I Heart New England

Romance in New England

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 21:02:00 +0000

Hello, everyone!

It's been awhile, hasn't it?

Hope you all have been doing well since I've

last posted... I've been- you guessed it- busy, busy, busy!

Hey, wait...

Do you smell that?

♥

♥

♥

Love is in the air!

♥

And what better place to smell that

air than in New England?

I now share with you two magical Valentine's Day

packages at two particularly beautiful inns:

Chocolate Lover's Paradise at the Another Second Penny Inn

(Stonington, CT)

A one-night package including...

Any room of your choice
5-course breakfast
Dining at Noah's or the Captain Daniel Packer Inn
Chocolate Fudge Cake for two
Gold Foil Goody Bag full of gourmet cocoa, locally made truffles, chocolate-dipped strawberries and chocolate-dipped madeleines.

Weekend rates are $269/couple per night

Weekday rates are $229/couple per night

♥

February is for Lovers package at the Captain Lord Mansion

(Kennebunkport, ME)

Complimentary gifts to enhance your romantic getaway include...

Bottle of Sparkling Wine
Lindt Chocolate Truffles
Dining Coupons
Discount Spa Packages
Full Breakfast each Morning
Afternoon Beverages and Snacks
... And more!

Weekend rates start at $239/couple per night

Mid-week rates start at $199/couple per night

♥

- - - - - - - - -

Happy Valentine's Day!

♥

2012!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 20:44:00 +0000

New Years Eve, Boston

Happy 2012, everyone!

... Am I too late in saying this?

Well, anyways! I'm just checking in on everyone,

letting you know I'm still here, and dreaming

of New England every single day. . .

It's also that time of year again where I start

brainstorming New England locations for my

annual summer vacation trip, and thought I'd

share with you my current top two choices:

Kennebunkport, ME

at the . . .

Captain Jefferds Inn

or...

Back to

Martha's Vineyard !

at the . . .

Victorian Inn

(... again!)

- - - - - - - - -

So, what do YOU think?

Tell me your ideas!

♥

December

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 02:47:00 +0000

These December evenings, where there's no need at all for electricity,

illuminate so clearly amidst the soft candlelight and patter of rain

that my cats are really angels sent down to me from heaven.

♥

How is everyone's December going so far?

Mine's been going pretty well;

wrapping up my first semester at graduate school,

keeping busy at work, and savoring every moment

I have to enjoy the season and all its magic!

Of course, looking at all these twinkling lights, and breathing

in that wonderfully tangy scent of evergreen, invariably causes

me to close my eyes and imagine I'm sitting in my own dreamy
little New England cape... but alas, I eventually reopen them

and I'm back in my New York apartment... but no fear!

I have Christmas Hope that one day I'll open my eyes,

and the vision will not change... I'll be Home, at last.

Just how I always imagined it ♥

For those of who, like myself, yearn for a taste of
New England (if not daily) particularly during this time of year,
I thought I'd share with you a couple of special events going

on in the region that are sure to quench your thirst -

that is, if you're fortunate enough to either live
in the area or have the ability to travel there!

Mystic Seaport's Lantern Light Tours

November 26th - December 27th

(Mystic, CT)

"Step back in time to Christmas Eve, 1876!"

Be guided on a theatrical tour throughout the historic village,

and get swept away by the bustle of activity and merry making

common in Victorian-era New England! Be wary of grumpy old
resident, Mr. Hyde, though- he's known to be a bit of a Scrooge!

Christmas Prelude

December 9th - 11th

(Kennebunkport, ME)

Voted the #2 Christmas Town in America by HGTV,

Kennebunkport unquestionably knows how to kick off

the Holiday season with a bang! The Christmas Prelude is

an annual event featuring various Christmas activities with
a heap of New England charm, such as: Santa's arrival on

none other than a lobster boat, craft shows, historic

tours, lobster bakes, and much, much more!

Candlelight Carols

December 17th and 19th

(Boston, MA)

Behold the true magic and meaning of Christmas at Trinity Church

with an unforgettable musical performance from the Trinity Church Choir.

Traditional hymns to be sung include, "O Come All Ye Faithful," "Candlelight Carol,"

"Carol of the Bells," in addition to 16 others, all amidst a candlelit setting within this
beautiful structure, named "one of the 10 greatest public buildings in the country."

- - - - - - - - - - -

P.S. ~
Would anyone like to receive a Christmas card in
the mail from me this month? If so, please shoot
me an e-mail with your information, and I'd be
happy to send some holiday cheer your way!
erinxtreme77@aol.com

♥

Thanksgiving!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 19:30:00 +0000

Wishing all my followers and friends just that!

♥

Glimpses of October and Marie's Trip to Boston!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 20:14:00 +0000

Afternoon, everyone!

As promised, today I'm going to share with you

some glimpses of this past October, and top it
off with the conclusion of Marie's epic New

England Excursion to Massachusetts!

But first, can you tell me...

Are these houses in New England

or New York?

... convinced they're from New England?

Guess again!

I took these photographs during a drive out east on Long Island, and

nearly drove off the road! Here on the island, we have many old

houses, but very rarely does one see such distinctive New England

architecture. It was safe to say I certainly got my NE fix that day!

------------

♥♥

My room...

Pumpkin picking...

Sleepy Hollow...

Lola's 13th Birthday...

Snow?!...

Halloween evening...

The most magical, most lovely time of year...
I miss it already ♥

------------

And now, without any further ado,
Marie's Trip to Boston!

Day Nine

"We went back to Boston the same way we came: by bus. Our hotel was now the beautiful Clarendon Square Inn, a really nice townhouse in Boston’s South End.
We pretty much just put our bags in the room and then started to explore Boston. We took a short walk to the Prudential Center where we had a late lunch/early dinner at Legal Sea Foods. Then we jumped on a Duck Tour bus as an introduction to the city. It was a really fun and informative tour."

