful 65-degree award ceremony at the Anna Point Marina lakeside pavilion.
  The Lake Anna Cup trophy will be displayed at Anna Point Marina for the year until the event cycles back to High Point Marina in 2011. Each marina (Sturgeon Creek Marina as well) hosts the event on a rotating basis.
   Over 100 invitations were sent to anglers that visited Lake Anna from tournament circuits like LAPR Bass Series, Championship Teams, Fishers of Men, Augusta County Bass Jons, High Point Marina’s Friday Night Tournaments and Sturgeon Creek Marina’s Tuesday Night and Sunday Morning Tournaments. At-large invitations were also available to other anglers that felt they had what it would take to Claim The Cup with the goal of bringing anglers together for one more big event on Lake Anna.
   “The end result is that motel rooms were booked, restaurants patronized, fuel tanks filled and food purchased, not to mention the tackle and other incidentals the anglers needed for this event. Lake Anna Cup is a way to fuel our local economy during the off-season period as well as introduce more anglers to the great cool weather fishery we have here at Lake Anna,” noted organizer C.C. McCotter.
  Sponsors play a major role in LKA Cup, contributing cash for the first three places, so the day money can go toward the BBQ, tee shirts and other goodies the participants receive in a tournament goodie bag.
  “Behind the event this year was the Lake Anna Business Partnership, Dominion Resources, Country Chevrolet, Bass Pro Shops, Anna Point Marina, Anna’s Marine Center, Woods & Waters Magazine, Lake Anna Outfitters, Green Top Sporting Goods and Gander Mountain. These fine sponsors deserve a look if you are in the market for any of their products and I thank them on behalf of our anglers and local businesses,” McCotter added.
  If you’d like to participate in the 2011 event, contact McCotter at 540.894.3540 or visit www.lakeannalife.com. For complete results visit www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com . Video of the event can be viewed at www.centralvabasscast.com.

November 14 - One More Boat Ride

2010-11-15T04:57:00.000-08:00

I snapped this pic at Anna Point Marina of a family with their beautiful golden retriever out for the proverbial one more boat ride!

November 6 - LKA Kayak Club's Final Paddle

2010-11-07T06:21:00.000-08:00

Today was our Fall Foliage Paddle. We had 11 boats with 12 paddlers (Mitch and I were in an Emotion CoMotion). It was windy and cold, but we rallied to paddle from High Point Marina across the mouth of Pigeon Run to Lake Anna State Park. I plugged the scupper holes in our boat, everyone else was paddling sit-ins. We saw a bald eagle, red tailed hawk, king fisher and a great blue heron. Afterward we headed over to Rick Collins' lake house for a great meal of grilled shrimp and veggies. This was the final paddle of the Lake Anna Kayak Club schedule for 2010. The 2011 schedule is now being planned and will feature another North Anna River Expedition, a Moonlight Paddle, a Beach Party at Cocktail Cove and at least three more adventures on and around Lake Anna. Membership is $15/person and includes a t-shirt and LKA sticker. Guests are welcome at $6 per paddle. To join call 540.894.3540.

November 2 - Sunrise on LKA

2010-11-05T12:46:00.001-07:00

Sunsets and sunrises, I cannot get enough of them....

This one is from the Elk Creek Bridge.

October 30 - Sunset on LKA

2010-10-31T08:01:00.001-07:00

If you were here yesterday evening you were treated to a magnificent sunset. I was guiding and snapped a few pics for those of you not able to be here. Enjoy, and please join me for a fishing trip of kayak paddle when you can.

October 29 - More Great Leaves

2010-10-29T11:29:00.001-07:00

There are some leaves falling now, but it's still magnificent here on LKA.

October 27 - Peak Color Here On Lake Anna

2010-10-27T11:12:00.001-07:00

Come quickly to see the full splendor of Fall on LKA. The trees are aflame and the weather is cool. I've been out fishing and am snapping pics as fast as I can. The Lake Anna Kayak Club Fall Foliage Paddle is November 6. It leaves from High Point Marina at 9 am. Look carefully at one of these pics and find the hornet's nest!

