definition of extraordinary

I bounced on my toes through the kitchen, into the family room, back to the kitchen following closely on my mom’s heals. “Can we go? Can we go?”  My bathing suit was rolled in my towel and tucked tightly under my arm, I was all ready to go. 

After what felt like an eternity to any young child waiting, the car was loaded.
“C’mon! c’mon!‘ I yelled as I shoved and pushed my way into the back seat.  Finally, Dad backed the car out of the driveway.  I knew the route by heart, I kept my face glued to the window watching each landmark speed by. We rounded the corner by Fowlers Market, and my toes began to tingle, as we passed the package store, my belly tickled.  As my dad was applying the breaks, I could see the tree line and sharp dip of the driveway, it was then that I would shiver with excitement. 

The car doors opened and familiarity filled my senses, a cool, refreshing breeze kissed my cheeks, the old transistor radio barked out play by play of a baseball game.  I ran towards the circle of lawn chairs squinting at the sun reflecting off the water, breathing in the array of smells, the musty old boat house, the freshly cut grass, the crisp lake and the sweet smell of old baking.  There they sat, my Grandfather, Uncle Steve, Uncle Benny & Uncle Stanley, I got a wave and a smile which was abruptly interrupted by a shout of joy, not for me but for a great play just announced through the radio.  My Grandmother sat in her chaise lounge snapping her gum and knitting away, Aunt Mary with her hair done and her signature red nails chatted away while flipping through the newspaper.   I made my way around the circle planting quick kisses on each of their checks. Uncle Stanley pulled me into his lap, and asked “how’s my girl?!” I giggled as he pulled my face to his and smiled widely.  He smelled of cigarettes, shaving cream and bakery confections, which were embedded into his skin. 

A familiar clatter leaked from the cottage, cabinet doors squeaking, dishes clanking, laughter and chitchat filled the air. I wrapped my hand around the screen door handle, pulled hard and scooted in quickly before the door kissed my backside as it slammed shut.  I ran across the cool crackling old linoleum floor, following my aunts voices to the back porch.  “Lisa!” My aunts cried, their eyes danced and huge smiles filled their faces.  They wrapped me in genuine hugs that I would squirm away a little to quickly from.  It didn’t matter if it was a week or a few hours, they always greeted me the same way.  

Through the back porch door I dashed, remembering to hold on carefully to the old railing, these were a few steep steps.  I raced down the hill, trying to watch for raised tree roots, I had suffered more than one face plant do to those nasty little buggers.  I waved my arms calling out to my uncles who were checking the stability of the old dock.  They waved back, the bright summer sun reflected off the water creating silhouettes of their faces, and although I could not see them, I felt their smiles. 

The water lapped against the lake wall, as my cousins splashed and played.  There was no need to say hello to the boys, I just needed to change into my bathing suit and then I’d see them. I ran back up to the cottage, through the back porch door across the crinkly linoleum floor to the bathroom.  Ugh, the door was closed.  I slumped onto the floor to wait.  The trees rustled outside the window, I heard my dad asking about the game.  I listened to my Mom with my aunts in the kitchen and started to count the ceiling tiles above my head, patience was not a strength of this child at the tender age of ten.  The bathroom door opened, my Uncle Jimmy tousled my hair and said, “It’s all yours kiddo!”  I couldn’t change fast enough, I just had to get into the lake!  I busted out of the bathroom, with my balled up clothes and tossed them into the bedroom.  I  darted though the kitchen, out the back door and ran, still cautiously down the hill. 

In my mind I had just gotten into the lake when Aunt Patty called for dinner.  Clearly we’d been in the water plenty long enough because all of us had pruned fingers and toes. With towels wrapped around our waists and dripping wet hair we lined up at the outdoor fireplace for our hot dogs and hamburgers.  Down the center of the long continuous picnic tables, sat potato salad, macaroni salad, condiments and green jello.  
Around the table were multiple generations, there was unconditional love, devotion, tradition, and dedication to each other.  

At the tender age of 10, what happened each Sunday at the lake was just common place, it was just what we did.  Now 35 years later, I see it as so much more.  The dedication my family had and has to each other is exceptional.  At the end of 2012 we closed the chapter on one generation, yet the newest one is continually growing. I watch my Aunts, Uncles and parents working hard to keep traditions alive, to keep us connected.  A task that in today’s world, when we rarely slow down enough to eat let alone spend time with family, is an enormous feat.  