Day 10
"We spent a full day on the Freedom Trail; it was really interesting! In the evening, we visited the Museum of Fine Arts and newly opened Art of the Americas Wing. It was a really nice connection to what we had seen during the Freedom Trail."

Day 11
"We started the day with a walk to Copley Square and visited Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library; both beautiful buildings. Later in the morning, we visited the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, a great museum- I highly recommend it! We went back to the Paramount Restaurant in Beacon Hill for lunch; BLTs and iced tea. We then had a stroll around the shops at Charles St and went to Isabelle’s Curly Cakes for dessert. I had a Boston Cream Cupcake. Yummy!"

Day 12
"We packed our bags for the last time this trip. We then went on the T to Harvard Square and had a guided tour of Harvard Yard. We all agreed that this trip had been at least one week too short. We have lots of reasons to come back to New England, and I’m pretty sure we will!"

♥
- - - - - - - - - - - -

Well, I hope you enjoyed taking a virtual tour
of Marie's trip to Massachusetts!
I want to thank her for letting me share her experiences
with you all, and perhaps they might inspire YOU to take
a New England Excursion of your very own someday...! ♥

Marie's Trip to Cape Cod!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 23:44:00 +0000

Good evening, everyone... and

Happy November!

Soon, we'll all be basking in the aroma
of bubbling autumn spices emanating from
our kitchens... it's Thanksgiving-time again!

I'll try to show you guys in my next post some

of my Halloween adventures (including a short

video of my outdoor decorations on Halloween

night!) but tonight, I'd like to share with you more

of Marie's wonderful trip... this part, in Cape Cod!

Day Six

"Our time on Nantucket sadly came to an end (for this time), and we caught the morning ferry back to Hyannis. After arriving on the Cape, we took a cab to the airport and picked up our rental car. We then drove to Sandwich, to The 1750 Inn at Sandwich Center, inspired by I Heart New England! There we met my pen friend of 38 years (!) that I hadn’t seen for the last 16 years! She and her husband had driven all the way from Minnesota to spend three days with us on Cape Cod! What joy!
We had managed to get afternoon tickets to Eden Hand Arts and we just about got there in time to buy our Screwball bracelets and get them fitted. We haven’t taken them off yet!...

Back in Sandwich, we went on the Sandwich Boardwalk for a beautiful evening walk on the beach overlooking Cape Cod Bay."

Day Seven

Beach in Chatham

"The next day we drove up to Provincetown on Route 6. We visited and climbed the stairs to the top of the Pilgrim Monument from where we had a beautiful view of the land.
We then drove to Chatham where we took a walk around town and to the beautiful beach and the Chatham Light."

Day Eight

"On our last day together with our friends, we went to Plimoth Plantation to find out more about the Pilgrims. It was really interesting, both the Wampanoag Homesite, and the 17th-Century English Village."

- - - - - - - - - -

Stay tuned for the final part of Marie's trip...

Boston, here we come!

♥

Marie's Trip to Nantucket!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 21:38:00 +0000

© Susan Branch

Hello, everyone ♥

How's your October going?

Mine's been going pretty well, with the exception

of my trip to New Hampshire... I never ended

up going :( Due to personal reasons, it just wasn't

the best time. It's unfortunate, since this is the second

year in a row that these plans were thwarted, but the

Hancock Inn has been in operation for over 200 years,

so I don't think it's going anywhere anytime soon.

There's always next year (...try, try again)!

In other news, I have a little Halloween treat for all of you!

I may not have any new experiences or pictures from a dreamy

New England getaway, but a very special follower and friend of
mine just so happens to, and asked me to share them with you!

Marie and her lovely family, inspired by my own trip

last year to Cape Cod and Nantucket (I was so flattered to hear that!),

traveled all the way from Gothenburg, Sweden to Boston, Massachusetts this

past July to see the city, the island of Nantucket, and Cape Cod, with their own eyes...

Day One

Acorn Street, Beacon Hill

"We arrived in Boston in the afternoon and checked in to our Back Bay Hotel. As we wanted to adjust to the time difference (6 hours) as quickly as possible, we went for a walk trying to forget that it was already late in the evening according to our inner clocks. We walked through the beautiful Public Garden with the Boston ducklings and the Swan Boats and around the pretty streets of Beacon Hill. We had dinner at The Paramount on Charles St."

Day Two

"After a good night’s sleep and breakfast at the hotel, we took a cab to South Station Bus Terminal. From there, we took the bus to Hyannis and then the Hy-Line High Speed Ferry (M/V Grey Lady) to Nantucket.

We arrived in the late afternoon and walked the few blocks to our hotel, The Union Street Inn, completely enchanted with Nantucket! We unpacked and indulged ourselves in having homemade cookies and iced tea in the garden (a treat that was repeated every afternoon). Later on, we went for a walk in town and had dinner in the The Brotherhood of Thieves' beer garden."

Day Three

"After a delicious breakfast, we went on a self-guided walk to explore the streets of Nantucket town. We climbed the tower of the First Congregational Church, and had lunch at The Even Keel Café...

In the afternoon, we went to the open house re-opening of the ‘Greater Light’ historic house, and to the interesting Whaling Museum. In the evening, we went for a lovely walk to the Brant Point Lighthouse. We had dinner at Cap’n Tobey’s Chowder House- had my first clam chowder!"

Weather vane at the Whaling Museum

Day Four

"We had breakfast in the gardenm and then went on a ‘Gail’s Tour’ in a van around the island which gave us lots of good information and a good overview of Nantucket. We had lunch, crab cakes, at Sayle’s Seafood. From there, we went on to the Nantucket Lightship Basket Museum which was really interesting. Later, we went for a guided tour at ‘the oldest house’ and did some ‘Nantucket red’ clothes shopping. Dinner at The Brotherhood of Thieves again, this time indoors. Had my first lobster roll, which was delicious. Browsed at Nantucket Bookworks afterwards; I really liked that bookstore!"

