A Bright Spot

 

Last week my old pal Laura and I made our annual trip to
Long Grove.  Unfortunately, so many of the businesses that
drew us to visit are long gone.  There are many vacant storefronts,
including the Apple Haus, a must visit stop every fall.
The bright spot for me is my favorite store,
Mangel Gifts.
There are always unique things to see and purchase.
The owner and visionary Doug, is still
one of the most original designers.
You just need to walk in his store for inspiration,
and those unique items that make people ask, "Where did you
get that!" 

 

I thought that this advent garland was beautiful.  A library pocket for each
day, filled with a sentiment. 

 

My mysterious friend.  I was teasing her because of her texting. 
I am faster with one finger than she is with two.

 

The setting of this restaurant is right near the Mill.
I was eating when it was lunch time for all the resident ducks and geese.
I didn't know what was happening, all the fowl were walking right up
to the windows.  A worker tossed a large bucket of grain a few minutes
after all the birds gathered.  It was quite a sight that I missed
photographing because of my barbecue chicken sandwich and the
mess I was making of it and myself.
Note to self...sauce on the side next time!

 

Still I remember the many many years of great times I've had
with my family and friends at Long Grove.
I hope that the few stores still there can hold on.
Surely when the economy rebounds, a renaissance
of  Long Grove would make me happy.

This might be my last post from my PC for a little while.
The last thing to move out and relocate.
As Carl Sandburg once said,
"I don't know where I'm going,
but I'm on my way."

Thanks for stopping by my friends.  Enjoy this beautiful day.