In Alabama it sometimes seems like summer starts around mid-April and continues through the end of October, but according to the calendar, summer is almost half over.

Aug. 6 is roughly the midpoint of the summer season, with autumn officially beginning Sept. 22.

I’m prone to complain about the heat, but I’m trying to enjoy the summer sunshine while it lasts. Saturday I got to experience a water sport I’ve never before been brave enough to try: riding a WaveRunner.

Driving the WaveRunner wasn’t in the cards – and if, like me, you don’t have your boating license, you might want to consider taking the boating course Saturday at Belgreen gym – but I sat on the back and held on tight. The sun’s rays beat down and lake water surged up around us as we roared through the waves, bouncing across boat wakes and tearing through the middle of Tims Ford Lake in Tennessee.

Every minute of it was amazing. We spent only about half an hour on the water before we motored back up to the dock and traded life jackets for lawn chairs, but it was a breath-taking experience.

It made me eager to try again sometime – maybe driving, once I become certified with the boating license, and maybe on one of our lakes right here in Franklin County.

This weekend was a family get-together in Tennessee, but it certainly makes me think about the amazing resources we have here in Franklin when it comes to water sports.

I spent no more than 15 minutes at Mon Dye boat ramp a couple weeks ago, snapping a quick picture of a couple kayakers for our Visitors and Newcomers Guide. It was all I could do not jump right in the water – despite my business casual attire.

There’s nothing like a day – or even half an hour – spent on the lake.

Whether in a kayak or on a WaveRunner, whether enjoying a little fishing or a little wake-boarding, don’t let summer pass you by without heading out to the lake.

You won’t be sorry.