Isles of Shoals

From the time that I was a little girl, I have always wanted to visit the Isles of Shoals, which is a group of small islands about six miles off of the coast of New Hampshire.  On a hazy day, one would not even suspect that the islands existed; on a clear day, one can clearly see the buildings on several islands, as well as the lighthouse.  This summer, we took a cruise out to the Isles of Shoals, which was amazing.  Although we stayed on the boat the entire time (next year, we are going to figure out how to spend some time on the islands themselves), the cruise was narrated and the history and stories were spectacular.  We all enjoyed the trip.

Portsmouth Harbor lighthouse. 

Whaleback lighthouse.  One of the more amazing stories from the cruise was the details of how a wave crashed over the top of this lighthouse during the Perfect Storm. 

Enjoying the boat ride. 

Off the shore of Smuttynose Island. 

One of my favorite shots from the entire week.  Two old summer homes on Smuttynose Island. 

Believe it or not, Captain John Smith of Pocahontas fame, discovered and named the Isles of Shoals in 1614.  The monument in the distance is dedicated to him.

White Island lighthouse.  Yet another Perfect Storm wave crashed over this lighthouse.  Crazy.