Cindy's Drive In, Granby, MA

The kids had free soft serve at Cindy's last week, via the Granby Public Library and the Massachusetts Summer Reading Program.

Cindy's is on 202 in Granby, conveniently close to Dufresne Park and the library. The young woman who waited on us was SO sweet, and patient with the kids. She even made me a tiny tiny mini cone for the baby.

The outdoor seating area wasn't particularly scenic, situated on the pavement contiguous with the parking lot and next to a fence. However, the tables and seats were clean. The ground was virtually free of junk, the trash can was wiped down. I really liked all of that. There is indoor seating also, a few stools at a tall counter. The decor is very cute. And of course they are supporting reading and libraries, which is a great practice.

Caveat: NO RESTROOMS. We had to leave for that reason, though the kids were thoroughly enjoying the play area (pictured above).

Granby Public Library, Granby, MA

I had a great first visit to this library today. The children's room is separated from the rest of the library, with the whole downstairs to itself. (The videos are located upstairs, which could be a boon or a burden. I found myself glad about it today, because the kids were more focused on books than DVDs). The restroom was clean and well equipped for children. There was a train table as well as another play table with plant and dinosaur legos. I browsed the parent - oriented books, such as crafts and activities. The selection was fantastic. There were lots of themed backpacked available to check out. Plenty of puzzles too. Two computers were set up, but I didn't bother checking whether they were library-catalogue only or had internet access.

The room is small and cramped, but has a well cared for and friendly feeling. A large table had coloring sheets and library information, but it was being used more as a work surface during my visit there. There was an adult sized chair that I sat in to nurse the baby, but in a small space it's hard to create true privacy.

When I checked out my books, on the main level, the children's librarian introduced herself and welcomed me to the library. All in all, a really nice small community library.

Granby Public Library

Dufresne Park, Granby, MA

This park in Granby has a lot going for it. There is a ton of playground equipment for all different ages. There is also a pond - it is across a large field from the play area so it's not as though your kids will be jumping in, but if you want to take them over there you could. There are a couple of picnic tables and some benches. There is not much shade. Midsummer, this playground can be a broiler. Lots of folks walk their dogs at Dufresne, there is a fenced off dog area for them to be leash-free. Horses are ridden there as well.

There is a porta potty there and I have been in it. With one of my sons. It could have been worse.
In June, Granby's Charter Days celebration is held here. It is a really wonderful fair with tons of stuff for your kids to enjoy.

Charter Days