WiseWoman – much of what you say (aside from the affairs part) is true to some extent. (the affairs part? that I have yet to see)
And while you are right, there are some rough spots to be wary of in summer life, I will say this; Like marriage, when its bad, its quite bad. But when its good, its the best thing out there.
So while you need to be careful upstate (as there is the need to be careful in getting and staying married) the 10 weeks upstate is a lifeline for some people. And for little kids (figure under 10)? Nothing compares. Nothing.