Our 2021 road trip to New England and the Maritimes in Canada was extra special after we sheltered in place for so long during Covid. Although we never got sick, it hit my Canadian partner and me in a different way. We were separated in 2020 for 7 months because of the border closure between the two countries. And although we could visit each other, US rules did not allow him to drive across the US border to visit me. So he had to fly to Illinois and then we set out in my car for this trip. We visited some beautiful sites on this trip but I have to say this about Maine: It will take your breath away.
The feature photo above was one of those Stop the Car! moments. It’s my favorite Maine photo. It was the result of snap decision: “Let’s go down this road.” We had no specific itinerary. No reservations. We decided to just take random roads on the way to our next destination in Andrews, NB. less than three hours away. We found this little beauty in Blue Hill, ME, 35 minutes into our trip. There were several spots here to photograph but this one was unique for its color and charm.
Stonington, Maine
Our first stop in Maine was to visit Acadia National Park. It’s one of the most visited of National Parks and the fall colors are a big draw. From there it was just a short drive to Stonington Maine. A friend recommended this coastal town and said we would love the area for its charm and lobster. It is the self proclaimed Lobster Capital of the world. It’s should also be called Quaint Capital of the world. As we were driving there we could see a spectacular sunset forming. The motel where we had reservations made it clear we had to check in by 6 pm. We practically threw the owner our credit card, grabbed the room key, and raced off to photograph the sunset. Good idea. It was unusually colorful. The following morning was also stunning but not for the color of the sunrise. The golden glow and warmth of the early morning sun on the coastline was amazing as you can see below.
Boothbay Harbor
Another one of our serendipitous stops was Boothbay Harbor. It was not even on our radar. We were on the interstate on our way to Acadia National Park when we saw the sign for the turn off. We looked at each other and said: “Let’s do it!” Why the excitement? My brother, John O’Connor, has an album called Rare Songs. Our favorite song on it is The Girl from Boothbay Harbor. To tell the truth, I never realized it was a real place! Or a real girl. But we texted him to tell him where we were and he explained he really did once have a girlfriend there. He called her many years later to tell her about the song. She was very touched. As well she should be. He never wrote one about his favorite sister….that would be me. John, dear boy, we need to talk.
Photos can be enlarged by clicking on them on the website.
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