I’m just back from a girls’ weekend in Maine and a stay at the 110- year-old Driftwood Inn. While there, I noticed a huge contingent of family members having a family reunion. They came from all around the country and were of all ages and sizes. What a great idea, I thought — a getaway vacation while seeing those you love all at once.

In addition to booking the rooms at Pleasant Place, they brought coolers full of beverages and I noticed quite a few grandmothers toting crockpots full of family recipes to the side porch facing the harbor. Tables set, each generation commingled to admire the view — many for their first visit to Maine. I enjoyed listening to them share family history, both poignant and comical. They didn’t know me per se, but welcomed me to share in their cheer.

Puzzles came out on the porch, cards were played and children scrambled on the rocks to see the seagulls. The saltwater pool wasn’t ready for swimming yet, but quite a few guys cast their fishing poles into the surf.

Cameras — there were so many cameras taking shots of Maine’s beauty, even on the foggiest of days. And it wasn’t long before same family members wore “Bailey Island” tee shirts and sweat shirts. Reunions are good for the island’s economy as are weddings, and I’ve seen quite a few at Driftwood Inn, including a Tibetan wedding. Young couples starting a new chapter in their lives with a breathtaking view or two serving as nature’s chapel.

When the reunion ended, it was quiet at the inn, but I can imagine the memories this family will share of Bailey Island Maine for many years to come.

———

Hannah Campbell lives in Havertown, Pennsylvania.