August 16-19                               Southwest Harbor, Maine

Miller continued to arrive early each morning and focused on completing the list of tasks we had made for him (at his request).  Many small repairs were needed, not critical but important to the overall appearance and operation of the boat.  The stress cracks on the bridge were covered and reinforced by chrome strips, round orange fenders were cleaned and made ready for future use if needed, and discolorations were cleaned from the hull and rear platform. 

Fishing gear was on the boat when we bought it more than five years ago but we had never used it. Miller attached new lines and hooks and I tried to emulate others on the dock and fish for mackeral, who were schooling only a few feet from the boat.  Within minutes, we  had caught seven small ones.  Miller filleted them and I followed his instructions and fried them with lots of paprika.  Crispy and delicious with the distinctive flavor of fresh fish.

We were astonished to see a large drone flying over the marina.  It was easily seen how such a thing could be ominous and threatening for they can carry cameras and any number of other items.  This one could easily hurt someone or damage property if operated in an irresponsible manner.  Another challenge for safety concerns!

David and I took a final dinghy journey to Soames Sound and once again admired the beauty of this exceptional place.  Seals are often seen in this area but we were not fortunate to spot any of them.  With a bottle of wine and a few snacks, we lingered in the area for a sentimental farewell to our wonderful summer in Maine.  On the following day, Miller brought the dinghy up on the dock and, using a power washer, cleaned it of the algae and gunk accumulated during its prolonged stay in the water.  Afterwards, he attached it to the davit, lifted it in place on the bridge, and covered it with the re-sized canvas cover.  Garnet Johnson, who made our new Bimini top, had used her skill to fit the old cover to the shape of the new dinghy.

Dave arrived on August 19 and was eager to see Maine for the first time.  Unfortunately, his plane was delayed and it was dark before we reached Southwest Harbor.  He saw little besides the shadows of tall trees and roadside attractions.  The wonderful vistas of forests, lakes, and hills were obscured by the night and encroaching fog.

We celebrated his arrival with a lobster dinner and freshly baked blueberry pie by Debbie from the Top of the Hill restaurant.  Dave ate two lobsters and everything else in sight!  He was eager to start our journey.  Weather predictions were for early fog with afternoon clearing.  Reluctant to cruise in fog, we decided to delay the trip for one day.