July 25, 2014
I grew up on the Merrimack River, living in two homes that were situated less than a quarter-mile from the banks. The Merrimack has always been a great source of power and inspiration to me. I have fond memories of walking the dirt road from my childhood home to the banks of the river as a small child. When my dad got his first boat, we would motor along the river and I would fill up with delight and wonder, to be out on the river feeling the cool breeze and river mist on my face.
Decades later, when I lived a stones throw from the banks of the river, I could see the wooden dories and skiffs at Lowell’s Boat Shop in Amesbury, from my desk window. They would beckon me at times to grab my camera and capture the afternoon sun on the river and boats.
The river is a constant in my life. Barely a day goes by, since I moved a mile or two inland from it, that I don’t drive along the river and marvel at its powerful tidal currents caused by my close proximity to the ocean. I feel the tug and the lure of the river course through my veins and I am released to flow like the river. It is a stalwart reminder that my life is rich.
