12/19/2021 Back Bay Bell Ringers

 

12.19.2021  Back Bay Bell Ringers

This was quite the afternoon. Had gone to Rockport, a lovely town on Cape Ann and a favorite of mine - as well as probably a million people over the course of a summer. But winter is a particularly nice time to visit as it is not crowded, and I can always find my favorite parking spot.

The reason for this visit was to hear the Back Bay Bell Ringers, a handbell ensemble based in Boston. They perform Christmas music at several local venues and this was a great opportunity to hear them.  They were performing at the Shalin Liu auditorium in Rockport, a very small but beautiful auditorium with a magnificent view of the sea. (see backbayringers.org for more information). 

We had great seats - balcony near the center. At times it was a tough decision - watch the performers or watch the seagulls and terns and ducks flying past the window. It was a little mesmerizing to listen to the Christmas music and watch the waves roll into the shore. A beautiful Sunday afternoon, indeed. I really enjoyed the talented musicians and learned something new and exciting about bell ringing - different types of bells and instruments.  The brass bells are made in Pennsylvania and the aluminum bells (lighter weight) are made in London. 

Shalin Liu Auditorium. Everyone had to show proof of covid vaccinations and masks were mandatory. 

The iconic barn with lobster buoys and a Christmas wreath.

A flock of seagulls and a copy of ducks floating on the water. I like to watch the diving ducks - the water is cold and they do not stay under long!

It was relaxing to visit this little town on the water. It was a bit windy but not too cold and the sun was shining which takes off some of the chill.

We are all getting busy for Christmas. The real tree is in the living room and protected so my boys don't get any ideas. And we have an artificial tree upstairs because I like the lights at night, and I did a little decorating outside with some blue and white lights on a small tree and the handrails of the porches. Looks nice at night. Also did some baking today and we will watch our favorite Tom Brady play football later tonight. It snowed yesterday so we are all in the Christmas spirit!

A floral arrangement that included a white (carnations) doggy that look just like two of mine!

Hope you all are well and healthy and that you will enjoy this very special Christmas season.

Until next time......

My big helpers in the kitchen - Shorty and Fionnegan and Gunnarr. All tails are a wagging!