lake cumberland

Episode 32: Molley and Chad close out Season 3 with their friend Chad Hopper.  As the weather changes and the Fall colors burst, State Dock on Lake Cumberland hosts a Poker Run.  It’s the last blow out event of the season.  Lake Life with Molley and Chad is a sponsor of the 2023 Poker Run.

Welcome to the Poker Run

Chad explains that the Lake Cumberland Poker Run is an event involving some really powerful boats on the lake.  It’s usually held over a weekend.  Molley and Chad made sure to publicize the podcast merch and all the swag from t-shirts, footballs and more at this year’s event.

This year, they decided to have fun at the dock party, rather than heading out on the water.  They had a great time with a big group of friends.  In keeping with the lake atmosphere, some of the partygoers were wearing fishnet bathing suits and a few were sporting thongs.  Chad and Molley talked about how much confidence it would take to wear one of those bathing suits.  Yep, not much more to say about that.

Molley mentions this year’s event included 150 boats.  Both Cigarette, Formula and Sunsation were sponsors.  There were a few MTIs in the poker run.  It’s worth going down just to watch some awesome boats.  This year, the tickets were only $50 for the weekend.  Chad recommends you start planning for the 2024 event.  It’s going to be a great time!

Dock vs. Water – Which is Better?

Molley asks if they have a vote for which experience they liked the best.  They’ve been out on the water in years past.  But this year was the full dock experience.  Chad comments about how much fun the dance floor at the dock was, thanks to a couple of great DJs (DJ Al and DJ Xtina).

Chad Hopper points out that it’s a long day, so why not consider doing both?  There’s time to get in some boating.  He really enjoys the boats and in reality, the entire event is a party.

Another one of their friends likes to work on motors.  The boats in this poker run had some great examples of pure muscle on the water.

One of the things Molley like is that both Thunder Run and the Poker Run bring some great boats to Lake Cumberland.  They’re both fast and beautiful.  If you come down for the week, you’ll be able to watch some of them without the crowd.  People love to talk about their boats and it’s a great way to expand the overall experience.  Molley, Chad and Chad take a little detour in the conversation to talk about some of the things they’ve learned and seen.

The Foam Football and Stickers Story

Molley describes the fun they had with the Lake Life with Molley and Chad foam footballs they brought to the Poker Run.  They handed them out and interacted with people waiting in line at the restaurant.  People absolutely loved them, along with some of the stickers they had.  Admittedly, the stickers were hit and miss, depending upon who was handing them out.

The Food Trucks Crushed It

There was a Mexican food truck and a barbecue truck that showed up with some terrific food.  Both are based in Russell Springs, Kentucky.  They added some variety to the State Dock restaurant (The Wheelhouse), which is always packed. 

Which Boat would Chad Hopper Buy?

Molley asks Hopper which one of the Poker Run boats he’d buy, if money were no object.  He really likes those Cigarette boats.  Chad is partial to the Formula boats.  Molley admits she’s still a Sunsation and MTI fan. 

Future Plans

Molley and Chad explain that they’ll have to miss the 2024 Poker Run because their daughter is getting married!  It’ll be the first one they’ve missed in about 10 years.  It’ll probably be worth it.

For the 2025 Poker Run, Molley thinks they should anchor a houseboat near the DJ booth on the dock.  The Chads talk about the prep work they’d do to get it ready for the weekend. 

Molley points out that the Jamestown water taxi operates until 1:00am to help all of you partygoers. 

Future Topics

Is there a topic or idea you’d like for us to discuss on the Lake Life with Molley and Chad Podcast?  We’d love to hear from you.  Molley likes the idea of talking to people on other lakes, outside of Kentucky.  There’s always something new to learn. 

As they close out today’s episode, Chad makes a great point.  Consider stopping by your favorite marina and picking up a few items to help them out.  The end of the season often has some great sales, but that also means business is getting ready to slow down.   Let’s make sure they make it through the winter and are able to come on strong next Spring.

Wow, can you believe this summer flew by so quickly?  It’s been a terrific time interviewing friends about other Kentucky lakes.  If you missed a few episodes, be sure to go back and listen to them.  We’d appreciate it if you’d consider sharing comments and links on your social media to help Lake Life with Molley and Chad to continue to grow.  Thanks for being part of all of it.

Friends, that’s a wrap for this episode and Season 3.  We’d like to thank Chad Hopper for guest hosting with us.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

Don’t forget to subscribe!

July 4th, 2022, newly single Ricky Griffis was out on the town with a group of acquaintances.  He was ready to relax and have fun. But when, by July 5th, Ricky hadn’t contacted family, “fun” was the last thing on anyone’s mind; they KNEW something was wrong. Sadly, they were right.

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Episode 31: Molley and Chad return to the Dock Crawl at State Dock Marina on Lake Cumberland, for the second year in a row.  This episode will feature interviews and comments from friends and new friends who came out to enjoy a wonderful tradition.

In a previous episode, you met Donzi Dale and Sandy.  They have a houseboat on the lake and invited Molley and Chad to use their boat as a home base during the event.  A special shout out to Mandy and Travis to introducing them to the Dock Crawl in 2022.  Their friend Kelly Smith was the interviewer during the 2023 event.  She did a terrific job.

Recon Duty with Mr. Barry

Truth be told, Barry Sinclair is from a different row on the dock (Row 200), but was doing some recon to see how things were shaping up and what the competition looked like this year.  Kelly, Molley and Chad welcomed him to the microphone to get his take on the event.

Barry started coming down to State Dock on Lake Cumberland in 1977.  They started by staying in the cottages and then bought a houseboat about 22 years ago.  They originally kept it at Jamestown, but decided to move to State Dock roughly 11 years ago.  He drives down from Cincinnati, OH every weekend.

In addition to the houseboat, he has a dual console runabout he keeps in a slip.  Barry’s son also has a boat in a nearby slip.  Barry’s youngest son was 2 weeks old when he had his first lake experience.  It’s safe to say he grew up on the water.  Molley mentions both of their children grew up around the water.  Now they’re in the 20s. 

Barry used to be into watersports, but as he’s gotten older is more about boatin’ and floatin’.  That phrase might just make it onto a t-shirt.  Be sure to check out the Ship Store on the Lake Life website.  He has a new grandson who’s 5 and half months old.  The kiddo has already been floatin’ on the water.

They talk about how important getting down to the lake is for the family.  If their family plans any weddings during the summer, Barry will usually send a gift and maybe take them out some other time.  We’ve spoken often about how Lake Life is such a fun mindset and once you begin, other priorities tend to get reshuffled.  Barry and his family have spent many Thanksgivings and holidays on the lake.  It’s truly a special place.

