Spirit Raiser

When My Beloved spies something as we are driving along, he will often pull over or make a quick U-turn to go back and see it again. He relishes doing this without warning and without explanation. It used to bug me, frankly, but I have learned after many years together to anticipate something fun when he suddenly wheels the car around. I suppose if we are ever in a fatal accident, I will go to heaven with a smile on my face, expecting something delightful.

This time, he spotted the Good Humor man in Madison, Connecticut. Papa Joe has been doing this for 21 years, ever since he bought the truck. He travels the neighborhoods ringing his bell with his dog in the foot well, selling ice cream and improving moods wherever he goes. He has framed newspaper articles on the back side of the truck, including pictures of celebs who have enjoyed his nostalgic hobby.

He sells upscale ice cream these days, Häagen-Dazs and Dove bars as well as creamsicles, Klondike bars and Good Humors. He even does parties - now that's a great idea! I'd love to have the Good Humor man come to my next birthday party. The dog seems a little bored with the whole thing but Papa Joe retains his enthusiasm even after all these years.

I never know what to expect when My Beloved makes these sudden detours but for a spirit raiser like this, I'm happy to be surprised.