July 21-August 2                     North Kingstown, Rhode Island

Warm, sultry weather impeded our progress as we prepared for the visit of The Sisters, Stephanie Usher, Cindy Barnes, Lyn Potter, Sharon Arnold and Pinki Meals.  With Rupe’s absence due to a family tragedy in Honduras, David and I slowly and methodically completed projects to make the boat a welcoming destination.

On Thursday, July 27, our guests, minus Pinki who was fighting a respiratory problem, arrived in Boston, took the train to Wickford Station and were met by David.  Life was very exciting after that!  Within a few hours, a lovely rainstorm brought cool weather which remained throughout their visit.  We sat on the aft deck, ate lobster rolls and played the card game Five Crowns until midnight.

The Sisters took our car for a day of exploring in Newport while David and I remained on the boat to make a curtain for the aft deck.  They spent several hours marveling at the extravagance of the Breakers, the jewel of Newport’s mansions, ate a delicious lunch and did some major shopping.  Dinner was at Blu on the Water in East Greenwich followed by more hours of Five Crowns.

Wickford Village was their destination on Saturday to see the historical homes and visit the quaint shops.  They returned early to the boat for a light lunch and naps, exhausted from walking and talking.  Dinner was at Tavern on the Sea in Wickford.  The Sisters were easily recognized as a unique group by the large red crab or lobster headdresses they wore everywhere.  A little girl at the restaurant was enthralled by the decorations and Stephanie gave her the one she wore.  The expression of absolute delight from that sweet child made our evening!  She politely inquired if she could wear it home and was ecstatic when told she could.

Their busy visit continued Sunday when they left the boat with David to board the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard.  They shopped, ate lunch and then enjoyed a private tour of the island with a narration of history, geography and gossip.  Dinner was on the boat with grilled salmon steaks. 

We reluctantly took them to the train station on Monday morning for their return flight.  We loved having them visit and were overwhelmed by their generosity (lovely gifts every day) and thoughtfulness.  Each Sister is unique and special which has undoubtedly contributed to their long-standing and close friendship.