Before they wrap up with Barry, they ask about his boats.  He owns a dual console Scout and his Stardust houseboat.  His son has a center console Robalo.  Barry is getting ready to go down to the Ft. Lauderdale boat show.  The group ends with a brief discussion of lake homes vs. houseboats. 

Molley and Chad mention they’re getting ready for a 10-day catamaran trip with some friends in the British Virgin Islands.  Bob comments he’s be fortunate to have travelled all over the world, but Lake Cumberland is one of his favorite places.

What Does Chad Like Best about the Dock Crawl?

For Chad, it’s the entire event.  There’s so much going on and people to meet. 

Brody, Clifford and Melody Stop by for a Chat

Brody is in the 500 row, while Clifford and Melody are in the 300 row at the State Dock.  Brody’s also checking on the competition.  Melody mentions they have a cruiser.  Now, with the grandchildren, the make it down to the lake about every 3^rd weekend.  Brody has a middle console boat, a houseboat and an F4. 

Clifford’s been coming down to the lake for 12-15 years.  Molley asks what they each like about coming down to the lake.  Brody likes taking the boat out on the water.  He got his Kentucky boating license about a month ago. 

Melody explains they originally started with runabouts.  Life happened and it made getting a slip seem much more convenient.  Besides, Clifford doesn’t what a pool, so the lake does just fine.  Both Molley and Chad and Melody and Clifford talk about experiences like building a home and putting down flooring, which can seriously test the bonds of a marriage. 

What Advice They Would Offer to Someone Considering the Dock Life?

Clifford quickly says, “Just do it!”  Brody says, “Just come hang out with them.”  It’ll definitely show you how much fun Dock Life can be.  Melody mentions that coming down to the lake on the weekends is their vacation, rather than waiting all year for a week somewhere. 

It’s a life-style.  Extended family will begin to figure out that time on the water is important to you.  It all works out, but sometimes you have to take time to enjoy your investment.

Clifford needs to go put on his costume for the competition.  So, we wish them luck and might see them next year. 

Tim and Christine Join Us to Talk about Their Dock Crawl Experience

Tim and Christine Cole are here for their first dock crawl.  Christine wishes there were even more rows.  Their slip is in the 300 row.  They had a Regal Cruiser, but now they have a houseboat and an Eliminator power boat. 

Tim and Christine have spent most of their lives on the water.  They’re from Richmond, Indiana.  They drive 4 and a half hours to get to Lake Cumberland.  Tim and Christine try to make it down almost every weekend.  They like to get to the lake on Thursdays and return home on Sundays. 

Tim explains that they met back in 1994 and used to go to Dale Hollow for roughly 6 years.  Christine has known Sandy since middle school, so they decided to start coming to Lake Cumberland, instead of driving so far.

Chad mentions that he’s been coming to the lake with Molley’s family for probably 30 years.  Molley grew up on the water and Chad married into a lake family.  Eventually, the decided to buy a lake home in the area and have never looked back. 

As the Dock Crawl party kicks in, the noise got pretty loud.  They made the decision to pack it up and call it a night, at least for the podcast!

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We’d like to thank our friends and all of our new friends for guest hosting with us.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

Don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 28:  It’s time for another episode of Lake Life with Molley and Chad! In today’s episode, we’re joined by our friends Fran, Rob and Adam to talk about Lake Cumberland, in Kentucky.  This is a continuation of our tour of lakes across Kentucky and Tennessee.  It's time for a deep dive into what makes this lake so special.

Please note:  This conversation includes a few, random curse words.  We apologize if you find them offensive.  Additionally, we thought we'd let any parents with young kids know, before you begin playing the episode.

Lake Cumberland Is a Special Place

Molley and Chad are recording this episode at Grider Hill Marina.  Chad talks about why Lake Cumberland is her favorite place to go.  It’s one of the prettiest lakes in Kentucky.  Although Molley and Adam agree that Dale Hollow is a close second. 

Adam’s been coming on the lake since 1985.  His buddy’s parents had been coming to Grider Hill, since the early 1970s.  Adam bought a 1963 Marionette that took a lot of work to get running.  He talks about his experiences and why he really likes this lake.  He and his friends would come to the lake and ski all day and grill steaks in the evenings. 

Fran and Rob have been coming to Lake Cumberland for the past 3 seasons.  They rode around with Adam a lot.  At the time, Fran and Rob had a pontoon.  They eventually purchased a 1986 Wellcraft St. Tropez, which was much better to sleep on compared to the pontoon.

Chad asks Fran and Rob about their favorite areas on the lake.  They like 76 Falls.  It’s close to Grider Hill Marina.  That’s a plus for them because their Wellcraft doesn’t have the power of other boats on the lake.  Rob comments about how much he enjoys the opportunity to go to sleep and wake up on the water.  It’s worth the 3-hour drive.

For Adam, even though it’s a 5-6 hour drive to get to the lake, the serenity and ability to unwind is worth it.  However, the duration depends upon how many Walmarts or Dollar Generals he hits on the way. 

Chad comments that it’s a 2-hour drive, unless Molley’s driving.

Lake Cumberland Marinas and Campgrounds

While this might not capture all of them, here’s a good list of marinas:

  Alligator 1

Alligator 2 (also known as Wolf Creek Marina )

Conley Bottom

Lee’s Ford

·      State Dock

·      Burnside

·      Somerset

·      Rowena

·      Grider Hill

There are only 3 recognized campgrounds on Lake Cumberland:

·      Pulaski County Park

·      Lake Cumberland State Park

·      Conley Bottom Campground

Favorite Activities at the Lake

Adam talks about how much he loves to cook.  He always fixes nice meals.  One of his favorite recipes is Sausage Jalapeño Bombs, which he cooks right there on his boat.  The smell usually attracts other boaters for a quick sample.  Being able to share food and meals with friends is all part of what makes this so special for Adam.

Molley talks about how Grider Hill Marina, build in the early 1950s, was one of the last family-owned docks on Lake Cumberland.  It was bought out a few years ago by a company called Safe Harbor. 

There’s a lot to do in and around the lake area.  One of Adam’s favorite activities is to boat over to Cemetery Point at sunset.  There are many places people love to visit and explore on Lake Cumberland.  Having the chance to watch the sunset, while you’re on the water is a terrific experience.

What Other Lakes Have You Visited?

Fran has visited Dale Hollow.  She and Rob have also been to Barren River Lake and Rough River Lake.  She’s not a fan of boating on the river.  Adam comments you’re either a river rat or a bathtub boater (lake boater). 

It’s Not All Fun and Games

Adam and Rob talk about the time their engine stalled in some pretty deep water.  They were half-way back to their destination, and pretty far from shore.  The question was whether they should have tried to repair it or just toss out the anchor and anchor light.  The problem was the depth where they were at the time.

