An Inn-side View


We just returned from Camden, Maine which is all around gorgeous, both inside and out.   While I’m still percolating the thrilling experience that I had while enjoying the outdoors (a future post,) I thought you might like to get a glimpse of the historical inn where we stayed. 

There were many charming touches all throughout the inn.  For instance, we were pleasantly surprised during check-in to be presented with this plain old-fashioned room key complete with a kitchy tag.   Bill and I talked about how we can’t remember the last time we stayed somewhere that uses regular metal keys.   We’ve gotten so used to the electronic kind that the old fashioned key seems so foreign…everything about the feel of actual keys jolts memories from the past to flicker through my mind. 

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Inside our room we discovered another delightful remnant from the past.  We learned that this authentic antique phone is hooked up to the inn’s private switchboard. 

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Every morning Bill and I began our breakfast by enjoying a perfect cup of coffee with just the right amount of cream, while Brook was treated to a cup of warm, rich-dark cocoa at the end of  her meal.   

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And right after coffee we were served glasses full of  hand-squeezed orange juice along with bowls of  fresh fruit.  All of this bright color early in the morning has a way of waking up the senses, while the natural fruity taste and smells liven up the palette after just one tiny bite or sip. 

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In addition to the delicious food and drink, the tables were simply dressed with humble flowers such as this pretty pink carnation. 

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The carnations were nestled amongst sprigs of sweet baby’s breath.  Up close, I think they’re stunning!   These quiet buds are normally used as just filler, but perhaps they can stand on their own as well. 

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Wherever I am…at home or away, I have to have snacks within easy reach.  So while travelling I’m always on the lookout for goodies to bring back to our room.  For instance, one day I purchased a pint of these gorgeous, freshly picked Maine blueberries from a vendor on the side of the road.   This healthy treat tasted sweet as candy, and as a bonus they’re also very lovely to look at.

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In addition to enjoying delicious food while we’re away, we always try to make room in our schedules to relax…put our feet up…maybe even nap. 

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During our first afternoon I remember being lulled to sweet slumber while listening to someone playing a piano.  Within earshot, in the nearby music room, sits this antique piano.  The poet, Edna St. Vincent Millay was discovered in this very inn, reciting poems and playing this very piano.  

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On the last day of our stay Bill took this impromptu photo of Brook and me.  We were all packed up and ready to head back home…feeling well rested and well fed. 

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I hope that you’re all savoring the summer with your loved ones as well.



13 Comments, Comment or Ping

  1. ELK

    how wonderful each image shows a very special place…nice photo of you and your cute daughter!

    August 8th, 2010

  2. I love the mood ,you taking us back to another era in time! How wonderful~
    The essence of this period, stylized thorough out the Inn is a rare jewel~
    I love how your photos instill a mood, the quiet shift of one’s soul going back to when days had a different tone. It looks like a magical time; Thanks for sharing it! Love the photo of restful feet; You n’ Brook look so cute together! You look recharged and raring to go…

    August 8th, 2010

  3. what a restful beautiful post! Beautiful images – love the photo of you and Brook!

    August 8th, 2010

  4. Love the photo’s and thanks for sharing. There is something in “old fashioned” things that instantly give you a feeling of warmth and carm. The room key and phone were such a wonderful way to start your beautiful break. Glad you all had a wonderful time.
    love me 🙂

    August 9th, 2010

  5. Yes, I adore old-fashioned things for their cozy-feel…being around them makes me feel happy and relaxed.

    August 9th, 2010

  6. Becky,

    this post made me smile from beginning to end….well, actually i am STILL smiling!

    i love the photo of the old fashioned room key. you are right, i cannot remember the last time i had an actual “key” during my hotel stays.

    and yes…i think baby’s breath can certainly stand on its own. your picture proves that!

    and the last photo of you and your sweet Brook….it is beautiful and priceless.

    i LOVE that your get away was all that you wanted it to be!

    xoxoxo
    love to you
    k

    August 9th, 2010

  7. Sounds like it was a great vacation.

    August 9th, 2010

  8. Suz

    Sigh. That just makes me feel like I have taken a little trip to your wonderful inn. I love the picture of you and your daughter, Becky. You look a lot alike!
    Hugs,
    Suz

    August 10th, 2010

  9. Lisa Leo

    So glad you got the R&R you were looking for! Camden is a wonderful little town and I can’t wait to hear more about your trip. You always find the unexpected little things that make life special………….

    Blessings,
    Lisa

    August 10th, 2010

  10. Becky..
    I always love hearing About the love and beauty you share with your family when you travel…it is always Inviting and inspiring. So happy you had such a great time.
    You are a doll.
    Much love to you!
    Chrissy

    August 10th, 2010

  11. your time in maine sounds like absolute heaven…..makes me want to pack a bag and head on up there!! i love the photo of you and your sweet brook…..the fabulous time you shared is written all over your faces!! xoxo

    August 11th, 2010

  12. Becky! What a beautiful place, I wanna go there. Looks so serene. Glad you and family were able to share such a lovely time together. You and your daughter are so cute. 🙂

    ♥Jenny

    August 12th, 2010

  13. Becky, this inn looks marvelous! What a great place to spend some relaxation time with the family!
    xo
    jeanne

    August 19th, 2010

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