A midsummer week's drawing
Drawing's closed!
We're having trouble believing that we are well into August already. Every season has its fleeting joys, but somehow, the joys of an upstate summer seem to disappear even more quickly. There is this sense that you have to seize a beautiful day while you can: a river view, a drink on a patio, a ball game, tomatoes from the garden, a summer day trip -- all things we try to squeeze into a few short weeks.
To help squeeze some extra fun out of the summer for one person, we've put together a basket of prizes. Maybe that person is you. The midsummer prize package includes:
Dinosaur Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
Two $50 gift cards (to be used on separate visits) to the Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Troy. (Sitting on the deck would be summery.)
Rare Form
A $25 gift certificate for Rare Form Brewing Company in Troy.
Snowman Ice Cream
A $10 gift card to The Snowman in Troy.
ValleyCats
Two premium box seats for six of the Tri-City ValleyCats' remaining home games (pending availability): 8/13-8/14, 8/21-8/22, 8/24-8/26, 8/30-9/1, 9/5-9/7
FYI: the Cats have home games this week through Friday at The Joe, with promotions like Superhero night( Wednesday), Halfway to Valentine's Day (Thursday) and Early Oktoberfest (Friday).
MASS MoCA
+ Two gallery passes for MASS MoCA (good any day)
+ Two passes to its September 5 dance party with JD Samson
Gramercy Bistro
A gift certificate good for summer lunch (served Wednesday-Saturday) or Sunday brunch for two at Gramercy Bistro, located on the grounds of MASS MoCA.
To enter, answer the question below in the comment section of this post:
What is your favorite summer memory?
It could be anything -- something from this summer, something from when you were a kid. And a sentence or two about why it's your favorite summer would be like sprinkles on top (though it won't help your chances of winning). We'll draw one winner at random. That person gets the prize pack.
Important: All comments must be submitted by 11:59 pm on Wednesday, August 12, 2015 to be entered in the drawing. You must answer the question to be part of the drawing. (Normal commenting guidelines apply.) One entry per person, please. You must enter a valid email address (that you check regularly) with your comment. The winner will be notified via email by noon on Thursday, August 13, 2015, and must respond by noon on Friday, August 14, 2015.
Say Something!
We'd really like you to take part in the conversation here at All Over Albany. But we do have a few rules here. Don't worry, they're easy. The first: be kind. The second: treat everyone else with the same respect you'd like to see in return. Cool? Great, post away. Comments are moderated so it might take a little while for your comment to show up. Thanks for being patient.
Comments
Yesterday my family (including the dog) climbed Buck Mountain. The hike was challenging and the views were spectacular. By far my best Summer memory yet. Thank you.
... said Ron on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:03 PM | link
floating on the Battenkill River!
... said Tom on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:03 PM | link
I remember many camping trips and local carnivals.
... said Vanessa on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:11 PM | link
My favorite summer memory, having grown up on Long Island, was camping at Roger's Rock campground in Lake George as a kid every summer!
... said katie on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:11 PM | link
My favorite moment from this summer was waking up at my family's cottage (located on a tiny bay off of Lake Ontario) and taking my coffee onto the dock. I love to feel the fresh morning breeze and watch the boats go by.
... said Claire on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:13 PM | link
A week we spent in Belfast, Maine. A cottage right on the water, amazingly fresh seafood, and a lack of tourists made this trip a standout.
... said Alison on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:14 PM | link
Rope swinging on the Hudson out by Saratoga, followed by a black raspberry soft serve cone at Dairy Haus!
... said Amanda on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:14 PM | link
My favorite summer memory is always from the magical week each summer where we camp with friends from all over the place in a huge group of over 20 people, then I drop my kid off with my mother in law for a week at her rented cabin in Schroon Lake. The spousal unit and I enjoy a 3-5 day staycation doing whatever we please (outdoor drinks and dining, lazy days at the beach, wine and a fire in the backyard), then join the family for a long weekend in Schroon. It is all the greatness of a NY summer in one awesome week.
... said Kizz on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:16 PM | link
Watching my husband teach our daughter how to catch fireflies in the backyard.
... said Heather on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:17 PM | link
Long lazy days in Lake George. Storytown and Gaslight village with the whole family.
... said Julie on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:19 PM | link
My favorite summer memory is when my brother was born, which came five years after my worst summer memory, when my other brother died. After my family lost my brother, my mother was unable to give birth to a heathy child for several years. Five years and one day later, just as the days grew long and my hair became its usual summer pool chlorine crunchy, my baby brother came into this world and brought smiles back to my mother.
... said N on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:19 PM | link
Childhood vacations at the beaches in Maine. Fireworks, ice cream, saltwater taffy, waves, catching all sorts of "critters", deep sea fishing, thunderstorms over the ocean.
