After getting Abigail on a Lyft early Monday morning, we decided to stay in Baltimore through the 4th of July, though not our original plan. We heard the fireworks show was not only one of the biggest, but it would be presented in the harbor in front of our marina. We enjoyed these “bonus” days wandering the city, touring the National Aquarium and Ft. McHenry, and making friends with the many other cruisers who were staying in the same marina.
The aquarium lived up to its “national” status and was an enjoyable reprieve from the heat that felt just like Savannah.
We never tire of dolphins 
Our boat across the harbor 
I used to work with this guy. You know, kind of prickly.
The trip to Fort McHenry was especially meaningful. Purposely, we chose July 4 to tour the fort, which made it even more special. And in case you have forgotten your American history, the Baltimore Harbor is the site where Francis Scott Key penned our National Anthem. We arrived about 10:00 am, just in time for the flag changing ceremony. We were allowed the privilege of assisting in the raising of the 30′ x 42′ flag over the fort. As Old Glory began to elevate, one the park rangers, a young man approximately 25 years old broke into the National Anthem, accapela, in an operatic style. Goose bumps as big as pumpkins covered me and I was virtually moved to tears as this giant flag went up the pole.
The harbor where Key wrote the lyrics 
Bring it on, you bloody British. 
THE powder keg among powder kegs. 
July 4, 2019–Amanda, Wes, & Old Glory
What a privilege to live in this country. The price paid for us is hard to comprehend, but this day’s history lesson reminded me again that the sacrifice was great. Oh that we could only remember so that we invest well for the future generations.
Through our friends, Ron and Carole Collins, we connected with his brother Dale, and wife, Sandy. They are doing the Great Loop. They caught up with us in Baltimore. They joined us for hot dogs and fireworks. We look forward to meeting up with them again along the way.
Wes, Amanda, Sandy, Dale 
The ladies waiting on show. 