October 25 - Back From Maine

2010-10-27T11:06:00.000-07:00

I took a trip to NW Maine to grouse hunt with a buddy and my father last week. It was an amazing part of our great country. 22 degrees the last morning. Snowy the day before. Here are a few pics to give you a sense of our setting - 80 miles from the nearest paved road or town. GPS and two maps were essential for navigation. I walked 6-9 miles per day and lost six pounds. We had a 20-hour ride back.... It was nice to come back to peak fall color here at Lake Anna!

October 12 - LKA at Seneca Rocks

2010-10-16T09:17:00.000-07:00

Our little crew travelled to Canaan Valley for some leaf peeping, kayaking and hiking. I snapped this shot of LKA at Seneca Rocks. We hiked that, too. 1000' of elevation each way.

October 7 - Sunrise On The Lake

2010-10-09T04:55:00.000-07:00

This is what I am privileged to see just about every morning I'm guiding. Join me won't you?

October LAI Update

2010-10-09T04:47:00.000-07:00

As you can see the Lake Anna Island project is also moving right along. The developers hope to create a commerce hub to include two restaurants, office and retail space, a beach and more. This new building is located right next to Rt. 208 on the Louisa side of the lake. I think there will be a turn lane constructed so you'll be able to get to the facility when you see it. Restaurants could be open by late winter.

October 2 - Viva Las Vegas Night with LABP

2010-10-03T11:21:00.000-07:00

Last night was our first annual Viva Las Vegas Night fundraiser for the Lake Anna Business Partnership. As a board member and a Lake Anna business person, I am deeply committed to the success of this group. The Vegas Night was the first step in raising money to implement an ambitious Marketing Plan to better promote Lake Anna and develop tourism the way we want it to be done.

There's nothing like being a part of a group of determined and motivated business folks and I thank those of you that helped get this event done. It was a wonderful evening of food, music, dancing, friends, black jack, poker, roulette, craps and horse racing.

As an added bonus, the Lake Anna Life horse (Long Weekend) won the first heat and paid 4-1. At the end of casino hours we all cashed in our chips for raffle tickets and listened to hear who won the grand prize of a week in Mexico. The lucky ticket holder was Ed Blount! He wants to know now, who's going with him.

Super sponsors included Kate Elim, Lori Petrovitch, W.A. Dickinson, Steve Benjoar, Kathy Gardner, Tom Young, Tri-Dim Filter Co. and many, many more folks that bought horses, donated Silent Auction items and tables.

Did you miss LKA's biggest event? Don't worry because we are having one in 2011. This will be an annual event and we hope to see you at the next one!

Again my most sincere thanks to everyone that came to the event, to the businesses that stepped up to support it and to those of you that just stopped in to see what all the noise was about.

Highlights of my night were seeing my beautiful wife with her LKA shirt at the front desk, that costumed fellow that won our contest, everyone Twisting and doing the Chicken Dance, seeing Dino, Linda, Monty, Derek, Toni, BJ, Al, the Cowboy, Sandy, Dave, Senator Ed Houck and even my Mom and Dad having such a great time.

October 1 - First Bonfire Evening

2010-10-01T09:11:00.000-07:00

When the weather cools down Lakers still like to be outside. Here's our first outdoor dinner fire on the patio. My daughter came home and said, "This is just the way I pictured our family." Hotdogs and smores was the entre and dessert.

September 24 & 25 Chincoteague

2010-09-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

Living at Lake Anna we know what resort life is like - we run all summer long trying to keep up with LKA Wear dealers, McCotter's Lake Anna Guide Service and Lake Anna Outfitters. When the season is officially over after Labor Day it's time to take a weekend off and see how other resorts do it.

This past weekend was Chrissie and I's 16th wedding anniversary and we returned to Chincoteague Island. We had been there three years back and stayed at the Island Motor Inn, hunted rail, kayaked, ate many oysters and met her Mom and stepfather for dinner as we explored the island.