... said Ed on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:20 PM | link
My boys shouting Vamos Gatos at the Valley Cats games, and screaming and jumping for home runs.
... said Melissa M on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:20 PM | link
Going out for soft serve ice cream!
... said AM on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:21 PM | link
Swimming in my parents' pool!
... said Moe on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:24 PM | link
I grew up in Rensselaer 1 block from the baby pool and would go swimming {or so I thought it was swimming lol} there every day with my cousins, we had a blast! When I turned 15 yrs. I became a counselor for the next 3 years. We loved this place!
... said colleen on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:25 PM | link
Grabbing a bunch of friends and doing the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Challenge and then hitting up the Adirondack Brewery for celebrations after.
... said Beth on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:26 PM | link
When I was young (early '80s) we would rent a cabin at Hedges Lake. The elderly couple (the Shields' family) that owned the property at the time (a number of cabins and they ran access to a small public beach that sadly no longer exists) were not in the business to make money, the loved having families spend time there during the summer. It's the only way our family was able to afford to stay there for weeks (sometimes a month). My younger sister and I would swim in the lake all day long. My mom could barely get us to come out of the water to eat. I loved going there. So many good memories of friends and fun and freedom. We were allowed to walk the trail around the lake and pick the wild blackberries and hang out (just us kids). It really was a lovely time in my life, something I will always remember.
... said xina on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:29 PM | link
Riding in the back of our family station wagon on the way to Catskill game farm.
... said Sarah on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:34 PM | link
My favorite summer memory was attending Lourde's Camp in Skaneateles for a week when I was in middle school. I made so many friends, spent the whole time outside and did tons of fun activities. It was a great experience to have as a kid and definitely helped shape my love for camping and being outside!
... said Katrina on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:35 PM | link
Last summer me and my friends spent the weekend in a cabin near Lake George. We went kayaking, drank margaritas, played bored games, etc. There's nothing better than looking out at the mountains whilst on the lake with your best friends by your side and drinks in your hand.
... said Amy on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:40 PM | link
So far this summer, my favorite summer memory is completing 4 high peaks in one day. The views were amazing, and it was a great day of challenging hiking.
... said Kerry on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:41 PM | link
My favorite summer memory is camping at the St. Regis canoe area with my husband. Peaceful, quiet, and beautiful.
... said Fisher on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:43 PM | link
Visiting my grandparents' cottage in Maine nearly every summer after a child (and, after the first few years, flying there on my own!)
... said Jennifer on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:43 PM | link
Running around all summer as a kid with no shoes on. The feeling of wet grass in the morning, or hot asphalt in the afternoon. Being ready for anything; mud, creeks, long walks, because your feet were calloused and dirty anyway. Then the dread of having to squeeze them back into shoes in September.
... said Heather M on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:45 PM | link
Playing in the huge waves of Lake Michigan when I was a kid.
... said Skroo on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:52 PM | link
Growing up in San Diego, my favorite summer memory is going to the beach with my grandfather and body surfing while he watched from the shores. We would stay out until the sunset and not much beats watching the sun set while on the water in southern California. Best summer memory.
... said Paul on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:58 PM | link
Childhood camping trips in the Adirondacks. Getting up early to start the fire that my dad would cook us breakfast on. Fishing all day and sitting around the campfire at night.
... said MikeH on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:58 PM | link
Lake George
... said JES on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:59 PM | link
The smell of fresh cut grass, bare feet on said grass, playing with friends and siblings, swimming, being in awe of Dad's garden, and finishing off a day with ice cream.
... said Albany Jane on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:59 PM | link
Growing up on Long Island, my favorite childhood summer memory is spending the day at the ocean, then coming home to swim in our above ground pool to "rinse off". Our pool always had sand in the bottom!
... said Diana on Aug 10, 2015 at 12:59 PM | link
One of my favorite Summer Memories is going to the Heldeberg Workshop as a kid. I took several classes over the years and had so much fun spending time up in the mountains. Archery, wood carving, crafts, so much to learn and do.
... said Dave R. on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:01 PM | link
Swimming in our pool everyday as part of a "summer camp" my parents and my friends' parents arranged for joint child care!
... said EC on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:01 PM | link
A tie between the three times I was able to get up to the High Peaks hiking this summer.
... said Dan on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:04 PM | link
Riding bikes in Phoenicia
... said Cindy on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:06 PM | link
As a kid, I went to summer camp on the end of Long Island. One night we had a camp-out on the beach, with a big bonfire and s'mores. We watched the sun set and crawled into our sleeping bags. In the middle of the night the counselors woke us up to watch the Perseid meteor shower. It was the most amazing night of my childhood.