Day Five

"A really hot day! We caught the shuttle bus to Siasconset. First, we walked the streets with the pretty little houses and gardens- I just loved the roses! Then we went on the Bluff Walk; through the outskirts of the gardens belonging to the big houses (mansions) at the edge to the beach...

We had a sandwich lunch at Claudette’s, and then went down to the beach. In the afternoon, we caught the shuttle bus back and the rest of the family relaxed in the hotel garden while I went to check out the shops. In the early evening, we caught the shuttle bus to Jetties Beach and had dinner at The Jetties; lobster pasta...

We walked all the way back and had our dessert at The Juice Bar.

I chose Coffee and Crantucket flavoured ice cream."

- - - - - - - -

... Enjoying Marie's New England excursion?...

Stay tuned for Part Two:

Marie's Trip to Cape Cod!

♥

October!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 19:13:00 +0000

October is here!

Jack O'Lanterns, woodsmoke, corn mazes, haunted

houses, pumpkin spice, rustling leaves, candlelight,

caramel apples, scary movies, bonfires, spooky
stories, flannel shirts, candy corn, ghosts and

goblins, foliage, festivals, hayrides...

Oh, my!

Easily, this is my most favorite time of year,

and in my personal opinion, the most beautiful

season in New England of all! What do you think?

I'm so looking forward to being in New Hampshire

in a couple of weeks (also, let's not forget the pit-stop

I'm determined on taking to Deerfield, Massachusetts! ♥)
Sigh...

There's nothing I love more than autumn in New England.

I'll never, ever forget the first time I experienced it up-close

in Marblehead, Massachusetts. It literally took my breath away.

See what I mean?!

It's been a couple of years since then,
and I am positively ecstatic to witness this beauty again,
this time in another wonderful New England state!

In other October news,
whoOoOo (in my best owl impersonation) would like to
receive a Halloween card in the mail from me this month?
If you do, please send me an e-mail with your address!
erinxtreme77@aol.com

- - - - - - - - -

That's all for now! I leave all you ghouls with
this charming excerpt written by Gladys Taber:

"Today I laid in a good supply of orange-and-black jelly beans and candy corn, together with small boxes of raisins and little bags of peanuts. Before we know it,
All Hallow's Eve will be here.
When our children were small, Halloween at our house was strictly a family affair. It was a time for funny masks-- nothing very scary-- and homemade costumes. The door-to-door trekking was brief, and a parent always hovered in the background as the small ghosts and pint-sized clowns made their rounds. Connie and Barbara used to argue. 'It's my turn to be the witch this year.' 'No, it's mine. You did it last year.' David quietly stuck to being a tramp. I think they dirty-face part appealed to him. We had plenty of cider, of course, and a bowl of apples to bob for and a big plate of freshly made doughnuts. And in the front window, a cheerful pumpkin face with a rather lopsided grin.
Now I am glad to see that the grandchildren are growing up in the same tradition. My own branch of the family is here this Halloween. The jack-o'-lantern is finished and Connie is drying pumpkin seeds for the bird feeder. Curt sprawls flat on the floor with a borrowed sewing machine. He learned to sew in his bachelor days and now he is stitching some strips of sheeting for Alice, who plans to be the Ghost of Stillmeadow. Small Anne is propped nearby, watching with fascination. The dogs have been shut out temporarily and they whuff curiously where it is quiet. They will all reappear later in the evening, when the children have finally been tucked in and the grown-ups have settled down in front of the fire to watch the last embers and wait for the Halloween candles to burn out softly."

♥

Autumn is Here!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 20:51:00 +0000

Never mind this humidity we've been having up north,

Autumn is officially here to stay!

I just finished decorating the inside of my house, had

my first cup of local apple cider of the season, and

am patiently anticipating all the wonderful activities

awaiting me in these upcoming weeks... exciting!

I don't know about you, but one of my favorite ways

to kick off the month of October is, to put it bluntly,

eating.

And I got just the recipes to share with all of you,

courtesy of the one and only, Susan Branch ♥

- - - - - - - - - -

My "Halloween cat," Lola (born on Oct. 28th, with the coloring to prove it!)

♥

Dream Home for Sale (Weston, CT)!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 18:26:00 +0000

Where could I go to find more beauty
than in these New England Hills?
Drifting blue haze over the woods, long
light over the tawny fields...
Beauty to spare for all my needs.

~ Gladys Taber

♥

Afternoon, everyone!

I'm sure I've posted that quote here before in the

past, but I just find it so befitting to this blog, (and to

my life and dreams), that I can't help but re-post it!

So, the summertime is coming to a fading close...

Well, "fading" for the most part, if you discount the

massive hurricane that just wreaked havoc on the east coast!

In my area of New York, we were overall very blessed,

but the majority of residents on Long Island still have no

power! Aside from my little dead-end street, that is...

we were surprisingly spared (that's a first!)

Anyway, I hope all of you are recovering and well...

My heart truly goes out to the areas that were devestated--

May you all pull through as quickly as possible ♥

In other news, since I had been boarded up inside for

so long due to the snippy weather, I had lots of time

to drool over New England properties (as I tend to

do in impeccable weather, nevertheless!) for sale online.

One of them particularly caught my eye, and was immediately

added to my mental box of personal "Dream Homes"...

And I'm sure after sharing this one with all of you, it

won't only longingly be residing in mine alone!

24 Steep Hill Road, Weston, CT

($999,900)

"This charming antique farmhouse is embraced by a wraparound porch and stone patios. Sunny and bright, the home offers spacious rooms and numerous French doors. Enjoy cooking in the new gourmet kitchen...
the dining room showcases one of the 4 beautiful fireplaces.

