Scent and memory, partners in time.  Who among us has not had the experience of a faint smell, or a strong odor, evoking a memory.  It may be of a special place, a time in our lives, in the distant or not so distant past.  Every time I am in Kennebunkport, the aroma of the Clam Shack, the scent of the mudflats and the tang of the sea weed, reminds me of my childhood.

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We lived just around the corner from the Sunoco station. (they have the same clock on their building that has been there since I can remember.  I love that clock.  The way it would glow at night was fascinating to me) In front of our home was a big old chestnut tree.  It had large leaves and the pods had spines on them.  Inside of course, were the beautiful brown chestnuts.

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On summer days, my mother would walk my brother and I to Riley's store, (now known as H.B. Provisions) for a piece of candy.  I loved the sound the door made as it opened and hearing the wood floor creak as we walked along.  There was the most wonderful aroma in that store.  A blend of pickles, cheeses and coffee.  It was truly unique.

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In those days, the boatyard was where Federal Jacks, and all the shops are today.  I used to love to go there with my father when he went to work on his boat.  It was great fun to explore and talk to the fishermen and the boat owners.  I remember sitting on the end of one of the docks with our scotty dog, Duffy, hoping to catch a fish on my line.  It was fun to see the little groups of snails on the pilings as the tide went out.

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Those were simpler times.  The simple joys are still there, though, for us to indulge in.  Take a stroll in the sunshine.  Stand on the bridge and watch the tides change.  Take a deep breath of the scented air.  Listen to the gulls cry to one another.  Eat ice cream in the rain.  Savor the moments.

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Susan Brackett

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