In another incident, Adam had some boat trouble and ended up swimming the boat back.  They sometimes refer to him as Aquaman!

Rob really enjoys the Grider Hills area, especially when he can get a few hours on the boat before everyone wakes up. 

Places to Eat around Lake Cumberland

During the conversation, a few places are mentioned. Fran mentions that Junction Station is a gas station restaurant that serves a pretty good breakfast.  The Eli Country Store is known for its cinnamon roll pancakes.  If you cross in to Tennessee, you can find a steakhouse.  It’s only about 25 minutes from the marina. 

Molley asks again about the boats the guests own.  Fran and Ron have the ’86 Wellcraft St. Tropez.  Adam has a ’73 Trojan Express Cruiser.  And at this point, the conversation goes off the rails for a bit.

Choosing Lake Life for the Family

If you decide to choose lake life is can bring the family closer together and create lasting memories.  There’s definitely a sense of community at the lake.  There are events like the dock crawl where people get together for friendship and a little competition. 

Fran explains that their children have grown up now.  Time at Lake Cumberland gives them the chance to unplug from the day-to-day world, reconnect to each other and to create new experiences together. 

The group talks about when they begin to feel that sense of “we’re going to the lake.”  You can feel the stress melting away. 

Adam explains how the Lake Life actually chose him.  He hasn’t turned back since.

Chad tells a story about the time Rob and Fran’s boat started to sink.  A clamp came off.  They didn’t realize it until the marine assist boat was towing them back to the marina.  It definitely spoiled some of the joy of the trip.

Chad explains how a guy with a jet ski basically took over the ramp, recently.  There are simply things you need to understand about launching and trailering your boat/PWC.  Check out the episode on Ramp Etiquette.

More Fun Facts about Lake Cumberland

The sunsets are beautiful.  The lake actually has more shoreline than FLORIDA.  (Yep, Google it).  The people really make this such a great place to visit.  This sense of community fosters a feeling of belonging and creates a support system that enhances the lake life experience.

Chad comments that this sense of community is common to a lot lakes across the state.   However, there’s always that one guys at the ramp.  Check out the episode titled, Don’t Be That Guy!

Molley notices that with the dock, the group really doesn’t have to deal with the ramp.  Fran has a pop-up wagon they use to bring everything from the cars straight down to the boat.  

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We’d like to thank our friends Fran, Rob and Adam for guest hosting with us.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

Don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 26:  In this episode, Molley and Chad continue their focus on highlighting several different lakes in Kentucky and Tennessee, Trasee and Fess are here to provide insights and recommendations about Norris Lake.

Norris Lake, located in Tennessee, is a popular destination for lake enthusiasts and vacationers alike. With its vast size, muddy waters, and unique floating communities, Norris Lake offers a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking a lakeside getaway.

Trasee and Fess have been going to Norris Lake since 2005, giving them a wealth of experience and knowledge about the area. They own a Sea Ray 220 Sundeck, which is not their first boat. They talk about their earlier days with a smaller boat (Sea Ray 190).

When asked why they chose Norris Lake out of all the lakes in the region, Trasee explains that they were introduced to it by a friend. They used to gather with friends for Labor Day vacations, exploring different places each year. Eventually, they heard about Norris Lake and decided to give it a try. They initially had a challenging experience with low water levels and muddy conditions, but they fell in love with the lake and have been returning ever since.

Norris Lake is a man-made lake, spanning 33,000 acres with 809 miles of shoreline. There are many marinas scattered across the lake, with Trasee and Fess admitting that they have only visited five out of the twenty-one marinas available. They also mention that all marinas have boat ramps, making it convenient for boaters to access the lake.

Trasee and Fess have a home in Andersonville.  It’s near the middle of the lake.  They have easy access to at least 5 marinas.

The Floating Communities on Norris Lake

One unique feature of Norris Lake is the presence of floating communities. There are approximately 2,100 floating houses on the lake, and many marinas host these communities. The hosts inquire about Trasee and Fess's thoughts on the floating houses, and they reveal that they were initially intrigued by the idea but changed their minds after speaking to people who had experience with them.

Lake Like Is Fun and Convenient

Lake life is fun and convenient. Trasee and Fess discuss their love for the lake and the reasons why they chose to embrace the lake life lifestyle. Their stories highlight the enjoyment and convenience that comes with living near the water.

Trasee's love for the water began at a young age when she had the opportunity to spend time on a friend's boat. She quickly realized how much fun it was and became hooked on the water. Fess, on the other hand, grew up as a river rat, spending his time on the Ohio River and Kentucky River. When Trasee expressed her desire to explore other bodies of water, they decided to venture into lake life.  They spent 12-13 years boating on the river, but Trasee really wanted to go back to the lake.

The convenience of lake life is further emphasized by the accessibility of the water. Most places on Norris Lake allow residents to walk down to their docks, making it easy to enjoy the water without having to travel far. This ease of access is a significant advantage for those who love water activities and want to spend as much time on the lake as possible.

Fess mentions that the lake is controlled by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which uses it for hydroelectricity. This control ensures that the lake's water levels are regulated, providing a stable and enjoyable experience for boaters and residents. Additionally, Norris Lake is known for its clear waters, thanks to the Powell River and Clinch River that feed into it. This clarity adds to the beauty and allure of the lake.

Lake activities are relaxing and fun

Trasee and Fess mention that they are pleasure boating enthusiasts. They enjoy cruising around the lake, stopping to relax and have a good time. When they have guests or visitors, they bring out rafts, tubes, and skis for more adventurous water activities. Lake activities can cater to both those seeking relaxation and those looking for more excitement.

Chad and Molley also enjoy floating on a giant mat or lily pad. They describe how it can be a fun activity for both adults and children. Trasee and Fess mention that when adults are on the mat, it turns into a floating bar, with everyone enjoying their drinks and conversation. This highlights the social aspect of lake activities and how they can bring people together for a good time.

Trasee and Fess also mention their favorite spot on the lake called the Big Water, which offers beautiful scenery and a chance to swim and relax. They enjoy exploring different parts of the lake and taking in its size and beauty. They appreciate the fact that Norris Lake has remote areas where they can escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature.

Advice to New Boaters on Norris Lake

One of the main advantages of boating on Norris Lake is the ease of access. Unlike other bodies of water, such as the Ohio River, Norris Lake does not have a strong current, making it much easier to navigate in and out of with a boat on a trailer. This is particularly beneficial for new boaters who may not have as much experience maneuvering their boat. The absence of a current also means that there are no difficult angles to navigate when getting the boat onto the trailer.