Situated on 3 spectacular acres in the heart of town."

More information on this property ♥

- - - - - - - - - -

Do you feel it in the air?

The crickets feel it; they chatter noisily about it day and night;

My kitties feel it; they've reclaimed the most toasty spots on my bed;

The trees feel it; their leaves grow tired and more achy every day;

But above all, the breeze feels it as it gets an unexpected chill,

blows in a hurried gasp, and cries,

"Autumn is coming!"

♥

Martha's Vineyard (Part II) ... and Keene, NH!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 18:18:00 +0000

Happy August, everyone!

Man, I can't believe it's taken me this long to finish

showing you my Martha's Vineyard photographs--

I should be ashamed of myself!

...Well, better late than never, I say :p

I've also included in this post a few photographs

I took while I was in Keene a couple of weeks ago;

Hope you enjoy those as well!

As for other matters, I hope everyone has been having

a wonderful summer. I know I haven't been around much,

and to be quite honest, it hasn't been the best of summers for

me personally... But, I am looking forward to starting graduate

school in the fall, and... for the Halloween season to finally spark up!

(... Okay, I may be rushing things a bit with the Halloween-part, hehe).

Oh, and I'm also planning again on going to the Keene Pumpkin Festival
this October! As many of you know, I was going to attend last year,

but due to the untimely passing of my cat, I naturally had to cancel.

But this year, I am determined on giving it another go...

So I'll keep you all posted with my plans for that!

Okay, enough of my babbling now...

At last, I present to you the final batch of
my Martha's Vineyard photographs!

♥ Day Five ♥

Yummy blueberry pancakes

Mom outside of the Martha's Vineyard museum

Lovely barn in neighborhood

Beautiful home (look at those roses!)

Fried scallop sandwich from a delicious seafood shack in Aquinnah

Wild turkey spotted on one of the back roads in West Tisbury!

At one point in the day, my mom (being a major history buff

with a fascination in church history) sparked up a conversation with an

island native on the road, who ended up showing us an extremely old

(and very well hidden!) Native American meeting house. We arrived

to the location by means of a winding dirt road, and truly felt as if we
stepped back into time when we stumbled upon this forgotten site!

Historical plaque commemorating the site (click on picture for a better look)

Passing through Oak Bluffs

So charming!

Dressed up for dinner at the Offshore Ale Co.
(dress: Lilly Pulitzer)

Offshore Ale Co. in Oak Bluffs

Their claim to fame? Peanuts, peanuts, everywhere...

♥ Day Six (Leaving MV) ♥

Our very last breakfast

I'm going to miss these muffins terribly!

Mouth-watering french toast

In Vineyard Haven, at the Black Dog General store!

Probably the most photographed location
on the island, wouldn't you say?

Dock near the tavern

Gorgeous view near the ferry

In the car, on the ferry, bidding goodbye (for now!)
to beautiful, enchanting Martha's Vineyard ♥

♥Keene, NH ♥

Main Street in Keene

Interesting old hand-painted sign

Checking out the shops!

This shop was featured in Yankee Magazine!

Having lunch at Margarita's

Naturally, I had to order their frozen strawberry margarita!

Delicious vegetarian enchiladas... mmm...

In front of the restaurant

Pretty gazebo in the center of town ♥

- - - - - - - - - -

Once again, thank you so much for being so
patient with me these past couple of months!
I really hope you liked all of my photographs--
I can certainly attest that I loved taking them!

Wishing you all a beautiful day...
♥

Martha's Vineyard (Part II)!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 18:29:00 +0000

Good afternoon, everyone!

Sorry for the delay in my presenting you

these series of photographs (I feel like I'm

always apologizing to you guys... Sorry!)

It's been a tough couple of weeks for me, and

I really didn't have the heart to do anything, honestly.

But! that's all in the past; I'm feeling much better now,

and am even going to New Hampshire overnight on

Saturday to attend a wedding, so all is looking up!

And although I won't be staying in any charming

New England inns, I'll nevertheless have some nice

photographs of the area to show you all :)

Speaking of nice photographs...

allow me to continue on Martha's Vineyard!

♥Day Three♥
(note: this was the one day I forgot to
take photos of my breakfast!)

Having a quick bite at Macphail's

Creamy clam chowder

Beautiful homes near the Chappaquiddick ferry

Cozy

Afternoon tea at the Victorian Inn

So inviting!

Mom enjoying herself

All dressed up for the Lure Grill! (dress: Lilly Pulitzer)

Sunset Water Taxi provided by the restaurant

Picturesque views

Enjoying the ride...

Mega-mansions along the water

So lovely!

Antique trolley that then drove us directly to the restaurant

Yummy (and blurry) hor d'ouevres

Delicious lobster entree

Mom on the balcony of the restaurant

Beautiful ocean views...

Soaking it all in

Back on Main St. in Edgartown for an evening stroll

Saying hello to our inn

Gorgeous yellow roses

Sleepy home

Entrance to the renowned Charlotte Inn

Love that weather vane!

Back on Main St.

Now on S. Water St., at the entrance to our inn

Glowing parlor

♥Day Four♥

Breakfast outdoors

Mom about to enjoy her apple-cinnamon waffles

And I about to do the same!

Driving out to Aquinnah

Seafood Shack at the Gay Head lighthouse site

Gay Head!

Mom

Breathtaking...

Expansive ocean view from the parking lot

Pretty church in West Tisbury

Alley's General Store: the oldest continually-operating one in the U.S.

In Menemsha, stopping for lunch at the famous Larsen's Fish Market!

Customers eating off lobster-pots... so adorable!

Mom taken off-guard with her lunch

Delectable crab cakes

And of course, lobster rolls!

Can't get fresher seafood than Larsen's; while you eat, you can watch
the fishermen step right off their boats to bring them their catch!

