July 19-26                               North Kingstown, Rhode Island

 

The pleasant weather has encouraged a busy boating scene and we are content to be interested spectators as the variety of watercraft passes by our aft deck.  David and I are both feeling very well but have postponed a trip on the boat until we complete several projects.

I spent considerable time dusting and re-staining the teak blinds in the salon.  They look like new!  David spent even more time adding quarter-round to the steps leading from the helm to the galley.  Years ago, when we tore up the carpet and had the steps installed, the workman was totally unreliable.  We dismissed him before the job was finished.  David used his métier box and saw to great advantage and the installation looks great.  Now the area will be stained and varnished.

Pretzel, a long-haired miniature Dachshund, was due a spa day.  We found Mini Manor Kennel about seven miles from the boat located through a maze of winding roads lined with stone walls and lovely homes.  We loved the journey as the trees were exceptionally tall and dense and the stone walls were a maze throughout the fields.  The Kennel was the only commercial building in this area and was in the process of expansion.  Pretzel had a three hour stay and was returned groomed and pretty.

During Pretzel’s spa hours, we continued south toward Point Judith and the small fishing village of Galilee.  Hundreds of cars filled the parking lots. This is the exodus port for many commercial fishing vessels as well as the ferries to Block Island.  We had lunch at George’s of Galilee, a renowned seafood restaurant next to the ferries and the lovely beach.  We enjoyed a light lunch of clams, oysters, calamari and lobster.  It was a real treat and we hope to return soon.

The beach area was crowded with folks enjoying the pleasant weather and the great view of the ocean with boats leaving and returning from the channel. Rhode Island provides many amenities at their beaches, lovely changing facilities, dining, etc., but they enforce strict regulations for maintenance and safety.  All the beaches we have seen are pristine with lifeguards on duty.