I made the boat with 4 minutes to spare. Not exactly a relaxed entry into vacation mode, my sister’s Mercedes tailgating every unlucky tourist on 28 she happened to be behind. She asked “Are you worried you wouldn’t make it?” She’s a speed demon, a hot dog, a lead footed roadster. I wasn’t really afraid. If you are going to be late, be late with Jo-Jo. She’ll get you there.
I love and look forward to my annual visit to the island – this being suitable in its timeframe, not a fly-by. Arriving by water allows for that relaxed dismissal of the world you are leaving behind. The mainland retreats in the distance, a wake forms in your path, and it’s not too long at all before you spy Brandt Point Light in the distance. I take deep gulps of air, a luscious mix of salt and oxygen filling my lungs, awakening my senses, anticipating what’s to come.
I’ve stayed in lots of different places on this island, but the last few years, we’ve gravitated to places that surround town, or are cozied in and among the cottages of the boat basin. There’s a freedom to being close to town that appeals. Coming and going doesn’t require a taxi ride, a coordination effort, a render-vous point – though don’t get me wrong, I love to render-vous. It’s free and easy.
Dolphin Court might be little, but this house that I am staying in —- is not! Four bedrooms, all en-suite baths, living, dining, den, kitchen, patio, deck, widows walk. Serene and simple in its detailing, extravagant in its art. No brand loyalty, but not a no-name brand in sight, it even has a mud room, and I’ve always wanted a place I could get dirty in, or arrive that way.
I spend a lot of time looking at places and asking myself why one pleases me or it doesn’t. I’ve decided I can be won over – that’s right – I have a secret weak spot for perfect details, for beautiful craftsmanship. It doesn’t even have to be my style or color palette. If I feel that it’s been executed flawlessly – I’m in.
Beyond that – what’s not to love about the magic number, on whatever old street she’s on in Nantucket. She’s lucky and I am lucky to call this my vacation spot for a week.