Great memories of memories. Sorry about the hardship but happy for your relationship with your granddad and his magical cottage.
I have a similar cottage complete with loons on a lake in Vermont left to my mother from my grandfather who, in turn bequeathed it to my brothers and me.
Your post resonated with me because I’d feel much like you did upon visiting with it under different ownership. Some things just can’t be recaptured no matter how they remain close to the same
Throughly enjoyed your descriptive article