For this visit we again stayed at the Island Motor Inn (highly recommend it at www.

islandmotorinn

.com) where the view from your private balcony is over Chincoteague Bay. You can kayak right from the hotel, too! I again rail hunted with Capt. Pete Wallace (www.chincoteaguehunt-fish.com) again. We also ate oysters at EVERY meal and had a fine anniversary lunch with Ruth and Jim.

Saturday evening when the wind finally laid down enough to paddle we even slipped a kayak and an Emotion paddleboard into the Assasteague Channel and paddled along the lee side of Assateague Island where the ponies live. We were treated to a magnificent sunset I tried to capture on film.

Chincoteague is a different type of beach destination. There's a mix of old and new. The fishing is great. The hunting is great. The restaurants are pretty good. The best is Don's and J&B Deli. The former still has real Chincoteague oysters. The latter has the island's best subs.

I loved walking the marsh and seeing so many types of birds I lost track. The eight rails I flushed was a fine amount for a 85-degree day with SE winds that didn't let the full moon tide rise like we expected.

Having my dear mother-in-law and great step-father-in-law with us was certainly a highlight.

Seeing my wife paddle beside me as the sun set put many things in perspective.

Go to Chincoteague if you can. It's worth the ride ($12 each way) over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. If you can figure out where it is, drive the Wildlife Loop on the Assateauge Island Refuge.

September 29 - Canoe A Popular Rental

2010-09-27T09:14:00.000-07:00

We had a new canoe at Lake Anna Outfitters this season. The 14' Old Town Guide was a popular rental, especially when we add the LL Bean seat backs. This happy couple enjoyed a mid-week visit and had the lake all to themselves.

September 19 - A Dog Named Finn

2010-09-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

If you stop by Lake Anna Outfitters this fall you might see a Jack Russell puppy. His name is Finn and he arrived yesterday. He's an Irish Jack with black, tan and white markings and short legs.

Remember we will be having a season's end sale Oct. 2-3. The dog is not for sale!

September 18 - Dupree's Fish Fry

2010-09-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

While there are many great parties around Lake Anna, one that has to be near or at the top of the list of those I've attended is Tom and Ingrid Dupree's Fish Fry. This weekend my family attended and were treated to some fine hospitality. Tom prepared and served over 100 fillets of striper, white perch and bass he'd caught over the summer. Ingrid organized and prepared the additional bounty of many side dishes as well as special German dishes that reflect her heritage. There was even the special treat of German tripe. I've never tried it before but it was very smokey and salty and went down well on the 85-degree day with a cold beverage by the name of Wessenburger.

Tom was read a formal complaint from the fish of Lake Anna and then given the official hat of the Lake Anna Fish Co. The children played in the water while the adults enjoyed yet another beautiful weekend at the lake.

Thank you Duprees (Stephen and Michael, too) for the summer's best party.

Viva Las Vegas/Casino Night October 2

2010-09-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

Lakers and weekenders unite! It's time for a Viva Las Vegas Casino Night! On October 2 from 7 pm to 11 pm we will convene at Tanyard Country Club for a night of music, dancing, great hors d'ourves, table games like black jack, craps, Texas Hold'em, roulette, championship horse racing, Best Vegas Entertainer Costume Contest, Silent Auction and more. The funds raised to be used to promote Lake Anna. Visit www.lakeanna.org for more information or email me for tickets. $40 each or $75 per couple. Discounts on blocks of 10 or more for your friend group! This will be the social event of the year around here, so make plans to join us. Only 300 tickets are available and they are going fast!

September 12 - Expedition with Kids

2010-09-13T07:16:00.001-07:00

Life at LKA Outfitters has slowed a bit now that we are "out-of-season". I finally had some time to take my children and their friends (two eight-year-olds and two 11-year-olds) on a short paddle over the State Park from our location at High Point Marina. We took two Emotion CoMotions and a Traverse paddle board (only two demos left for sale) for the half mile trip. The water was around 81 degrees and still fine for swimming. The clouds gave way to partial sun in the afternoon and we found a nice beach for swimming and beach combing.

Call if you want to rent. The paddling even on the weekends is great now!