Amazing antique shop in Menemsha (... but a little pricey!)

More cute shops in town

Back at the inn getting dressed for dinner
at the Atlantic Fish & Chophouse
(dress: vineyard vines)

Outside the restaurant

Impeccable seating, directly on the harbor

Doesn't get much better than this!

Great decor

Cheers!

Hands down, the most delicious thing I ate on the trip:
Stuffed Phyllo with French Goat Cheese, sauteed onions,
pine nuts & herbs with a red pepper sauce... Mmm!

Lobster & Truffle Macaroni and Cheese

My seat ♥
Out of all the restaurants I ate in during this trip,
the Atlantic Fish & Chophouse I most highly recommend!

Sun setting gracefully on Edgartown

What can I say? Absolutely beautiful...

Back at the most charming house on the island

Sigh

Rose-bordered home

Lovely house that is a part of the Charlotte Inn

- - - - - - - - - -

I was originally going to show you our last
day on the island in this post as well, but
I didn't realize just how many pictures I had!
So I won't overload you today...

♥ To be continued (...again!) ♥

Martha's Vineyard (Part I)!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 19:17:00 +0000

'Afternoon, everyone!

As promised, today I'll be showing you

the first half of the photographs of my trip

to Martha's Vineyard! Hope you enjoy!

♥Day One♥

Woods Hole ferry reaching Martha's Vineyard

At the Victorian Inn!

Entering our room...

Our comfy king-sized bed

Travel guides

Sitting area

Sherry, anyone?

Charming bathroom

Adorable personalized toiletries

Pretty!

Myself and my mom

Mom enjoying a glass of sherry

View of the courtyard from our room

Our room key

Mom posing in front of the inn

Getting acquainted with Edgartown

Picturesque store

Stopping for lunch at Murdick's Cafe

Mmm!

The beautiful Dr. Daniel Fisher House

... dream wedding venue!

I was in awe of this house!

Historic museum near the Fisher property

Crushed-shell pathway... impeccable!

Charming street in town

Added to my list of Dream Homes!

Picture-perfect

One of the many grand homes in Edgartown

Cute bike shop near the inn

Evening dress #1: vineyard vines

Restaurant #1: Seafood Shanty!

Waterfront seats!

Delicious lobster quesadillas!

♥Day Two♥

Breakfast room at the Victorian Inn

Grapefruit to start

Warm, homemade blueberry muffins with raspberry butter.... YUM.

Spinach and mushroom omelet

Parlor at the inn

Lovely

Beautiful home (for sale!) in the town of Vineyard Haven

Back to Edgartown and its wonderful homes

Traditional New England coastal home

The most gorgeous home in Edgartown, I think

Straight out of a magazine!

It literally froze me in my tracks!

The Vineyard Gazette

Cute staircase in Edgartown Books

Having an ice cream break at Mad Martha's

The pier in Edgartown

The Black Dog!

I ♥ Cape Cod and the Islands, too!

The Old Whaling Church on Main Street (it was huge!)

Patriotic inn... forgot the name!

Another gorgeous home

So breathtaking!

The island, much like Nantucket, was lush with roses!

Evening dress #2: L.L. Bean

Restaurant #2: The Newes from America Pub!

Hardy clam chowder

Generous portion of fish and chips!

- - - - - - - - - -

♥ ... to be continued ... ♥

Checking in

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 19:23:00 +0000

Hello, everyone!

A thousand and one apologizes for not having

updated any of you since the return from my trip.

It's been pretty hectic around here since I've

come back; I've barely even had the time to even

check my e-mail. But nevertheless, I am home again on

Long Island... and miss Martha's Vineyard terribly already!

As you might expect, there are many lovely pictures

I am just dying to share with you, but will have to save

them for the weekend when I have more time...

But! so as not to leave you empty handed, here

is a little sample photograph I took of one

of MV's most beautiful landmarks:

Gay Head Lighthouse in Aquinnah!

- - - - - - - - - -

♥ ... to be continued ... ♥

Martha's Vineyard

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 01:25:00 +0000

I'm in Martha's Vineyard as I type this and am already having a wonderful time...

It is absolutely everything I have ever dreamed it to be, and more.

Will be back on Saturday with many

photographs and memories to share...

Until then!
♥

June

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 15:50:00 +0000

"The magic of June is a very special magic ... It is compounded of much beauty and kindliness on nature's part, it really leaves nothing to be desired.
It is the deep heart of New England beating to a rhythm that never grows old, that is forever young, forever fair.
Surely the petals will never fall from the rose this time, surely it will always be June!"

Gladys Taber
Stillmeadow Daybook, 1955

♥

Martha's Vineyard Restaurants!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Tue, 24 May 2011 18:15:00 +0000

So, I did it...

I graduated!

It's been a long and challenging journey,

but it's all over now! (until I go to graduate

school in the fall for library science, that is!)

With summer vacation technically in progress

for me now, I can finally focus all my attention on

my Martha's Vineyard trip coming up in less than

three weeks! I can't believe how close it is...

and to think, I planned this all in January!

So, about my trip...

to answer some of your questions from my last post,

I will be staying at the beautiful Victorian Inn

in Edgartown from June 13th to 18th

The Victorian Inn on South Water Street

I am so excited about this stay, not only because it was rated

the best bed and breakfast in Edgartown by Trip Adviser,

but because of it's impeccable location (views of the ocean,

and a stone's throw away from main street... wonderful)!

But the inn wasn't the only thing I planned months in advance, I
also planned the restaurants we'll be dining in at each specific night.

I'm sure many of you recall that I did the same exact thing for my
Cape Cod/Nantucket trip last year... so, as you can see,
excessive planning seems to be my forte!

Anyways, with that being said, I thought I'd show you these MV restaurants,

and give you an idea of what my stomach is in for this summer!

