Our friendly Harbor Master Kevin Battle came back to visit us while we were at Portland this week. He turned on his flashing blue light again for my amusement and photo opportunity and advised us to keep deck lights on at night in case other boaties didn't realise we were anchored. We also spent a couple of days at a marina where friendly Customs Officer Clement dropped by to make sure we were following all the necessary rules and regulations associated with our cruising permit as we are required to phone them to advise the location of our anchorages whenever we move.

We mentioned a couple of weeks ago our need to replace our South African crew which occurred on Friday. Our new crew, Jake and Renae, are Australian and Canadian respectively. They are very bright, enthusiastic and competent individuals and we will really enjoy having them with us. Undoubtedly their help will be invaluable in the months ahead. Last night was our first night on anchor with Jake and Renae at Snow Island in Quahog Bay on a dark starry clear quiet night. We could hardly believe our eyes when the residents on Snow Island put on a private fireworks show immediately in front of Vanish only 100 meters away with some of the best fireworks we've seen since New York. They must have known we were coming. It only lasted five minutes but it was fabulous and we honked Vanish's extremely loud horn in thanks. Next thing, they started up again with more fireworks and then other yachtsmen started blasting their horns as well. Suddenly, the whole tiny anchorage which consisted of about seven vessels nestled amongst itty bitty islands became a family united in the joy of fireworks with cheering and laughter. It was so unexpected and we felt privileged to stumble into another unique experience such as this.

Oh Maine, how we'll miss it. The pace of life here is easy and relaxed and as a dog owner who misses my pet terribly, the one aspect I love in particular is that dogs are a huge part of everyday life here. At the hairdresser in Portland, I sat with the stylist's dog on my lap while my hair was being coiffed and fluffed. When we ate lunch in Rockland, the lady next to us had her dog on a lead under the table inside the restaurant. Many stores have water bowls on the footpath outside their stores and dogs are allowed inside all the shops. Dogs are on most people's boats and are social and integrated into everyday life. They are allowed in National Parks although some Parks ask that they be kept on leashes. This is my kind of place. This is not the case back home in Australia where dogs are terribly restricted. I'm getting close to 'borrowing' a dog for the rest of our trip as we miss our Bindi so much but I must stay strong. (Hope the Captain doesn't read this blog!).
BTW, Hurricane Nadine is heading east, away from the US Coast and no threat.