Olcott, New York

Olcott is a sleepy beach town steeped in history with more fruit orchards and corn fields than people, or so it seems. In the late 1800s-early 1900s, this was a bustling destination for travelers to stay in the huge lakeside hotel that once existed. Now, it is a quaint spot to spend a summer day. There are cute shops, a carousel park, fruit picking, and wineries nearby, as well as a small beach. I recommend visiting Schulze Winery for a tasting and to meet Martin and Ann. Olcott is the perfect place to spend a few pleasant hours with an ice cream, dreaming over the lake. Or, for a more lively time, visit in July for the annual Pirate Festival!

Hot Air

A mix of camera and phone photos from this weekend's hot air balloon festival in Wellsville.

Snapshots

America's favorite past time (debateable) on a perfect summer night

Playing with different hairstyles

Unimpressed, with brother bear

Italian Festival noms (chocolate pineapple sorbet bar, sausage bread, stuffed hot pepper roll, steak & dandelions)

free concert nights with friends :)

Nice to see you again, Summer. I welcome you with open arms. Looking forward to sundrenched days, barefoot adventures, and naps on the lawn.

Sunset

Summer has been hanging on with a vengeance the last couple of days, bringing us 90 degree temps. So we went to the beach to toss a football around and watch the sun set. The world is a beautiful place.

Adventure Time// Panama Rocks

Photos courtesy of Zachary Mink :)

Sadly, summer is winding down. If you're looking for something fun and a little different to do to seize the last of summertime in New York, consider a day trip to Panama Rocks in Chautauqua. It's a picturesque rock park that can be made as adventurous or as tame as you like. To get the most out of the experience you should enjoy climbing at least a little. I went with my family and boyfriend a few days ago and we had a blast. A couple of us even made it through Fat Man's Misery ;)

Can I have S'more?

There's something truly magic about summer cookouts and s'mores. The nights have started getting cooler...I love this time of year.

Watermelon Lime Juice

You can't tell me that doesn't look ridiculously refreshing. Watermelon screams summer. When you get sick of spitting seeds across the lawn or whatever else you do with watermelon, try throwing a bunch of it in the blender with some lime juice, lime zest, and a little powdered sugar. It's heaven!

If you want to go the extra mile, after you blend it pour it in a pan and pop it in the freezer for a couple hours then blend it again. Now you have a watermelon lime slushy. Even better. Your taste buds will thank you. Simple, delicious, refreshing, and a very happy pink color. That's something to smile about :)

Good ol' Red, White & Blue

Happy 4th of July!! Off to a family BBQ and fireworks tonight :)

The Pier

It was an absolutely gorgeous day to visit the Dunkirk pier and wine country! My parents and I sampled wines from Woodbury and Liberty wineries and picnicked on the Liberty estate. Life is good.