2020 Annapolis

In honor of Ella’s 19th birthday, we decided to take a trip to Annapolis to celebrate. And, since she could not come home to see her people, we brought the people to her. The caravan included Riley, Patrick, Grandma, Auntie Lisa, Tommy, Ethan, and David. After an unexpectedly long detour to get lunch and baked goods, we arrived on the yard with 20 pizzas, 15 pints of ice cream, various baked goods, and lots, and lots of fruit. On Friday night, the 12th Company plebes enjoyed an outdoor fresh food feast while Ella enjoyed socially distanced conversations with an eclectic assortment of visitors. We can only guess what Ella’s friends thought of the four 6’+ young been who descended on the yard that evening.

That night the boys stayed in the house and played poker, while Auntie Lisa, Grandma, and I enjoyed a quiet Girls Night at the Officer’s Club on the yard. On Saturday morning, Auntie Lisa, Grandma and I went went shopping at the Amish Farmer’s Market, met the crew for a brunch at the Severn Inn while we waited for Ella’s liberty to begin. Grandma gave the crab cakes two thumbs up (Thank Goodness!). The afternoon was filled with naps and conversations that ended with a feast of grilled steaks, fresh vegetables, and, of course, a birthday cake and singing. The evening was spent with an intense game of Salad Bowl that included Ella’s friend Phoebe. Happy Birthday, Midshipman 4C Ella Jaede Hayden!

- Marguerethe