... said Kate on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:12 PM | link
Since I've been a kid, it hasn't really felt like a real summer until I've dipped in the Ocean. Now with a child of my own, we carry on the tradition and get out to the ocean at least once per summer.
... said zas1214 on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:12 PM | link
Family road trips to Florida.
... said C on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:13 PM | link
The first time out on Lake George for the season
... said Nick on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:14 PM | link
Running through sprinklers and sneaking into my neighbor's pool.
... said Mike on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:18 PM | link
I went camping every summer as a child in Vermont - still some of my fondest memories1
... said Jenn on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:20 PM | link
Best summer trip so far this year, 8 mile kayak trip down the Moose River and then loaded the boat onto a train for a scenic ride back. Next day, hiked up Bald Mtn and the fire tower. My four year old did everything with me and LOVED it! He's going to be a true adventurer:-)
... said Chris Monaco on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:25 PM | link
For this summer my favorite summer memory was completing Ironman Lake Placid. It wasn't just the race itself, it was the bike rides exploring parts of Upstate that I never would have seen otherwise.
... said Katie on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:26 PM | link
My favorite summer memories involve some sort of ice cream. Hard scoops, soft serve, rainbow sprinkles, gelato. Frozen treats are a must!
... said Addy on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:31 PM | link
Learning to sail at Camp Chinchachgook.
... said Buckeye on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:34 PM | link
Going to Jones Beach when I was a kid. The ocean was a real treat to a kid who lived near lakes.
... said chrisck on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:34 PM | link
Summer days at the swim club. The smell of the hot blacktop when we arrived, waiting to jump into the pool after the "adult swim", and cheese fries at the snack stand.
... said Chrissy on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:36 PM | link
My favorite summer memories coming from just walking around Center Square. It is so lively during the summer and I love seeing everyone "stooping."
... said joe on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:37 PM | link
Being in love!
... said tae on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:43 PM | link
Watching shooting stars (the perseids meteor showers) in the mountains I love. Darkest night sky, brilliant stars & best friends. Perfect.
... said kendra on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:48 PM | link
Biking the Erie Canal.
... said John on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:49 PM | link
Floating on a rubber dingy, looking up at the clouds.
... said Jason on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:51 PM | link
As kids, my brother, sister, and I would spend all day swimming or running around the yard playing. Having no schedule and no adults giving us instructions led to some really creative endeavors, including a multi-day backyard Olympics with an opening ceremony and medal stand.
... said Katie on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:56 PM | link
Walleye fishing at dusk with my dad the summer before I went off to college. I didn't realize at the time how few fishing trips we had left together -- it is one of my favorite summer memories, even if it is tinged with sadness that my sons couldn't have the experience with him, too.
... said Bob W. on Aug 10, 2015 at 1:58 PM | link
Swiming in Lake George.
... said Ben on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:06 PM | link
Laying in the grass beneath my aunt's mulberry tree, eating berries while reading and listening to the Hoosic River rush by.
... said Zhenelle on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:09 PM | link
Sitting outdoors enjoying a good meal, a cold beverage and being surrounded by family and friends with nature as the background music.
... said Ashley on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:13 PM | link
Recent: Dippikill Wilderness Reserve cabins, floating around in canoes, and picnic flotillas.
Historic: summer camp in Maine, the smell of pine trees, nighttime lake swims, thunderstorms coming over the lake.
... said Jenna on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:16 PM | link
My grandparents owned a home on the water on Cape Cod, and we would go there every summer when I was a child. Playing with my cousins (we'd often be there at the same time), waking up to the sight and sounds of the bay, collecting seashells, swimming off the dock - these are some of my best summer memories.
... said Chris on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:16 PM | link
Solo: riding my bike through a field of wildflowers at Thacher Park.
Fam: watching the kids frolic in the waves of the outer Cape.
... said James at 46 or so on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:20 PM | link
Dinner in the back yard, on the patio. no one outshines the others- they are all lovely.
... said julie on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:20 PM | link
Going to Tanglewood to see and listen to Garrison Keillor's "A Prairie Home Companion." A perfect summer evening sitting on the lawn enjoying the show.
... said Uncle Leo on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:34 PM | link
When I lived on Madison Ave, my neighbor and I had many impromptu frisbee sessions at Washington Park, and then on the way home we'd stop at Lark Tavern and sit at the little tables out front with a few beers and watch the world go by. Fun times.
... said Kerosena on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:35 PM | link
Summers lasted forever at our family camp by the Sacandaga!
Piles of food. Herds of cousins. Grown-ups sitting in folding chairs around the fire, drinking beer out of cans.
