Summer flew by!

After taking the necessary steps to secure EXILE for hurricane season we flew to CT and spent a few days with my brother and sister-in-law at their house in Old Saybrook over the fourth of July. A spur of the moment decision resulted in Don & Karen driving us to Maine. We were excited to show them our summer digs for the first time!  Unfortunately, we hadn't yet "opened" the cottage for the summer, so there were some chores to be done.... grass to mow, screens to install, boat to launch, flowers to plant, etc.  Nevertheless, they enjoyed their few days with us and we were elated to have them experience Stonington. Hopefully, they will return again to see more of these beautiful islands.

Karen, Don and Jeff

What's a picnic without lobstahhh!

Jeff, Blaine and Sharon

That last step is a doozie! Ramp wasn't yet installed

A visit to the Boatyard Grill in Blue Hill to see a "family" bell 

Kevin takes us out to haul our traps

Good catch!

Downtown Stonington

Jeff's mom Jean, taking in the sights from the water

Bridge to Deer Isle

Fog bank

Almost mystical

Every summer we are entertained by the multitudes of birds and hummingbirds frequenting our many feeders

Burnt Cove must get it's name from the fiery sunsets 

Over the course of the summer, we had several opportunities to catch up with friends we'd met while boating in the Bahamas. Some were planned, some happenstance. All were fun! Most included a picnic, island style, a boat ride and seafood. 

A quick trip to the grocery store for Jon and Leanne

Back to Lord Charleton, Jon and Leanne's catamaran with their friend Freddy

Carol and Jack

Julie, Fran and Skip

Matt and Jeff

Another lighthouse

and another...

The islands in Maine never cease to offer beautiful sights from every angle. We are so very fortunate to be able to return each summer to visit friends, enjoy all there is to offer and escape the heat in Florida. This summer seems to have flown by - wasn't it just yesterday we arrived?

There's more to do here before we leave for the season. September brings some road trips to visit friends in MA and upstate NY, then some visitors coming to experience our little island. The leaves should begin turning soon and will undoubtedly provide some beautiful photographs. Stay tuned.