Best Doughnut Ever!

I felt like I'd landed in a Norman Rockwell painting with a hint of Mayberry. On our way home from Port Clinton over Labor Day weekend, we stumbled upon a quaint village. Most of the stores were closed due to the holiday, but the bakery's open sign hung on the door. 

Ideal Bakery sat on the corner across from the locally owned Kirwen's Super Market. As soon as Tim and I entered the bakery, the smell of fresh baked goods filled my nose. The lovely lady at the counter told us to take a seat and she'd be right with us. With coffees in hand, we pulled up to a table. Our waitress recommended the longjohn with chocolate filling and chocolate icing. Oh my goodness! Best. Doughnut. Ever. I'm not kidding. It was fresh and wonderful and very fattening. But, it was vacation-so calories didn't count. We found out the bakery was open due to a tractor and implement show they held every year in Gibsonburg on Labor Day. And the bakery was the result of three generations dedicating their lives to baking.

After our indulgence, our waitress who had filled us in on much of the goings on in Gibsonburg recommended we visit the local park. A rod from the 9/11 World Trade Center was set up for a memorial to be held a few days later. The town had been selected from several others for this honor.

Not only did the park hold a piece of history, several artists had installed a variety of work. As we walked the path that encircled a small pond, we discovered so many lovely sculptures and expressions of beauty. And all in the middle of a lovely small town.

I grew up in a small town and have an appreciation for the ones that still thrive. Someday I'd like to return to Gibsonburg and maybe stop in the grocery. I sense a chocolate longjohn is in my future. 

Photos of some of the fabulous art. Enjoy!