... said Tess on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:44 PM | link
Family bbq's and watermelon.
... said Sam on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:44 PM | link
My favorite summer memory is from my Eurasia trip in 2012...a fun and exciting trek through the continents
... said Vicky on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:46 PM | link
Mini golf at Jones Beach with my parents on my 10th birthday!
The one with all the state parks.
... said Susan on Aug 10, 2015 at 2:59 PM | link
Growing up we had friends who lived in a house right on the ocean in Mass. They would invite us out there every 4th of July. They would have a big party and at night there would be bonfires all along the beach and everyone lit off fireworks. The next morning all of us kids would run around the beach collecting the used fireworks seeing who could find the biggest ones. It was always my favorite time of the year.
... said Amy on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:05 PM | link
Chocolate soft serve at The Big Dipper in Wynantskill!
... said Naomi on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:06 PM | link
Relaxing in the shade with my family and a big cone of ice cream.
... said RR on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:06 PM | link
spending time outdoors going to all the local farmers markets and festivals. We only have such a short time to spend outdoor in this area so I like to be out as much as possible in the summertime.
... said Rita on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:08 PM | link
vacationing with the family
... said Manuel on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:08 PM | link
My favorite summer memory was spending summer weekends with my family at our camp in Brant Lake, NY. I loved the simplicity of going there and going out on the boat, swimming, fishing and just “getting away†even though it was just a short hour and a half drive. Now, unfortunately, my family no longer has that camp but I enjoy taking day trips to various lakes around the Capital Region and Adirondacks and sharing my love of a nice day on the lake with my kids.
... said Debi on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:09 PM | link
Pool hopping around the neighborhood. Just reminiscing about this yesterday . . .
... said Shawn on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:21 PM | link
One of my favorite things to do in the summer is take our pontoon boat out with a group of friends and cruise Sacandaga lake
... said Mary Ellen on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:29 PM | link
Just the other day... Good food and beverages with my girlfriend and some friends on the patio, enjoying the perfect weather as late afternoon turned into evening.
... said Steve on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:30 PM | link
Riding bikes to the local ice cream stand on a hot night after dinner. I was always enthusiastic on the ride there and many times too tired to bike back. We'd have to end up calling my dad to come pick us up with the car.
... said Heather on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:35 PM | link
Overeating whatever comes off my Pop's grill
... said Luke on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:38 PM | link
I have great memories from attending and then working at my town summer camp. It was nothing fancy, but we all became great friends.
... said cmm2581 on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:41 PM | link
Going barefoot
... said Sue on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:41 PM | link
Finally went for my first kayak ride! It was a great way to see various waterways and get some exercise.
... said Greg on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:53 PM | link
Summer bonfires and parties with the entire neighborhood in the field at the end of our street when when I was a child.
... said Melanie M. on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:57 PM | link
The first time I hiked Crane Mountain with my college roommate, laying out on a rock by the lake on a perfect day & eating our pb&j's.
... said RMH on Aug 10, 2015 at 4:03 PM | link
My favorite summer memory was and is camping. Every year my family and extended family would go camping in the Adirondacks. My Great Uncles and Grandfather may have passed and my Grandmother may be too old to sleep in a tent these days but my Mom, brothers, sister in law and boyfriend carry on the tradition. It's a place my mom grew up camping and I love that we still go every year.
... said Diana on Aug 10, 2015 at 4:07 PM | link
A mystical outdoor dinner at Mezza Market on Hamilton St. with great wine, food, friendly fellow diners and my wonderful wife.
... said Bob Gumson on Aug 10, 2015 at 4:21 PM | link
Gorges, Waterfalls, and Cliff Jumping!!
... said Adam on Aug 10, 2015 at 4:57 PM | link
Camping in the adk as a teenager.
... said Chris R on Aug 10, 2015 at 5:03 PM | link
my first year of walking out the door to harvest vegetables for every meal is making this summer tops.
... said eika on Aug 10, 2015 at 5:08 PM | link
Being outside just after dusk and it seemed like there were thousands of fireflies surrounding my friends and me, enticing us to try to capture them with their magical lights. There were enough that we didn't feel guilty capturing a couple in a glass jar (with holes for air) and placing them by our bedside that night to glow. That memory was from almost 40 years ago, over the past 16 years that I've been raising my children I've often wondered where all the fireflies went, and was sad that they wouldn't experience the magic of fireflies. The other night I was in my yard and saw several, more than probably the last ten years total! I hope they are coming back strong to enchant the nights of children for all time.
