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| Part of Gary's flower garden |
We arrived in Brockport, NY Friday a little before noon. Brockport has one of the nicest canal ports we have seen. We stopped here for an overnight on our way back last year, but didn’t really get much of a chance to explore. Brockport is a college town so it has many shops, restaurants, and things to do and see. We spent a portion of the early afternoon riding our bikes around town and even stepped into a cute little shop. Yes the Captain even came along. But sad to say nothing was purchased. Upon arrival back to the boat we gathered up our folding chairs and took them outside to sit in the shade. The weather was beautiful, sunny and in the low 70’s. Shortly after sitting down we were greeted by Gary Skoog. Gary and his wife Lori are friends of Jeff and Sandy Bacon our “boating mentors”. If you followed us last year they are the great couple we met up with that has the dog Hatch that swallowed a fish hook. Any way, Sandy had contacted the Skoogs and told them we would be coming through and to look for us. And boy are we glad they did.
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| A dried arrangement in Lori's studio |
Okay here comes the gushing part. They are one extraordinary couple. They live on a farm close to town. Lori is a retired art teacher and Gary is a volunteer at the welcome center on the canal along with many, many, many other things they both do. Within minutes it was like we had been friends for years. Gary first offered to drive us to where ever we needed to go, grocery store, drug store, etc. He also had me speak with his wife Lori and we set up a time to come and visit their farm. Seeing that all we really needed was some fresh vegetables for the boat I declined the offer to go to the store as there is a farmers market in town Sunday. So instead we piled into Gary’s van and he took us out to their farm.
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| One of their adorable little pups |
I can’t even begin to describe what a wonderful place this was. Between adorable little dogs, flower gardens, vegetable gardens, horses, art studio and a home and hosts that were so welcoming, I never wanted to leave. We enjoyed a treat of fresh fruit on the patio and got to know one another, then went out to the gardens where Lori and Gary proceeded to help us pick fruit and veggies to take back with us. We picked rhubarb, spinach, leeks, strawberries, and chives. We were set. Won’t be needing the farmers market on Sunday, but might wonder over anyway. (more at the bottom)
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| Lori and Gary Skoog, leading us out to the garden |
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| Part of the farm |
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| A lesson in cutting rhubarb |
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| Gary cutting rhubarb, hmm maybe for some pie. |
So envious we aren't there with you all! Didn't I tell you the Skoogs were wonderful? When I met Lori on our first stop in Brockport 2007, it was one of the best things that happened on our trip to the Bahamas. Seeing them again last year was like coming home. I knew you all would hit it off...you guys are pretty sweet yourselves. Can't wait to see you, xo, Sandy
ReplyDeleteWe seriously can't thank you enough for bringing the Skoogs into our lives. We miss you two. Today while still in Brockport we heard some one on the radio (13) say "This is Manatee requesting east bound passage". I almost wet myself, but then realized it was a trawler and not a sailboat. Big sad face. Hang in there it will all come together, trust me I understand your frustration since last year it was us waiting on parts. We'll be out here waiting for you :)
DeleteSo envious we aren't there with you all! Didn't I tell you the Skoogs were wonderful? When I met Lori on our first stop in Brockport 2007, it was one of the best things that happened on our trip to the Bahamas. Seeing them again last year was like coming home. I knew you all would hit it off...you guys are pretty sweet yourselves. Can't wait to see you, xo, Sandy
ReplyDeleteFlattery will get you everywhere! Now, could you remove that photo of my fat buttttttt covered with barn clothes?????
ReplyDelete