Today as the nation honors the memory of President George H.W. Bush, I would like to share our family’s memories of Parsons Way in Kennebunkport, Maine.  Parsons Way winds it’s way past Walker’s Point, where George H.W. Bush spent time every summer of his life, with the exception of when he was serving during WWII.  As he explained in a 2017 Boston Globe interview, “Kennebunkport has been my anchor to windward through a full and challenging life. It has kept me grounded and focused on what is really important.”

On a personal note, Walker’s Point also holds fond memories for our family.  Each summer our Great Nana would ask Grandpa to take her to Parsons Way so she could wave at the President and First Lady.  While Great Nana would be filled with anticipation waiting for George or Barbara to wave back, as a child my Mom was bored and wondered why they even did this yearly ritual.  George and Barbara never did wave back.  In fact, Mom never actually saw them at Walker’s Point.  But sometimes someone would wave back!  Maybe they were family members, friends, or staff, we’ll never know.  However that kind gesture of a friendly wave made our Great Nana very happy.  As they made the long drive home, Great Nana would happily talk as if George and Barbara were members of our family, while imagining what wonderful things they were doing during their summer vacation in Maine.  So once the reporters pack up and leave, and things quiet down again in Kennebunkport, Mom will take us there to wave goodbye for our Great Nana.  A reminder of what’s really important in this busy world.

Parsons Way Shore Walk, Kennebunkport, ME

Parsons Way Shore Walk in Kennebunkport is a scenic path to walk your dog along the rugged Maine coastline.  Adjacent to dog friendly Arundel Beach, also known as Colony Beach, Parsons Way winds along Cape Arundel past impressive rock formations and grand summer “cottages.”  Along the way you will see Spouting Rock and Blowing Cave, St. Ann’s Church, as well as the summer home of 41st President George H.W. Bush at Walker’s Point.

Dogs are allowed at Parsons Way on-leash.  Arundel Beach to Walker’s Point is approximately 2 miles, or you can extend your walk by taking the long loop by continuing past Turbat’s Creek and take a left onto Wildes District Road to head back to Dock Square for a 4.8 mile walk.  Please note that the path is paved, so it is best to walk there in the early morning or evening to protect paws from summer heat.  Those times are also less crowded.  Limited free parking is available in the small lot adjacent to Arundel Beach across from the Colony Hotel, and along Ocean Avenue.