After leaving Acadia, we made our way to the Boston region to visit some friends. Following recommendations from our friends Sapa and Thora, whom we had met at Cuyahoga National Park, we spent a night camping at a brewery in Boothbay, Maine. The experience did not disappoint as we enjoyed a pleasant stroll across a footbridge to a seafood shack situated right by the bay.
Off to Boston. We enjoyed a lovely dinner and had our laundry taken care of by our dear friends Mark and Dawn Lovejoy. As avid bikers, they assisted David in arranging for his bike to be repaired. Intrigued by our setup, they visited our campsite the following morning for breakfast and a campfire.
They were skeptical that a cat could be a traveling companion and wanted to see it for themselves. Daphne spent some time in her catio with us at the fire.
The afternoon and evening were dedicated to spending time with our friends Karen and Pete. We saw their new lovely home with an amazing yard. The two gardeners (Karen and David) nerded out together discussing the garden.
We took a hike the Middlesex Fells area and were rewarded with breath taking views of downtown Boston. After the hike, a nice dinner at Karen and Pete's with interesting conversation.
Finally we were able to see our friends Hal and Debbie - we had a nice hike on Walden Pond - yes, that Walden Pond and saw a replica of the Thoreau's cabin (it was smaller than our camper). Following the hike, Hal and Debbie had a Pickleball lesson, as they were keen on learning the game. They were both showed great aptitude to the game, and we are hopeful that they will continue playing. Pickleball was followed by dinner at a farm to table Mexican restaurant where Karen and Pete joined.
David met Hal when he hitch hiked from San Francisco to Boston, in 1979, because he wanted to see Harvard. He saw Hal and asked if he knew a woman named Emily (who happens to be Karen's sister). Hal said, "she lives right across the hall from me". Hal and David became fast friends and those two enjoyed entertaining us all with the high jinks stories of their youth.
Reconnecting with long-time friends we rarely see is incredibly fulfilling. It feels as though no time has passed, yet we have all had many experiences that have shaped and changed us. This has truly been one of the most memorable moments of our trip so far - spending time with these cherished individuals who hold a special place in our hearts.
What fun! I want to make it to Maine soon. I love following your travels!