last days in Maine

Hold on for two more days here...lighthouses, blueberry barrens, farmers markets, a sail, and beach picnicing...how could I leave anything out?  Forgive the forty-some photos..

Walking the breakwater to Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, built in 1902

Visiting our friends Johnny and Arla at their beautiful blueberry farm

the barrens - shortbush blueberries

John E and Homefries

thanks to Tokarz for getting me in a photo;)

walking the barrens, looking for porcupine. and moose.

We extended our trip by a day, and it was exactly what we needed: a sail and one last picnic with our friends.  The boat we went out on was The Bufflehead, captained by Daniel and crewed by his 7 year old daughter, Raya.

resident osprey

Eliza was nervous about getting on a boat.  It was lovely to see her relax and get comfortable moving about as Daniel tacked and the boat shifted.  His daughter has been sailing since she was born, and sails with him long days all summer during the days of the week he has her.  It was incredible to watch her navigate her way around, and Ani watched her like a hawk, her hands shadowing every movement.

finishing breakfast

Owl's Head lighthouse

I am sorely lacking for eloquence this morning, with my mind set on the week ahead, but I'm wanting to share the images before the memories fade.  Looking back on this fairyland, I'm realizing that we had a family vacation this summer! How about that.  Off the boat, we headed for the farmer's market - all of this within walking distance in this small town - for wood-fired pizza and sitting in the sun.

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Our last evening we headed out to the lighthouse we had seen from the boat - Owl's Head - and had a picnic on the beach.  I can't imagine a better way to spend a summer evening in Maine. 

While out there exploring on the rocks and getting as close as we could to a group of ducks (Common Eiders, dontcha know), Daniel sailed by in The Bufflehead, blowing his conch to us as he passed.

And yes, for a few foolhardy souls, there was a memorable dip into the Atlantic.  Of all the things we did, this is what I hear the girls recount the most often.

Me, I think of perfect weather and perfect company, olives, chicken, wine and brie in sight of the ocean.  Air filled with the sea, and the bright possibilities of new beauty.  Magical Maine.