Last week I spent a couple days in Groton (rhymes with cotton), in the Finger Lakes region of central New York. The first night I was there, the front axle of my car came loose, but otherwise it was a great visit.

Because I was there for two days (and because the people in Groton are just so hospitable) I had a chance to meet many of the teachers at the school. We shared breakfast, we shared dessert, and by the time I left I felt like I had known them for years.

Speaking of breakfast, the first morning all the teachers brought in food for a potluck in the library. There was the usual assortment of muffins, donuts, coffee, etc. There was also this. I photographed the recipe because I figured no one would believe me when I got back.

And you know, it was really good. I even had some more for lunch. Here’s another interesting thing that happened. Remember that girl from Backbeard, the one who was wearing the same clothes as he was? I met her! She lives in Groton and goes to school there.

Finally, I got to sign the bathtub, a decades-long tradition for authors who visit Groton. It was an honor, and I used the opportunity to catch up on my reading.

Groton’s an unusual place, and I loved it. Thanks to Pat Berry, thanks to all the teachers who made the visit so much fun, and thanks most of all to the students!