maine musings

My husband and I were able to get away for a few days in Maine to celebrate our anniversary, and frankly, unplug from work for a few days. Though, “unplugging” might not include hiking to Barred Island whilst on a conference call….oh, entrepreneurship!

Though our trip had a few bumpy starts with car trouble and the like, I can confidently report that our time together in Deer Isle was carefree and fun — a departure from our busy routines at home. Of course, connecting together in such a raw, rugged landscape, as we try to do on our anniversary trips, felt really special with the transition to Autumn. We stayed at an adorable coastal cottage owned by Basha Burwell, one of the authors behind The Maine House books, which was equal parts charming and quirky. The magical tidal swings and pink skies alone were so wonderful to soak in.

For such a low populated region, this area of Maine is known for its incredible artists, makers and culinary endeavors. Apart from waking up to the hum of lobster boats and the glittering sea, we were spoiled with the best lobster rolls at LDI Lobster on their last weekend open of the season, along with pizza and salad from Tinder Hearth, NY Times cited as one of the “Best US Restaurants” in 2023. Neither disappointed and what we particularly loved about those experiences was how casual and beautiful the surrounding landscape was, there was zero pretense or formality to each meal, it was all about the ingredients and tie to the land and waters, truly a gift.

A notable highlight was visiting with Odette from OH Pottery, in Brooklin, Maine. I have had her barn imprinted in my mind ever since it was featured in House & Garden UK last year and have enjoyed seeing some of her pieces showcased in shoots, to include Gil Schafer’s Maine home. She was kind enough to invite us into her home and studio to learn more about her process and select pieces we brought home with us. Below, are a few snippets from our visit.

If you’re planning a trip to Maine, I highly recommend all of the aforementioned places, and do reach out if you’re looking for added insight. Sadly, The Haystack Mountain School of Crafts was closed, a destination top of my list, but we will definitely return to experience this all important place — add it to your travel list if you find yourself in the area.

Evening Glow

I snapped this as we were leaving Sunday Family Dinner at my parents’ house. As the days slip into back to school mode and September creeps in, I am reminded of how this time of the year is truly my favorite. The hustle of the summer slows down, the days are still warm and enjoyable, the ocean still inviting, and the evenings taper off in temperature. The hazy New England glow of the evening I find so intoxicating.

Tomate

If there is one thing to have a stock pile of this summer for hostess gifts, it is this candle from Carrière Frères. Truthfully, I am not a big scent person, however the subtle, elegant smell of this ripe tomato candle is absolutely divine and the epitome of summer. Since discovering it (when it was gifted to moi!), I’ve been burning it in my kitchen for two months and have already restocked a few times. I love that it’s 100% vegetable wax.

If you’re local, Homeport in Newport, Rhode Island stocks it and if you’re near the Hudson Valley, Orangerie in Millbrook, New York carries it too.

Long live summer!

Nostalgia

Strawberry rhubarb crisp is such an incredibly nostalgic dish for me. It reminds me of my childhood home and returning from school to my Mother who seemingly would always bake us crisp for an after school treat. We had a great rhubarb patch in our backyard — the bright stalks with their robust green leaves still take me back to our time outdoors and all of the days we spent as children being imaginative in and out of the gardens.

This past weekend I baked what was likely one of my best crisps! The strawberries and rhubarb are in season here in Rhode Island and did not disappoint. Vanilla Bean ice cream is a must.