Busy days!

It's been a bit of a whirlwind since we left Monhegan. First to Boothbay to provision. Boothbay has a nice free trolley that runs all over town and is most convenient.

On the way into town, we passed the topsail schooner "Pride of Baltimore". This is a city sponsored ship that tours during the summer months.

Next, to 5 Islands. Not only is 5 Islands one of our favorite little Maine harbors (it's SO cute, complete with lobster shack and ice cream store)

But it is also home of friends Gloria and Mike. You might remember that they are the kind souls who helped us find a vet and take Wickie there when he first started that quick downhill slide. Sadly, they lost the sweetest dog, Globie, to renal failure just a couple of weeks ago. It was a sad reunion of sorts, but we were really glad to see them again for the afternoon.

Then onward to South Freeport, home of ---quiver --- LL Bean. We met new friends Pat and Manen on the free Acadia bus during our last visit there. They were gracious enough to invite us to visit for dinner, a little LL Bean late night shopping, and a tour of the area the next morning. We visited a state part that included Osprey Island and a great view of Casco Bay.

Beautiful rock formations at the water's edge.


There is the usual extreme tide range here, too, even in the salt water marsh area.

From Freeport to Portland, our first time there by boat. We met up with friends from last year, Arnie & Margie. Arnie gave us a mini tour past Portland Head Light

Margie cooked the MOST wonderful dinner for us --- fresh lobsters, fresh corn, fresh salad, and homemade cookies. yum! Arnie and 2 of the 3 big lobster guys...

We did learn a Maine trick --- cook the lobsters in sea water (clean, not from a dirty marina area) and throw some seaweed over them while they cook. They were absolutely delicious!

We are now in Portsmouth, an 8 hour rough sea trip, rolling sideways, and not much fun. We did get a nice, early morning sea view of Portland Head Light House.

Friends Kim and Dick met us at the dock in Portsmouth, along with Kim's mom Nancy. We enjoyed dinner at the clubhouse with them and borrowed their dinghy for the ride back to the boat. Tomorrow is breakfast at the club and meeting up with more friends from here. Tuesday, weather permitting, we'll begin the true trip back towards Deltaville. But it's been a wonderful few days with lots of great friends.