Paul and I grabbed a quick cuppa in Annapolis, Maryland on our way to Rock Hall. This sculpture of Alex Haley (the author of Roots) and children stopped me in my tracks. My picture does not do it justice, but you can find out more about the Kunta Kinte – Alex Haley Memorial here.
"Knowledge of history can be the first step away from anger and bitterness. Truth leads to understanding. Understanding and forgiveness lead to reconciliation and healing" Memorial Story Wall Plaque.
If we had more time, we would have done more exploring of the Naval Academy and maybe an oyster bar or two…
The mission of the naval academy is to develop midshipmen morally, mentally, and physically; and to imbue them with the highest ideals of duty, honor, and loyalty...
Annapolis, Maryland. Love the colonial blue buildings with cranberry trim...
Paul picked a quiet spot for our next stop – Rock Hall, Maryland. What did I like most about Rock Hall? Kids on bikes waved at us while we drove by in the 4Runner. When we walked down Main Street people said hello (all five of them) and we got more waves from passerby. Even the trash truck driver waved hello. LOVE that.
I also loved the diverse dwellings. I loved them so much I am going to save those pics for a separate blog post.
Greetings from Chesapeake Country
Sign at Chicken - Neckers in Rock Hall
This is my new (old) favorite sign. Chicken necks are used to bait crabs. In case you were wondering.
Back Deck at the Old Gratitude House
The Old Gratitude House was lovely, with the added bonus of unintentional entertainment compliments of the Innkeepers. No question who wears the pants in that family – let’s just leave it at that, shall we?
Our room was perfect (a his and hers robes kind of perfect). Check out the view from our private deck! So peaceful, and with gourmet breakfasts to boot. We had fun chatting with the other guests and getting to know several local cats and two adorable Westies.
Calm Before the Storm
A lot of you know that I love a good storm. Unlike most people I welcome a downpour, on vacation or otherwise. I sleep better to the rain. And I never carry an umbrella in the rain because it feels so good against my ruddy skin. Perhaps I was a sailor in another life.
Sailing with Captain Mark
This man loves being on the water
Osprey nest - Chesapeake Bay
Paul recently lost his Dad. I wish so much that we could send him these pictures (or better yet, show him in person). He was in the Royal Navy and would get a huge kick out of seeing Paul enjoying himself out on the Bay.
To get a feel for Rock Hall, I really need to take you back to Main Street…
The Nearest Mall
These shops are only open on weekends, so we didn’t get to check them out. Lots of shops are in houses here, which gives them a lot more character, don’t you think?
Hotel Transportation
There is a hotel on Main Street named Tallulah’s that offers limousine service. I cracked up when I saw their limo because it reminded me of a time in my early twenties when my piece of crap Chevy Cavalier broke down and I could only afford to go with Rent-A-Wreck. I ended up with a car similar to the one above. I could fit about a dozen friends in it. And it was easy to spot in the lot (this was pre-SUV’s).
Durdings Store (old fashioned ice cream parlour)
Durdings has an old fashioned soda fountain and everything
Banana Shake for Paul and a Vanilla Coke for me : )
Durdings was delish. Durdings and Harbor Shack were our favorite places to eat (aside from our B&B breakfasts). Charlotte (our waitress at Harbor Shack) actually got a dreamy look in her eye while explaining one of the specials. Roast beef sandwich, I believe it was. I appreciate that in a waitress, or anyone, really. It is near impossible for me to relate to people who don’t appreciate a good meal.
Rock Hall is a nice place to go to get away from the chain stores and the crowds. I felt that had we stayed longer we would have befriended a few of the local, salt of the earth types. Spell check is suggesting I avoid this cliche but I don’t feel like it.
I will post a bit more about Maryland in a day or so. Then, I will fill you all in on our Outer Banks escapades. Yes, I do believe I could get used to this. Just got to figure out how to make a decent living from the road. I have some thoughts…any ideas on your end?!?
Paul must have a thing for fruit shakes?! I remember him drinking a couple strawberry shakes last time we saw you. Have a wonderful trip…I know you will. 🙂
I think he must equate shakes with leisure time because he does not indulge in them often : ) We are having a blast – a bit behind on the blog posts at present but plan on catching up some tonight (next up, Outer Banks)…
Ah, yes – I miss the Eastern Shore. I was the best crabber in my family, even though I wouldn’t eat them if you paid me.
And an old friend of mine is a buddy of Captain Mark!
You guys look stupendously happy.
Wow – how cool is that? Let’s play six degrees of separation from Captain Mark : ) We are having a truly wonderful time, Sean. Life is good. Looking forward to a book update from you soon!
It’s fun being on the road with you! You write such fun commentary to go with your photos. Ah yes, that “earn your living from the road” dilemma… hope you got my other e-mail about the evergreen visit next week….
Denise, I am enamoured with my vintage buttons and Dorothy slippers – how thoughtful you are! What a wild, wonderful, whirlwind it has been…will I see you at the lake on Tuesday?
great post!…loved the commentary on the rain…i still haven’t had my day of downpour and writing this summer…still waiting!
keep enjoying the trip 🙂
Andrew, we are back on the East Coast now – got your letter – you are a natural! Will write back soon, most likely from a blanket on the beach in Provincetown. Fall on the beach = bliss.
Nothing like writing or reading through a storm, I agree. Preferably for uninterrupted hours on end. Here’s to a perfect day or two of downpour, headed your way…
And now you are here and I am happy!
Colorado was a blur…next time hoping to have more one on one time with my nearests and dearests. Sigh.
PS My blue toenails bring me great joy. What color are you going with for Hawaii??