Day 49 The 4th of July in Annapolis

I don't think we could have picked a better place to be in on the 4th of July. Arthur is no threat - didn't even get any rain this morning - it's blustery and cool. Annapolis is all a flutter with anticipation. Boats have been circling all day like sharks looking for moorings or anchorages. Headed into town for a late lunch. There are bronze statues near the docks of Alex Haley reading to children. We heard him speak years ago and he was a riveting storyteller. However, I didn't realize this is where his ancestor, Kunta Kinte was first brought to America in chains. The plebes were out running again this morning. They don't even get off for the 4th.  We walked around Eastport which is like a suburb of historic Annapolis. Had lunch at Factor Row, a restaurant suggested by Greg and Lynn whom we met on the Dismal Swamp. Their son, Keith, is the chef. After we introduced ourselves, he sent out a delicious complimentary appetizer of  bar-b-qued oysters topped with cheese and bacon bits. Oh yum. Waited around for the parade which was quite unusual. It was more like a string of political campaigners and fire trucks. Very odd. There was one band that tried really hard to entertain. Headed back to the boat amid thousands of people who were on their way to find seating for the fireworks. Hundreds of boats lay in wait out in front of our mooring area. All their navigational lights were on right before dark which made for a really neat scene. This is the first time I have been under a blanket and drinking hot chocolate while watching fireworks on the 4th, but better than sweating our brains out.Where Annapolis lacks in parades, they make up for in fireworks displays. The finale was unbelievable. And as for Jack, well, he hated it especially boaters blowing horns. Hope everyone had an enjoyable and safe 4th - God bless our America.