Port Jefferson, New York April 16, 2011 6:58 a.m.
We are embarking to go to New Hampshire to celebrate Daddy Garand’s ninety-first birthday. Dad Meyer, who is napping in the front seat, is with us. We hear there is snow on the edge of the fields in New Hampshire. We do not expect to see much, if any, greenery.
Here on Long Island, many trees are in full bloom. The ride this morning, under a muted sun, was bucolic. “Bucolic” was a word I thought I would never use for this island. Perspectives change. Mine have changed.
This past winter we were on Gran Canaria. Long Island, even though it is bigger, has a great deal more to offer a tourist than in The Canary Islands. True, our climate may not be as consistently nice, but, it is pleasant enough. However, I wouldn’t mind living full-time in a climate where it is “perpetual Spring” — like The Canaries.
The Grand Republic ferry has just docked. We shall board shortly. We are on another adventure — an escapade of the unknown — the happy unknown. How will Dad Meyer like being away without Mom Meyer by his side?
Hancock, New Hampshire April 17, 2011 7:52 a.m.
The skies opened up last night. (Isn’t it odd how “skies” is used in this expression? Any other expression has the singular “sky”.) We heard ponding rain all night long. It is still raining lightly.
Thus far, the visit here at Garand Manor is going well. Dad Meyer, our current worry, is holding up nicely. Mommy and Daddy [Garand] are looking well and happy. In fact, nothing seems to have changed here in Hancock since our last visit in December.
Here, in New Hampshire, there are two Crocus blooming and a small group of Daffodils on the edge of the front field. Patches of snow daub the woods. Spring is attempting a revival.
Hancock, New Hampshire April 18, 2011 6:40 a.m.
Earlier today, the nearly Full Pink Moon played peek-a-boo with clouds. It was a perfect setting. The clouds, large enough to hide the Moon, were scudded quickly on their way. I am happy I awoke to view their action.
Today is Daddy Garand’s ninety-first birthday. His brother is coming down from Northern Vermont to see him. He is excited to see his brother. It shall be a busy day. I am sure the elders will enjoy sharing stories with Dad Meyer who is having a good time visiting.
Hancock, New Hampshire April 19, 2011 6:32 a.m.
The time has arrived to leave Garand Manor for Zwerglipatch Cottage. The night was warm enough to have the window open. Moose Brook lulled us and is still being heard. A chickadee bids us farewell.
Daddy’s birthday went well. His brother brought some spark of needed life into the household. We had some good laughs.
Dad Meyer did well during these days. He and René took walks up the back road and in the field. If anything, the father-son bond has been tightened. It will be interesting to hear what he tells people in Hauppauge about this trip to New Hampshire.
