A Visit to Portland

I was very excited to visit Portland, Maine. And something about that city struck me, and still does strike me, as incredibly wonderful. In mid-June, the weather was both gray and breezy and blue and warm. Both iterations suited the Port city just fine. 

Situated on beautiful Casco Bay in the southeastern part of the state, this is Maine's metropolis, if you can really call it such. For a smaller city, it really is vibrant, bustling, and filled with abundant charm of both the architectural and business variety.

Upon arriving by the waterside, our first order of business was to take a sightseeing tour. The wind whipped us as we stopped at various points in the city, but it really is a recommendable way to view a city. I was impressed by the variety of architectural styles to be found in Portland. Frame houses mingle with stately stone manses, and a few days really didn't do my eyes justice. 

Sights were seen (the imposing Victoria Mansion, circa 1858, was a treasure, and the private tour was a special bonus), delicious food was had (I lost track of how many lobster rolls I devoured whilst in Maine) and delicious beverages sipped (kudos to the bartender's at the excellent Sonny's), and relaxation was enjoyed. I hope to get back to Vacationland eventually, because there's plenty more fun to be had and plenty more historicness to ogle. More Portland-centric shots below.

  











photos copyright Megan Petty

Knock Knock #1

Ah, the quirkiness of the doorknocker. 

This cheeky lobster was spotted on a recent stroll through Old Town, Alexandria.












photo copyright Megan Petty

Office Spaces #4

I have a confession to make. It's not just old, pretty buildings I love. I've got a surprising soft spot for vintage (1950s-1980s) office architecture, as well. Perhaps it's a bit incongruous, after all these buildings aren't as obviously comely as, say, a famous historic home. But there's beauty to be found in the bold lines and multitudinous windows of these workplaces, too. You just have to look a little harder.

In Northern Virginia, office parks seem to lurk around every corner. This particular office is located just off I-395, in the general area where Alexandria bleeds into Springfield. It's a bit of a tough sell aesthetically, perhaps, but something about the strong lines and the way the windows mirror the sky just works for me. 



photo copyright Megan Petty

Door of The Day #8

Seen in Alexandria, June 2015.
















photo copyright Megan Petty

Happy Fourth of July!

It's the Fourth of July once again, and that means plenty of red, white, and blue. This lovely white house in Burke went with a more subtle approach, just a little bit of stars and stripes over their door. I love the nod to the patriotic without going overboard. 

Happy 4th!







photo copyright Megan Petty