While the weekend was supposed to lean toward fall, and the bewitching season almost at hand, the weather was almost too sweet – warming into the mid to upper 70’s as the sun drenched the roads to Vermont. When we arrived in Manchester, the flowers were still putting on a spectacular show, and we took our time walking around and enjoying the beauty. Our main goal was the Maple Creamie we’d discovered a couple of years ago, but having just had breakfast we agreed a walk and some shopping was in order first.
Emi was also mostly game for posing in whatever ridiculous setting we discovered – hence this fun capture of an elephant outside the local Thai restaurant.
The riverwalk was a peaceful place to pause on this beautifully sunny day – the water a relaxing sound and sight to take in and appreciate. With all the phone action and fast-paced lives of teenagers today, it’s good to slow things down and remind them of what really matters, what’s actually happening if they don’t look up and around and take everything in. I need that reminder too sometimes.
Hints of ice cream were starting to appear, nudging us toward our main goal of the day: procuring that delicious Maple Creamie. Some were bigger and more prominent than others.
Eventually our chosen purveyor opened their doors and it was time – we had our maple ice cream in Vermont and all was well with the world.
Along the sidewalks the asters were in full bloom – their colors and freshness rivaling anything spring might conjure.
Our final stop in Vermont was the cozy Northshire Bookstore – a place I’ve been visiting with the twins since they were young children. Some things remain the same, and some things change, and it’s all good in its own way. On this day, we inhabited the moment – a rare instance of mindfulness and being present in a season that was already racing to its end. We had a few more itinerary items to check off however, so we made our winding way back to New York, and a siesta that was calling to both of us…
