Tunbridge Flags

I spent today in Tunbridge eating bake sale goodies, drinking Rhuba-ritas, and taking pictures for Geoff's print auction, which will raise money for the town's new church steeple. For much of the day I relaxed on Laura and Keith's porch chatting with neighbors and eating home-made cookies and pickels.

Rhuba-rita

Keith waves to neighbors as he enjoys a Rhuba-rita this afternoon. The rhubarb came from his and Laura's garden. Their neighbor, Ken, sits at right.

The Last Sunday Night Dinner

As sad as it is, I won't be feasting at Jen's anymore. But, my sendoff yesterday was a good one. Turkey-in-a-bucket, baked beans, tomato and mozzarella, ice cream sandwiches, cigars, and some great friends I will miss very much. I ceremoniously burned a Valley News in the fire. This was not to disrespect, but to mourn.

The Triumvirate

More than a year ago I was at a party when my friend (and ride) started talking with one of Lauren's friends. As they walked away Lauren leaned in to tell me that it was no secret this girl was looking for a husband. Apparently her student visa was about to expire, and she didn't want to go back to her native country. Lauren had to give me a ride home that night.

Gordon was at that party too. He was wearing a shirt that said, "I can be your tiny dancer."

Since then the three of us have gone on a handful of day trips exploring New Hampshire and Vermont. Today was our last. We went to the Eaton Sugar House and feasted on pancakes and stuffed french toast before hiking up Old City Falls.

Swimming Hole

South Strafford has a swimming hole I have been meaning to go to since last summer. Late this afternoon I went with Wally, Barbara, their son Patrick and grandson Conner.

This is my last weekend in Vermont before moving to Boston. I left the Valley News today without my key. Now I couldn't get in their if I tried. That thought made me sad.

Flag

Alex had Peter and I over for liver and onions this afternoon. He had a pitcher of beer ready to go when we got there. He served cucumbers in vinegar along with a light and tasty potato salad. Peter brought the deviled-eggs. We ate watermelon on the porch and then threw around the frisbee and football. I didn't bring my camera.

Instead I took a picture of Wally putting up the flag before the end of the day.

Nuptials

Chris and Caitlin married on Sunday.

I consider myself a rather deliberate photographer, but somehow I managed to take 2600 pictures.

I guess I just got excited.

Vows

Chris practices his vows in the car tonight. He was told the more he shares them with people the easier it will be tomorrow when he and Caitlin wed.

Westbound

Brooke, Adam, and Bret wait for the train to take us back to Camden a few weeks ago. We had just enjoyed bagels, danishes, and coffee in Haddonfield.

Last Supper

I'm moving to Boston at the end of the month to make it in the big city. This is exciting. I look forward to living near Brooke, owning my own business and watching matinees at Kendall Square Cinema when I'm not searching the couch cushions for rent money.

However, I will be leaving a wonderful life behind. I have a great job, I live in a beautiful place, and I have made wonderful friends.

On Sunday, as a farewell to our Sunday dinners, Peter, Jen, and I met for brunch instead. We ate apricot scones and eggs Benedict. Later we went on a hike with the dogs and returned to eat strawberry pancakes.

Do they even have pancakes in Boston?

Blue Eyes

Jen kept telling me how cute her new puppy was. I would listen to her, but I didn't really believe her. How cute can one dog really be?

I found out recently. He is this cute.

Camden, NJ

Brooke and I spent this past weekend with Adam and Melissa in Camden. A city with a bad reputation but a strong spirit. I could see myself living there. It helps that Philadelphia is across the river, but still . . .

We spent some time in Philly learning about our founding fathers, cracked bells, and constitutions. Oh yes . . . and steak and Cheeze Whiz on a bun. Who knew?

Dezi the puggle was fun to play with. And Adam and Melissa have a Kramer-esque neighbor, Bret, who is also part of the family. We had fun hanging out with them all.

Watch and Learn

Mike shows baby John how he rolls.