Additionally, the lake offers a peaceful and serene environment for boating. While weekends can be busy with other boaters, it is still possible to find coves and hideaways to escape the crowds and enjoy some solitude.  It’s great to go out early in the morning to avoid the rush and enjoy the calmness of the lake. They love sitting out and watching the sunset, highlighting the beauty and tranquility of Norris Lake.

For new boaters, Trasee and Fess suggest avoiding going out on a holiday weekend for the first time, as these times can be particularly crowded and overwhelming. Instead, they recommend choosing a quieter time to get familiar with the lake and its navigation. It is also important to scope out the area ahead of time and know where the rental and dock are located. This can help prevent any confusion or getting lost on the water.

In terms of the lake itself, Norris Lake offers a unique experience compared to other lakes in Kentucky. Trasee and Fess have visited other lakes such as Lake Cumberland and Dale Hollow and Taylorsville Lake.  They prefer for Norris Lake due to its distinct features. Norris Lake has many fingers and coves, providing opportunities for exploration and discovering hidden spots. In contrast, Dale Hollow is described as a big bowl with islands, lacking the same level of diversity in its landscape.

Chad always brings up a story about Molley at Dale Hollow. After a long day of enjoying the lake, she described the water as feeling thicker, possibly due to the minerals present in it. This unique characteristic sparked a debate about whether to speed up or slow down the boat, showcasing the interesting conversations and experiences that can arise from boating.

If You Could Buy Any Boat, What Would You Buy?

Chad asks them about their dream boats.  Trasee immediately says, a Sea Ray 270 SLX.  Fess loves the Sea Ray 34 Sundancer.  He thinks it a great cruiser option for the lake.

Fess talks about Froggie’s Patio Bar and Stardust Marina on Lake Norris.  The group talks about how people are accessorizing their slips in very creative ways.  It may not be the most relaxing, but it’s another great aspect of the Lake Life.

Boating Creates Lasting Family Memories

Trasee talks about their experiences boating with their son, Layne, and how it has brought them closer together as a family. They mention that when their son was younger, he would always go out boating with them, bringing along his friends as well. They recall one particular memory of having a group of friends out on the boat, with one of the younger brothers refusing to get off the tube. This memory highlights the fun and excitement that boating can bring to a family, creating moments that are cherished for years to come.

There’s also the freedom and relaxation that boating provides. Boating allows you to escape from your daily routines and enjoy the peace and tranquility of being out on the water. They talk about how boating has become a way for them to reconnect as a family, especially now that they have a place at Norris Lake. Having a place to stay at the lake makes it easier for them to get away and spend quality time together. They express their excitement at the prospect of their son joining them more often now that they have a place at the lake.

Lake Norris is also known for having some great food at the marina restaurants.  Most of the marinas offer some form of local entertainment.  Trasee talks about why Shanghai Marina is one of her favorites.  There’s a wide variety of food and settings. 

Community and Friendship at the Lake

There’s a sense of community and friendship that can be found at the lake. Boating allows you to meet new people and form lifelong friendships. The boating community is always willing to help each other out and offer advice. They also talk about how boating has provided them with opportunities to have conversations and create memories that they may not have had otherwise.

Memorable Lake Adventures and Laughter

Trasee recalls a summer where they realized they weren't using their boat as much as they would like. They reflect on the time and effort it takes to prepare the boat for each outing, but ultimately decide that the memories and experiences they have on the lake make it all worth it. They discuss the tough decisions they have to make, but ultimately conclude that the sense of community and friendship they have found at the lake is invaluable.

Greatest Lake Life Memory

Molley asks them to share a key memory involving Lake Life. Fess shares a memorable experience of being at the lake with friends. They recall a Labor Day weekend where they witnessed a friend sitting in a motorized tube, surrounded by the NFL cheerleaders from Cincinnati. The image of this friend, with a hat on, cigar in hand, and reading a book, is a source of laughter and amusement for the hosts. They remember this moment and it has become a story they share whenever they get together.

Trasee shares the memory of their son learning to ski for the first time. This moment is etched in their memory and brings a sense of pride and joy. She also recalls jumping off a bridge at Norris Lake, an activity that is common at many lakes. Despite hurting herself in the process, the adventure and laughter that accompanied these experiences was worth it.

Molley and Chad describe a time when Chad decided to jump off a high spot, when he thought Molley was cheering him on.  Turns out she was trying to tell him she was out of film.  Chad had to jump again!

Chad also discuss the fun and excitement of tubing at the lake. They share stories of tubing with friends and the determination they all had to hold on and not let go. They recall the sheer joy and laughter that comes from being on a tube, even if it means getting whipped around and potentially hurting themselves.

Fess talks about the time their nieces and the fun they have had with them on the lake. They mention how hilarious it was when the girls confidently claimed that no one could knock them off.  But, they had to stop so the girls could fix their hair.

Defining Which Job Each Person Has

Fess mentions how they used to trailer their boat until they bought a condo with a slip and lift. They describe this as a game changer, emphasizing the convenience and ease it brings to their boating experience.

The conversation then turns to the roles each person plays in their boating adventures. They mention how one person handles the truck while the other handles the trailer. They share stories of their partners' impressive skills in maneuvering the boat and trailer, creating a sense of admiration and camaraderie. This highlights the sense of community and friendship that can be found at Norris Lake, as people come together to share their love for boating.

Closing Words

Trasee and Fess invite everyone they can to come and enjoy the lake with them. This highlights the inclusive and welcoming nature of Norris Lake, where people can come together and create lasting memories.  We’re looking forward to creating even more memories and laughter in the upcoming summer and cherish the moments they have already experienced at the lake.

EPISODE SPONSOR INFORMATION:

We’d like to thank today’s sponsor and encourage you to contact them for your Lake Cumberland real estate needs.

Walker Realty

Website: https://walker-realty.com/

Phone Number:  (270) 384-3661

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We’d like to thank our friends Trasee and Fess for guest hosting with us.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

Don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 25:  Welcome to Lake Life with Molley and Chad! In today’s episode, we’re joined by Amy Walker and Sherri West from Walker Realty in Columbia, Kentucky. They discuss importance of having experience and education when planning to start your lake life experience. The two real estate agents advise the couple about locations, boat storage, budgeting for second homes, the importance of speaking to an accountant in order to have realistic expectations and the reasons to consider the maintenance of two homes. 

Work with a Realtor

When it comes to finding the perfect second home, working with a realtor is essential. Realtors (like Amy Walker) have experience and education in the field, and can provide invaluable advice to those looking for a second home. 

Sherri West has been in the real estate business for 20 years, making her the perfect fit for guiding people through the process of finding a second home. She explained that it is important to have realistic expectations, and to start smaller and under budget. She also suggested that people consult with their accountant before beginning their search, in order to make sure they are financially prepared for the purchase. 