... said Kat on Aug 10, 2015 at 5:14 PM | link
Boating on Lake George
... said Brian on Aug 10, 2015 at 5:52 PM | link
When we were kids, sometimes my father would come home from work on a hot day and tell us all to get in the car. Then we would drive to Thacher Park and cook hot dogs for dinner.
... said greg on Aug 10, 2015 at 5:54 PM | link
Going to the Cape with my family and hanging out on the beach.
... said Becky on Aug 10, 2015 at 6:00 PM | link
Sitting with my kids on a park bench in Chatham, eating muffins from the bakery, and watching a train go by. Probably not the most exciting, but I'm sure it will stick with me longer than other memories will.
... said Shaun on Aug 10, 2015 at 6:11 PM | link
Hiking big slide mountain two summers ago after a rainstorm.
... said jordan on Aug 10, 2015 at 6:27 PM | link
As a kid: running through the sprinkler and rigging up a homemade slip and slide through the backyard. Bonus if the ice cream man came down the street!
... said Ellie on Aug 10, 2015 at 6:28 PM | link
the summer of '72: I moved out of my parents house and in with a bunch great and colorful housemates, including Mark who became my best friend; lost a lot of weight; practiced yoga and learned to swim a mile; worked as a lugger in a factory making rear view mirrors for cars and loved it; listened to Mad Man Across the Waters; and spent time w two amazing young women! It was a very, very fine summer… (sighs wistfully)
... said r. on Aug 10, 2015 at 6:50 PM | link
Favorite childhood memory- camping in the back yard!
... said Julie on Aug 10, 2015 at 7:14 PM | link
Hiking with my husband and dog in Thacher Park
... said Sarah on Aug 10, 2015 at 7:17 PM | link
Sun rise on lake Sebago in Maine
... said Brian on Aug 10, 2015 at 7:19 PM | link
Any summer growing up camping out in the pop up trailer on Paradox Lake. What I wouldn't give to go back there.
... said Emily on Aug 10, 2015 at 7:22 PM | link
Blueberry picking with my Dad in July at the huge and under-picked patch across from Grafton Lakes State Park then going for lunch at the General Store in town and checking out the Grafton Peace Pagoda.
... said Danielle Sanzone on Aug 10, 2015 at 7:44 PM | link
Flying along in my sailboat with the spinnaker flying.
... said Cliff on Aug 10, 2015 at 7:57 PM | link
Sitting on a lawn chair at Grafton State Park and finishing reading The 25th Hour
... said Marshall on Aug 10, 2015 at 8:01 PM | link
Camping in Yosemite.
... said Don on Aug 10, 2015 at 8:50 PM | link
Trips to Grafton lake state park
... said Kelly on Aug 10, 2015 at 8:51 PM | link
VIPLC! Only about 120 people know what this is. But for all 120, it is probably their favorite summer memory. You know who you are.
... said KM on Aug 10, 2015 at 8:52 PM | link
Spending a week at the beach without a care in the world
... said May on Aug 10, 2015 at 8:53 PM | link
My favorite summer memory is from this year. I was married at Revolution Hall in Troy to a great person, surrounded by pretty much all of my loved ones.
... said Kobe on Aug 10, 2015 at 8:55 PM | link
Road trips to visit my grandparents in Virginia when I was very young.
... said Jennifer on Aug 10, 2015 at 9:28 PM | link
Earlier this summer, I was in a bad mood and made myself go out for a hike. I really didn't want to, but felt I should get out of the house. While I was hiking it started to rain while the sun was still out. A short while later I saw a double rainbow. So glad I left the house!
... said k on Aug 10, 2015 at 9:30 PM | link
My favorite summer memory growing up in the Capital Region was going down to Katterskill falls. We all crowded into my parents white mercury sable station wagon. We packed a picnic to eat at the falls. My dad then took us up to the middle level of the falls (now since technically prohibited) where we could swim in a swimming hole all to ourselves. We drove back up North stopping at the Country Drive in in Clifton Park for Michigan fries and Fish Fry on a hotdog bun. Obviously a soft serve cone (always vanilla/chocolate twist) for dessert. Later that evening, my father too me to see Neil Young and Crazy Horse at SPAC with Jewel opening. Classic Capital Region summer.
... said Josh K on Aug 10, 2015 at 9:38 PM | link
Married 20 years ago on August 4, 1995. Best summer ever and one of the hottest days of that year. Met my wife in Troy in grammar school, went to college together in Troy and married and live in Troy.
... said Rich R on Aug 10, 2015 at 10:14 PM | link
Chasing, catching and releasing fireflies in my backyard
... said Michelle on Aug 10, 2015 at 10:18 PM | link
Soft serve ice cream, the ocean, and first bike ride of summer.
