Two weeks after my first visit, I found myself back at the lakeside café. "Welcome," said a cheerful woman near the entrance. She was wearing beige traditional clothes sparsely embroidered with red leaves, and her outfit was completed with big glasses and a long apron. Holding a snow-white cat, she passed in front of me, and entered a room to my left. A young man standing nearby gestured to me, pulling my attention away from the fluffy cat.

The butler-like attendant informed me that I could sit anywhere. Only a few tables in the café were occupied, and as much of the outdoor seating was still available, I walked towards that section instinctively. I slid open the door to the deck, closing it behind me, and reclaimed my spot near the railing.

The lakeside was a couple shades more orange than when I last saw it. By now, the green in the trees had all but faded away, revealing bright yellows and earthy browns underneath. The sky was clear overhead, but big clouds loomed across the lake. It seems that vacation wasn't over for those giants yet.

The door near the entrance slid open, and the lady re-entered the main dining area, this time without a furry creature. Sensing that she was looking in my direction, I raised my hand and to get her attention.