For most of us boating is a getaway, a sport designed to be pleasurable which can be a bit challenging at times, but if we don’t feel up to it, it’s too hot, too cold, too rough, too windy or doesn’t suit us, we simply don’t go.

For some, no matter how challenging, how bad they feel, too hot, too cold, too rough, too windy, they simply have to go.  We heard their stories yesterday at the Maritime Museum in Eastport, MD gaining a new appreciation for the “Watermen” families who for years have made a living harvesting the oysters from the Chesapeake.  Most days start early and end twelve to fourteen hours later.  We saw several this yesterday morning when we left our anchorage at 5:30 already on the water running their trot lines.  Yes they do make a living, but it is challenging and physically exhausting.  Guess next time we have to dodge their crab pot or trot line we won’t be as quick to complain about their livelihood interfering with our fun.

For a view Sunday and Monday, June 3-4, of Aurora in Annapolis go to:   

http://www.annapolisyc.com/default.aspx?p=DynamicModule&pageid=281972&ssid=157917&vnf=1

We're on the left, white sailboat just off the nose of the Megayacht.

What do you get when you combine sailboats as far as the eye can see, eighteen marinas, “Ego Alley,” where boaters parade their craft in front of the City Dock, the state capital of Maryland, more 18^th century homes that any other city in the country, and four thousand of the brightest college students in the nation…………………………… You get Annapolis, home of US Naval Academy and America’s sailing capital.  Is laid back and lively an oxymoron?  It sure seems like Annapolis has it all; Its simple beauty in the unhurried life on the water; Its wealth of proud traditions from Navy heritage, to patriotism, and a love for sailing; Its eclectic historic district with a little something for everyone.

(to be coninuted) 

Touring the United States Naval Academy has to be one of the highlights of our two days here.  Seeing where four thousand Mid Shipmen eat, sleep and study in one gigantic dormitory, then strolling across the neatly manicured campus, you get a sense of strength developed through discipline and the determination they have to be of service to their countrymen.

On the recommendation of our friend, Tom Wells, who said we absolutely must go have breakfast at Chick and Ruth’s Delly on Main Street, we did.  Arriving about 9:00, we chatted with some locals, who turned out to be retired USMC Colonel and Mrs. Joe Flynn.  At 9:30, owner Ted got on the intercom and led in the Pledge of Allegiance, with everyone in the restaurant standing.  The walls were lined newspaper articles and awards to the owners in recognition of patriotism, friendship, and caring commitment to helping those who have sacrificed for our country.  We called Tom to thank him for a glimpse of these every day exceptional people who are Annapolis. 

Actually staying here two more nights, as the winds are too strong 15-25, on Monday.  

Again, we would love for you to leave a comment on the blog, and have changed the setting to hopefully make it easier than in the past.