This is the final week of summer vacation for Washington schools. School normally resumes on the Wednesday after Labor Day. I took a stroll by Silver Lake, and here are some observations.

On a very warm Tuesday, the lake is usually packed with kids swimming, kayaks and paddle boards with people standing and paddling around the lake, and some rowboats. Today, the lake was mostly empty, with just a few paddle-boarders and a couple of kayakers.

There was a couple relaxing and fishing on the shore and on a tiny floating dock.

Silver Lake has other amenities besides cool water and warm breezes. At the park on the east side of the lake, where I took my walk, there is a newer playground with climbing structures.

The water was clear, and the wind made mesmerizing ripples.

Can you spot the other paddler?

There were fewer ducks than I usually see, but they seemed to be a female and a juvenile in pairs. As common as they are, our mallards are always amusing to watch.

As usual, plants and flowers added color to the tranquil lakeshore.

The maple tree was already getting ready for autumn. Since it is my favorite season, I look forward to the colors.

Farther around the lake, I sat and rested by a picnic table under a stand of trees.

Bye-bye, Summer!