Good-bye New York....Hello Mystic Seaport!

August 7 - 11, 2014

After our big adventure on the Today Show, we wandered around NYC.  Jennifer and I laughed about being recognized, which wasn't happening.  We selected a restaurant, walked in and the receptionist went crazy because she recognized us!  She was so nice, organizing the tables so both of the kids could have royal seats and wine glasses.  Mid-afternoon we checked out of the hotel.  Jennifer left for the airport and we took off with the kids.  Next stop Mystic Seaport, Connecticut.  

Replica rowing boat used to
harpoon whales.

Mystic Seaport is a recreated 19th century boat building and whaling village. We toured historic sailing ships and buildings that depicted life 100 years ago.  The film about harpooning a whale with a row boat was such a favorite we watched it twice.  That was one wild ride!  A hand thrown harpoon hits the whale.  The whale takes off at full speed dragging the small boat behind it before circling around the boat throwing all of the men in the water and dying.  Then the real work begins as the whalers have to drag the dead whale back to the ship, which is miles away! 

We'd like to have a cannon like this
installed on Gotta Smile.  I think it would
send a message -- don't mess with us!

We are all exhausted.
Slow down and relax at the beach!

Time to go home -- school starts in two days.
Ian flew to LaGuardia to pick them up.  

Gotta smile -- we're lovin the ride!