As a writer, it's important to visit new places for inspiration. I've chosen smaller locations the past few months. They're within driving distance and have a lot to offer in things to see and incredible people to talk to.
Earlier in the month, we visited Port Clinton, Ohio - population just over 6,000. Located on the south shore of Lake Erie, we found it to be an awesome place to discover. It's a walkable city with quaint neighborhoods, and a friendly, vacationland feel. Nicknamed the Walleye Capital of the World, it offers world-class fishing and boating. The beaches (although quiet this time of year) are spectacular too. Port Clinton offers island ferries to Put-in-Bay and Kelley's Island.
We checked out the waterfront from different locations. In this picture you can see Davis Bessie power plant near Oak Harbor.
As we wandered around, plots and storylines popped into my thoughts. I decided Port Clinton would be the perfect setting for a small-town romance or cozy mystery. The main character could work at a marina. Be that friendly face in a bank. Or maintain beach preservation as an employee of the state. A gas station attendant. Perhaps waitress at one of the great selection of restaurants.
As they say, "When in Rome" (or in this case, Port Clinton), we stopped for food and hospitality. This restaurant was a good choice. The gal who took our order appeared genuinely happy to be there, as did the woman who brought our order to the table. Lots of folks, who we assumed were locals were knee-deep in conversations. The restaurant had a nautical theme. One of the rooms (in warmer weather) opened up for the patrons to enjoy watching boats coming and going, seeing jet skiers, hearing the squawk of gulls, and so much more. The food options were numerous. We decided on lobster rolls - another excellent decision.
This trip was a two-hour drive and well-worth it. I would recommend small-town visits when your creativity needs a boost.
I'm not sure where we'll visit next. Stay tuned.
Love,
Jan
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