Mary Beal

I first became acquainted with the Mount Desert Island area in 1957 when my National Park Service father was transferred here. We lived in the Seawall Ranger Station and I fell in love with Maine! Later, I married a Southwest Harbor native, and we have lived here as a couple since 1977. My husband runs Beal's Lobster Peir, an all-consuming business that takes him away long hours seven days a week. One summer I decided that rather than feeling sorry for myself, I would occupy my free time by challenging myself to climb every mountain on the Island. There are thirty on my list, from the tiny Flying Mountain to the mighty Cadillac. I brought along my camera and took pictures of the summit signposts of each mountain to prove to my family that I had actually done it! I had never done much hiking or climbing before, but I found I loved it ! I had never taken many pictures before either, but I found myself enjoying photography more and more. So, since 1994, I have "climbed every mountain" on the Island each year, taking pictures along the way. I sell cards and enlargements locally as Island Vistas Photography . What do I do otherwise ? I'm a nurse who, after many years of working at M.D.I. Hospital is now an unofficial medical advisor to family and friends. My best job has been as a mother of our three children, and now, as Nana of three beautiful grandchildren. I’m very involved in my church and love to garden and read. I’m not a professional photographer, but hopefully, my love for my beautiful Island home shines through in each picture!