Hello my blogging buddies!
I'd like to say how much I have enjoyed this experinece and all the feedback you have provided. It's been a learning experience for sure!
I have posted a draft of my written piece for your comments. I have tried diligently to space out the poem as it appears in a later post - but have had difficulty getting it to show correctly. I wonder if its the positioning of the pics. I varied that. It looks correct in the final piece for publication.....which is a good thing.
I appreciate all of your comments and suggestions!
Thanks!
ML
Monday, July 27, 2009
Writers Blog Draft
Maine
Our Vacation Paradise
Our Vacation Paradise
I have been fortunate enough to visit many areas of Maine. Each has its own charm. Our vacation this year was a return trip to the Midcoast. We have visited the Boothbay Harbor area for 6 years, and have returned to the same cottage for the past four years.
The Cottage in Ocean Point
The cottage we rent is located in Ocean Point, which is a small community of summer cottages. Many were built in the 1940’s and are situated close together, along winding roads. Sizes and shapes vary from very small to very large. What is always wonderful about Ocean Point is the feeling of community. People can be seen walking their pets, jogging with strollers, riding bikes, or transporting kayaks for an afternoon sail.
The cottage sits right along the shore with a glorious view of the shore. With an enclosed porch on two sides, the cottage affords panoramic views. The shore is rocky and so typical of Maine. The shore shares its rugged and wild nature with each tide. It is fascinating to watch the tides come and go and to see the waves crash against the rocks. It would seem that every sunrise and sunset offers a different view – a new glimpse of the wondrous shoreline.
This view is to the right of the porch.
This view is from toward the center. You can see Rams Head Light on the distant island. The picture below is the view to the left.
We often sit on the porch and have coffee in the morning. It is wonderful watching people stroll by with pets and strollers, some jogging and many with IPods and cameras. As the day progresses we may sit and read, watching the changing tides and the sun cross the horizon. We have dinner outside almost every night. It is wonderful to listen to the waves and talk about the days activities. The cottage brings many thoughts to mind as you take in all there is to see.
A closer view of Rams Head Light.
The schooner, Eastwind, making its way along the coast.
A seagull flying overhead is checking on dinner.
Cottage Thoughts
Waking up with coffee
Watching the shore wake
A view from the porch - so delightful!
Seated in rockers - feeling a gentle breeze
Starting the day with nautical thoughts.
Boats checking lobster traps
Putting across the bay
Gulls follow - hoping for a treat.
Ducks along the rocky shore
Babies follow having breakfast with the family
There’s a straggler - Mom circles around to encourage.
Images of rocky shorelines and pines
Colors vibrant against the blue sky
Sunlight sparkles against the water
Rolling over rocks
Dragging seaweed, sea glass and shells
Tides rolling in and out
Bring new wonders.
Sounds of seagulls and waves
Children playing along the shore
Couples strolling by with their pets
Some carry Frisbees and tug toys
Many joggers with iPods connected.
The day begun - slow and easy.
This is Maine!
Spending time at the cottage is very relaxing and enjoyable. The first few days of our time in Maine is spent at the cottage, enjoying the shore, sounds of the waves and gulls. We also enjoy going into Boothbay Harbor to enjoy dinner out and shopping. The boardwalk offers stores of many types. There are typical tourist spots with tee shirts, candles, salt-water taffy, and trinkets to remember your visit. Some of the shops offer handcrafted items – such as pottery, hand tied sailors knots in the form of trivets and coasters – COOL! There are also a couple of candy shops, an ice creamery and several boating tours and slips to observe people caring for their boats. It is a great way to end a wonderful day after meandering along the shore – looking for sea glass and seashells.
By far the most enjoyable day this year was the Clam Bake on Cabbage Island. We took a large motor boat out to the island. There were many wonderful things to see along the way. The tour of the harbor and surrounding islands was wonderful as was the lighthouse on Ram Island. That is the lighthouse directly across from our cottage.
When we arrived at the island, members of the family that own the island greeted us. They have been hosting clambakes every summer for many years. The island has several buildings used by the family. They live there in the summer and there are buildings that are used for people to eat inside in inclement weather. Many picnic tables dot the hillside and lawn for people to enjoy the views and company. People stake out their tables and meander over the island or play horseshoes or volleyball while food is prepared.