A realtor can help guide people through these considerations and provide advice on what to look for. In addition, a realtor can provide invaluable insight into the local area. They can provide information on the community, local businesses, and even the best places to eat. Realtors are also familiar with the local market and can provide valuable advice on the best time to buy or sell. 

Overall, working with a realtor is the best way to ensure a successful second home purchase. 

Use a Realtor to Protect Yourself

Amy explains that it’s important to understand the legal implications of the purchase. Contracts for second home purchases can be complex and require a thorough understanding of the law. A realtor can provide the necessary guidance and assistance to make sure the contract is properly understood and followed. This can help protect buyers from potential legal issues down the road. Realtors also have a higher standard of ethics when it comes to helping buyers. They are obligated to provide all the information they can to help buyers make an informed decision. This includes providing honest advice about the pros and cons of a property and helping buyers find the best deal for their budget. 

Realtors can help buyers narrow down their search, provide advice on the best properties, and help buyers make an informed decision. Realtors can also provide assistance with the inspection process, ensuring that buyers are aware of any potential issues with the property.   

Another consideration is whether the community’s HOA will allow you to VRBO (commercially rent) your property, when you’re not using it.  It would be a problem if you planned on the rental income to offset the mortgage payment and related expenses, only to find out the HOA doesn’t allow it or is overly restrictive.

Finally, realtors can help buyers understand the local taxes and regulations that may affect their purchase. In conclusion, realtors have experience and can provide invaluable advice on the local area. 

Be Nice to the Corps

One of the most important things to remember when purchasing a second home is to be nice to the Corps. The Corps of Engineers owns a certain amount of land near the lake, and they are responsible for the safety of the area. It is important to be respectful of their regulations and guidelines, as they are the ones who will ultimately decide if a private dock or other structures can be built on the property. 

It is also important to remember that most lakes in Kentucky do not have easy access to the water. While there are properties that are grandfathered in and have access, most people will need to build a ramp or zip line down to the water. It is also important to remember that clearing trees or other vegetation is not allowed and can result in hefty fines. By being aware of these considerations and regulations, people can make sure that their second home purchase is a success. 

Relationships are Key in Real Estate

Relationships are key in real estate. This is something that Sherri and Amy, two real estate agents from Jamestown, Kentucky, know all too well.  Walker Realty is over 50 years old and knows the surrounding communities very well.  They’re part of those communities.

Sherri was working at a newspaper when a friend who was also a broker suggested she try selling houses. Amy was a teacher for 29 and a half years before getting into real estate. In both cases, their friends saw something in them that made them perfect for the job. The relationships that Sherri and Amy have built with their clients have been invaluable. They have made lifelong friends and have been rewarded with repeat customers. 

Relationships are also essential for building trust. Sherri and Amy understand the importance of treating their clients the way they want to be treated. This means being honest and open about the properties they are showing and not trying to push a sale. In the end, relationships are key in real estate. They are essential for building trust, earning respect, and making lifelong friends. By treating their clients the way they want to be treated, Sherri and Amy have been able to build successful careers in real estate. 

Start Small and Location Matters

When it comes to real estate, a common piece of advice is to start small and location matters. It is important to find a place that is close to the lake, has a ramp and is modest in budget. This will help to ensure that the buyer can move up in the future if they want to. It is also important to consider Airbnb-ing (VRBO) the property to generate income while it is not being used. Sherri and Amy have all seen firsthand how location and starting small can be beneficial. They understand that the closer one is to the lake, the more it feels like a vacation. They also know that double-wides are typically not allowed in areas that have restrictions because they do not allow for Airbnb. 

By starting small and being mindful of location, buyers can get the most out of their lake life. It is important to consider the restrictions of the area, the budget, and the potential to generate income. With the right relationships and knowledge, buyers can find the perfect place to call home. 

Small Town Vibe Near the Lake

Jamestown, Kentucky is the perfect example of a small town vibe near the lake. It is conveniently located near the lake Cumberland and has everything a person needs. From the sidewalks to the restaurants, Jamestown is full of love and comfort. It is easy to get to the lake from Jamestown, as the county is divided up into areas. There are plenty of amenities nearby, including ramps and storage for boats.  

When looking for a lake home, it is important to consider the restrictions of the area. Some land may be restricted against building a storage shed for a boat, so it is important to look into these restrictions before making a purchase. Financing for a double wide or trailer is also a bit more stringent and may require a higher interest rate. It is also important to consider the budget when looking for a lake home.  

It is not advisable to overextend yourself, as it is no fun to be stuck in a house you cannot afford. It is important to find a place that is within your budget and that meets your needs. For example, if you’re into water sports, you may need to consider how far you have to travel to get to your boat. 

Finally, it is important to consider the potential to generate income. For example, one could build a pole barn in ten years and store all their toys. This could be a great way to generate income, as well as to enjoy the lake.  

The small town vibe near the lake is an ideal place to call home. With the right relationships and knowledge, buyers can find the perfect place to call home. Jamestown, Kentucky is the perfect example.

Interview Multiple Realtors

When it comes to buying a home near a lake, interview multiple realtors to get an understanding of the area and to ensure that the contract is properly written (including mineral rights). Real estate agents have a wealth of knowledge and experience with the area, and they can help buyers find the perfect home for their needs. With the right realtor, buyers can find the perfect place to call home. 

Research Budget Needs Carefully

Molley stresses the importance of understanding your budget.  When looking for a home near a lake, it is important to research budget needs carefully. Buyers should take into account all of the bills that come along with a second home, such as electricity, water, internet, and other amenities. Additionally, buyers should consider the size of the home and if it will accommodate the number of guests they plan to have. Also think about the appliances and furniture that will be needed, as well as the food and other supplies that may be needed.  Finally, is this a house you’ll be able to grow into as the future unfolds?

Looking for a Realtor for Your Lake Home?

Contact Amy Walker:  (270) 378-2148

Contact Sherri West:   (270) 566-2389

Visit Their Website:    https://walker-realty.com/

Visit Their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walkerrealtycolumbia

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We’d like to thank our friends Amy and Sherri for guest hosting with us.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining.   

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

Don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 21:  This episode is Part 2 of the interviews Molley and Chad conducted from the Lake Cumberland State Dock Dock Crawl 2022 event.  People who embrace the lake life love talking about their boats, the experience and what makes lake life so special. 

Note:  This event is definitely a party atmosphere.  They had a great time experiencing the fun and conducting interviews for the podcast.  Some of the interviews may not be suitable for children, so you may want to listen to Dock Crawl episodes when they’re not around. 

