Thursday, October 9, 2008 - Studio early, then off to Southport Island

Before the first crack!
A lovely trail to the water


A lobster pound

Helga and Jody
Lighthouse on the point

I woke up very early and went to the studio around 6 am. It was raining, so I didn't feel bad about not riding to the Southport ( 55 miles) like I had originally wanted to do. I went back for breakfast at 8 am, then Helga and I packed the car with everything, except art materials and including my bike. There was more than enough room. Kay was in the studio and we had a pleasant few hours of conversation, laughter and silent focus. We ate lunch together outside, then said good bye, until possibly next year. Our final stop, before home, is Southport, an hour drive. A friend of Helga's lives there and invited us to stay. It is a very quaint, quiet and unbelievably picturesque island. This is also another "real" maine spot. We all walked a loop that went along the water and found quiet trails (actually summer homes that were now vacant). We had ordered lobsters to be cooked before our walk to have for our final dinner. Jody drove to pick them up while Helga and I continued to explore this beautiful place. This is the first experience in Maine of eating a whole lobster. The exerience is the most fun, and we did enjoy it. We had nice conversation for the remains of the evening. After an early rise, we took another short walk and departed for home at 8:30 am.

The seven hour car ride went very smoothly. Helga and I relived the last week and each discussed our artistic goals. She is such an inspiration to me in so many facets of my life. We will continue to get together and discuss our work as well as life in general.

I have reached the first goal of my journey. Countless people have made this an amazingly special and memorable experience. Some were planned and some just a brief moment of light. Everyone I have come into contact with has inspired me with thier individuality and spirit. I send out a word of thanks to all of you. Thank you for following me on this part of my journey. I will now use my memories,notes, photos, and new found resources as inspiration to create. I will continue to post work, ideas and experiences during the next few months.