Spending time at the cottage is very relaxing and enjoyable. The first few days of our time in Maine is spent at the cottage, enjoying the shore, sounds of the waves and gulls. We also enjoy going into Boothbay Harbor to enjoy dinner out and shopping. The boardwalk offers stores of many types. There are typical tourist spots with tee shirts, candles, salt-water taffy, and trinkets to remember your visit. Some of the shops offer handcrafted items – such as pottery, hand tied sailors knots in the form of trivets and coasters – COOL! There are also a couple of candy shops, an ice creamery and several boating tours and slips to observe people caring for their boats. It is a great way to end a wonderful day after meandering along the shore – looking for sea glass and seashells.
By far the most enjoyable day this year was the Clam Bake on Cabbage Island. We took a large motor boat out to the island. There were many wonderful things to see along the way. The tour of the harbor and surrounding islands was wonderful as was the lighthouse on Ram Island. That is the lighthouse directly across from our cottage.
When we arrived at the island, members of the family that own the island greeted us. They have been hosting clambakes every summer for many years. The island has several buildings used by the family. They live there in the summer and there are buildings that are used for people to eat inside in inclement weather. Many picnic tables dot the hillside and lawn for people to enjoy the views and company. People stake out their tables and meander over the island or play horseshoes or volleyball while food is prepared.
One of the wait staff checks the lobster!
The fire pit; used for cooking our lobster feast!
When the dinner bell sounds, everyone returns to their table and wait staff bring the chowder. It was steaming hot and served with oyster crackers. As that was taken away there was time for another glass of wine or a beer and then the bell sounds again. Guests are asked to line up to pick up their tray down by the pit where the wonderful food is prepared. Each guest is given a tray with corn on the cob, a hard boiled egg, a baked potato, an onion a bowl full of steamers, (steamed clams) and 2 lobsters! Wait staff are there to assist with more butter and napkins!
As we ate our meal, we watched an older woman making her way around to all the tables. She is the owner's Mom and has been helping for many years. She continues to prepare the dessert - a WONDERFUL blueberry cake! She is 85 and loves spending her summers on the island with her family. Oh - the recipe continues to be a secret!
What a great day! What a wonderful place!
There is considerable information available on vacationing in Maine. While the Boothbay Harbor region is my favorite there are many wonderful spots. For more information on Boothbay as well as other spots - follow this link. Enjoy!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Clam Bake
It's been so great having Kathy with us for our vacation. We have enjoyed visiting, shopping, eating - both in and out! By far the most enjoyable day for us all was the Clam Bake on Cabbage Island.
We took a large motor boat out to the island. There were many wonderful things to see along the way. The tour of the harbor and surrounding islands was wonderful as was the lighthouse on Ram Island. That is the lighthouse directly across from our cottage.
When we arrived at the island we were greeted by members of the family that own the island. They have been hosting clam bakes every summer for many years. The island has several buildings used by the family. They live there in the summer and there are buildings that can be used for people to eat inside in inclement weather. Many picnic tables dot the hillside and lawn for people to enjoy the views and company. People stake out their tables and meander over the island or play horseshoes or volleyball while food is prepared.
When the dinner bell sounds, everyone returns to their table and waitstaff bring our the chowder. It was steaming hot and served with oyster crackers. As that is taken away there may be time for another glass of wine or a beer and then the bell sounds again. Guests are asked to line up to pick up their tray down by the pit where the wonderful food is prepared. Each guest is given a tray with corn on the cob, a hard boiled egg, an onion a bowl full of steamers, (steamed clams) and 2 lobsters! Waitstaff are there to assist with more butter and napkins!
As we ate our meal we watched an older woman making her way around to all the tables. She is the owner's Mom and has been helping out for many years. She continues to prepare the dessert - a WONDERFUL blueberry cake! She is 85 and loves spending her summers on the island with her family. Oh - the recipe continues to be a secret!