BIG SALE EVENT OCT. 2-3 AT THE SHOP.

September 11 - Shunkfest

2010-09-13T07:10:00.000-07:00

Today was a typical day for many Lakers - guests and a celebration on the lake. It was my Mom and Dad's turn to host, and it has been dubbed "Shunkfest". They laid out a nice spread at the dock and boathouse, fired up the grill, we even had a little pontoon cruise as far as the evenings festivities. There were cousins, nieces, great aunts, brothers and friends in attendance on a lake mostly freed of the summer's weekend traffic.

The trees are starting to turn early. Make your plans and get down here in the next 30 days because it's going to be beautiful but fast!

The Boardwalk At Lake Anna Update

2010-09-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

While we were all kayaking, tubing, skiing and having fun on the lake this summer, Gary Griffith and Steve B's crews have been hard at work building The Boardwalk On Lake Anna. Here's a pic of the building (over 3,400 sq. ft) located on the Louisa side of the Rt. 522 bridge on the North Anna section of the lake.

LKA Life first told you about this development back in February. You'll recall this first phase will house two restaurants (Italian and a Sports Bar) with some retail space below, all looking out on the lake and a meandering boardwalk. This boardwalk is done and I wanted to commend the developer for leaving the willow grass intact. Thank you for setting a great standard.

Later another building will be constructed to house an inn. Elsewhere on the property that lines Rt. 522, there will be batting cages, mini golf and a climbing wall!

Amazing September Sunrise

2010-09-07T12:34:00.000-07:00

I snapped this one on a morning walk with my wife. Sorry it's on a phone camera because it was an award-winning sunrise. You really should get up early and see what happens just before the sun comes up - makes you never want to leave the game.

Kayak Rentals @ LKA Outfitters

2010-09-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

Busy times at the shop this past holiday weekend and really the latter part of "summer". We love our visiting paddlers and invite you to join them right here on the Lake Anna Life Cus-tomer Appre-ciation Posting! First pic is of a 70 years young couple that purchased His & Her Glide Kayaks!

August 29 - Kneeboarding Coming Back

2010-08-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

Did it ever really go out? My 11-year-old daughter has discovered how fun it can be. Evening on the lake and dinner with friends.

August 28 - LKA Kayak Club Trip Recap

2010-08-29T07:12:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful morning to be on the lake in a kayak! I woke to 64 degrees with mist, rallied my 8-year-old and headed over the meeting point at the Edgewood Bay Common Area and found 10 cars already waiting for me there.

We were paddling by 8:30 and that means 23 kayaks with, I think, 25 paddlers, because we had some tandem boats. Mitch and I were in an Emotion CoMotion. Cathy Corker, Chief Naturalist for the Lake Anna State Park and her daughter, Ashleigh, also joined the crew in a CoMotion. We had about 15 guests and new members. Charter members present included Jim and Kathy Pfiefer, Barbara and George Kachinski, me and Mitch and Rick Collins. The club is growing and we welcome you to join us.

This paddle was 5.2 miles round-trip and took about two hours. We paddled to the back of Contrary Creek where the "fall line" separates Anna from the creek. Many on the paddle wanted to see what it was like up there. We weren't disappointed.

When we could paddle no more, we walked the creek bed as there was hardly any flow, noting the barren, moonscape-like banks and crystal clear water with orangish bacterial flock present from the high acidity. About 200 yards up, behind a fallen tree, we were surprised to see a portable sluicing machine sitting in the middle of the creek. About 30 yards prior to this device we had noticed suffocating, gray sediment on the creek bottom and this machine explained it.

What is going on is that someone is mining for gold, sucking the creek bed into the machine that sluices out the light stuff and separates the heavy - hopefully gold. The result is an even more messed up Contrary Creek. I took pics and the video you see here but we did not touch the set up.

Strewn about the creek bed were awesome chunks of white quartz and other interesting rocks a geologist would love. On the way in to the back of the creek we passed two bald eagles on perches pretty much where the Cutalong dredging is planned.

What amazes me about the back of Contrary is how nature tries hard to overcome even the worst pollution. Despite the bare patches of ground where nothing has grown for decades, there are animals and plants surviving nearby.