I probably don’t tell my parents, my aunts and my uncles nearly enough how much I appreciate and cherish their efforts.  They in my mind they are not ordinary, but truly the definition of extraordinary.  When the time comes that they need to pass the torch, we will be ready to accept it.  To set a table with delectable, traditional foods down the center surrounded by that unconditional love, devotion, traditions and the dedication that I have been taught.  

I imagine there is a lake in heaven, where a circle of lawn chairs sits off to the side.  This Christmas there isn’t a ball game playing, rather a play by play of Christmas Eve events at my Aunt Trudy’s.  Grammy is clapping as the kids sing Christmas Carols, while Uncle Benny and Aunt Mary are leaning in to hear who is playing Santa this year.  Grandpa is grinning ear to ear knowing his gingerbread men are still alive and well, while Uncle Steve and Uncle Stanley are keeping tabs on which kids are Red Sox fans.  Uncle Jimmy throws his head back laughing as he listens to Amy or Christen’s little ones screaming because Santa is a little scary to them this year. 

Merry Christmas ..... here’s to unconditional love, devotion, tradition and dedication.  

My Favorite Things …. 2013

The garlands are dusted with snow, the tree is ... well ... not decorated but the lights are on it!  My cookbooks are stacked & the grocery list is made. 

I'm thinking, "Christmas Spirit.  Yep, I'm getting there!" Then I remember, none, that's nada, zlicho .... of my Christmas shopping is done. 

My overly organized, planned friends and family are in sheer panic mode for me right now.  To the average on looker, I seem surprisingly calm.  Reality check .... I'm a little panicked!   

Right now I need Maria to coming running through the hills singing My Favorite Things .... It's always amazing to me that this song, the message and the distraction of thinking and remembering some of my treasured things ... can so easily lighten my mood.  

The corners of my mouth are turning up as I begin to think about sharing with you this years list of my favorite things.  Enjoy!

CT River Candles 

CT River Candles 

I love candles.  The soft glow, the dancing light, the scents .... 

Brenda of CT River Candles creates simple soy wonders in fragrances that are light and refreshing.  Soy candles don't create those nasty toxins that paraffin candles do, they burn longer and are made from the renewable source of soy beans.  

Its easy to see why these candles are on my Favorite Things list this Holiday Season.  Check Brenda out, follow her fun little blog with scent updates, candle care and more... I promise you won't be disappointed!  

Kims Cottage Confections

I just think this is SO cool! (giggle)

O.M.G. Love these!

Kim is literally in my backyard.  Right now I can look over my shoulder and see her bakery windows glowing!  In the warmer months, when the smell of baked goods seep up the hill, I have to chain myself to my Studio so I don't wander down for a treat or two!  

This year Kim is back on my Favorite Things list with two items!  First with chocolate truffles, who doesn't love chocolate?!  I ordered these up for a VIP event this fall and they were an amazing hit!  , my absolute favorite new item from her shop are her sugar cookies frosted with images!  I had her magically embed my holiday logo to share with clients! 

If you didn't get out to visit Kim last year for her white chocolate covered popcorn, can't imagine why you didn't, check her out this year, you're never too far from Kim's Cottage Confections she'll ship anywhere! 

Serenity Goat Milk Soaps

Isn't this molded soap just so neat?

This one is near and dear to my heart.  Aleta & John of Serenity Goat Milk Soaps have created something very special.  For full disclosure, I'm a little bias about my love for these soaps, after all Aleta & John are family! These soaps are crafted here in Durham at my family homestead, with milk from my sisters farm, Utter Works. This newly established company is off to a great start!  Serenity is offering  11 marvelous scents, and of course an unscented oatmeal option. I'm totally over the moon for the molded soaps, the doe & kid is my favorite.  

Simply packaged, these soaps make great hostess gifts, stocking stuffers and grab bag shares!  Go ahead, give them a try.  I have a bar at every sink .... 

In O'Scents of Madison 

perfect ….. 

The vivacious, exuberant, and spirited Dyan of In O'Scents of Madison is once again on my Favorite Things list this year.  This time of year when the cold chills me to the bone and the dry air draws every ounce of moisture from my skin, I turn to Dyan for remedies!  I just love her bath tea bags, I draw a steamy bath, let one of her scented bags seep for a few moments then slide in.  The aroma swirls around my head, my bones thaw and all is well.  Just before I'm climbing into bed (where my linens have been graced with Dyan's Lavendar Linen Spray)  and I start dreaming of sugar plumbs dancing in my head, I apply one of Dyan's lotions, and all is well. 

Dyan customizes beautiful gift packages, they are the perfect way to remember that someone special this holiday season. 

When the dog bites
When the bee stings
When I'm feeling sad
I simply remember my favorite things
And then I don't feel so bad……

Enjoy!

Move over Big Box Stores ....

I don’t make it a secret I love my small town of Durham.  My town offers so many hidden treasures that are mistakenly overlooked! This week I’ve taken on the task of being Durham’s Personal Shopper. Coming up on Saturday December 7th, The Durham  Economic Development Commission is continuing its commitment to small businesses with a Holiday Stroll Event.  As your personal shopper, I will be highlighting various businesses with some of my fabulous finds! See if I found the perfect gift for you, after all doesn’t everyone want to be that ultimate gift giver? 

Durham Healthmart Pharmacy

321 Main Street 
860.349.3478

A little hometown lovin'
Nothing like coffee or tea in a Durham Mug!

Carol & Walters Holiday gift to you!
With Purchases over $25.00*

Carol & Walter are so much more than your local stop for prescriptions.  Over the years I’ve found some great gifts for clients, friends and family here!  Carol has a very unique array of gifts, something for everyone.  I personally love their Durham pottery, it has been a perfect way for me to share a piece of Durham with friends and family! Following along the theme of where I'm from, Carol offers an array of sweatshirts & t-shirts from Durham and of course UConn!  
Make sure you stop in Saturday, Carol has a gift for you too.  For a minimum purchase of $25.00 (*excluding rx's) receive a snazzy scarf, after last years winter who couldn't use an extra scarf?  

Colors of the Wind

360 Main Street 

860.788.2514

The perfect base for a hostess gift! 

Janet is celebrating her first Anniversary! This is an unique consignment shop, highlighting not only gently used items on consignment but also, beautifully handcrafted items. I had a lovely time gathering together a grouping to create a beautiful gift basket with Janet.  I'm just over the moon for the handmade bowls shown here on the right. These free form beauties are safe for use with food and dishwasher safe!  I paired the bowl with a set of wine glasses, and hand made chocolates.  Who can resist chocolate!  I finished the grouping off with handwoven dishtowels, cinnamon dipped candles and wallah, I have a beautiful base to a perfect hostess gift.  Make sure you stop by and visit Colors of the Wind Saturday  have a cupcake and wish Janet another year of successes!

Wild Wisteria 

354 Main Street
860.349.1550

Sonoma gifts ... made in the USA 

Tammy is a wizard! If you haven't made your way into her shop you are missing out on one of Durham's finest establishments.  Every nook and cranny is filled with a little something special. Her wreaths and arrangements are truly works of art that are the perfect complement to many homes, pair these with some of her amazing accessories, you'll find it hard to walk out without bags of treasures.

Pay attention gentlemen if you're wondering how to wow the ladies in your life, look no further! Sonoma Lavender, give her the rare opportunity to paper herself! After a long day, these soothing aromatic neck pillows, spa masks, spa slipper or heat wraps will be the gift that keeps on giving.  Here's my favorite part .... all made in the USA.
While your at Tammy's shop ask her about 'poo-porri' ... it's my one of my favorite find (giggle!)

Watch for more great shopping ideas as the week continues .... 

Move over Big Box Stores!

Cranberries & Pomegranates

Cranberries and Pomegranates, two fruits that I find very inspiring! 

Their colors are rich and infused with amazing hues and textures, 

while their flavors start a happening party in your mouth. 

Artists, Designers, Chefs, and Bartenders find many uses for these delightful fruits, and so can you! Let's explore together my love for these two little gems.  Who knows, you may become inspired too!

Adrien Broom, this woman is just amazing.

Adrien Broom was certainly inspired! This photo from her Color Project drips of cranberry inspiration. I often have wondered if pomegranate seed influenced the balloons in this photo.

The New Traditionalists 

Never typical, always inventive and positively spectacular! The New Traditionalists have embraced texture and concentrated the color to create this masterpiece.

Lastly, here are some Cranberry & Pomegranate creations from my kitchen!

I've shared my chutney reciepe in the past … it's alway a hit!

Cranberry Chutney 

• 1 package of fresh Cranberries (12 oz)
• 1.5 cups sugar 
• .75 cup water 
• 1 tablespoon orange peel 
• .75 cup orange juice 
• .5 cup golden seedless raisins 
• .5 cup dark seedless raisins 
• .75 cup walnuts chopped 
• 1 cup celery chopped 
• 1 medium apple chopped 
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Over medium heat, cook cranberries, sugar and water until boiling … make sure to stir frequently! Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes. You'll find the cranberries will start to split and pop open … this is a good thing!

Remove mixture from heat and stir in the remaining ingredients.  Cover and refrigerate.  

Enjoy!

I served these at a VIP Event at the Studio recently … they were wildly successful!

'The Davenport' a Pomegranate Bellini

• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 2 cups of water 
• 1 package of mint leaves 
• 1 large bottle of pure pomegranate juice (no sugar added)
• 1 bottle of prosecco 
• Pomegranate seeds

To make mint simple syrup: In a medium sauce pan, bring 2 cups of water to boil. Slowly add sugar and stir until fully melted. Add 6 or 7 mint leaves, and let steep for 5-10 min. Strain and set aside. (I like to put mine in a pretty vintage bottle!) To prepare the cocktail: Put two tablespoons of your mint simple syrup into a champagne glass. Fill to the halfway mark with pomegranate juice, and top with proescco. For garnish, pop a tablespoon of pomegranate seeds into the glass (they'll float) and top with a small mint sprig. 

Have a great weekend Folks … and be inspired!

Hearth for the Holidays

The holidays are fast approaching! Is your home "Family Ready?"

So, I'll let you in on a secret, my favorite part of my house is my fireplace and wood burning stove. It creates a warm, central hub for my family to gather around as the days get shorter and the nights down right frigid. Nothing makes me smile more than seeing my kids snuggled up on the sofa, and the fire crackling away … I find it amazing, but I honestly think that wood stove is is magic!  There is rarely fighting or aruging around the cast iron gem.  It's also happens to be the place to display my favorite memories, such as hurricane vases of collected stones, sea glass and shells and of course my precious family pictures.

When the holidays roll around, I like to spruce up (haha) my favorite places with pine boughs, holly leaves, and colorful berries that I scavenge from around my property, along with the customary lights stockings, and customary holiday cheer.

However, before decorating for the holidays, it's always good to give that tired, old, brick fireplace a face-lift. Take a look at some of these before and after for inspiration!

 A fresh coat of paint and some pops of color leave this fireplace looking fresh and clean. 

Utilize what you have! these lovely built-ins just need some TLC. 

So as your making out that grocery list for the Thanksgiving Feast, check out your central hub.  Does it need a little love? A face lift? Maybe just a fresh approach to decorating it?

 If you do take on that Fireplace, I'd love to see your before and afters! 

… check out my Pinterest Page for Holiday Mantels for some inspiration!!!

Five Design Must Haves

On occasion I find that I need a tune up. You know, a little revisit with the soul, a re-evaulatation on how I'm doing as a mom, wife, friend, housekeeper, business owner and so much more.  Some of those tune-ups don't require much thought or soul searching, just a good honest assessment of myself.  Usually, I just need to remember the essentials, and I find myslef back in the saddle once more. 

Ironically, the same goes for design.  If I had a nickel for every time a client, friend, or even fellow designer said to me "I just don't know, this space feels like .... something isn't quite right...." I could buy that dream home in Watch Hill!

For the most part, when "something isn't quite right," I've discovered quite quickly that one of my "Five Design Must Haves" is probably missing ... 

So here ya go, time for a tune up! Let's revisit the 

Light 

Lamps help soften overhead lighting.
In my Studio this lamp softens the light next to this reading chair .

Lighting. Layer the lighting in your space. Never rely solely on overhead lighting! Wash the light over your walls with sconces if possible. Or, at the very least, use lamps to bring lighting down into a space.  Use dimmers when ever possible, giving you the flexibility to create your own mood and atmosphere.  I often find adding white lights to plant life is a great way to fill a dead corner and draw the eye around the room to create a warm, inviting environment.  Imagine connecting the dots of light in your space. They should  rise and fall throughout the space.... if they do, wallah! Success!

Life 

This itty bitty dinette space is an all-time favorite of mine!
My client loved bringing the outdoors in with the large windows and
of course plant life!!

Life. Yes... it's amazing how plants can make a room feel alive! No worries, if you don't have a green thumb or an absolutely fear raising real plants, silk ones still do the trick.  Plants give a completely different texture to your setting, and for the most part are an uncontrived element. One simple plant will do the trick for you, but like in lighting I personally like to add layers.

Reflection  

This amazing center piece on my steel table offers lots of layers of reflection!

Bounce the light around your space!   Mirrors, either in their traditional format or in furnishings are an obvious choice, but there are other chances to use relfection to your advantage! Add accessories with glass or mica chips, fabrics with metallic accents or even floating candles. Never fear to add a little sparkle, twinkle, glitz or glam.  

Literature 

Books are just for bookcases, while there are some displayed behind the desk, look around the room ….
books have ventured out into the room!

I know that many of us swore off books the day we graduated!  Honestly, books bring a level of interest into spaces that is unexpected.  They can be used in different applications too, try traditionally filling bookcases, or use them to raise lamps and small accessories.  Have some fun, choose titles with a theme or choose binders by color.  I personally just love mixing up the books with no rhyme or reason.  Add some books ... I promise you'll have guests drawn into the space looking to see what you're reading!

Repetition & Variation 

This custom bathroom I designed showcases repeating and varying many colors, textures and elements.
Note the use of walnut accents with in the molding details 

This one is a basic design element.  It was one of the first elements of design I learned when I entered art school.  Repeat and Vary.  With all of the above Must Haves, they are always more successful if repeated and slightly varied.  Repeat the red fabric on your sofa in various different textures and applications, for example, a lamp shade, in a painting, splashed in pattern of the area rug or in the silk arrangement on the coffee table. Connect the dots again and make sure you make it around the room. 

There ya go folks! Five Design Must Haves, make your check list and start critiquing your rooms!

Next Big Show in Town

The tents are gone. 

Snow fencing is packed away.

The Ferris wheel doesn't grace the Green. 

Traffic is flowing easily through town 

and 

Most of the Locals have caught up on Sleep, Work and Family Time.  

Yep, the Fair is now two plus weeks behind us! 

Durham is now ready for the Next Big Event in town!

The Annual Durham Fall Fest!  

#durhamfallfest

What?! You say you haven't heard the buzz in town about the Fall Fest? 

Grab a cup of coffee and let's talk Fall Fest!

The EDC (Economic Development Commission) has put together its First Annual Durham Fall Fest, this Saturday, October 19th! A day dedicated to celebrating local businesses, community involvement and education!  Businesses through out the town will be throwing open their doors, welcoming patrons in to explore and experience the shops!

Photo only show suggested swag bag contents.
Variations in 'goodies'  may occur

Grab a Passport to Durham from participating businesses* and fill your passport with stamps.   The first 100 passports to be turned into Durham Pharmacy before 3pm will receive a swag bag filled with goodies from local businesses! Details are outlined in the Passport.

Make your way into to Brenda's Main Street Feed for great deals on beds and sweaters for Fido and of course much more!  Alana Adams is doing a blow out on rugs!  Don't miss out she'll be offering discounts ranging from 40% to 80%, wowza! Pop into Durham Pharmacy, Carol's spearheading a traditional sidewalk sale, you're sure to find great treasures for a steal!
Honestly thats just to name a few, there's just too many businesses to list....

I, of course want you to make your way to the south end of Main Street, 6 Main Street Unit F (second floor) to be exact.  In July of 2012 I relocated my design business from Glastonbury
... I brought it home.
Lisa Davenport Designs will be hosting an Open House from 10pm-3pm. My staff and I can't wait to share our Studio with you.  Stop up for hot cider, coffee and some of my home baked treats.
 I promise you'll be dazzled just a touch!

photo credit : Jen Schulten 

The Town Green will be a buzz with lots of activity.  Durham Fire's Touch a Truck, Durham Co-Op Nursery School will offer fun and games for the wee-ones, and so much more!   Take a trip back in time, check out the Durham Fair Farm Muesum as well as the Durham Historical Society, you may just appreciate our modern conveniences a little more
... or hey you might begin to long for the days gone by!
Lastly the Garden Club is offering a door decorating contest.  Check out the creativity alive in our great little town.

We truly have something very special here in Durham.  The Business Owners support for this town has been unwavering. Over the years of my volunteering, I rarely have been turned away when I've asked a local business for a donation for school, church, athletic or scout fundraising events.
Let's show them our thanks... get out there this Saturday, fill your Passport, start your holiday shopping, and get to know your business owners just a little better.
My bet is, you'll be more than pleasantly surprised.

See ya Saturday!

*Participating Passport Businesses 

Alana Adams Window Treatments and Rugs

Carolyn Adams Country Barn 

Cashman Nutrition

Core Club

Colors of the Wind

Durham Fitness 

Durham Health Mart Pharmacy 

Durham Market 

Durham Wine and Spirits 

Krauzsers

Kim's Cottage Confections 

Laser Engraving 

Prancing Pony 

Valentina's Home Designs

Wild Wisteria 

Rainy Day Fix

Rainy Days and Vacation ..... 

Not the perfect mix 

As Zach Brown says... 

I'm supposed to have

 My toes in the water and my a** in the sand 

Not a worry in the world, cold beer in my hand

Life is good today...

 

Life is good, we've been smiled upon this week with warm, partly sunny days, 

 great waves and lazy days ... with a good book and a cold beverage. 

The Rain arrived today... so we'll shop at the local mall and maybe catch a movie.

And I'll share with you some fun interpretations of Rainy Day Wear!

Marie Coquine Chandelier! 

rubber boot planters 

rain coat bag

Hope the sun is shining where you are today! 

 

The Prince has arrived

There's been a buzz in the air since Monday.

It's far reaching, spanning across 'the pond'.

The buzz ..... it's a boy!

Mother is radiant,

Father ever so proud,

Grandmothers have visited, 

and the Castle is prepared to accept the new Prince!

Welcome 

John 'Jack' Matthew Papallo 

OK.... so maybe that wasn't fair.... 

He may not be third in line for the crown of England, but Jack is certainly the new Prince in my family!  My beautiful sister Christen gave birth to her second child, first son, Jack on Monday.  

Today's blog is dedicated to our newest family member. 

To commemorate this blessed occasion let's check out some of the industry's best designs for new royalty ... or just new common folk like ... Jack! 

Jane Churchill Paddington Bear

  

Jonathan Alder Royal Baby Gold Piggy Bank

Duc Duc Regency Crib 

Cunill Dumbell Rattle Barneys New York 

I really do wish Kate & William the best with their new Prince. 

There is nothing more beautiful than the beginning of a new life chapter with a new baby. 

Here's to Christen & Matt ... and ... Kate & William too! 

May you continued to be blessed, 

cherish these precious early days, and sleep when your Prince sleeps. 

In a blink of an eye these little packages are grown....

Here's to Fairy Tale Endings & Happily Ever After!

A Great Day in American History..

44 years ago ......

Neil Armstrong 

USA 

Moon 

Great Day in American History 

"That's one small step for man

One giant leap for mankind"~Neil Armstrong

The moon has been a source for inspiration 

long before Neil took those steps, 

and continues to be so today!

Mini Moon Chair by HStudio
what child wouldn't want to be the man in the moon?

Moon Craters by Great Wall Online

Glow in the Dark Moon cabinet
designed by Sotirios Papadopoulos

Croissants de lune wallpaper 

When the Moon shines over you tonight ..... I hope you find inspiration too!
Until Next Week.....

A sweet escape...

It's the fourth heat wave of the summer ... 

16 days total to date of over 90 degree temps. 

As I picked blueberries yesterday,

I thought, how did people back in the day survive these heat waves?

The days before 

 central air

fans 

 ice cream cones

ice cold iced tea 

 crystal clear swimming pools

Before we could escape to..... 

the movies

the mall 

or surprise the kids with a water park

Back then .... life slowed to a snails pace 

and it was truly 

The Lazy Days of Summer 

Let's take a trip back in time... 

and appreciate what we have available to us today! 

Sunbathers cool their feet in Central Park 1961
Courtesy of Time Life Pictures Leonard McCombe 

A man rolls up the legs of his suit, paddles into the water to turn his back on the world and stare out to sea.
 (Photo by Vagn Hansen/BIPs/Getty Images). 1955Courtesy of Vintage Everyday 

New York City Children cooling off with Fire Hydrant
Courtesy of Time Life Pictures Vernon Meritt III

Central Parks Bethesda Fountain 1961
Courtesy of Time Life Pictures Leonard McCombe 

Central Park Summer of 1894
Courtesy of Vintage Everyday 

An ice cream vendor wearing waders sells Bailey's ice cream to two women bathing in the sea at Brighton.
(Photo by George W. Hales/Fox Photos/Getty Images). 7th August 1939Courtesy of Vintage Everyday 

I'm hoping the heat wave breaks soon... and stays at bay for a while.  

I fear if we don't get a break soon, we'll all be taking a trip back in time ... after all how long can our power companies maintain this demand?!

Excuse me while I skip across the street for a refreshing treat ..... 

Durham Dairy Serve ....
Photo Courtesy Jason Neely