Family and Deer and Maine, oh my!

A trip to Pennsylvania wouldn't be complete without seeing Ellen and Michael, Doug's cousins who live in State College.

Thankfully, they drove to our campground and we were able to go forage for some dinner nearby, for we only had the evening. The irony is that we didn't make any plans, parked on one side of the bridge, only to see that restaurant was closed with a 'help wanted' sign. So, I ran to ask the mail carrier what he recommended and he guided us across the bridge, to this delightful eatery right on the water! It was such a nice meal and backdrop to a wonderful chance to catch up with each other. It couldn't have been a nicer time.

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After seeing Ellen and Michael, the next day we headed out for a city called Florida in New York. Not sure why they name cities after states, seems confusing to me, but that's what is was.

Once we arrived, we realized we were over charged, for it was simply a spot of land with hook ups, yet zero amenities; laundry, showers, etc. at 2-3 times the price that we've been paying. Oh well, our $28 site in Texola helped to average this out. I could tell Maggie had some pent up energy, for she chased a cat so far up a small hill that it took her a moment to figure out how to get back to us. We decided that was our sign to go for a walk before settling in for our night of rest.

We took in this glorious sunset and then came upon a family of five deer in an open field, about 50 yards from us. They were out in a wide open pasture, the kids of the group were frolicking about and bucking their back legs around, while the two adult deer took turns keeping an eye on us. Maggie took our lead quickly and stood as still as a statue. She knows where to draw the line on the game of chase! This was a hard pass for Maggie, she barely moved a muscle.

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We fell in love with Maine!

We have had a great run of nice weather and it didn't stop when we arrived in Portland, Maine on October 5th. Our campsite was adjacent to a lake and Wassamki Springs Campground was a beautiful place to call home.

We spent some days doing lifey stuff; getting a new spare tire for our trailer, going to camping world for goodies and gathering some groceries, We also hit up an AA meeting in Portland, which was interesting to see how it works for them. They had a slightly different format, but the kind and genuine energy from everyone was the same. AA is known for having down to earth people. They all have a common thread of being so honest and real. I love that!

We had two noteworthy outings, one not pictured - we were too busy scarfing down our delicious lunch on a car ferry that had been converted into a restaurant called Dimillio's. It was the best meal out that I had, since my girls and I had amazing french toast in Eugene, Oregon for Jen's college graduation. Notice I said meal out, because Doug's cooking is something to write home about too. He is a Sanchioli after all. The second is pictured below. We took a boat tour of four lighthouses and other sights along Casco Bay. It was a beautiful day out and so fun to be on the water again.

The 1st row, first picture is of a personal lighthouse that has actually helped captains so much that at one time it was listed on their charts.

Still the 1st row, far right picture is from the bay side, because the surf was going off that day and our captain took it easy. I wasn't mad about it. I love the surf, but not so much on a boat.

The 2nd row, middle picture, is of a fort that they used back in the day. Now, you can paddle, swim, boat to it and explore the small island.

The 3rd row, middle picture is of a sand bar that allows the garbage truck mail to pick up their trash at low tide. They better get back to the other side in time, or they will be on that island until the next low tide!

Lastly, the 3rd row, last picture is one of my favorite phrases.

We hope all is well with you and your loved ones. As we explore our beautiful and diverse country, we are reminded of how grateful we are that we love our hometown and cherish our friends and family. It's nice that as much as we are enjoying our travels, we love and miss all of you very much!

Fair winds and following seas to you!

Shari n Doug