Lobster Summer by new author & ThisIsMystic.com contributor – Elizabeth Saede

“I’m skimming across the water at first light, dodging weekend warriors to strain my muscles, splatter fish guts and possibly injure myself. So why am I smiling? I now associate all of these things with piloting a boat and harvesting lobsters. … My face aches a bit from smiling.” – Lobster Summer, pg. 1.

Relocating and re-naming our family’s home remodeling business, Mystic Restoration Co. transformed everything. The subtle changes began with an invitation to float in a colorful piece of plastic on the scenic Mystic River. Kayaking allowed an intimate, relaxing view from the water and breathtaking views of Mystic Seaport. I was hooked and wanted to spend more time on the water.

Funny personal stories of me learning to boat, fish and catch lobsters are documented in Lobster Summer. Connecting with the nautical history of this special place while completing tasks undertaken by centuries of occupants was more transformative than I would ever have believed. Kind, patient people shared knowledge and inspired me to succeed at tasks that were so fundamentally different than anything else I’ve done. Capturing these personal experiences in writing was the only way I could share the adventure. Many of my favorite places and activities are included in this “love letter” to Mystic and Stonington. Lobster & fish recipes too.

Launching a kayak from the gentle slope public boat launch on River Road or catching a ride on the sailing vessel Argia fills the lungs with fresh air and reveals stunning views. There’s nothing else that compares with experiencing Mystic from the water. A stop at the Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream for a homemade treat is worth every…single…calorie. The delectable tomato fettuccine from Bravo Bravo (20 E. Main St. Mystic) includes big lobster chunks, mussels, shrimp & asparagus in a lobster cream sauce. Are you hungry yet? I certainly am.

Lobster Summer may be purchased at Old Mystic General Store (the turquoise building) 47 Main St. Stonington, Don’s Dock 228 N. Water Street, Stonington (just outside Stonington Borough) and at A Taste of New England (12 Steamboat Wharf – downtown Mystic). It may also be borrowed from the Mystic Noank Library (40 Library St. Groton) or The Stonington Free Library (20 High St.). Book signings will be posted throughout the summer.

Lobster Summer is also available at Amazon.com.

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Elizabeth Saede is a local author of Lobster Summer. She is also the author of thisismystic.com’s “On the Water” column (coming soon!). Elizabeth can be reached by email at Sunshine06378[at]gmail.com.