The chance to indulge in some locally made ice cream whilst walking in the sunshine and breathing in the fresh, sea air is truly something to relish. It's one of my fondest childhood memories. Usually the local ice cream parlor figured in the equation too!
I particularly remember my father being easily swayed into buying ice cream at the seaside. In fact, it was often his idea to get some, particularly if there was a chance of getting a Knickerbocker Glory somewhere! It was his favorite ice cream sundae. If a sundae wasn't on hand, he was always happy to have an ice cream cone.
My father had a great sense of fun and ice cream was often part of that fun. I have many happy memories of him, smiling whilst enjoying some ice cream - and not just at the seaside but lots of places. In fact, anywhere where ice cream might be available!
The seaside, however, was always my father's favorite place for an ice cream. This photograph was taken by my mother 4 years ago at the seaside resort of Bridlington in Yorkshire, England.
My father is on the left with my Uncle Ron (my mother's brother) on the right.
What sets them apart is that they each chose a different ice cream - my father an ice cream cone and my uncle Ron a tub of ice cream with a small spoon.
What they share in common is the wonderful wry smile on their faces, probably no different from when they were boys, acknowledging the fun of a special treat - and clearly enjoying every minute of it! Happy days :)
To my Uncle Ron who recently suffered a broken shoulder I would just say:
"Please get well soon and keep eating that ice cream to build yourself up!"
To my father who passed away 3 years ago today I say:
"Thanks for the memories Dad, especially the ice cream ones!"
The angels will surely get an ice cream treat today if he has any say :)