Wonderful paddle with plenty of new folks to meet. Thank you all for coming.

We have a Fall Foliage Paddle scheduled for October. We'll probably do another in November, plus a winter paddle. George, Rick, Art and I are planning our linear transect for the coming cooler days. Stay tuned for info on the club picnic/party.

August 25 - Rainbow Over LKA

2010-08-27T11:36:00.000-07:00

Beautiful double rainbow over the lake this evening.

August 21 - CoMotion Kayaks A Popular Rental

2010-08-27T11:33:00.001-07:00

How else are you going to get on the water for under $60/day? Lake Anna Outfitters' CoMotion kayaks have been a popular choice for visitors recently. These two were delivered to a rental and then picked up after the renters were finished. Call or email today if you want to try one!

August 20 - Beating The Spiders To Work

2010-08-20T05:11:00.000-07:00

Getting up early is the routine on LKA these days. There's fish to be caught, kayaks to be delivered and much more. I did have to stop what I was doing when I saw these two beautiful webs backlit this morning and noticed the spiders were getting a late start.

Busy Week at LKA Outfitters

2010-08-20T05:05:00.000-07:00

Risa and John paddled with us August15 when it rained 2" in about an hour and a half. They said they were big Survivor fans! This duo paddled to the State Park and hung out there until the rain stopped and the sun came out. Paddling conditions are ideal all day during the week and great in the mornings on weekends. It's been rather busy here with vacationers renting the kayaks, paddleboards and canoe and we are again, very grateful for everyone that has visited and the referrals our friends are giving us.

FYI, just one CoMotion boat is left (two person kayak) if you were considering a purchase this summer. We do have a super deal on His & Her Glides and other sit-ins as well as sit-on-top Spitfires. Visit www.lakeannalife.com and click on LKA Outfitters for a listing.

August 16 - Kayaks For Mike, Merriam and Lily

2010-08-16T13:36:00.000-07:00

Today, Chrissie had a special delivery and installation job. She travelled to Cambridge, MD to deliver two new Temptation kayaks and install a J-Dock storage rack at the home of her father and stepmother. These boats are perfect for Chesapeake Bay paddling adventures and the surrounding waters should provide plenty of opportunity. Lily the super dog helped with the installation, too!

At LKA Outfitters we have been very busy recently serving visitors to Lake Anna and we thank everyone you for your visit for a t-shirt, gift item purchase or kayak rental recently. Visit www.lakeannalife.com often because we will soon have many of our LKA Wear items available on line.

August 14 - Tom & Anne Neal Celebrate 10 Years

2010-08-15T07:55:00.001-07:00

Today we attended a celebration of Tom and Anne Neale's 10th wedding anniversary. It was at their home overlooking Lake Anna at the mouth of Contrary Creek and a fine gathering of LKA Gliterati.

This was also the first pig roast I'd been to in some years and the hog was done to perfection. There was pulled pork, ribs, potato salad, baked beans, three bean salad, green beans, cole slaw, banana pudding and cake made by the locally famous Pam Harlow.

Many Lakers and family members had come to mark the occasion and we were happy to be on the list. Anne is a trend-setter around these parts with a spirit we can all admire. Tom is one of the first Lake Anna visionaries and continues to work at his Lake Anna Realty at the age of 82.

I wish you both great days to come and thank you for your LKA promotions over the years.

The pic of the flower is something that struck me as particularly beautiful while at the party. Ann told me it was a Passion Flower. I am going to try and get a clipping started at my house.

August 13 - A Visit To Cocktail Cove Is Concerning

2010-08-15T06:53:00.000-07:00

Today I guided a father and 11-year-old daughter and took some time at the end of the trip for a little swim and visit to the popular Cocktail Cove. When I arrived I was happy to see no one there. Upon closer inspection it looks as if this spot however, has suffered a bit from overuse this summer.

At first glance you'll notice four rusty grills, several camp chairs, a plastic bin full of "noodles" and water toys, a fire ring, a swing and plenty of trees that have been cut down by enterprising folks that have decided to fashion this once pristine area into their idea of the perfect spot.

