June 22-July 6           North Kingstown, Rhode Island

Rainy days kept us inside the boat and limited outdoor activities.  No problem as we always have projects to complete.   Finally, the weather cleared and we went to Newport with our dock neighbors, Bob and Cecil.  We had a lovely dinner at the historic White Horse Tavern.  It is renowned for its history (dated from 1600’s) and excellent food.  Much of the building is original and carefully restored to maintain its colonial charm. 

We were excited to greet Kennedy and Taft, grandchildren from Fort Worth, at Wickford Station on July 2.  With bay scallop seviche, streamed lobsters and deliciously sweet corn, we had a feast on the aft deck.  Of course, blueberry pie and ice cream were dessert.  We treat our guests well!

Wickford has the finest children’s shop in Rhode Island (won the award as such) and was the perfect place to shop for our greatly anticipated granddaughter to arrive in December.  So many choices!  Kennedy finally selected a pale blue dress with matching cap and pants and a lovely pink onesie.  Both were wrapped and will be saved for the baby shower in the fall.

A late lunch-early dinner for us was on the deck of The Coast Guard House where we watched the waves crashing on the rocks below and the hundreds of bathers on Narragansett Beach.  On July 4, we took the fast ferry on a special fireworks viewing cruise to Newport.  We had a picnic lunch of lobster rolls and brownies to enjoy on the trip.  The fireworks display was great with multiple bursts of colors lighting the harbor.  Kennedy and Taft returned to Newport on July 5 to explore the famous Cliff Walk which borders the sea behind many of the historic mansions.  On their return, we had a farewell dinner at Tavern on the Sea in Wickford.  On Sunday, Taft expertly drove us to Boston Logan Airport.  They were gracious, thoughtful guests and made the holiday special and fun for us. 

On our return from Boston, we visited our dear friend Jill who lives in a BEAUTIFUL      townhouse in Camden.  We were delighted to meet Patch, a lovely black and white cat that rules the place.  She seemed to like us and we were allowed to bestow on her pats and praise.  Jill is a talented craftsman and her home is filled with interesting and unique items, many of her own making.  Her lovely deck overlooks a pond and she has a diversified group of animals and birds that visit.  We shared memories of Jerry, a dear friend and her beloved longtime companion as we admired a small table skillfully crafted by him.  Lunch at Del Frisco Grille and was a great choice.  We celebrated with coconut cream pie for dessert.