Monday - July 5

 A sunny summer day.    We washed Catrina (so many nasty bugs), packed up the car and left Suprior Marine at 11.    We had a 4-hour trip ahead of us and Mark started driving the first leg and along the way we said the rosary (our tradition whenever we are on the road or water).    So many to pray for...

There was a bad acident on I-90 with a major backup of traffic.    We were able to get off the next exit but took some meandering to finally get back on the interstate a few miles down the road.

We saw the sign for Steak 'n Shake and thought that would be a good choice for lunch as we haven't had that treat in awhile.    But....stopped at 2 different locations (Cleveland and Mentor) and both closed for indoor dining.   Drove into Grand River and found Sammy's Family Restaurant - "home cookin'" and it was good.   Mark had the meatloaf and tuna croissant for me.    We drove around (now I'm at the wheel) and checked out the marinas for when we come back this way later on to hit more marinas.    Came upon 2 very popular spots - Brennan's and Pickle Bills Lobster House - looks like they've been around a very long time, but lots of cars for a Monday afternoon.    My friend, Claire is from Painesville, OH which is only a few miles away, so thought that's where we would find a lunch spot, but most everything was closed on Mondays.    But it all worked out and lunch was just fine in this little town of Grand River (pop 450+)     

Kept on truckin' on I-90 and then a quick break and Mark took over the driving.   We arrived in Amherst (5 miles from the Buffalo airport) at 5:30.    Settled in and decided after our big lunch, we would just go out for a drink.    North Tonawanda is just 4 miles away and where we were with Catrina on June 15th.

Our 3 top choices where we've been before were all closed along with several others - Mondays and still a holiday I guess?    So, we found the Broadway Hotel Bar and Grill - nothing fancy and the grill was closed IF we had wanted an appetizer.   But one Guiness and Vonka infused lemon/water later, we were on our way back to the hotel.

Luke and Blair arrive tomorrow at 1:20 - Dad/Uncle Philip is flying them up here and a quick turnaround for him.    Really appreciate him reminding us to wear our masks into airport.   Been awhile since we've worn them.    We are excited!!!