We laughed, we cried, we sang, we played, we hugged...we had fun!

We went to visit my late best friend's family in New Hampshire. Sheila and I were next door neighbors and soldiers' wives in Alaska. Our friendship lasted 45 years. During that time, Bill became good friends with her husband, Bruce. I will post more pictures of him next time. We spent a few days at his lovely home, and then spent the weekend at the "camp." The little house in Bristol, New Hampshire was Sheila's parent's summer cottage. Her mother took the kids from Boston to Newfound Lake, and this is where Sheila and her siblings spent every summer. When her parents passed away, she and Bruce bought it, enlarged it and completely renovated it.

 

This lake is not far from Squam Lake and Lake Winnipesaukee. The movie, On Golden Pond was filmed on Squam Lake,  and Lake Winnipesaukee is gorgeous. I love that name! In the past we rode the mail boat out and gasped in awe at the many mini islands with homes built on them right in the lake. Unbelievable. How would you like to boat to and from your home?

 

The sun set on a wonderful vacation with gracious hosts, friends and our "adopted" grandchildren. 

 

It was hard to say good-bye to this gorgeous place. I swam in the lake, and sat on the dock, and talked to two of Sheila's daughter's Shannon and Erin. I spoke to Michele on the phone. I met four of the grandkids, and the girls prepared a delicious supper. We shared stories, photos, laughter, and tears.

This is not a duplicate. Jayden wanted in on the action of our sunset photo. He and Bill became good buddies.

Shannon, her dad, and his lady friend, took us to a general store that was built in the 1700's. The boys selected a big sour pickle from the old fashioned wooden pickle barrel. A step back in time.

This is the...well you know...out house. I didn't look to see if it was a one seater or two seater.

 

We also stopped at a thrift store. I was drawn to a shelf in the back room. It was as if I was compelled to go there. At eye-level was a white ceramic bell with the word "Alaska" on the front. Below in small script, I smiled when I read "BEST FRIENDS." Was it a message from my dear friend? I certainly believe so. 

 

Jayden was forever chasing Bill. Notice the book I am reading on the nightstand? Lisa Ricard Claro's romance, Love Built to Last.

Cameron is the nicest ten year old we have ever met. Such a polite, happy and friendly young man. We could have brought these two guys home with us!

 

Come back next time for more photos, and continue our journey with us. You'll want to know about the castle, Hampton Beach, the Holy Grail, and so much more.