Did you miss Part 1 of this Molley and Chad at this event?  Click this link to listen to Part 1 of the State Dock Dock Crawl 2022.

Interview with Susan and Jeff

These two literally just met before sitting down for an interview.  Susan doesn’t own a boat, but she’s staying with friends who have boats.  If she were to win the lottery, Susan says she’d buy a houseboat to enable all of her friends to get together on the lake.  Jeff would also like to buy a houseboat with his lottery winnings.  He’s currently experiencing life on the water with his kayak.

Susan loves being in a cove on the lake, where the water is calm and relaxing.  It would be ideal to have just a couple of other boats anchored along with her.  She’d be able to play her own music without competing with the other boaters.

Jeff went to a poker run, last year, for the first time.  He loved it!  They rented a houseboat and had a great time.  There was at least 15 people from several different states.  Jeff’s owned a couple of boats, in the past.  One of them was a fishing boat.  Unfortunately, he struggles to find time to use it because of all of the activities with the kids.

Interview with Courtney and Andrew (and Scooter)

Courtney is helping to run the event this year.  Her mom, Tina, actually started the Dock Crawl 6 years ago to help people to really get people to know each other at State Dock on Lake Cumberland.  Unfortunately, Tina was injured in a boating accident during a poker run, in August.  She’s recovering well and hopes to be back, next year.

Courtney admires her mom.  Tina is definitely a free-spirt.  The first year of the event, the Dock Crawl just involved 1 row of boaters.  It continued to grow each year since then as more people joined in began making it the event it is today.

The pandemic caused them to postpone the event in 2020.  In 2021, the event exploded with people and boats.  Andrew explains that the State Dock Dock Crawl usually begins on the 600 row each year. 

Courtney and Andrew met through mutual friends, five years ago.  They both grew up on Lake Cumberland.  They had some interesting things in common and it lead to a great relationship.

If Andrew wins the lottery, he would buy a 388 Skater Powerboat.  Courtney is in complete agreement.  Their goal is to go fast!  Molley describes a recent visit to the Miami Boat Show.  An optimistic sales rep did his best to get them into a new boat for poker runs. 

Molley asks Courtney about the impact of the Dock Crawl on the local community.  The most important aspect is how it brings everyone together, according to Courtney.  The dock is big, so this is a terrific opportunity to meet people from other rows.  Friendships are made every year. The entire event makes it such a terrific time to enjoy the lake life on Lake Cumberland.  Chad explains why he loves Lake Cumberland.

Courtney’s favorite activity is just floating at the dam.  Andrew talks about watching the sunset around 8PM on the water.  It’s a great way to finish the day.

Molley asks the couple what they’d do, if they didn’t have the lake life.  Courtney knows they’d be on the water somewhere.  They are really centered around the water.  She and Andrew are starting a new company, Aqua Supply Co.  They’ll offer detail products, boating products, apparel and lots of boat-related items. 

The group talks about a houseboat poker run that used to take place on the lake.  Scooter is a lake veteran and has been around for years.  The year Scooter’s team won the houseboat poker run, he was actually skiing behind it at the time.  Scooter owns a Stardust houseboat.  It’s a terrific boat. 

Courtney asks Molley and Chad what kind of boat they’d buy if they won the lottery.  Chad wants a big pontoon with a couple of 600s on the back.  Molley would buy several boats.  Her first choice would be a 38’ Formula open bow. 

Andrew talks about how he and Courtney actually used to work a State Dock, at the same time, years ago.  He actually knew her parents before he met her.  Andrew worked as a houseboat captain and Courtney was the radio operator for the dock.  She always remembered his sunglasses. 

Interestingly, Andrew helped with Top Chef, season 16, episode 8, called Whatever Floats Your Boat, including the captains from Below Deck.

Molley asks if they had any advice for a new boater or someone considering buying a boat.  Andrew quickly answers, “Start!”  Just make the decision to do it.  It’s about having fun.  Courtney comments how people at the dock will be more than willing to help you learn and figure things out. 

We’d like to thank our friends for helping to make this episode possible.  Be sure to check out Part 1 and be sure to come back for Episode 22 (in 2 weeks) for more of our interviews during the Lake Cumberland State Dock Dock Crawl 2022.

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

Don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 20:  In this episode, Molley and Chad record from the Lake Cumberland State Dock Dock Crawl 2022 event.  It’s definitely a party atmosphere.  They had a great time experiencing the fun and conducting interviews for the podcast.  Some of the interviews may not be suitable for children, so you may want to listen to Dock Crawl episodes when they’re not around. 

Molley mentions Mandy and Travis from Episode 15 invited them to participate in the Dock Crawl this year.  Molley and Chad interviewed several people who are annual slip renters at the State Dock.  This was definitely a team effort and we’d like thank everyone who helped to make this possible.

Interview with Tammy and Scott Auberry

Tammy and Scott are from Bardstown, Kentucky.  They have a slip in the 300 row.  They love the neighbors they have at the dock.  Tammy and Scott love the Lake Life on State Dock.  Chad thinks it’s one of the nicest docks in the area.  It’s a true community.  Scott explains that lake people are lake people.  They become a second family. 

Their Advice for Future Boaters

Don’t neglect the opportunity to get a boat.  Scott says you need to get to a slip on the 300 row.  It doesn’t matter what size boat you get.  Once you get a taste for the Lake Life, you’ll never leave.

Tammy shares a brief story.  They had known about each other for a while.  They finally started dating and got married in 2021.  Tammy commissioned a song for Scott.  She sent it to Nashville to record it.  It turned out awesome.  Scott heard it for the first time, last weekend.  Tammy wrote the outline for the lyrics.  It’s become “their” song.  Chad included some of the song in the track in this episode.

Interview with Donzi Dale and Sandy

The interviews were recorded on Dale and Sandy’s houseboat.  Dale refurbished the boat and it’s terrific.  Dale and Sandy just got their 300 slip this year.  They’ve used rows 200 and 500, but the 300 row is their favorite.

Dale and Sandy are from West Chester, OH and come down to the lake pretty much every weekend.  They try to head to the dock on Thursdays.  Interestingly, they come down pretty much year-round.  The people are their favorite part of the Lake Life experience. 

What’s the One Landmark that Lets Them Exhale

Both Sandy and Dale agree it’s the Mt. Vernon exit sign.  That’s when they know they’re back to the lake, even though it’s an hour or so away from the Lake Cumberland.  It’s right off I-75 on the backroads.  Molley and Chad travel from Louisville.  Chad says their landmark is on 127 as they come out of Liberty, KY.  That’s when the cell signal goes out and Molley finally has to stop working. 

Dale comments about how the people really make this such a fun experience.  Similar to Tammy and Scott, the dock community is like a family.

