DAY 6: The ACADEMY!!!

 

Observation of the day

Although it is the natural order of things, it is never easy to let go of your kids.

 

Quote of the day

“Thanks, but I don’t think I’ll be calling you.” – EM, upon being reminded that VM would only be 4 hours away if something went askew this week. Clearly, she was ready for her adventure.

 

EM is here!

VM: Today was drop-off day! After a brunch in-town in New London, EM and I headed over to the Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) around 12:45pm. And true to any military endeavor, the check-in was an incredibly smooth process. They only had the parents stay until the COVID test was negative, and then we were sent on our way. 

EM was nervous beforehand, but during registration she met two fellow female cadets. One happened to be from West Palm Beach and played water polo. It is a small world. 

 

Miraculously, she allowed her Mami one pic
before disappearing into her dorm!

This will soon be EM!

By 2:00, I said good-bye and started walking to my car when by Divine Intervention, I saw several platoons of summer “SWABS” – freshman cadets who are essentially in their boot camp training – as they ran (LITERALLY) into the student center. I was keenly searching the troops as my good friends, Tina & Eddie, just had their son, Daniel, start his SWAB summer where the cadets are disconnected from the outside world for 6 weeks. By the grace of God, I happened upon him! And yes, he was running and yelling his lungs out, as was every other cadet. Just like in the movies! We’ll see if EM comes out of this week hoarse!

It was great to catch Daniel as he ran with his platoon. He is furthest to the right.

After departing, I was fortunate to have an uneventful 4-hour journey up to Boothbay Harbor, Maine. I reached my inn (http://www.atlanticarkinn.com) around 6:30pm and was met by the proprietor, Donna. She is a sweet hippie who has lived here since 1986. Clearly, the inn is her labor of love. 

 

I’m staying in the top attic room accessible by two outdoor staircases (I feel like I’m getting my workouts in!). It is not fancy but it is cozy & charming. Best of all, it is a great location, just a quick walk across the harbor on a pedestrian bridge to the waterfront restaurants & shops.

Boothbay Harbor

 

My wonderful crosswalk across the harbor.

After dropping my gear, I strolled over to the town on the foot bridge and had a yummy dinner at The Boathouse Bistro (http://www.theboathousebistro.com). The place was packed but as a solo diner, they accommodated me right away at the bar. I had a lovely family from Ohio who sat next to me and as life seems to always be this way for me – the daughter (who went to Ohio State) had just been to Fort Lauderdale for Spring Break so we all enjoyed a nice chat about our hometown, the Gators and SEC football! Again, it is a small world.

 

Tomorrow I’m looking forward to leaving the car parked as I’m taking a boat excursion to Monhegan Island. Unfortunately, I think it’s going to be a WET excursion as the rain chances are up to 60%, but I will make the best of it!

Random Pic of the Day

Banner at USCGA. No commentary needed.