A Trip Out of the City and Up to Rockport

  

     

    The sea spray brushed my cheeks like it was reapplying my blush. My cheeks were reddened by the chill in the air that did not stop at making my nose a bit pink too. 

    I stood on the rocks and stared out at twin lighthouses. Rockport is home to a handful of lighthouses, some still using their lights for ships that would come in. 

    In this small pocket of Massachusetts, there are a handful of small fishing towns that litter the coast. Rockport is nestled between a few of the others and is within driving distance of each. Bearskin Neck is a short walk from Rockport and is considered the 'downtown'. Gloucester is one of the most well-known fishing towns in the area. A statue of a fisherman greets visitors and stands for all of those lost at sea. If you've ever wondered where some of your seafood comes from, it may just be from one of these small towns. 

    Walking the streets of Rockport and Bearskin Neck was a quiet, peaceful experience. Still technically their off-season, merchants were preparing their stores for spring and summer visitors. The only cars that passed were from locals, and the streets were free to walk in. 

    I went to the docks in the early morning, finding only the seagulls up earlier than me. The water sparkled around the fishing boats. They all had their own personality completed with their own names. Some included The "Sea Mistress", The "Nemesis", The "Rusty Nail", and "Dorian". Each waited for the fishermen to come take them out to sea. 

    The dock was punctuated by a red barn that is known as "Motif no. 1". The little shack was originally storage for lobstermen and fishermen, however, it has become one of the most-painted spots in the country for artists. The landmark acts as a muse for painters and photographers alike. 

    The small town was home to many shops that anticipated opening day. A cafe sat on the water, overlooking the ocean. It was one of the only spots open. The sounds of the espresso machine mixed with the laughing of seagulls outside. I journaled there before the morning rush. 

    Beaches lined the rocky coast of the town. There were either rocky cliffs or sandy spots where dogs would run. A misty rain was a constant there, and the few hours of sunshine were welcomed. But even under clouds it still had its coastal charm and beauty.