I'm just focused on getting us there in time for sunset.
We have about 25 minutes.
The parking lot's surprisingly empty, so Isobel and I run into the store in search of something picnic-able to bring with us. We head straight for the premade, grab-n-go sandwiches, only to find them all completely sold out.
Shit.
"Ok, is there anything else here you'd be excited about?" I asked.
I'm already thinking of backup plans... maybe we could order burritos ahead and pick them up on our way to the lake? Or, stop somewhere for pizza by the slice?
18 minutes.
Selection made, I scoop a couple seltzers and we're on our way to the register.
Nice.
Into the truck we go and we're off.
15 minutes.
I can't figure out why the streets are empty—its about to be a BEAUTIFUL sunset. I mean... it's a completely clear sky and it's already smeared with pinks, yellows, and oranges above the silhouette of the Adirondack's across the lake. So I'm also shocked there are so many open spots so close to the water.
12 minutes.
Hopping out of the truck, I grab a blanket and pull out my phone to download the pay-to-park app. I'm multitasking—which I'm terrible at—while walking, talking, logging in, and trying to find the best place to sit.
Oh right... it's Sunday... free parking.
10 minutes.
We strike out looking for a spot on the rocks to sit, so we double-back toward the grass. It works out perfectly, though. We have an absolutely unobstructed view of the sun dropping behind the mountains while blazing a fireball reflection of itself across the water. There are a few trees with budding branches framing the whole thing, too.
7 minutes.
The blankets down and then we follow suit. We're all smiles, and we're not the only ones. Plenty of folks found their way down here, but we have our own section of grass to ourselves. Out comes the food and drinks. We crack the cans, cheers, and direct our attention toward the setting sun.
When's the last time you raced to catch the sunset, just because?
onward.
For more on this daily column and The MAP Year Project, read the backstory here. And if you know someone who'd appreciate this, pass it along.