Different Day

Overall, we are grateful that Lucy wakes us up when she has bad belly rather than handling it herself and making a mess in the house. Even so, it’s hard not to groan when you feel that paw on your shoulder in the wee hours. That said, at least here at Heidi’s mom’s house, instead of leashing her up and taking her out, all you have to do is stumble up the stairs and open the back door, which is what I did at 3:30 this morning. 

I was rewarded for my effort, though, when refreshing 61 degree air spilled in the door as Lucy hurried out; a cold front had dropped through, promising a beautiful day ahead. And after sleeping a little later than usual to make up for the restlessness that followed my middle of the night adventure, the day did not disappoint.

We drove up to Olcott Beach on Lake Ontario (Yes! It’s in the book.) A cool breeze off the lake kept the temperature to 70, despite the clear blue skies and warm sunshine. They were celebrating Christmas in July, and all the cute little independent shops were decorated. The famous carousel park, outfitted with a Wurlitzer self-player and other vintage kiddie rides, had a mailbox for letters to Santa as well as the man himself.

For lunch, we dined on Western New York’s first and only lobster roll shack, and the sandwiches were delicious and authentic— loaded with tender lobster claws lightly dressed in a chive and lemon mayo and served on a griddled New England hot dog bun. Then we took the scenic route home, skirting the southern shore of Lake Ontario on a day so clear we could see the Toronto sky line 75 miles away.

Once home, Heidi and I pumped up the bike tires and took a spin through the neighborhood, returning home briefly to leash up the dogs so they, too, could enjoy this glorious day. Next? We’re fending for dinner, enjoying leftover steak, grilled sausage, chicken cacciatore, potato salad, a nice tossed salad, and watermelon.

And tomorrow looks like it might be just as great.