Dwight and I grew up in Pensacola, Florida, where we both graduated from the University of West Florida. Our careers in accounting brought us to Jacksonville over 35 years ago, where we have raised our 5 children and now enjoy our 9 grandchildren. Our house is always filled with fun, food and fellowship, so it is not surprising that we would want a place 'out there', where we could entertain and visit with family and friends. Our Crescent City Lake House is the fulfillment of that desire.

Connie Cenac purchased this house in 2003

Wanting a place to escape city life, we were delighted to find the little town of Crescent City, a place that reminds us a little of the 'good ole' days'. After looking for a place on the lake, we were thrilled to find this home on Lake Stella, which is fed with water from 5 or 6 springs. The water is crystal clear and soothing to soak in, because of the minerals that come out of the earth. The lake is home to lots of wildlife and birds, as well as stocked with more bass than you can catch. The location is perfect for our family, as it is an hour and a half from our home in Jacksonville. It allows us to get away for a short break anytime we want. We also really enjoy our trips to the town of Deland, Florida...home to Stetson University. Deland is a quaint little town with great boutique and antique shops, as well as some pretty awesome restaurants. We always take visitors to DeLeon Springs and to Blue Springs, as each location offers a different experience. We never get enough of our lakehouse. It is a place where life takes a breath, where the beauty of nature speaks volumes, and where friends and family commune without interruption.

We love Lake Stella, with its clean water coming right out of the ground. The size and shape of the lake make it perfect for boating, water skiing, tubing, canoeing, and getting out on the paddle boat. I love to sit on a 'floating noodle' with the rest of the girls and soak in the mineral waters of the lake. It's hard to get out of the water, once you get in. It is so refreshing.

Spending time outdoors is so relaxing. The breeze coming off the lake acts like a natural air conditioner during the summer months. We have seating under cover on one of the docks, for those who want to visit and enjoy the birdlife and scenery. For those who want to bathe in the Florida sun, we have another dock with deck chairs. When the water is deep enough, kids and adults alike love to run and jump into the water from the docks. Morning, noon or night is a good time to sit and visit under the gazebo which is located on our massive raised patio. In addition, we love to eat outdoors on our dining table that seats 8, which is also located on the patio. We have two natural gas grills with umbrellas to keep you out of the sun while you are grilling those hotdogs and hamburgers.

Time alone at night sitting on the living room sofa is made memorable as you watch the light of the full moon shimmer on the lake. Peaceful, delightful, romantic. During the day, you may sit and watch a big blue heron march up to the glass door and knock! It's way too cool.