When I first met my neighbor Dan (who I also commonly and half-jokingly refer to as “my photographer” since he often takes such incredible and beautiful photos of me) a few months into the pandemic back in 2020, I never would have anticipated that we’d become such fast friends and that, nearly four years later, his family would be so warm and welcoming to me whenever I’m fortunate enough to see them and spend time with them.
But The Little Family immediately accepted me into their circle with open arms, actively including me in celebrations, get-togethers, dinners, parties, etc. They are a kind, funny, generous and loving group of people with fantastic stories and such a passion for life- which is why I think Dan and I clicked so quickly after meeting. He is very much like that, too- and we always have so much fun together, whether we’re hanging around the Pioneer Valley or traveling out of state for a day trip.
Most recently, after kicking off our Summer with lobster rolls and BBQ at Local Burgy and checking out the absolutely stunning décor (and one of the best gin cocktails around) at Muse Cider Bar in Haydenville- I accompanied Dan back to Troy, New York to have dinner with a good portion of his family at his parents’ home and meet his eight-month-old nephew, Parker, for the first time- and what a beautiful and sweet baby he is! He is a doll, and even though it’s been quite some time since I held a baby so young and so small, he gave me the most adorable little grin while I was getting my bearings.
Dan snapped some gorgeous photos of his family to commemorate the occasion. Hallmark-Card-levels of poignant and sentimental- with a great backdrop of a mostly sunny day!- and I’m looking forward to seeing all of them once he’s had a chance to finish going through them.
Afterwards, before heading back to Western Massachusetts, Dan brought me to Snow Man, an ice cream shop that is reportedly one of the best in Troy- and I grabbed a Reese’s sundae that was way bigger than I anticipated and was pretty incredible. As full as I was from a big family dinner, I still ate most of my two scoops and toppings!
A little later on this week, I’m also going to be sharing some photos from another recent outing I had with friends- including the first campfire/cookout of the season and a quick trip to Narragansett!
xo
Coffee & Chiffon 