♥1st Night♥

The Newes From America Pub

photo courtesy of www.mvobsession.com

"This famous Colonial pub can be found at the base of The Kelley House in the heart of the village of Edgartown. Built in 1742, The Kelley House is one of the oldest buildings on Martha's Vineyard. This rich history and genuine Colonial character is most evident at The Newes with its original rough-hewn beams, ballast brick walls and warm hearth.
The menu is a unique blend of American and British pub food and features local favorites such as: Chip Shop Curry Fries, Bangers & Mash, Roquefort Stilettos and world-famous Fish & Chips."

Menu

♥2nd Night♥
The Seafood Shanty

"The Seafood Shanty Restaurant is located on 31 Dock Street in Edgartown, next to the Memorial Wharf. Relax and enjoy your favorite wine or cocktail while you take in the exquisite view of Edgartown Harbor from our dining room or outdoor deck."

Menu

♥3rd Night♥
Lure Grill

"Reminiscent of outdoor barbecues and summer family gatherings, Lure Grill exemplifies 'Island-Inspired, Wood-Fired' cooking over applewood and mesquite woods, which provide a sweet, subtle flavor to the food they prepare. Lure Grill works closely with local farmers, growers, and fishermen in order to provide the freshest, in-season ingredients available.
There is a complimentary, sunset water taxi available from Edgartown to Lure Grill, which is offered Monday — Saturday in-season. Ample parking is also available. The restaurant serves dinners in a casual setting, and also features a relaxing lounge and outdoor deck - complete with an Atlantic Ocean view. It is cozy enough for a romantic dinner and friendly enough for the entire family."

Menu

I'm looking most forward to this restaurant,
mainly because of their sunset water taxi!

"Enjoy the most spectacular views of Edgartown and Chappaquiddick from the harbor – and it’s free – when you take the boat directly to Lure Grill... The 25-minute boat trip travels through sheltered Katama Bay. See spectacular estates and the harbor not visible from any road!""

♥4th Night♥
The Black Dog Tavern

"This island landmark—which is more popular with tourists than locals—lies just steps from the ferry terminal in Vineyard Haven. In July and August, the wait for breakfast (with an expansive omelet assortment) can be as much as an hour from 8 am on. Why? Partly because the ambiance inside—roaring fireplace, dark-wood walls, maritime memorabilia, and a grand view of the water—makes everyone feel so at home. The menu is heavy on local fish, chowders, and chops."

Menu

Okay, I admit it... I can be a little touristy!

♥5th Night♥
The Atlantic Fish & Chophouse

"The Atlantic Fish & ChopHouse... is a neighborhood restaurant devoted to offering quality food, exceptional service and a festive nightlife. Our professional and friendly staff will take great care of you as you enjoy the freshest seafood, USDA prime steaks, by Allen Brothers, since 1863, tasty appetizers, soups, salads, and an extensive wine list.
Our stunning view of Edgartown Harbor will enchant you, but the food, service and entertainment will keep you coming back for more. We look forward to welcoming you for lunch, dinner, drinks and entertainment."

Menu

- - - - - - - - - -

So there you have it...
My upcoming Martha's Vineyard dining experience!
I don't know about you,
but now I'm starving!

♥

B&B Friday (Martha's Vineyard!)

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Fri, 13 May 2011 19:21:00 +0000

Good afternoon, everyone, and Happy Friday the 13th!

Hope none of you walked under any ladders,

or broke any mirrors today! Hehe.

Well, it's just about official-- after taking my last

final on Monday, I will finally be a college graduate!

I'm so excited and relieved at the same time :)

And with graduation gears my new focus onto summertime,

and particularly, my trip to Martha's Vineyard next month!

So, I thought, since it's Friday, I'd make a B&B
Friday post especially centered on that very island.

Perhaps I'll inspire some of you to take a trip there soon too! ♥

1.

The Crocker House
(Vineyard Haven)

"The Crocker House Inn is an 8 bedroom bed and breakfast on the island of Martha's Vineyard. Located on a quiet residential side street just a 3 minute walk to town and a 6 minute walk from the ferry. Close to everything yet located on a quiet side street. MUCH quieter than other locations. Full private baths, cable flat screen TV's, stereo's with CD, A/C and FULL breakfast each morning. Come and enjoy the open air porch with water views from the porch. Enjoy the best Crocker Chip Cookies!"

Rates: $265-425

2.

The Tivoli Inn
(Oak Bluffs)

"The Tivoli inn is a beautiful Victorian gingerbread house with lots of charm and a clean and friendly atmosphere. Walking distance to town shops, restaurants, nightlife, beach, public transportation, and seasonal ferry terminals. Located in a residential setting over-looking Hiawatha Park. Complimentary continental breakfast buffet served on the lovely wrap around porch."

Rates: $85-275

3.

The Charlotte Inn
(Edgartown)

"At the heart of Martha’s Vineyard, the former haunt of whale hunters, you’ll find a captain’s house in the traditional British style. Built in 1864 for Samuel Osborne, a famous merchant, the Charlotte Inn transports you to another time; you can’t help but be swept away by its romantic atmosphere. The staff, alert to the smallest detail, cultivates a deliciously old-fashioned elegance and courtesy. The suites decorated with antique lamps and silk or linen fabrics are exquisite. Between one iced tea and the next on the flower-filled patio, discover the beautiful island including its renowned lighthouses and beaches, ideal for swimming and sailing."

Rates: $325-1000

- - - - - - - - -

Got the New England travel bug yet?

♥

Dream Homes for Sale (MA)!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 22:51:00 +0000

Happy Friday, everyone!

I'm a little late on this, but I do hope you all had a nice Easter--

Mine was full of yummy Greek food, sweet fragrant hyacinths,

and cheesecake-stuffed strawberries... yum ♥

Most of you know I'm plannning on moving to Massachusetts
once I finish graduate school. As for locations: Cape Cod,

the islands, and Marblehead are my above all favorite options.

