Lake Geneva has been a refuge for many years.  When life just gets “too much” a forty five

minute drive on route 12 brings me to a lake that is consistently beautiful, season by season.  The town of Lake Geneva, is associated with the mansions built in the early 20th century by the wealthy/prestigious families that influenced Chicago, when the city was known as the “hog butcher to the world.”  That was before capital was global, flowing without impediment to be invested anywhere, disconnected from place.  The shops clustered along main street retain

the after-glow of a day when wealth was local.

Laura always stops by The Cornerstone Shop when we are in town.  The presentation of home decor merchandise, art work, and

fashion apparel makes visiting a visual feast.  I am surprised that Bruce, the owner seems to remember me.  We did have an extended conversation many years ago when he owned a business at another location in town. I too remember that conversation. Yesterday he approached me as I sat reading on a bench by the front entrance, and asked me what I was reading.  My book was about the ontology of the cell phone by Maurizio Ferraris. Bruce offered that he is a habitual reader and has a collection stored in his Kendle device.  He mentioned that sometimes he awakens at 3AM to read.  I was impressed.

I remembered the Barrique Wine Bar which overlooks the lake.  We enjoyed relaxing on their patio in the summer months, reading, having a glass of wine while admiring the expanse of the lake, buzzing with water craft.  Today we entered the quiet interior of the intimate dining space and each of us ordered a bowl of chili.  My glass of Reisling went perfectly with the chili that turned out to be unexpectedly delicious.  We were content to read for an hour.  Occasionally the sun pierced the gray clouds and the lake transformed into a plate of diamonds.

We often visit the Galerie Matisse, and Matisse Too when we are in town.  Bob is the owner, and is happy to engage in small talk about business and family.  There is a astonishing amount of high quality work displayed in this small gallery.  Bob has maintained relationships with artists for many years, and describes details of the back story on a piece of art when he is asked.  I look forward to seeing him and to the conversation that we will have. I always learn something new.