During the summer, my family and I would take trips to Grand Lake in Oklahoma. The whole extended family would come - aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents. It was an annual pilgrimage for family reunions.

I remember how we’d set up the campers right near the lake. I think I was around 7 or 8 years old. We’d go swimming in that lake and catch fish with my grandfather and uncle’s boat. If we had a good day, we’d have fresh fish for lunch or dinner.

I can clearly remember the smell of that lake. I had a hint of fishiness and that certain smell of living things in the water. And it also had a bit of earthiness to it as well.

Today, when I go to a lake and get a whiff of its scent, I’m immediately transported back to those days on Grand Lake and being with my family. It’s a happy and peaceful feeling, and very nostalgic for me.

If the scent had a sound, what would it be? A soft, rhythmic beat.

If the scent had a color, what would it be? Greenish-brown.

If the scent had a texture, what would it be? Grainy, like sand.

If the scent could give you advice, what would it tell you? Just relax, it will all work out.