So naturally, every so often I search those areas' real estate websites

for any new potential "dream homes" to drool over and possibly plan for.
And the other day, I actually found a couple that
were just so lovely I had to share them with you!:

Marblehead, MA ♥

($699,000)

"This lovingly restored 1760 antique home is nestled at the base of Crocker Park in the heart of Old Town, steps to Marblehead Harbor. This residence boasts magnificent original period detail which includes 3 working fireplaces plus modern amenities such as central AC, deluxe new gourmet kitchen with granite breakfast bar, top of the line baths, multiple decks and the most spectacular terraced, professionally designed gardens. New 3 zone heating system, updated electric. Can be purchased furnished."

Not a huge fan of the kitchen (a bit modern for my taste); I'd have to
remove the granite counter tops and replace it with oak.

Other than some modern features that would need to be

changed, this house is perfect, if not for the location alone!

More information on this property ♥

- - - - - - - - - -

As for the dreamiest home. . .

Vineyard Haven, MA ♥

($795,000)

"Greek Revival located one block from Main St. in the heart of the Historic District. All the charm of a bygone era with wide pine floors, multiple fireplaces and sunny interiors. Three bedrooms and 1 1/2 bathrooms on Town Sewer which allows the expansion to 4 bedrooms. Detached garage and mature planting completes this wonderful home."

Look at that floor!

This epitomizes my ultimate dream home... it's absolutely flawless.

And the location... I am truly at a loss for words!

Easily, I could picture myself living in this for the rest of my life.

::Sigh::

More information on this property ♥

(in case you'd like to surprise me with it! :p)

- - - - - - - - - -

Susan Branch on my telling her how I long to live in New England:

"You dream it, imagine it, talk it, you write it;

I bet when ladybug lands on you, you wish it;

no doubt it will come true ♥"

Vineyard Vines

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 21:26:00 +0000

Good afternoon, everyone ♥

It's a beautiful day on Long Island; the sun

is shining, the birds are singing, and flower buds

are sprouting (and blooming!) everywhere!

I thought for today, since Spring fever is currently beaming within
me, I'd introduce you to another lovely New England-based
company that, for a long time, I honestly tried to ignore!

Why did I ignore it?

Well, honestly, because I had known it to be a little pricey.
But! the other day, after seeing some photographs of their new
Spring collection, I couldn't resist any longer, and checked out
their website... then of course, the rest was history for me.

Oh! perhaps I should tell you the company already...

...Yep, that's the place!

So, as I was saying, I did find it to be a bit on the pricey side,

but after purchasing an exceptionally adorable tote bag of theirs

this one! on sale for $56.99

and witnessing the beautiful detailing of the product,

the durable material, and well-constructed design,

I thought:

Heck, it's worth the money!

Not to mention my great experience with their customer service team.

I e-mailed them in search for their whale logo bumper stickers (I've seen

them on cars before and think they're adorable!), and immediately

got a response from a representative telling me he'd personally mail

a few over to me... for free! I just thought that was just fantastic.

Anyways, enough of my rambling... I'd like to show you some of the

clothing and accessories they have to offer, and maybe (unless you're

a true frugal New Englander) you'll fall in love and convert like I did!

Beach House Dress

$145.00

(I'm getting this for Martha's Vineyard!)

Party Shirt

$94.99

3/4 Sleeve Banded Ocean Drive Cardigan

$125

Harbor Madras Shift Dress

$165

Seersucker Ruffle Skirt

$98.50

Rope Strap Jelly Flip Flop

$45.00

(I'm also getting these to go with the dress!)

Upper Keys Dress

$98.50

MV Signs Classic Tote

$75

(I think this is beyond adorable... it's on top of my wish list!)

- - - - - - - - - -

And that's just a little taste...

if you're craving for more, just head on over to their website!

L.L. Bean Shopping Spree!

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 21:05:00 +0000

Spring bouquet on my dresser

Happy April, everyone!

...Finally, a month that promises us Spring-like weather

(or so we hope!)

In order to prepare for these upcoming sunny months, I went

on a little L.L. Bean shopping spree the other day and

accumulated some really lovely things!

Want to see 'em?

♥

Cotton Print Turtleneck

Summer Boatneck Pullover

Classic Camp Shirt

Washed Oxford Shirts

Maine Isle Flip-Flops

And last but not least . . .

Coin Purse

- - - - - - - - - -

So, there you have it...

All set for garden parties, golden evenings,

and just plain old fun-in-the-sun!

Has Spring Fever hit you yet?

♥

Rhode Island Fish Chowder

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 21:55:00 +0000

Hello, everyone!

I apologize for neglecting this blog again--

have I mentioned how stressful this semester has been?

... last one as an undergraduate, and taking 18 credits

has become a little overwhelming for me! Even my

Spring break was spent mostly reading class material
(and getting laryngitis!)... So, as you can see, I am beat.

But, to be honest, what really keeps me going is the fact
that I'll be graduating in a couple of months. Oh! and on

the ferry to beautiful Martha's Vineyard in June...

so all will be just fine, I think ♥

Anywho, in New England news, I found
a delicious traditional recipe that I've
been dying to share with you all...

Rhode Island Fish Chowder!
(can't you just eat that name?)

The recipes to follow (I've added a cracker recipe
in order to compliment your soup!) are from
the 1920s and 30s, and have surely maintained
their stomach-appeal throughout the years...

Enjoy!

Afternoon Tea Cracker

(Boston Cooking School Cook Book, 1936 Edition)

Sift and mix dry ingredients:

1 cup bread flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
Cut butter in with pastry blender or tips of fingers
½ cup butter
Add milk to make stiff dough
3 Tablespoons milk

“Toss on floured board, and pat and roll ¼ inch thick. Shape with round cutter dipped in flour, arrange on buttered cooky sheet, and bake 10 minutes in hot oven (400 degrees). Split while hot, return to oven, and bake until a golden brown. These crackers will keep for weeks without crumbling.”

