A Breezy Afternoon in Rockport

 

Rockport, Massachusetts on Cape Ann, offers a much needed sunny day by the shore after a long, long winter.

The water, the wind, the seagulls floating on air....everything that's good for one's soul is all wrapped up in this quaint seaside village.  Although Rockport isn't that far from Boston, it has that "stepping back in time" quality.

We thoroughly enjoyed our recent afternoon spent there.

The color blue is epitomized in this photo.  There's a certain calming quality about it.

Tourists should remember that this is a working harbor.  These traps piled high signify that.

Colorful doorways dot the village.

 

Just how long has that shell been hanging there withstanding all kinds of weather?

Decorative windows tell of what's to come this season.

The James Russell Goldsmith entrance.  I love that the pansies are already planted!  Very inviting.

What a wonderful and creative sign.

Colorful signs of Spring were everywhere.

Have you ever heard of Bearskin Neck?

The garden gate beckons us to imagine warmer weather.

The Rockport Art Association is now in it's 93rd year.  The whimsical color on the shutters and door reminds us that it's OK to step out of the box every now and then; even with a historical property!

An example of eye-catching and creative architectural planning.

The door knocker symbolizes the proximity to the ocean.

You'll find many intriguing examples of art among the galleries that line the street.

The Shalin Liu Performance Center is not to be missed.  We happened upon a recording session.  Which artist could  that be at the piano?  A spectacular location.

These granite steps lead to the oceans' edge.

According to the First Congregational Church website, a nominal "rent" is still paid for the town clock. 

Enough said.

We had a very nice lunch at Brackett's Ocean View Restaurant.  A seasonal restaurant, Brackett's has been newly renovated.

This is the view from our dining table.

I want to be a mermaid when I grow up.

This could be one of the most photographed ice cream shops around.  I'm definitely going back during the summer!

The window at The Pewter Shop solicits thoughts of Paul Revere.

Of course I love these old granite steps.

Tools adorn the window of Bearskin Neck Leathers. 

The views from the Peg Leg Inn are incredible.

There were a few sailors at the boatyard dreaming of a warm summer breeze.

Next time we visit Halibut Point State Park, we are going to bring a picnic lunch and we'll be sure to enjoy some of the many walking trails offered.