Thompsons Lake

Labor Day was a 90-degree day, hot and humid. Both of my knees had ached all night and most of the day yesterday. I thought maybe I had dehydrated because I sat around Danny’s pond all day Saturday watching Samson, Nichole, and Iain swim and then again on Sunday afternoon; it was hot and I didn’t bring water with me.

So today, I drank a cup of water every hour and watched television, put my feet up, and rested.

Brandon and Jenn went to a party at Maple on the Lake for family and friends. They had a fun time playing tug of war and watching a pie-eating contest. They played a greased watermelon game in the lake, and volleyball games.

On Tuesday, Sept. 8 I woke up with my knees feeling much better. I read the newspaper. I ordered heating oil from another company that has a much lower price. I also ordered a truckload of crusher run for my driveway because the lower driveway has had big ruts since those last heavy storms two years ago.

In the evening, I went to Ruby Tuesday’s for dinner with Brandon, Jenn, and Iain. Jenn treated Iain on his first day back to school and Ruby Tuesday’s was his choice. It turned out to be a good deal for Jenn as children are free there on Tuesday’s. Iain’s favorite is grilled chicken. Iain’s teacher is Mrs. Richards and he’s content with school.

On Wednesday, Sept. 9, I spent time calling Time Warner, as they were raising my bill again. I don’t think they even wait six months before they raise the price again. They cut my bill down a little. Then I went on the dinner visit with Brandon, Samson, and Nichole.

They chose to eat at the Red Apple Buffet. They didn’t have any homework so as a special treat we went to Cobleskill Lanes and they bowled three games. I think they each won a game. Summer seems to have flown right by.

My knees are feeling better, but I didn’t bowl. I feel my balance is still a little shaky.

Thursday, Sept. 10, was Primary Day and I worked on the election board. I enjoyed spending time with the three other ladies I work with and seeing friends and neighbors who come to the polls.

Friday, Sept. 11, arrived and I visited with Kathy and Kassi on the phone and then went to the bank and grocery store.

I rode with Brandon to Schoharie to pick up Samson and Nichole for the weekend. Jenn prepared a delicious dinner for us. She served chicken Alfredo, salad, applesauce, homemade rolls, dipping sauce, and, for dessert, angel food cake topped with strawberries and ice cream.

On Saturday, Sept. 12, a big event took place for us. It’s the annual Gathering of the Tribes at the Brown Farm in East Greenbush. We plan to attend every year. 

This year Brandon chose to take this weekend as he and Veronica traded because Samson and Nichole are in a wedding on Sept. 19.

Brandon, Jenn, and Nichole early in the morning went to GNH Lumber in Greenville for more building supplies for the hunting shanty. Then we loaded in the car and took off for an enjoyable day of singing, dancing, and stories.

We learned about tribal traditions. The dancing was intriguing and the flute playing was mesmerizing. Brandon, Jenn, Samson, Nichole, and Iain all danced in the circle. There were many vendors and children all were able to buy a souvenir.

The rain held off until after 4 p.m. There were sprinkles and threatening clouds but no downpours until late afternoon. Then came the treat of eating at a Friendly’s restaurant. They seem so retro because they’re far and few between. We all finished our meals with their famous ice cream. 

We stopped in Voorheesville at Hannaford for cat food for Mittens.

Jenn let the children pick out a Red Box movie. Nichole called Kyra and Jenn picked her up and she watched a movie with them.

Kyra and Marcia had spent the afternoon at Berne Town Park listening to the band “Black Mountain Symphony.” It was a fund-raiser to improve the park.

Miles, Melissa, Kassi, Danielle, Kathy, and Gary all attended that event. Tim and Carol Maikoff enjoyed the music in the park.

Sunday, Sept. 13, was church and then family day. Danielle picked up her new puppy, which she named Piper, to surprise Zoey. She’s a Red Coon Hound and German Sheperd. 

Brandon grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, and summer squash. Jenn made waffle fries with her new mandolin. Jenn also baked brownies for Grandparent’s Day. I made five-cup fruit salad.

After dinner, I rode with Brandon to take Samson and Nichole back to Schoharie. Then I went up to Danielle and Zoey’s house as I had bought a T-shirt with horses on it for Zoey. Zoey introduced me to Piper.

Piper seemed amazed with Zoey as she was just used to being with her eight brothers and sisters.

Zoey is so thankful to have a puppy. She doesn’t like Piper to chew oon her horse’s tail. Piper got tired and laid down to go to sleep. Zoey lay down next to her and they both were trying to get to sleep.

It was a perfect ending to a very memorable weekend.

The Altamont Enterprise is focused on hyper-local, high-quality journalism. We produce free election guides, curate readers' opinion pieces, and engage with important local issues. Subscriptions open full access to our work and make it possible.