We arrived in Bristol a few days early, which was recommended by Tony, Mary and family. The reason is; Bristol Rhode Island is a very patriotic city year around but they are celebrating their 234th Annual Parade on the 4th of July. People arrive from all over and Bristol, RI starts filling up getting ready for the parade.
Our son Allen is married to Diane. Tony and Mary are Diane's parents. We have known them for 25 years and spent more time with them when we all lived in Wichita, KS. We have celebrated Grandchildren births, birthdays and holidays over the years and have always talked about getting together at their home in Rhode Island. When Diane's brother found out we were headed to the East Coast, he told us about the huge 4th of July Parade and to arrive early, which became one of our only scheduled destinations.
Tony and Mary were vacationing in their home in the Azores and would return on July 3rd. Nellie, Tony's sister was there to welcome us. We actually parked in their driveway and was encouraged to sleep inside their home. Not too long after we arrived, Tony D. (Tony's brother-in-law) arrived at our trailer. It was so great to see his welcoming face and meet him. He invited John to take a tour of Bristol. John also sampled some of the delicious wine that Tony makes. We felt so welcome and are looking forward to getting together with Tony and Mary when they return from the Azores.
John, Daleen and Nellie enjoyed a delicious Italian meal on their patio around the beautiful flower gardens and just a wonderful cool spot with a nice breeze.
We went for breakfast at the Beehive Pantry, one of Diane's favorite and a great recommendation. We had the most delicious scones and hot coffee. We also met very interesting people and everyone was very friendly at the Pantry.
We toured the Herreshoff Marine Museum and America's Cup Hall of Fame. Oh My Goodness so many beautiful boats and a wonderful movie about the history.
It was great to see Tony and Mary when they returned from their trip. Tony went out at 4am and maybe earlier on the morning of the 4th of July to put out our chairs for the 10am parade. It was a little hot but Tony also had umbrellas for us. He said there we lots of people on the streets at 4am!!
After the parade, Tony drove us over to his sister Della and Tony D. home. We had a beautiful delicious Clam Bake with loads of delicious food. We met more of Tony's family and neighbor.
It was a wonderful relaxing funfilled day meeting family.
Tony and Mary introduced us to casino's (clams) and quahog clams. After Tony shucked the clams Mary did her magic and created delicious seafood for all to enjoy. What a treat.
They also drove us to Plymouth, Massachusetts to see the Plymouth Rock. On another day we drove by the Newport Mansions and the beautiful shoreline. 
Rhode Island and nearby areas are beautiful with historic buildings, harbors, churches and their steeples. A beautiful place to live and visit.
While in Bristol, we also visited with Tony's Uncle and his wife and enjoyed octopus for lunch and took a beautiful drive to Andy & Joyce home. We had a chance to visit and toured their beautiful home.
We felt so welcomed and what fun they all are to be around.
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| Delicious Seafood out at a Local Favorite |
The seafood was delicious and we had such a great time together. Definitely a highlight to our trip.
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