... said Theresa on Aug 10, 2015 at 10:38 PM | link
This summer I created a favorite summer memory-- my wedding, just 2 weeks ago! Both of us transplants to Troy, we held our reception at Revolution Hall. It was so beautiful, and we were surrounded by all of our most favorite people in the world, from near and far. I know everyone says this, but it really is the best day ever!
... said Danielle on Aug 10, 2015 at 11:05 PM | link
Attending the Altamont County Fair with my parents.
I grew up on a farm showing animals at the fair many states away, so when my parents came to visit we went and walked around for hours. It was a fun way to enjoy their company and be reminded of old memories.
... said Pete on Aug 10, 2015 at 11:39 PM | link
Age 6-11: reading a book or five while lying in the grass (no blanket) in the front yard of my [parents'] house in Columbia County under a giant white birch tree, first dog beside me, fingers stained with juice of cherries or blackberries.
... said Sarah on Aug 10, 2015 at 11:43 PM | link
I always loved playing kick the can in the neighborhood with all of my friends when I was younger. We would all go home and change into dark clothes, then head out and play for hours into the night.
... said Jenn on Aug 11, 2015 at 12:36 AM | link
Picking blackberries on my grandparents farm.
... said Rick on Aug 11, 2015 at 3:24 AM | link
The first great tomato sandwich made with local grown tomatoes, and cucumbers...totally tastes of summer.
... said llcwine on Aug 11, 2015 at 5:17 AM | link
We enjoy the county fairs
... said Dave on Aug 11, 2015 at 5:17 AM | link
As a kid, Long Beach Island NJ vacations. Driving thru the wee hours to arrive first thing in the morning, walking to the beach on asphalt so hot it could burn your feet, body surfing, dodging the beach badge checkers, spending time with many cousins, meeting other young people at Bay Village and Seaside Heights.
As an adult I prefer the National Seashore on Cape Cod. Pods of seals, flocks of seabirds, and stretches of beach where you can walk for a mile and not see another person. Or walk the other way to the iconic and always hopping beach bar at Cahoon Hollow for music, drinks and great seafood.
... said Bill on Aug 11, 2015 at 5:59 AM | link
cooking on a campfire in the ADKs
... said spencer on Aug 11, 2015 at 7:42 AM | link
Rockaway Beach - the Irish Riviera.
... said Thomas on Aug 11, 2015 at 7:43 AM | link
When growing up, camping with family and friends in the Adirondacks at Limekiln Lake - the camping was fun, but the highlight was always the inevitable day spent at Enchanted Forest Water Safari!
... said KGB on Aug 11, 2015 at 8:43 AM | link
My favorite summer memory is visiting Cedar Point amusement park in Ohio!
... said Tara on Aug 11, 2015 at 9:01 AM | link
Hiking and camping in the ADKs is by far my favorite summer activity. There is no place more beautiful (in my opinion)!
... said Alicia on Aug 11, 2015 at 9:14 AM | link
My favorite summer memory is camping with my parents as a kid in the Adirondacks.
... said Jen on Aug 11, 2015 at 9:15 AM | link
A day at the track!
... said Jules on Aug 11, 2015 at 9:17 AM | link
Being around 9 years old and walking with my dog through the hay fields next to our house.
... said -R. on Aug 11, 2015 at 9:20 AM | link
My favorite summer memories involve being slightly bored and picking up a book from my parents' bookshelf; then, I found myself, unexpectedly, transported away from boredom and feeling too hot.
... said E. on Aug 11, 2015 at 9:40 AM | link
Camping with friends, enjoying quiet evenings around the fire. And new for this year - taking my boys blueberry picking.
... said Stephanie on Aug 11, 2015 at 9:43 AM | link
My favorite summer time memory is sitting in the backyard with a nice bonfire going and watching the fireflies flicker
... said Jason on Aug 11, 2015 at 9:47 AM | link
One of my best summer memories is the first time I brought my Fiance to the track. I sneaked off to place a bet on a long-odds horse with a name that suited our relationship, and the horse won! When I presented him with the ticket, he pulled one out of his pocket and handed it to me. He said he couldn't pass up betting on a horse that was so us. We had a really nice dinner that night.
... said Trish on Aug 11, 2015 at 9:59 AM | link
Swimming with my pups in Lake George and then grabbing an ice cream cone at the Pink Roof before a game of mini golf at Around the World.
... said Allison on Aug 11, 2015 at 10:04 AM | link
laughing my way around center square with my room mates and buying flowers at the farmers market in troy :)
... said AP on Aug 11, 2015 at 10:10 AM | link
Night swimming.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-YHU6BwPR0
... said Matt on Aug 11, 2015 at 10:44 AM | link
Heading to Brewery Ommegang for their annual BCTC festival, as I did this past weekend for the 7th time, is always my favorite day of the year. Beyond the great beers and atmosphere, I am lucky to enjoy it with a great group of friends who make the trek year after year.