What a great day!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Writers Blog Assignment
Hi all,
I am trying to decide which piece I will use for the week 5 assignment. I have been thinking of submitting the initial two - combined. That would include the background information on Maine and the remembrance of my re-visit to Swans Island. I could include this weeks visit as well......but it would be so LONG - I'm not sure if that would make it rougher to read! So - I'm asking for your assistance and advice - and feedback! I certainly appreciate it!
ML
I am trying to decide which piece I will use for the week 5 assignment. I have been thinking of submitting the initial two - combined. That would include the background information on Maine and the remembrance of my re-visit to Swans Island. I could include this weeks visit as well......but it would be so LONG - I'm not sure if that would make it rougher to read! So - I'm asking for your assistance and advice - and feedback! I certainly appreciate it!
ML
Shopping!
Visit
Kathy arrived yesterday afternoon. We went out for dinner down in Boothbay Harbor and strolled around the village after dinner. There is so much to see and enjoy in Boothbay Harbor. We went to a restaurant called McSeagull’s for dinner. We sat outside and enjoyed the sunshine overlooking the harbor and all the different boats. We each enjoyed some type of seafood. Lobster stew is a must, as were the lobster filled mushrooms. We had plenty of good wine and lots of laughter to go along with it. McSeagull’s offers live entertainment and we stayed and enjoyed a bit of that for awhile as well.
The boardwalk offers stores of many types. There are typical tourist spots with tee shirts, candles, salt water taffy, and trinkets to remember your visit. Some of the shops offer handcrafted items – such as pottery, hand tied sailors knots in the form of trivets and coasters – COOL! There are also a couple of candy shops, an ice creamery and several boating tours and slips to observe people caring for their boats. It’s a great way to end a wonderful day after meandering along the shore – looking for sea glass and sea shells.
We returned to the cottage and built a fire. It’s amazing how chilly it becomes when the sun goes down! You can hear the fog horn blowing alerting ships of the dangers within the bay. It’s a sorrowful sound and almost hypnotic to listen to. We sat on the porch talking and laughing until late in the evening. God, it’s great to see her!
Shopping!
I got up relatively early and took a shower. I’m ready to start the day. Its overcast today and they are predicting rain this afternoon and evening. What a great day for shopping! After having coffee we headed out toward Damariscotta and Pemaquid. We stopped at a clothing store that I have been to in the past. The clothes are natural fibers – different colors and a great selection. They are a little pricey….but they are so unique…….it makes it fun. The women there are really helpful but not pushy…which is a huge plus in my book! I found a couple of outfits for work in the fall. Kathy found an outfit for her brother’s wedding. We left lighter in the wallet – but filled with joy at our purchases and the laughter we shared.
We continued driving to Pemaquid Lighthouse. The road seemed to go on forever. It was a fairly narrow road filled with houses and some antique shops. Just when you think the road will not end the sign for the lighthouse is there – and beyond that is the ocean. It is so typical of Maine! There is a very rocky shoreline and beyond that nothing but the open water. What an incredible view. It’s amazing to watch the waves roll and crash into the rocks.
We had lunch in the restaurant on site. I had lobster stew – of course! And a crab salad roll. Kathy had salad and a lobster roll. It was wonderful. The waitress was very friendly and seemed to have a way of endearing herself with all of her customers.
As we headed back towards Boothbay Harbor it started sprinkling with a little more intensity. We listened to Bonnie Raitt and Rick Redington and talked and laughed. It seems we need little to keep us smiling. It doesn’t seem possible that we have known each other for 31 years! She’s such a great friend!
We stopped at a pottery store in Edgecomb. It’s been around for quite some time and is actually quite pricey. The craftsmanship is amazing! I have a couple of small pieces and stop almost every year. They are truly talented and have a way of creating beautiful designs with their glazes. Some almost look crystal like in their design. I bought a stain glass lamp last year with a dragonfly theme. I love dragonflies! I was looking for something for my cousin’s son. He’s getting married in Sept. What do you get a couple of 19 year olds….They need everything! I could find a million things I would adore – but don’t know their taste or desires. I was hesitant to buy a piece and hope they’d understand and appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty. (That may sound petty……..I know) I decided to wait and see if there was something else I found that stikes my fancy for them. I can always come back.
