Friday, August 23, 2013

A 40++ Year Tradition






For 40+ years my Dad, my Uncle Don and their childhood friend Ray have been driving from NY, CT and RI to meet-up at one of the most beautiful racetracks, Saratoga, for an early round of golf and a day at the track.  How did these three kids from the triple-decker houses of Providence learn to golf?  By catching multiple buses to the country club where they caddied.  The affinity for horse gambling?  Natural inclination :)


It's always a one-day trip up early in the morning and back home late in the night.  There's routines and rituals - the same places for lunch (always take-out sandwiches) and dinner every year.  They still talk about "the year" when they went to their lunch spot only to find it had closed!  


Bob and Ray - If you knew them you'd agree that this picture  captures the essence of their 70+ year friendship, independent and connected.


The ritual now spans three generations.  This year's trip had a total of 11.  Here's two younger generations heading out with the coolers and gear for the day in tow.

While it's true that time marches on and things are always changing, some things do stay the same.  That's something Bob, Don and Ray know a little bit about.

10 comments:

Bethany [at] Powell Brower Home said...

this was the CUTEST post. i love their story. and your writing - sounded like this needs to be featured in a newspaper, it was so good!!

Linda {Calling it Home} said...

OMG, you are making me cry before noon. I love this, and it is really what life is all about. I wish this sort of thing could go on forever.

home before dark said...

This is your best writing ever! Happy new memories of doing the same thing over and over. Love it!

home before dark said...

This is your best writing ever! Happy new memories of doing the same thing over and over. Love it!

Windlost said...

Lovely...what a beautiful photo essay about this very cool trio. Love that the young guys are going too. I love traditions. xo Terri

helen tilston said...

I love the friendship of Bob, Don and Ray. They look healthy and joyful and all still in very good shape. I am sure there are some funny stories told.
Wishing the more years of golfing and horse racing
Helen x

Anonymous said...

What an adorable post. I love your dad, uncle and friend. What is life without lasting friendships and time to make fun memories!

Karena said...

Michele, this is just the greatest! So many traditions go by the wayside. Your Dad, uncle and friend have even passed this down in the family!

Oh and hurrah I have taken down captcha code!

xoxo
Karena
Featuring:Artist Anne Harwell

debra @ 5th and state said...

so endearing. loved your caption of them holding the pole, how true. that last image of your father is priceless
debra

Mary Ann Pickett said...

Heartwarming to hear of friendships like that!

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