Island Hopping

We had gorgeous weather yesterday. Our friends Dick and Tammy joined us for a cruise on the boat. Dick was a really good friend of both my husband and myself back in college. In fact, we were such good friends he was the best man at our wedding. Tammy came along later but we liked her. Of course over time we'd lost track of each other, somewhat reconnecting with emails and  then since life is always busy, we'd lose track again. This past winter Dick reconnected with us, and it was like the 20 years we hadn't hung out together hadn't gone by and we'd always been hanging out.  Anyhow, to make a long story very short, we got together yesterday and took them for a boating trip. Since it was calm and warm and sunny, we headed out to the Isles of Shoals and took the launch from the harbor onto Star Island.

Those of you who read my blog last summer might remember some of the photos I showed you when we visited last summer.

The Isle of Shoals is actually several small rocky islands 6 miles off shore in both the states of Maine and New Hampshire. Star Island, which is in New Hampshire, is where we were. The whole island is owned by the Unitarian Church and they have a cool old hotel from the 1800's from which they run conferences. You can visit the island even if you aren't there for a conference, which is what we did.

 This hotel might look familiar to some of you from last summers posts.

 The island is about 60% off the grid in the summer, 100% off the grid in spring and fall. Its empty in the winter, except for the supposed ghosts.

 Dave and Dick. 

I love the old rusted through nail marks on the old white paint. Its fun to be taken back in time, away from the hustle and bustle, because there is no hustle or bustle on these islands. We discovered the old wagon wheels, and I love that vintage fire hose, which they would probably use if they needed too since everything on the island is wood.
Since all the islands are small, you can walk Star island's perimeter in less than an hour-(if you don't stop to gaze or sit and watch sea gulls or clouds that is).  :)

Anyhow, more photos another day including bridge construction for Elizabeth and submarine noses for anyone who is interested. Oh yes, and there is an art barn on the island  too. And a little marine center with a sea life museum which was really cool-I hadn't been either of those places before.  I will show you that too.

Have a great rest of your weekend!