I got my grandkids all pumped up about it. As we drove from Keene New Hampshire I talked the history of revolution and freedom. About the men who had traipsed from places like Fort At #4 across the miles to Crown Point or Fort Ticonderoga. I talked about Indians and settlers. (I love history and geography!) I showed them sites and thought process.

We drove past Roger’s Rock (Where a man set himself against the French and the Indians in the battle for our freedoms.) and down to the Hague. From there I showed them where Tina and I have often stayed at Silver Bay. The last stretch brought us through Bolton Landing and into the village.It was Adirondack Nationals and my grandchildren flipped as we crept slowly through the village because of the thousands of cars. Muscle cars, vintage vehicles and more filled the streets. Turning around five miles south we began the slow journey back in. Heading down to the parking by Million Dollar Beach we were one of the last vehicles allowed entry as they shut the gate.

A tailgate lunch before we began to walk up along the beach.

Ducks and seagulls filled the air. Steam ships tooted their right of visitation. An airplane landed on the waters. Para-sailers and jet skis. And of course more outrageous cars. We wandered along the boardwalk as the children watched it all. As we headed upon to the main drag, Mariah said, “I live the smell of old cars and gas!” The noise filled the streets and the people bumped by one another. The kids never looked at a shop! As we headed down by Fort Henry I thought “wow! Why am I not here?!?!”

The trip home just reminded me of the love of my childhood memories, the history of our country and why I do what I do!

Written by Lee Johndrow

Lee is the Senior Leader of Abundant Grace Fellowship Church in Keene, NH

He is the father of five wonderful children. Married for over 26 years to his wife Tina. Loving life with family, friends, faith, fun and food!