Molley Asks Dale about Their Other Boat

They also have a 38’ Donzi, which is how Dale got his nickname.  They love participating in poker runs (listen to Episode 10 about Poker Runs and other events).  Dale says they’ve done them in the Bahamas, Key West and all across the country.

Chad and Dale agree Lake Cumberland is hard to beat.  All of the lakes will be different, but Lake Cumberland is something special.  They discuss the various types of boating and this houseboat may have convinced Chad and Molley to seriously consider getting one.

The Dock Craw is actually a fun competition and people use it to unwind and simply enjoy the Lake Life.

If Dale and Sandy Won the Lottery, What Boat Would They Buy?

Dale quickly answers he’d buy a bigger houseboat.  Sandy immediately agrees. 

Their Advice for Someone Deciding to Buy a Boat

They both agree the new boater will love the boat and the people.  Boaters are boaters.  Once you experience it, you’ll finally understand it.

Going Remote at the State Dock Dock Crawl

Molley explains that getting the remote microphones connected was something they really wanted to do for these next segments.  Again, the language is a bit salty, so it’s not for young listeners.

Interview with The Cheerleaders and Others

The first interview group is Matthew, Sean, Eric and Shawn are from Cincinnati.  The theme for the 300 row is Animal House.  As you can tell, the party is definitely in full-effect. 

Molley then took the opportunity to speak with Key and his wife, Karen.  They are introducing the crowd to the Dean Wormer’s shot.  Key is from northern Wisconsin.  He’s been coming down to Lake Cumberland for about 7-8 years.  Key has a Formula cuddy.  They also have a house near Jamestown.

We’d like to thank our friends for helping to make this episode possible.  Be sure to come back for Episode 21 (in 2 weeks) for the conclusion of our interviews during the Lake Cumberland State Dock Dock Crawl 2022.

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

Don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 17:  In this episode, Molley and Chad speak with Jim and Becky Norris about what got them started with lake life.  They also discuss the joy they get from watching friends and family enjoy the lake.  It’s a definite theme all of us love.  The episode was recorded in the lake house at Cumberland.

What started the Lake Life for Jim and Becky?

Jim begins by explaining how Becky and her friends introduced him to it at Rough River.  Just like Chad, he married into it.  Becky comments that her high school friend had a boat and they spent a lot of time on the water with Theresa and Gary.  They camped and learn a lot about boating from them. The four of them spent time at Rough River, Barron River Lake and Green River Lake. 

Jim got his first ski lesson at Rough River behind a Checkmate boat.  It was a powerful boat to use for skiing in the early 80’s.

What was the first boat they bought?

In 1986, they visited a boat show and bought a 19’ Bayliner with a V-8 for their wedding present.  They kept it for 18 years.  The boat is still in the family.  It’s had multiple owners, but it still ripping across the water.  Molley remembers how everyone had to sit upfront in that boat when someone was trying to slalom, so the boat would plane out faster. 

Later, they purchased a 1994, 24’ Sea Ray.  His son’s family still has that boat.  They wanted a longer boat for a smoother ride.  Today, Jim and Becky have a 2009 277 Islander. 

Have they always been weekend warriors?

Jim remembers how they’d head to Taylorsville Lake, after work on a Tuesday or during the week.  But most of the time, it was a weekend activity for both boating and camping. 

What are the names of the lakes they’ve visited?

Becky recalls they used to go to Center Hill Lake for camping and house boating.  In addition to Barren and Green, they’ve also been to Dale Hollow Lake, and Nolin Lake.  They want to visit Norris Lake.  Jim and his brother have fished on Kentucky Lake. 

Becky describes her unplanned trip down to rescue Jim, after one of his trips to Kentucky Lake.  Shout out to John Deere for pulling 2 trucks and a Bayliner that night!

What they’re favorite lake, so far?

Jim says his favorite is Lake Cumberland, followed by Center Hill and Green.  Becky agrees that Cumberland has her heart.  Her favorite spot is night boating at the dam.  Jim talks about when they had a house boat and would pull up to Low Gap Island and start a campfire on the beach.

What advice would they share with someone thinking about buying a boat? 

Jim starts by saying, “Pay Attention.”  There’s a lot to learn, so get to know your checklists.  Becky also says you can learn a lot by being a passenger.  Take advantage of the opportunity to try driving or other boating activities.

What’s their favorite memory or trip involving the lake?

Becky says they’ve been boating since 1986, so there are a lot of memories.  Returning from their cruise to join their friends at the lake is a special memory for her.  She also recounts seeing her daughter get up on skis for the first time.  She also remembers their son Bradley tubing.  Now, it’s about watching the grandkids developing a love of the water.

Jim says he can take you to the exact spot Leslie got up for the first time.  She was only 7 or 8 years old.  He also remembers the first time she was able to slalom.

Chad talks about how special it is to watch the kids conquering those challenges and the expressions on their faces when they finally do it.

Jim talks about the first-time Bradley got air while tubing.  Molley also talks about how her kids grew up differently, especially when it came to skiing.  Some of them take to it better than others.

Is there something they wished they’d known when they were just getting started?

Jim wishes he’d realized how important the time spent with friends would become.  Those are terrific memories, so take advantage of it while you can.  You have to make the best of each opportunity. 

Becky says to simply know that “S&%# Happens.”  In the beginning, there’s a lot of stress and anxiety.  It’s all okay.  Just be patient, breathe and enjoy it.

Who has which job at the boat ramp?

Becky says Jim drives the truck and trailer, while she handles unloading and trailering the boat.  It’s important to make sure each of you knows your specific job.  Jim had some experience backing trailers, so he naturally handled that part.  Becky mentions the people they were usually with had the same designations.

Molley talks about how she struggled on the Jamestown ramp with the pontoon, in the early days.

If they win the lottery, what kind of boat would they buy?

Becky says she wants to focus on comfort.  She’d like a longer boat with an open bow.  It’s not about speed for her.  She does like the 35’ Sea Ray model.  Jim is also about comfort.  Getting in and out of the boat is important.  He’s also looking for a smooth ride.  He likes the open bow boats. 

Molley, Chad, Jim and Becky agree that we’ve made things complicated.  It seemed simpler back in the day.  Lake Life is about hanging out with good friends and family.  Just focus on having a good time.

What is their least favorite thing about boating?

For Jim and Becky, it’s the ramp, followed by inconsiderate boaters (especially when you’re tied up).  Floating in a cove is a great way to relax, but when people forget about the wakes, it can ruin the moment. 

Molley comments that if a boater causes a wake in a no-wake zone, they are responsible for the damage that make result from the wake.  Chad agrees and talks about how he handles it.

