New Years on the water

We always try to spend New Years Eve on the water. Given the economy and the limited time, we were running out of places to go.  We've been to south Jersey for a midnight cruise and to Block Island to ring in the new year. We spent two New Year's eves with our friends Doug and Ellen Creighton in Greenport and this year, we decided to go back there. Unfortunately, Doug is no longer with us but Ellen was, as always, a gracious hostess was glad to see us.

The old Mercury was packed with everything we'd ever need, thanks to Frances, and we drove onto the Cross Sound Ferry.

We had reservations to stay at Townsend's in Greenport but before we checked in, we had to visit Mitchell's Marina, where we always dock during the summer. Funny seeing it with no boats.

We always meet nice people at Mitchell's and this beautiful Irish Wolf Hound was no exception. (dogs and cats are "people" to us). This breed of dog is well known as a visitor to senior homes and hospitals.  His owner explained that one of the reasons is that, because "Lord" is so suited is due to his size or height.  The people he visits do not have to lean down to pet him!

We also drove over to the spot where Doug's Docks were.  We spent many, many great days there in Stirling harbor with Doug and Ellen and many other people like us who wanted a nice, informal spot to tie up. Doug's Dock has been sold and reconditioned now with all new docks and pilings.

The new owner left a few things behind, including these old picnic tables.  He'd be amazed if he ever knew how many great parties we had around them.

We were surprised to spot the ubiquitous rubber ducky still floating in the drink after all this time (kinda creepy and nostalgic at the same time...) After visiting the old dock, we checked into Townsend's, which is right down the street. Our room was in in the 1850 "Gingerbread House."

The trim on the porch wasn't very inviting but out room was delightful. Lots of windows and a very large bath. Perfect.

Ellen joined us for a drink (she had made plans to see friends that evening) and after that, Frances and I went to Skippers for dinner. Skippers is simply the best place on the entire North Fork. If you go to Greenport by boat, you'll have to take a cab to get there. Just tell them you want to go to Skippers, no address needed.  It isn't fancy and most of the people you will find there are local. Order the Fisherman's Platter. Seafood doesn't get much better than this.

After Skippers, we both fell asleep before the ball dropped to signal the new year. No big deal. That's the way we are.

The next morning, we drove to Ellen's house for brunch. Eggs Benedict is always one of our favorites and Ellen knows how to make them.

After brunch, we walked up to Horton's Point Light. The weather was in the low 50s. Once there, Frances took this pic of the Connecticut coast. That's Niantic off in the distance.

We know that it will snow soon and we've cheated winter so far, so getting away was particularly nice. Boating doesn't have to end when the weather turns cold.

We shot some video and edited it down to some of the things we'd like to remember.