Hotel Concord

night view of Hotel Concord

Photo Credit: Hotel Concord

Hotel Concord

Concord, NH

Tucked away in the heart of the charming city of Concord, New Hampshire, The Hotel Concord is the perfect blend of modern comfort and New England charm. From its inviting atmosphere to top-notch amenities, the Hotel Concord is the perfect destination in the picturesque Granite State. As the end of the school year approaches, the craziness begins, so it was a wonderful time to do a solo getaway. The Hotel Concord was just what I needed.

CLICK HERE TO READ ALL ABOUT MY STAY!

 


Sunset Hill House

Exterior of The Sunset Hill House

The Sunset Hill House

Sugar Hill, NH

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, Sunset Hill House offers a serene escape for travelers seeking tranquility and charm. Situated atop a picturesque hill, this historic inn boasts panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable getaway. From cozy accommodations to delicious dining, and outdoor adventures, Sunset Hill House invites you to unwind, indulge, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

CLICK HERE TO READ ALL ABOUT MY STAY!


Board and Brush Portsmouth NH

Board and Brush Portsmouth NH

Board & Brush

Portsmouth, NH

  Situated in the heart of this historic New England town, Board & Brush offers a unique escape for both locals and visitors alike. Step into this inviting studio space and unleash your inner artist as you craft one-of-a-kind wooden signs under the guidance of expert instructors. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a complete beginner, Board & Brush provides the perfect opportunity to unwind, get creative, and leave with a personalized masterpiece that captures the essence of your time in picturesque Portsmouth.

What did I create?

I created a 20×24 Vintage Family Frame

Take a peek at how I created my board

We started off our project by getting 2 minutes to distress our boards. It was so fun using hammers and mallets to bang up our boards to give it a more rustic look.

distressing tools at Board and Brush Portsmouth NH

Next, we sanded the edges so we didn’t have any sharp spots.

sanding our projects at Board and Brush Portsmouth NH

After that we were able to choose from a variety of different stains.

stain samples at Board and Brush Portsmouth NH

I love that we were able to see several completed projects that used each stain. It was hard to choose because I liked several, but in the end, I chose dark walnut.

project samples at Board and Brush Portsmouth NH

Staining changes the whole look of the wood. My dark stain really brought out the grain and knots in the wood.

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Sea Love Candle Bar

Sea Love Portsmouth

Sea Love

Portsmouth, NH

Looking for a fun, unique experience while visiting the picturesque coastal town of Portsmouth, New Hampshire? Sea Love Candle Bar has the perfect solution.  Nestled within the heart of Portsmouth’s vibrant downtown district, Sea Love Candle Bar offers a creative and immersive experience where guests can craft their own custom-scented candles while soaking in the the seaside. With its welcoming ambiance, personalized approach, and an array of enticing fragrance options, Sea Love Candle Bar is not only a destination for candle enthusiasts but also a haven for those seeking a moment of relaxation and creativity by the sea.

Sea Love Portsmouth

Take a peek at my experience!

First step is figuring out what types of scents you like.  They provide over 100 scents that you can smell and while doing so you can start thinking of which will go well together.

Sea Love Portsmouth

You can blend up to 3 scents.

Sea Love Portsmouth

There are so many scents to choose from.

Sea Love Portsmouth

Need inspiration? They give you a great list of scent blend suggestions.

Sea Love Portsmouth

 Grab your bottles of oil and get ready to blend.

Sea Love Portsmouth

The scents I chose were

Cheesecake

Blueberry Muffin

Graham Crackers

Combine the oils and decide which one you want to stand out and which will be in the background. As you create your oil, take time to stop and smell it to make sure it is coming along the way you want.

Sea Love Portsmouth

Once you have your oil ready it is time to start assembling everything.

Sea Love Portsmouth

Before you start, it’s time to create your own label. (Or leave your bottle plain if you’d like.)

 I named my candle Blueberry Cheesecake.

Sea Love Portsmouth

Ok…time to add the wax

Sea Love Portsmouth

And give it a good stir for about 2 minutes.

Sea Love Portsmouth

Using some chopsticks, center your wick and you are done creating your custom candle!

Sea Love Portsmouth

How long is the experience?

Your custom candle experience takes about 30-45 minutes.

Candles take 2 – 2.5 hours to cool before they are ready to take home or can be shipped for $12/ea. If you wish to pour a candle and pick it up the same day, be sure to reserve a time at least 3 hours before close to ensure your candle has time to cool.

When can you visit?

Monday 12-6

Tues & Wed Closed

Thursday 12-7

Fri & Sat 11-7

Sunday 11-5

How much does it cost?

Your custom candle can cost between $38- $52 depending on the vessel you choose.

When can you get your finished candle?

Candles take about 3 hours to cool before they are ready to take home. If you are unable to pick up your candles the same day, you are welcome to pick them up anytime in the two weeks following your visit. If you can’t pick it up within that time frame, they can be shipped for $12 each.

Ready to see my candle?

Look how pretty it turned out! I wish you could smell the amazing aroma this candle lets off when it’s lit.  It fills up the room with the delicious scent of blueberry cheesecake. I’m so happy with it and I can’t wait to get a bunch of friends together to make more.

Leave some time to shop.

Sea Love has so many adorable coastal gifts around the store. Many are from local, women-owned businesses.