Rhode Island Fish Chowder

(Boston Cooking School Magazine, Nov. 1920)

"In the bottom of an iron kettle fry five or six slices of fat salt pork, cut into small pieces, until it is crisp and brown. Cut up four pounds of either fresh codfish or sea bass into two-inch cubes, put into the kettle and cover with thin-sliced streaky bacon. Over this place a layer of onions, also very thin-sliced, and handful of chopped parsley, and a pinch of summer savory. Next put on a layer of Boston crackers, split and soaked in warm water until soft but not broken.

Proceed by repeating these layers until all the fish is used; the crackers for the top layer should be' thickly buttered. Add cold water to cover, and cook gently for one hour. If the water boils away so that the top crackers get dry, add boiling water. Remove the solid parts of the chowder carefully with a skimmer into the serving dish, and thicken the liquid in the pot with two tablespoonfuls of flour and two of butter, rubbed together. Let boil up once and pour over chowder. Serve with sliced lemons, pickles and stewed tomatoes."

- - - - - - - - - -

A taste of New England in your very own kitchen!
... I like the sound of that.

♥

Stillmeadow

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 03:46:00 +0000

"Sometimes I go away by myself, up the hill, far enough from Stillmeadow so that I only see the slope of the roof almost lambent with sunset. Holly may come along with me, for she does not disturb the aloneness.
From the upper abandoned orchard the yard is partly visible, dotted comfortably with cockers and cats. If there are guests or children at home, and there usually are, the sound of their voices comes dreamily from the open space where the lawn furniture is.
Somewhere, someone is forever pounding a typewriter, the sound of the typewriter never ceases at Stillmeadow.
There it all is below me, this little world within a world, and I sit down on a warm gray ledge upholstered with feathery lichens and think about it in relation to the rest of the world.
The terrible suffering that man is undergoing all over the earth is like a tidal wave to overwhelm civilization. If we think of this, what can we find in the whole round turning earth to make any life good?
The intolerance sickens the soul. Race again race, caste against caste-- by what dreadful arrogance could I believe myself better than another woman because my skin is pale?
But here in the country we may establish one small territory dedicated to love instead of hate, and possibly that is why we were born. And just possibly when all men have homes, hate will diminish all over the world.
Looking down on Stillmeadow I see the years that have gone, and the mark of them is a good and kindly mark, for the trees have grown, and the lilacs are spreading graciously. When Nature devastates the whole yard full of old and lovely apple trees, she begins new life the next season with young maples, and that year the mallows are as big as full moons.
If I were a wise woman, I should understand many things about life which I do not now understand. Maybe I would know why there is so much evil walking the highways, why men must suffer, why the governments operate like kaleidoscopes instead of like good blueprints for living, why gentle people must die too soon.
I think about all these things, up in the old orchard with Holly's muzzle soft in my hand. And about the first people who owned Stillmeadow's forty acres more or less. What dreams they had of a fair world with liberty and justice for all.
And suddenly I know. I know there is a dream that will not die, and that Stillmeadow, in a small and quiet way, is an affirmation of that dream."

- Gladys Taber

♥

Caswell-Massey

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:56:00 +0000

Good afternoon, everyone ♥

I hope everyone enjoyed their Valentine's Day!

I don't really know what could have happened here over the past
few days, but I nevertheless seemed to have lost two followers :(

Perhaps those two people might have deleted their accounts?
I just hope it didn't have anything to do with me personally!

Anywho, in brighter news, I've been meaning to make a post for a while
now about my most recent New England obsession, and that obsession is...

Caswell-Massey

Caswell-Massey is an personal-care product company established

in Newport, Rhode Island. It's also one of the oldest continually

operating companies, having been created in a 1752!

I myself have had their lilac soaps for a couple of years now,

using it to add a little fragrance in my underwear drawer.

And until recently, did I also discover their wonderful body

lotions, perfumed talcs, and aromatic Eau de Toilettes
that I absolutely adore ♥


My personal favorite is their lilac fragrance... I couldn't help taking a photo of the beautiful packaging!


Lilac soap over an antique handkerchief in my underwear drawer. (Yep... I just showed my under-things to all of blog world! :p)

As you can see, I have fallen in love with this company,

and to thank them for making me smell so good,

I thought I'd share some products with all of you!

English Lavender Hand & Body Lotion
($17.00)
... another great scent, I've tried it!

Almond Cold Cream Hand Soap

($14.40)

... President Eisenhower ordered these for the White House!

Rose Water

($16.00)

... on my wish-list!

Newport Conditioning Shampoo

($10.00)

... I wanted this just by looking at the bottle! So cute!

Freesia Signature Scent

($15.00)

... another one I've tried, and recommend!

- - - - - - -

So, there you have it--

a little hint of the luxury they have to offer!

If you're interested, don't forget to check out

their website (or flagship store in New York City);

there are many more lovely fragrances and products

just waiting to become your very own signature scent ♥

Love, Love, Love...

noreply@blogger.com (Erin @ I Heart New England) — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 02:45:00 +0000

Happy Valentine's Day!

. . . I spent my evening with my two little Valentines,

Lola and Pudge . . .

Their Valentine's ♥
(excuse my window pane's appearance; I'm preparing to paint it soon!)

Lola and her Hello Kitty Valentine toy

Pudgie resting after her V-Day meal

. . . And I ended it sweetly by making ourselves
a batch of Raspberry Swirled Brownies! . . .

The recipe discovered on my Gooseberry Patch calendar :)

The finished result.... yum!

- - - - - - - -

Hope you had a day filled with
♥
kisses
♥
hugs
♥

and lots of love!

♥