The Sunday Cookout

Weekends are special times, having a few days to catch our breath allows us to relax a bit. Now that the pleasant weather has arrived we can go outside and move around, which naturally makes us more social. Here in Maryland, the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries are a natural draw.

As the weather warms we see a migration to Maryland’s eastern shore. For us the draw is not Ocean City, it’s the bay. Steve and I will spend the weekend on the boat and one of our favorite places to visit is the Tilghman Island Marina. What makes this special? It has gorgeous views of the bay, it’s easy to walk to all of the amenities on the island but the community is what draws us over and over.

There is a development surrounding the marina. When we first visited we became friendly with the owners, Ron and Nancy, but we also struck up a friendship with Tom and Dana who own the home in front of “our” slip. Now when I call, Nancy and I chat for a bit, she assures me there will be a slip for us, and we catch up. This weekend was no different, Nancy informed me that Tom and Dana were having a party and we needed to stay and extra day. Within the hour, Tom emailed us with an invitation so how could we refuse?

The marina is so pleasant. I tried my new paddleboard, we did a bit of sunbathing by the pool and in the evening we dressed and joined the party. Tom and Dana love to entertain with style. Tilghman Island is a very quiet place and the surrounding development has a great mix personalities, many who trade the congestion of the city to relax in this gorgeous setting in their second homes.

The party was casual, relaxed and the setting was amazing. Appetizers set out in the living areas, the bar across the room encouraged mingling.

 

The many salads made by Dana and the guests were set out in the kitchen.

Tom grilled shrimp, burgers, hot dogs and Italian sausage that were served with all the fixings. What a lovely evening and low maintenance evening. The theatre of the sunset over the bay made for a stunning backdrop.

At the end of the night the stragglers pitched in with clean up. As frequent hosts we know there is always more to it than that but the benefits outshine any extra work. Tom and Dana you are the masters! We are so grateful for your hospitality.