Well, the predictions of heat were somewhat accurate, but it didn't come on fully until quite late in the day.
We had a delightful morning ride over to rural Mason to the infamous Parkers Maple Barn. Arriving at 8AM was a stroke of pure genius, as we beat the weekend crowds (they were waiting to get in by the time we left) got the choice seating all together in a big table, and the restaurant was still nice and cool (no, they don't have any AC). I'm always ready to go to Parkers at the drop of a hat, but it was great to see some of the local NERDS there this morning.
It was a gustatorial delight. I saw strawberry stuffed french toast, all manner of pancakes w/ delicious maple syup made on premises. And Gina even went for the mini-Parkers special with deep fried french toast. In the best NERDS tradition there are no pictures, no evidence. If you don't believe this happened that's fine. Keep the crowd down at Parkers.
And best of all... we got to sing a round of Happy Birthday to Professor ionbeam. He wasn't aware of this, but Helen had tipped some of us off that the Prof. had made another orbit of the sun again today!! Hard to believe it has been that many times. He doesn't look a day over 58!!
We did eventually find our way to Newicks out on Dover Point for a "light lunch", (ha!) this less than 4 hours after just devouring hearty breakfasts. And then before we left the 'beams nabbed themselves some live crustaceans on ice and stuffed them in their saddle bag to bring back for their "private celebration" tonight. Wink, wink... nudge nudge...
Seriously, I think those of us who were able to make it today would say that we are all honored that you would spend even a part of your day with the likes of us, never mind leading us around some of your old stompin' grounds. I hope it was as enjoyable for you and Helen as it (always) is for us..
Cheers to you buddy!! :drinks: