The Fleet Is In!

We had planned to drive west toward New York City today to first visit the northside of Long Island and then make our way back on the southside of Long Island. We dressed in shorts because the temperature was supposed to be 92 degrees and sunny. When we left the RV, it was overcast with a sprinkling rain. So, we decided to have lunch in Greenport at "The Loft" that was recommended by the campground office.

We had a charming waiter, Steve, who laughed and joked with us and wasn't even gay. There were only three or four other couples there. As we were eating, the chef joined us to find out how we liked our meals. Mel had ordered St. Louis ribs and I had commented that I would be the judge of whether or not they met my criteria for St. Louis ribs, given I was born and raised in St. Louis. Fortunately, they passed muster, because I wouldn't have had the heart to tell the chef that they were wrong. We decided to have dessert, which is usually a treat for us. They had strawberry shortcake on the menu so I ordered that as it had been awhile since I had it. Out came the chef, what did I think of the dessert? It was scrumptious, so he was pleased. Really, these little places are so happy to have people in their establishments. I ended up keeping the bill because for Mel's ribs, the computer printed out, "Nice Rack." Too cute!

The photo above is of the Greenport train station that we found as the train pulled in. This would be another way to get into New York City, but at this point, I think we will just remember our 2000 trip to New York. It is 2 1/2 hour trip to the big city and Mel just cannot face the commute. Can we say McHenry?

I just realized that my photos are out of order here. Nonetheless (Kendra take notice!), the Annapolis training fleet had pulled into port for liberty in Greenport. While you cannot see them, there are eight to ten training ships in port. Since the last week of May, the midshippersons, who had graduated, have been at sea, gaining their sea legs so to speak. Here they have caught up with us in Greenport. Who knew? When we walked the waterfront yesterday, they weren't there and then today, they were.

As we walked down the pier to look at the wooden ships more closely, we ran into our charming waiter from "The Loft." Steve was on break so he walked along with us and was fascinated when we told him of our adventure. He is 21 and at the end of the season, which we learned is July 1st through Labor Day, he is leaving for an eight month stay in London. He'll spend 4 months at school for the Fall semester and will spend the Spring semester touring Europe. But before he leaves, he and his mother are taking a trip to Chicago, a city he learned about when he took a course in museum history. These New Yorkers have never been to the Midwest, so be nice to them when they visit. Okay?

Regarding "the season," Jim told us that the kids do not get out of school until June 23rd. I told Mel the other day that I saw a crossing guard and he said that wasn't possible, since it is summer. Oh well!

After our lovely cheerful lunch, the skies had not cleared and it remained cool. So, we decided to take in a movie. I called the theater to find out that Al Gore's documentary, An Inconvenient Truth, was playing. We walked to our little theater, but we were in a different area and there were no sofas. The problem with documentaries is that they are about reality and usually don't make you feel good when they are over.

The environment is serious business and no one in government seems to be paying attention. I do believe that we have the technology, the brains, even the money, but lack the political will, to take action. While you have petroleum czars in the drivers seat, nothing will improve. If Al Gore is not running for office, he could turn into a statesmen, which we are sorely lacking. This may be a better role for him. He could join with Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton to foment changes in our policies. Maybe, they could be our era's Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and George Washington. These are very smart men and they can now speak for the best interest of the country. You know, do the right thing, not the politically expedient thing.

Sorry about the soap box, but we continue to be in despair and desolation. We were the ones, who have run away, remember?

Finally, I close with this photo of a perfect little house in Greenport. Isn't it charming? The gingerbread is just adorable. Cutesy!