When I scoping out the benefits of living in the Borough of Stonington, I loved the idea of being able to walk everywhere. Since this ex-Californian has never driven in the snow, this held great appeal. I could easily be well fed and caffeinated, have my hair done and be educated, entertained and exercised all within a short distance, no driving required.
Once I moved here in November, I began to make regular forays to The Yellow House Coffee Shop. Along the way I'd often take photos with my iPhone and after I got my coffee, I'd edit photos and upload them to Instagram. I'd check email and perform my other online social network activities which is now such a viable part of my electronic working world.
Across from where I'd sit were the regulars, a fluid group of people whose day begins with a walk and coffee or tea, a bite to eat and a bit of time spent with friends. Everyone in the group is very cordial, especially when they notice you keep coming back even through the winter. And especially when you ask for help understanding things like, why package stores don't sell cardboard boxes and tape and grocery stores don't sell champagne or distilled spirits.
At the holidays one of the regulars invited me to her annual Christmas sing-along and as winter turned into spring and spring warmed into summer, we grew quite accustomed to each other, I at my table, the regulars at theirs. Rarely I joined them, but we often chatted, especially after The Yellow House started showing the photos I took. Framed or printed on canvas, the beauty of the Borough and Mystic I saw and recorded with my iPhone 5 began to fill the walls of the coffee shop* and to open up conversations.
As the weather warmed up we moved outside, I at my table, the regulars at theirs. We'd banter back and forth from time to time and then one day, in response to the insinuation of a passerby that our morning routine implied we led a slacker's life, the Yellow House Leisure Club was created.
A logo was briefly considered, a theme song to the tune of The YMCA was proposed with the substitution of YHLC as the chorus. A mission statement, a vision, bylaws, all the components of a proper club were addressed and discarded. They all required work, not something the Yellow House Leisure Club deigned to fit into their leisurely schedule.
Sometimes now, I join the regulars' table. I was hired to photograph one of the regular's parties to preserve some special memories. My sense of community has begun to expand. They understand there are times I need my solitude but appreciate their presence, the comfort of their voices and laughter. I find myself grateful for The Yellow House Coffee and Tea Room, for the sweet beginning to my day.
If you happen to pass by or come inside early in the morning, you'll find the YHLC in session before we all head to work. But no matter where you are, do take a moment to revel in a ritual each morning. You can always visit your own Leisure Club before your busy day begins.
*My iphoneography show (photos taken with my iPhone 5) runs through the month of July at The Yellow House Coffee and Tea Room in Stonington Borough. I do hope you'll stop by to see the local beauty through my eyes.