... said Brit on Aug 11, 2015 at 10:50 AM | link
My favorite summer memory was going on the lazy river tubing adventure. Floating down the river with friends on an amazing summer day, enjoying some snacks and drinks. That was a great day.
... said Brad on Aug 11, 2015 at 10:56 AM | link
My favorite summer memory is hiking the high peaks in Keene Valley and stopping at the noonmark diner after for a piece of pie.
... said Kay on Aug 11, 2015 at 10:57 AM | link
This one is a bit different than the others, but it's still one of my favorite summer memories. It's during the dog days of August, those hot, slow moving days, where everything seems to stand still. My Dad would be going around outside doing various chores/projects One thing that always stuck out about these days was the noise of a certain bug that would "buzz" every so often, for about 6 seconds at a clip. For some reason I always liked that.
... said Nick on Aug 11, 2015 at 11:16 AM | link
Going to Million Dollar Beach in Lake George with my grandparents and brother, then for post-swimming dinner at Mama Riso's. Family time and warmer weather make me a happier individual!
... said Liz on Aug 11, 2015 at 11:41 AM | link
Roasting bacon and Totino's over the fire while camping in the Poconos!
... said Diana on Aug 11, 2015 at 12:13 PM | link
Sitting outside on the Hudson on the longest days of the year, catching those last magical moments of daylight around 9pm as they fade into twilight. It feels like there is something magical in the air.
... said Lindsay on Aug 11, 2015 at 12:24 PM | link
My favorite summers are from when I was a kid. I was an only child and a bit of a performer and my biggest fans were my neighbors. My family, our next door neighbors (which consisted of four older kids), and our neighbors across the street (one boy my age and an older sister) would all go to Lewey Lake in the Adirondacks and get three sites on the lake right next to each other. I can't even pack all of the ridiculous memories into one comment box, but a running theme was my father driving park rangers insane by setting off timed fireworks near their cabins... and launching a covert fireworks display from the center of the lake from a floating launch display he painted matte black. After they all went off (This was a 20 tube device that launched 20 M-80s into the air) he'd slowly reel it in with fishing line as flashlights searched the water. Then he'd flip it over and put a table cloth over it when the rangers came to each site looking for the culprits. He did this EVERY year and NEVER got caught. That was always the highlight of every camping trip. The hilarity and excitement of potentially getting caught really added flavor to a trip that also had the potential of coming nose-to-nose with a black bear simply by taking a walk to the bathroom.
... said Johnny M on Aug 11, 2015 at 12:51 PM | link
A summer camping trip to Algonquin Provincial Park (Canada) where my husband and I went canoeing one quiet, misty morning and were enthralled with a loon pair with young. The quavering calls of the adults felt mystical and timeless. A memory neither of us has ever forgotten...
... said Marcia on Aug 11, 2015 at 1:11 PM | link
Heading to the jersey shore!
... said Marissa M on Aug 11, 2015 at 1:12 PM | link
Trip to Niagara Falls.
... said AC on Aug 11, 2015 at 1:35 PM | link
Paddling with my husband and kids in our tandem kayaks. No motors in sight. Just us and the birds.
Peace and quiet until the boys drop the paddles for the water guns they snuck on board.
... said tired mom on Aug 11, 2015 at 2:38 PM | link
Driving out on 151 to see that big beautiful blue moon a couple weeks ago. (And then getting proposed to under it.)
... said Katy on Aug 11, 2015 at 2:47 PM | link
The first Lollapalooza at SPAC. Early August on the lawn at SPAC, listening to Jane's Addicition, Souxsie and the Banshees, Fishbone, among others...simply awesome.
... said Mike on Aug 11, 2015 at 3:02 PM | link
My favorite summer memory is late night drives with the windows down and breeze blowing!
... said Michelle on Aug 11, 2015 at 3:43 PM | link
Going out on my dad's little green boat, the Erin G'Danny, with our family and exploring canals and channels on LI's south shore. The Capital Region is nice, but I miss being close to that salty air, escaping life for a short while with loved ones.
... said MFW on Aug 11, 2015 at 3:46 PM | link
The summer I read 300 books. I was in elementary school, so many of them were probably picture books, but as an adult I dream of a huge chunk of uninterrupted time to just lie in the sun and consume books. Darn you adult responsibilities!
... said Jill on Aug 11, 2015 at 4:19 PM | link
Grabbing a gelato in the golden age of Crisan, strolling to the park and reading with those few extra hours of sunlight.