By the time we left Enchantments it was pouring rain. We stopped at Hannaford’s and picked up some groceries. Got more wine – naturally. We picked up steaks to grill. Luckily, Phil has the grill on a porch that has an overhang so that the rain wouldn’t affect him. We also made a tomato, basil and mozzarella salad. To top it off, we shared some home baked bread Kathy brought up. It was wonderful!
We sat after dinner, watching the fire in the fireplace. It wasn’t cold as much as damp and the fire cut the dampness nicely. Phil had classical music playing in the background and sat and talked and laughed. We are planning on a clam back on Cabbage Island on Wed. I’m praying the rain will stop!
Life is good!
Kathy arrived yesterday afternoon. We went out for dinner down in Boothbay Harbor and strolled around the village after dinner. There is so much to see and enjoy in Boothbay Harbor. We went to a restaurant called McSeagull’s for dinner. We sat outside and enjoyed the sunshine overlooking the harbor and all the different boats. We each enjoyed some type of seafood. Lobster stew is a must, as were the lobster filled mushrooms. We had plenty of good wine and lots of laughter to go along with it. McSeagull’s offers live entertainment and we stayed and enjoyed a bit of that for awhile as well.
The boardwalk offers stores of many types. There are typical tourist spots with tee shirts, candles, salt water taffy, and trinkets to remember your visit. Some of the shops offer handcrafted items – such as pottery, hand tied sailors knots in the form of trivets and coasters – COOL! There are also a couple of candy shops, an ice creamery and several boating tours and slips to observe people caring for their boats. It’s a great way to end a wonderful day after meandering along the shore – looking for sea glass and sea shells.
We returned to the cottage and built a fire. It’s amazing how chilly it becomes when the sun goes down! You can hear the fog horn blowing alerting ships of the dangers within the bay. It’s a sorrowful sound and almost hypnotic to listen to. We sat on the porch talking and laughing until late in the evening. God, it’s great to see her!
Shopping!
I got up relatively early and took a shower. I’m ready to start the day. Its overcast today and they are predicting rain this afternoon and evening. What a great day for shopping! After having coffee we headed out toward Damariscotta and Pemaquid. We stopped at a clothing store that I have been to in the past. The clothes are natural fibers – different colors and a great selection. They are a little pricey….but they are so unique…….it makes it fun. The women there are really helpful but not pushy…which is a huge plus in my book! I found a couple of outfits for work in the fall. Kathy found an outfit for her brother’s wedding. We left lighter in the wallet – but filled with joy at our purchases and the laughter we shared.
We continued driving to Pemaquid Lighthouse. The road seemed to go on forever. It was a fairly narrow road filled with houses and some antique shops. Just when you think the road will not end the sign for the lighthouse is there – and beyond that is the ocean. It is so typical of Maine! There is a very rocky shoreline and beyond that nothing but the open water. What an incredible view. It’s amazing to watch the waves roll and crash into the rocks.
We had lunch in the restaurant on site. I had lobster stew – of course! And a crab salad roll. Kathy had salad and a lobster roll. It was wonderful. The waitress was very friendly and seemed to have a way of endearing herself with all of her customers.
As we headed back towards Boothbay Harbor it started sprinkling with a little more intensity. We listened to Bonnie Raitt and Rick Redington and talked and laughed. It seems we need little to keep us smiling. It doesn’t seem possible that we have known each other for 31 years! She’s such a great friend!
We stopped at a pottery store in Edgecomb. It’s been around for quite some time and is actually quite pricey. The craftsmanship is amazing! I have a couple of small pieces and stop almost every year. They are truly talented and have a way of creating beautiful designs with their glazes. Some almost look crystal like in their design. I bought a stain glass lamp last year with a dragonfly theme. I love dragonflies! I was looking for something for my cousin’s son. He’s getting married in Sept. What do you get a couple of 19 year olds….They need everything! I could find a million things I would adore – but don’t know their taste or desires. I was hesitant to buy a piece and hope they’d understand and appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty. (That may sound petty……..I know) I decided to wait and see if there was something else I found that stikes my fancy for them. I can always come back.
