On the Road

A week of vacation goes by far too quickly. Especially when you live with someone who tries to fit into a week what should take two. Having said this, it has been a great week filled with fun.

Our road trip began with an adventure into Maine. We traveled along the coast in the northeastern part of the state. The first stop was on the Schoodic Peninsula in the fishing village of Corea, which is within the Down East town of Gouldsboro, Maine near Acadia National Park. A very quaint cove filled with lobster and fishing boats - exactly what you would envision when you think of coastal Maine.



Next was the Ruggles House Museum in Columbia Falls, which is a classic example of Adamesque style Federal architecture. Most of the home has been restored to its original condition with beautifully carved woodwork, an impressive central staircase in the entry, and many of the original furnishings that have been returned to the house by family members. The back section of the home, which contained the kitchen, was beyond repair so they rebuilt it to mirror the original.



 Moving up the coast we reached our intended destination of the easternmost point in the contiguous United States at West Quoddy Head Lighthouse in Lubec, Maine. Although the weather was wet and cool, more like fall than summer, we braved the elements and took our photos. Since we were at the southernmost point in Key West, FL last spring, this only leaves the northernmost point at the Northwest Angle Inlet in Lake of the Woods, MN, and the westernmost point in Cape Alva, WA for us to complete.



 Our last stop before heading back inland was Job Burnham's Tavern Museum in Machias, which is the site of the First Naval Battle of the American Revolution on June 12, 1775. Unfortunately we were unable to tour the museum as they were closed on Sunday. Perhaps a return trip will be required.



 After a night in Bangor we continued our journey heading to Holland, VT to visit very dear friends. Situated on the Canadian border it has some of the most beautiful countryside you will ever see. From atop the hills, the view will let you know what they mean when they talk of being in God's country. Looking out over the mountains and fields it feels like you can see forever. While there we were treated to a luncheon cruise on the Northern Star at Lake Memphramagog in Newport, VT. An absolutely wonderful way to spend a sunny, warm afternoon with friends. Reluctantly we left to return home.



 Wednesday was a leisurely drive to Hampton Beach State Park where we enjoyed a few hours listening to the sounds of waves, children playing and seagulls. A mix of sun and clouds with an ocean breeze made for a morning of relaxation for our souls.

Thursday was a day of double fun. We spent a couple of hours playing 9 holes of golf on a quiet course, and then traveled to Vermont for a special occasion. I was there to present my granddaughter, Emily with her book. The second of my grandchildren to receive their own story, she was extremely excited, and it was a great pleasure for me to be able to give this to her.



 The end of the week we took a break from the road, and each other. Togetherness is a wonderful thing, but we all need our alone time.

Our last adventure on Saturday was a trip down to Boston. We had a wonderful lunch in the North End at Cantina Italiana on Hanover Street. We would definitely recommend you take the opportunity to savor the food and atmosphere if you find yourself in Boston. After lunch we took a very crowded subway ride to go see our beloved Red Sox. Always a great time, and even though they did not win this one, we still love our Red Sox.





 Today reality sets in as we will return to work tomorrow. I guess that perhaps we need to in order to get some rest. Truth is, we look forward to the day when we retire and are able to live life on our own terms.