... said Michelle on Aug 11, 2015 at 5:05 PM | link
One of my favorite summer memories is my wedding night, August, 1997. I remember entering our backyard to see a beautiful decorated yard and all of my family and close friends being there to celebrate.
... said Sue on Aug 11, 2015 at 5:15 PM | link
Camping downstate by the ocean. We all ended up with chiggers but the views were worth it.
... said L on Aug 11, 2015 at 6:40 PM | link
the Puerto Rican piragua man or limbe sold on the corners in the Bronx growing up.
... said Lizzie on Aug 11, 2015 at 7:37 PM | link
I remember when I was really young my family hanging out at a cookout with friends having fun, but the highlight was everyone gathering around the TV and seeing astronauts stepping on the surface of the moon. That is a summer memory that stands out for me.
... said Lisa on Aug 11, 2015 at 8:46 PM | link
Catching crawfish and minnows in the creek by my house as a kid.
... said Jessica R W on Aug 11, 2015 at 9:29 PM | link
Spending summers on the lake
... said Laura on Aug 11, 2015 at 9:34 PM | link
Lots of memories rolled into one: after a long day of being in the water of a local lake, drying off, putting on comfy sweats, and making s'mores over a roaring fire with my cousins.
... said Allison on Aug 11, 2015 at 10:28 PM | link
My favorite summer memory is vacationing in the Adirondacks with my family every summer.
... said Kara Paulsen on Aug 11, 2015 at 11:07 PM | link
Camping with my parents and sister at the KOA in a pop up camper! :-)
... said lynn b on Aug 11, 2015 at 11:31 PM | link
Laying on the beach looking up at the stars on a warm summer night........at folly beach, sc that was.
... said Mark on Aug 12, 2015 at 4:01 AM | link
Fireworks on the beach in Cape Cod!
... said Beth on Aug 12, 2015 at 9:35 AM | link
As a child, spending two weeks every summer on Cape Cod. We'd spend all day on the beach (Mom would pack sandwiches for the cooler---always either tuna or tomato), and playing board games and chasing fireflies in the yard of the little house we rented in the evenings. It was magical.
... said Mel on Aug 12, 2015 at 9:37 AM | link
Our yearly vacation in Wildwood Crest, NJ, just my mom & dad and me, is a precious memory. All day at the beach and/or hotel pool, or in the shops browsing for tshatshkes if it was raining. Going out for a fish dinner every night, followed by a frozen custard on the boardwalk in Wildwood.
... said nan on Aug 12, 2015 at 10:31 AM | link
Sitting on the shore of Lake Ontario in Oswego with a group of friends and a beer in hand watching the sun sink over that beautiful blue water. Starting a fire at dusk, playing games and laughing around the lake are all the things that top my long list of favorite summer memories.
... said Matt on Aug 12, 2015 at 11:25 AM | link
Spending every sunny day of summer vacation at my grandparents' pool. What I wouldn't give to re-live those years!
... said acw on Aug 12, 2015 at 12:02 PM | link
I'm not a fan of summer, but one thing that always stands out to me as the highlight of the season is sitting on the edge of the dog run in Washington Park, reading a good book.
... said JayK on Aug 12, 2015 at 12:11 PM | link
Camping at Interlaken travel trailer park in Saratoga when I was a kid was the Best time of my life, until I had kids. Now any time I get to spend with them is the best day ever!!!
... said Ali C on Aug 12, 2015 at 1:32 PM | link
My favorite summer memory is from last year when my kids saw the ocean for the first time up in Maine. My son was as happy as I've ever seen him running out in to (and then back away from) the waves. I still have a few pictures of him doing it and they make me smile every time
... said Jeff Williamson on Aug 12, 2015 at 1:44 PM | link
A hike through Vischer Ferry Preserve and a picnic eaten under the giant weeping willow overlooking the Mohawk River watching all the boats go by.
... said K B on Aug 12, 2015 at 3:05 PM | link
When I was little we vacationed in Jamesport on Long Island's North Fork. We'd fish with bamboo poles, chase hermit crabs across the sand and play in the cool water of the bay. It was the best vacation ever, before that part of Long Island was fashionable, and a boy could just be a boy.
... said Rob on Aug 12, 2015 at 4:26 PM | link
Blackberry picking with my cousins. My aunt would announce that she'd make cobbler if only she had some berries. We'd about kill each other trying to get baskets and get out the door. We'd get cobblers and jars of jam.
... said Reign on Aug 12, 2015 at 4:40 PM | link
Watching my 7 year old daughter run through the sprinkler, and listening to her laugh and giggle, while I sip a cold one in my back yard.
... said Steve N. on Aug 12, 2015 at 7:35 PM | link