Sea Love Portsmouth

They also have their own signature reeds and candles.

Sea Love Portsmouth

I love this one that’s called Portsmouth. It transports you right to the seacoast.

Sea Love Portsmouth

There are so many great coastal gifts for everyone on your list.

Sea Love Portsmouth

Tips for a Great Day

Reservations? You do not need to make a reservation, but there may be a wait. It is strongly recommended to make a reservation.

New Location! Sea Love is getting a new home. They will be opening in a new location on April 25. I can’t wait to check out their new spot!

Give them a follow

Click HERE to get to their website.

Instagram

Facebook

Sea Love baseball hat

Sea Love

33 Deer Street

Portsmouth, NH

603-427-8040

A warm thank you to Sea Love for having me as your guest.  It was a fun way to spend the morning in Portsmouth. It was a unique and creative experience. I can’t wait to return with friends. As always, all opinions are 100% of MyTravelingKids.com.

Sea Love Portsmouth


15 Things to do in Portsmouth, NH, During Winter

15 Things to do in Portsmouth, NH, During Winter

As winter blankets Portsmouth, New Hampshire, this picturesque coastal town transforms into a magical wonderland, offering tons of fun activities for locals and visitors alike. From charming holiday festivities to outdoor adventures, Portsmouth has something for everyone to enjoy during this chilly season. Here are 15 delightful things to do in Portsmouth during winter.

Stroll through Market Square

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through historic Market Square, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The charming shops and boutiques are perfect for finding unique gifts and souvenirs.

Visit the Strawbery Banke Museum

Immerse yourself in history by exploring the Strawbery Banke Museum. During winter, the museum comes alive with special events, including candlelit tours and festive exhibits.

Winter Walk at Prescott Park

Bundle up and take a winter walk through Prescott Park, enjoying the serene beauty of snow-covered gardens and waterfront views.

Take a Wine Class at Stroll Café & Wine Bar

stroll cafe in Portsmouth NH

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Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth Downtown

outside view Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth NH

Photo Credit: Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth NH

Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth Downtown

Portsmouth, NH

Every year the holiday season seems to get more and more hectic. After a fun, energetic last two months, I thought it would be the perfect time to take a step back and have some one-on-one time with my youngest daughter. We wanted to relax, eat some good meals, shop in small boutiques, and spend some time in a pool.  We decided to head to Portsmouth, one of our favorite New Hampshire towns. Portsmouth, is a charming destination that blends history, culture, and coastal beauty. It holds a special place in my heart since my husband and I were married there and we have so many fond memories attached to it. I love bringing our daughters there and reminiscing. We chose Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth Downtown as our home base for two nights, and it was a fabulous choice!

CLICK HERE TO READ ALL ABOUT OUR WONDERFUL STAY!


A Drive on the Kancamagus Highway

New England is all about nature and simple pleasures.  The Kancamagus Highway (known to locals as ‘The Kanc’) is a gorgeous scenic drive along Rt 112 in New Hampshire.  People flock to this road, especially in summer and fall.  The 35-mile drive will take you from Conway to Lincoln through beautiful spots that will draw you out of your car to take pictures.  The word “highway” is misleading since it is more of a 2-lane road that winds back and forth next to a river bed, with mountains surrounding it and trees creating a canopy above you. 

Here are some highlights of the Kancamagus Highway:

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Itinerary for 2 Perfect Days in Portsmouth, NH

Portsmouth

Itinerary for Portsmouth, NH

Portsmouth is one of my favorite coastal towns in New Hampshire.  It is classy, yet welcoming, and the perfect destination for families.  It has it all… beaches, art galleries, lobster boats, seafood restaurants. It holds a special place in my heart since we were married here. Every time I come back; the memories come floating back. Here is an itinerary for 2 perfect days in Portsmouth, NH.

DAY 1

On the way to Portsmouth, stop in the beautiful town of New Castle.

new Castle sign with pumpkins

Head over to the picturesque 32-acre park, Great Island Common.

The park has 2 lighthouses…

The Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse

Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse

And Whaleback Light

Whaleback Light

Check into Your Hotel

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Santa’s Village


Santa’s Village

 There’s nothing as magical as the spirit of Christmas and at Santa’s Village your family can experience this feeling even in the middle of summer.  So many amusement parks seem the same, but Santa’s Village offer a unique concept.  As soon as you walk through the front gate you will be transported into a winter wonderland and you’ll soon forget it’s August! My family has been going to this park for years and it’s become a tradition for us to go on my youngest daughter’s birthday.  We loved bringing our friends there this year!  Here are 10 things my family loves doing at Santa’s Village:

ELFABET GAME

Ever since my girls were little, this was a nice way to do a scavenger hunt while going about our day.  After entering the park, head over to Elf University to pick up your elfabet card.  As you walk around the park, you’ll see elves with various letters on them.  Simply punch out the letters on your card and bring it back to the university at the end of the day to claim your prize. (Hint…bring it back even if you don’t find them all.)

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Our Top 10 Favorite Fall Activities in New England

  There’s no place as cozy as autumn in New England.  For the next few months it’s all about crisp leaves, comfy sweaters, dark nail polish, lattes, and pulling out my UGGs.  (Yes…I’m aware of how ugly they are, but is there anything more comfortable?) It’s the perfect time to slow down, unwind from out fast-paced summer, and enjoy the simple things. 

Here are our top 10 activities for fall:

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