Nova Scotia

This is a beautiful place and the people very gracious. Bonnie and I were walking our bikes up a steep hill when a stranger stopped and offered us a ride. He loaded our bikes in his car and gave us a ride to our destination, engaging in pleasant conversation. Below, some of the buildings in Shelbourn reflecting the age and rich tradition of the community.

Canada

After battling fog for most of the journey (a certain amount of stress there when one doesn't have radar), we arrived safely in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, at 5:15 this morning.

Sunrise

This is sunrise from the cabin near Bar Harbor where I spent a number of summers with my grandmother, aunt and cousins. My. Desert Island is one of my very favorite places. The cabin itself now belongs to my brother and sister-in-law who have done a wonderful job in upgrading and caring for it. I'm so glad it has been able to stay in the family, and Bonnie and I have loved being here with some special friends.

In a few hours we will be casting off our mooring line and heading across the Bay of Fundy for Nova Scotia.

Maine

We've been working our way up the coast of Maine: Harpswell; Boothbay; and then an anchorage at Perry Creek on Vinalhaven. Yesterday we woke to a thick fog that hung on through much of the day.

The manly art of sail repair

Yesterday we chose to stay in Gosport Harbor (Star Island) and take care of some needed chores on the boat.

Today we got off to an early start against strong headwinds and are beginning to move up the coast of Maine. Slow progress but Heartsong remains undaunted.

Star Island

Tonight we are in New Hampshire. Star Island has
been used as a retreat center by the Unitarians and
Congregationalists for over one hundred d years.
One hundred yards away is Smuttynose Island,
namesake of the eponymous beer.

The picture doesn't begin to capture the beauty of
this spot.

Driftwood Restaurant

Drifting in to a favorite breakfast spot in Marblehead

Heartsong at her mooring

Heartsong is in the foreground and has the blue sail cover

Marblehead

Sunset in Plymouth Harbor

Sagamore Bridge

Crossing over this bridge onto Cape Cod has always been a favorite moment - a sense of finally arriving at a much-loved destination. Yesterday we passed under it for the first time ever on our way to Cape Cod Bay and Plymouth.

A bit of excitement last night. At about 3:30 am we had to adjust the anchor in the middle of a storm. In the morning we were awakened by the Harbormaster (first time I've seen one armed) who told us we needed to move. Tomorrow it is on to Marblehead!

Bonnie at the helm

The Gathering

We spent the weekend in Osterville as the family gathered to celebrate my mother's 90th birthday. We had a wonderful time - so good to see everyone again! So many memories in this place where our family has been gathering for nearly forty years. Special thanks to brother David for getting the house ready, and to Sandy and Christine for hosting a very special celebration at their club.