There's even a rake and someone has raked all the leaves and sticks away from the forest floor as well as created several paths back into the interior of the "island". I was afraid of what I'd find if I continued onward.

I did however, and I am going to get a bit harsh here - the folks that are defecating and not digging cat holes to bury it and the toilet paper should be banned from the spot. I counted six different spots where TP was present.

For God's sake, people, have some dignity. When you poop in the woods, dig a hole and bury it. This isn't some Third World country. I predict total loss of Cocktail Cove to the public if this behavoir continues. Dominion is just not going to put up with this kind of visitor. The islands are supposed to be off limits any way.

I left the area disgusted and a bit angry if you cannot tell. It really is one of the most lovely places on the lake but not for much longer when people abuse the privilege like they have.

I've included some pics and a video of the visit.

August 10 - Hot But Still Paddling!

2010-08-11T13:02:00.001-07:00

Geez! It's 100 degrees and you all are still calling for rentals! Just about every day we have vacationers and visitors to Lake Anna paddling our kayaks. Here's a the Hutchenson's with two Glides they paddled today. We have His & Her Glides with paddles and PFDs for sale at the store. See www.lakeannalife.com and click on Lake Anna Outfitters for the deal.

August 8 - Dick & JoAnn Get Some MoJo

2010-08-11T12:57:00.000-07:00

Today Dick and JoAnn B. returned to Lake Anna Outfitters after renting a kayak yesterday and promptly bought a Mojo and a Mojo Angler. These are two of our premium boats and the last two we had in stock. The Mojo Angler has a removable and adjustable console and three rod holders. The MoJo is the same 12'4" boat without the console and rod holders. These kayaks are stable and track true - great for flatwater use.

The shop was very busy this weekend with the new Lake Anna Outfitters tees and the Lake Anna rhinestone ladies shirt our top sellers. Remember, we have paddle boards for rent and for sale, plus the best gifts and clothing for LKA.

August 7 - Food Lion Updates

2010-08-07T09:37:00.000-07:00

Food Lion is coming to LKA. Here are the pics to prove it. The site at the intersection of Rt. 652 (Kentucky Springs Rd.) and Rt. 208 (New Bridge Rd.) has been busier than a bee hive this summer. Cinderblock walls have been going up the past two weeks.

The realignment of Rt. 652 is underway, too. It will eventually curve right toward the Food Lion (called New Bridge Landing) and reconnect with Rt. 208 across from Oak Grove Rd. De-acceleration lane construction is underway now, so be careful on the shoulders.

When will we be shopping at the new grocery store? My best guess is sometime in the spring of 2011 - about a year ahead of what I originally thought. Image that, a grocery store at Lake Anna. What's next - people paddling surf boards?

August 6 - Noreen & Liam Paddleboarding

2010-08-07T07:48:00.001-07:00

Today was a special day for me as it was the first of what I hope to be many spend offering paddle boarding lessons/tours. Noreen contacted us via email wanting to know if we had paddle boards for rent. We have two Emotion Traverse boards used for rentals (and two new ones for sale) and I had some time to paddle. Noreen brought her 10-year-old son, Liam with her and we set off from High Point Marina for a short paddle and swim. Along the way we were treated to close encounters with a bald eagle and a great blue heron.

Noreen, like many folks, have read about or seen paddle boards on the internet and was curious about how to do it. Paddle boarding is actually very easy. The 36" wide boards are super stable. The Traverse even has a under-deck waterproof storage hatch.

Any way, we had a grand time and those smiles are the proof. Thank you Noreen and Liam for the paddle and pics!

How Do We Get It All There?

2010-08-06T07:53:00.000-07:00

If you were wondering how we get all our gear to and from these destinations, check out our P.O.S.T. Gear Carrier. It's been retrofitted with high sides, new bearings and tires, plus when it's time to clean it out, it tilts. We love this trailer and hope it lasts a long time though many of our traveling companions don't like to be seen with us with it behind the Pathfinder!