The day after Christmas we have an outing. We go to Nick's Nest and then Herrell's ice cream shop. Their proximity to each other allows for just enough digestion between stops to indulge in both in one afternoon. These establishments resonate with us and, clearly, with many others too because they've been there for years and years. Each one does what it does best, hot dogs and ice cream. They haven't changed with the times. They evolved quietly. Ironically their nostalgic feel is exceptionally in vogue. Nick's has a pull handle by the register to open the door for patrons with arms full of hot dogs. Herrell's has its ice cream boards on rope pulleys for their constantly changing flavors. Nick's has its dogs warming in a slick of fat. (I think I've figured out what the fat is, buttered popcorn flavoring.) Herrell's has its signature chewy hot fudge and penuche. These specialties are what I got to these establishments for, others may have their own favorites. All I can say is my holidays aren't complete without these annual visits. In the midst of many changes it's comforting to see that some things remain the same.
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