Blast from the past

Dahlia had to head back home to sunny, scorching California this morning.  She ended up splitting her time between me (while her brother was at work) and her brother (while I was in meetings).  That worked out well logistically but I wish she could have stayed longer! 

On Sunday Dahlia and her brother, Carl, joined me at church to celebrate the congregation's 125th anniversary.  In honor of the event, the service incorporated some traditional hymns and psalms, which was really interesting.  It would be fun to do that more often!  After the service the three of us drove down to visit the USS Constitution for some sightseeing.

Dahlia and her brother, Carl, at the USS Constitution

 

We made a quick stop at the Bunker Hill Monument.  After all these years living in MA I didn't know it was possible to climb it to the top!  This was a bit of a thrill because for some reason I really love climbing monuments.

Bunker Hill Monument

A view from the top

Carl is an actual cowboy (I must say the only one I know) and after joining the air force he ended up getting stationed at Hanscom AFB.  Although Boston is quite different from Wyoming and the rodeo, one perk is being able to park at the naval base in the North End for free!  

Navigating a giant truck through Charlestown's narrow, winding streets.

The special lobster menu at the Bell in Hand Tavern, est. 1795.  Having a lobster grilled cheese and a lobster roll with my good friend => *died and gone to heaven*

Yesterday Dahlia and I took a little trip to Salem for some witchy fun.  We also stuck in some nerdy fun as we stopped by the Peabody Essex Museum. 

 
It was about 30 degrees cooler than it was two days ago at the USS Constitution. Note: coat, hat, and gloves!
 
Lunch at a really great diner in downtown Salem: Red's Sandwich Shop

This morning Dahlia and I took a little walk through Prospect Hill Park

Due to the more seasonable weather, the lady slipper orchids are out later this year compared to previous Springs.  These are the first flowers of the year!

I didn't know Prospect Hill has been hiding a monkey all this time!

 

I'll miss having Dahlia here!  Hopefully it won't be 8 more years before I see her again!