At the start of summer, we got to spend a perfect morning aboard the Pamela B, with Peter and Laura from Seacoast Tours of Freeport. We were hoping to go out on the afternoon lobster boat tour, but since the weather wasn’t cooperating the tour had to be canceled. Luckily, Captain Pete invited us to join him and his deckhand, Laura, on their boat as they went out to check their lobster traps. We couldn’t say yes quick enough!
Read More
Ask me what my favorite treat during summer months is and I’ll tell you, hands down, raw oysters with an ice-cold beer. One thing I never thought about was where oysters come from. On our recent trip to Scarborough, Maine, we had the pleasure of hopping aboard a work boat at Nonesuch Oyster Farm to get a private tour. We started our tour in front of the Harbor Master’s house at Pine Point. It is a gorgeous working pier and we watched lobstermen loading traps onto their boats as we all admitted we didn’t know what to expect. We were pleased to meet Sadie who would be sharing her boat and her experience with us. I love when my girls get the opportunity to see strong females that are passionate about their jobs.
We hopped aboard a 17’ Carolina Skiff work boat and settled in to the wooden benches, allowing us a close view of the water.
You’ll love watching the gorgeous scenery as you boat through stunning marsh in the river. Like fine wine, oysters will taste different depending on their environment.
What was going to be a mother/daughter overnight trip to Rockport turned out to be a solo trip because of sports and field trips. As much as I would have loved their company, it’s also nice to have some alone time to relax and recharge before the end of the school year. I can’t think of a better place to spend some quality “Me Time,” than the historic oceanfront Emerson Inn, in Rockport, Massachusetts.
We continued our long West Coast weekend away from the kids by heading to the Archer Hotel in Napa. Besides the gorgeous décor, it has a restaurant, rooftop bar, fitness center, and spa. It is also in the perfect location. It is on First Street, right in the center of a walkable downtown full of restaurants and live music venues. It is also within walking distance to over 20 tasting rooms!
HAPPY FIRST DAY OF SUMMER!!! We are so excited to relax by the lake until Labor Day…except there will be a tent involved this year…but more of that to come.
For our family, summer means…
After-dinner boat rides wearing PJ’s
Tomato salad and fresh grilled corn on the cob
Reading books on the hammock
Stepping into the cave of Jarvis Estate is like walking into another world, where all your senses are fixated on one thing…wine. Once a grape goes in, it never sees the light of day again until someone opens their bottle. One of the secrets to their amazing wine happens outside of the cave…in their 37-acres of estate vineyards. Their vineyards are located high above Napa, in beautiful rugged mountains that are one thousand feet above the valley floor. The cooler temperature and high elevation allow a longer “hang time” for the grapes ensuring a slow maturation.
When you arrive at the cave, your curiosity will be killing you as you try to imagine what’s behind this door.
You’ll never forget your first peek inside the 45,000 square-foot cave. How amazing is this? The domed walls lined with barrels welcomes you and even if you are not interested in wine, you will be in awe of the unique architecture.
Read More
My husband and I were so lucky to be able to run away to the east coast last month for a kid-free weekend. With only one night to spend in San Francisco, I couldn’t think of a better place to go than the 116-room boutique, Hotel Zetta. A hip San Francisco vibe embraces you as soon as you walk through the door and as you look around you can see this is going to be a fun place to stay. Sorry kiddos…
CLICK HERE TO READ ALL ABOUT OUR STAY!
After attending the Women in Travel Summit, I was lucky enough to be chosen for a trip to the gorgeous coastal town of Rockland, Maine. We were going to explore the town through art galleries, restaurants, and local shops. While I was there, I got to stay in the breathtaking Berry Manor Inn. Located in a historic residential neighborhood, the inn is within walking distance to restaurants, shops, art galleries, and museums. It is also a quick walk down to the harbor.
One of my favorite events of my WITS19 conference was the Maine Brew Bus…shocking right?? This 3 ½ hour tour lets you have a guided tour and safe ride to visit three of Portland’s small producers of craft alcohol. We hopped on our 15-passenger bus and let the fun begin! Our guide, Don, and our driver, Ryan, were so much fun to spend the afternoon with! They both have so much pride in Portland and the positive effect these companies have on the community.
Our first stop was to RISING TIDE BREWING COMPANY. Inspired by the famous quote, “…a rising tide lifts all boats,” this was the perfect spot to get an introduction to the craft beer industry.
We got to taste four different beers while we were there.
Every once in a while, you discover a hidden gem that you are not sure you want to share with others. The Press Hotel is one of those finds. The Press Hotel is located in what was once the Gannett Building, housing the offices and printing plant of the Portland Press Herald, the state’s largest newspaper. The hotel nods their hat at journalists everywhere and makes you want to get out your laptop and start writing.
I had been wanting to visit The Press Hotel for years, and I finally had my chance to spend four luxurious nights here when I attended the Women in Travel Summit. One of the main reasons I was at this conference was for inspiration, and I couldn’t think of a better place because The Press emits a vibe that screams creativity…plus it will make you wish old-fashioned type writers were still popular.
Click here to read all about my 4-night stay at The Press Hotel.