Kathy and I ran into the village and went to Enchantments. It’s a different store for sure. They have anything magical you can imagine! Fairies, tarot cards, incense and music, candles and wind chimes, jewelry and other paraphernalia……….literally! It’s quite a place. I found a spun glass dragonfly which I had to have – as well as a fairy wind chime for my classroom. 
By the time we left Enchantments it was pouring rain. We stopped at Hannaford’s and picked up some groceries. Got more wine – naturally. We picked up steaks to grill. Luckily, Phil has the grill on a porch that has an overhang so that the rain wouldn’t affect him. We also made a tomato, basil and mozzarella salad. To top it off, we shared some home baked bread Kathy brought up. It was wonderful!
We sat after dinner, watching the fire in the fireplace. It wasn’t cold as much as damp and the fire cut the dampness nicely. Phil had classical music playing in the background and sat and talked and laughed. We are planning on a clam back on Cabbage Island on Wed. I’m praying the rain will stop!
Life is good!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Sunshine!
We have enjoyed three glorious days so far at the cottage. The weather cleared nicely after an initial heavy rain. The skies are clear blue and it's warming up nicely. We have settled into the cottage. This is our 3rd year at this same cottage - so in a way it feels like coming home.
We have had lobster stew at the Lobster Shack. If you ever visit the Boothbay Harbor area you must try it! It's the best. Part of the charm is its simplicity. You line up and order at the window. If you are having steamed lobster - you can pick it out from the tank. You seat yourself - and of course the best seats are outside overlooking the view of the harbor and all the boats. The servers will bring your meal.........and you just relax and ENJOY! It truly is one of my favorite places.
The lobster stew is rich, filled with lobster, a few onions - lots of cream and butter. What a treat!!!
We have also been to the Boathouse Bistro. This restaurant is pricey - but well worth the visit. They have entertainment in the lower dining room. There are three levels - the top overlooks the harbor. How wonderful! I ordered scallops, shrimp and lobster served on risotto. It was heavenly. (I will have my fill of lobster while we are here for sure!!!!)
Kathy is coming today. I'm so excited to see my friend. It will be great exploring more shops with her.
Mike
We arrived! It's always an exciting drive. It was made more exciting by visiting Mike's college for orientation. He will be starting at the Fire Science program at the academy at the end of next month. I couldn't miss his orientation - so we all went - cars packed, Libby along for the ride. The orientation was wonderful. I was very impressed by the school and particularly the number of services available to the students.
Mike has always been our 'miracle man'. He was born 5 weeks early, but a healthy 6 pounds. I have fought for him - with him forever........that's a mom thing. I have always been grateful for my background experience as it has helped tremendously with Spec. Ed. services, doctors, etc. Mike has a visual processing deficit, dysgraphia and ADHD. He has grown into a fine young man - young socially - but a wonderful and caring guy! (Not that I'm proud at all! :))
I have a booklet he made in the second grade - where they were talking about what they wanted to do when they grew up. He said he wanted to be a Fireman and help save lives. He has never looked back. He volunteers on two fire departments, the Sullivan and Nelson Fire Departments. He has lights on his truck, his own helmet and turn out gear, (the big yellow suit!) and all the rest. He is almost as proud as I am!
He has completed Fire I which was sponsored through the Sullivan Dept. I remember asking him why he was so excited about completing this course. I wanted to know what that would bring him - why it was so important to him. He replied, "Mom, instead of helping keep things cool outside the buildings - with equipment and people - now I can go into the fire and actually work on the fire." And this is something that should make me happy? Smile
He recently trained at a 'live burn'. It's where they practice on a supervised intentional structure fire. He asked before he left if I was nervous or would worry. Of Course!!!! I reminded him that as a Mom - we worry each time they walk out of the house. I have to believe that he will listen to instructions - follow directions and use his training to keep him safe. Or I'd go crazy!!!!!
I'm very proud of him and of course will be proud to assist him as much as I can with his dreams.
This picture is from a recent parade. Mike is giving us the wave.
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