Jim discusses how boaters should be more considerate.  Items can get washed off the deck of a smaller craft.  Again, pay attention if your boating near other boats.

Do you prefer boating as a couple or with a boat full of friends?

Jim enjoys sharing the moments with different groups of people, although the autumn is a great time to get out as a couple to simply enjoy the day.  Becky enjoys the companionship of having a group of people. 

Chad talks about how he and Molley really look forward to spending some time together, as a couple, on the water.  They love having friends down, but it’s nice to not have to worry about everyone else.  Molley explains how they used to have a lot of people down to the lake house.  Now, they try to reserve specific weekends for family-time or just couple-time.

Chad reminds everyone that not all of your friends will get along with all of your friends.  It’s important to put together the right group. 

The Camper Jim’s Handbook

Molley introduces how this was a part of how she grew up.  Jim says it’s a collection of tips and tricks.  One of the final thoughts in the handbook is to simply get a room or a lake house.  That was the result of a 4-day camping experience in the rain.    

We’d like to thank Jim and Becky Norris joining us for this episode.  They’ve been long-time, family friends and conversations with them always bring back some great memories.  Is that what Lake Life is really about? 

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

Don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 16:  In this episode, Molley and Chad talk with their children, Tristin and Alayna about time on the lake.  Tristin made a guest appearance on the episode about The Types of Boat Food to Bring or Avoid.  Today is Alayna’s first time behind the microphone with us.  If you’re a boater, you already know how time out on the water can be special for you and your family.  Let’s get the kids’ perspectives on those experiences.

What’s the First Thing that Comes to Mind?

Tristin shares his thoughts about time on the lake.  First, he describes his memory of jumping into the water and landing on a rock.  The first-aid kit came in handy that day.  Remember to always back one on your boat, just in case.  Second, he talks about a getting some great air while tubing behind his grandfather’s boat, which we heard about in Episode 14. 

Alayna talks about the first time she got up while wake-boarding.  She’d tried a million times, but this time she figured it out. 

First Lake Memories

Tristin thinks his first memory was when he was about 4 and completely wrapped up in a towel and feeling perfectly comfortable and happy.  Alayna comments about the after-lunch naps.  It’s still her favorite thing about the lake.

What Did They Dread about Coming to the Lake?

While time on the lake is awesome, sometimes kiddos can see it differently, at least until they get down there.  Alayna mentions having to miss some random birthday parties, but other than that, lake life has been a lot of fun. 

What Have They Learned about the Adults during a Day on the Lake?          

Tristin laughs about some of the dance moves he’s seen.  Alayna jokes about Molley’s 40^th birthday houseboat trip.  Molley explains there were at least 10-12 couples between the 2 boats. In Episode 13, they explained how Travis put a hole in Molley’s new mat (“Don’t worry dude…”).

What Is One of Their Favorite Memories?

Tristin describes how it’s always been the water sports for him.  For Alayna, it was more swimming when she was younger.  Now that she’s grown up, it’s really the overall experience (including the naps).

Who’s the Better Driver for Tubing?

Tristin says it really depends on the mood of each parent.  If Chad’s being quiet in the morning, he wants Chad.  You have to listen to the episode for the rationale on this one.

Which Job Would Each of Them Pick, if They Had to Do One?

Molley and Chad have always recommended picking a specific job to make the launch and trailering go smoothly.  Chad always drives the truck and Molley is in charge of launching or trailering the boat.  This system works for them.  However, if the kids had to pick a job, which would it be? 

Alayna says it depends on the boat.  She says for a normal boat, not a pontoon or wake boat, she’d choose launching the boat.  Tristin is fine with trailering the boat. 

Do They Think They’ll Own Their Own Boat?

Tristin says yes.  He would really like a 2-seater Sea-Doo to start.  He’d move up to a wake boat.  Alayna also wants a wake boat.  Neither want the pontoon boat their parents have.

What’s Their Favorite Summer Weekend on the Lake?

Alayna says it definitely girls weekend.  For Tristin, it’s all about the poker run.  When they were younger, both agreed it was any weekend on the houseboat.

Is There a Favorite Story about Lake Life?

Tristin describes a houseboat weekend with an eclectic mix of guests, including a horse head mask.  They found a nice beach cove for a beach fire.

Chad describes a great time he had fishing with Alayna off the dock.  Then, there was a tubing day with Tristin resulting in a great photo.

Alayna describes a tubing adventure with a friend, behind on of their friend’s boat.  The boat definitely had some power to whip them around.  She also shares some memories about crowded time at the lake house.  The kiddos always ended up sleeping in the closets, because there were so many people.

Speaking of adventures, the group talks about some trouble a boater ran into on the lake during a poker run.  The pictures received national coverage.  They may be available on Don’s Lake Cumberland Lake Assist website.

Alayna joke about memories of when Molley was loading the boat, in the early years.  Concentration was everything!

Safety First

Chad comments about the importance of always having a sober driver.  Boating comes with a lot of responsibility, but if safe-boating rules are followed, everyone can have a great time of on the lake. 

What’s the Right Number of Guest at the Lake House?

Tristen explains that it depends on the weekend.  For him, if it’s poker run weekend, bring everyone.  However, if it’s Memorial Day weekend, having some family time is nice.  Chad admits that it’s a lot of work, but he really enjoys the time on the water with family and friends.

Will Molley and Chad ever Say Good-Bye to the Lake Life?

Molley opens up the conversation to let the kids ask questions.  This is Tristen’s first question.  Neither Molley or Chad ever see it going away.  This is a special part of their life together.  The boats may change, but not their love of being on the lake. 

What Are some of Molley and Chad’s Favorite Memories on the Lake?

Chad comments that there was more partying, before the kids came along.  But, they were never that rowdy to begin with.  For Molley, one of her favorite memories is when each of the kids jumped into the water by themselves for the first time. 

Molley describes the first time Tristin tubed alone and got some air.  She knew they’d never get him out of the water.  For Alayna, it was the first time she actually wanted to join in the water sports. 

It really got fun when the children began bringing their friends to the lake.  It gave Molley and Chad the opportunity to really get to know their friends and to watch everyone interact together.

Chad’s favorite memory is every time the kids get super competitive on the wake boards.  He loves just relaxing and having fun, especially when they achieve something for the first time.

If They Won the Lottery, What Kind of Boat Would each of the Kids Buy?

Alayna would buy a super, decked-out Pavati wake boat. Tristin would land somewhere in between a yacht and a houseboat.  Basically, he’d pick a big cruiser.  Both would expect to keep their boats on Lake Cumberland.

We’d like to thank Tristin and Alayna joining us for this episode.  It was a great, family episode.  Creating those lake life memories are what it’s all about for each of them.

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

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