Gently down the stream

Friday I tweeted that the weekend would be gorgeous. Heeding my own prediction we took the kayaks out for a run on the St. George. Bluest of blue skies, shining sun, no wind, bald eagles and osprey with catch in their claws soaring just over my head, a seal following behind our kayaks. Just the most perfect day.

Sweet pea back on the water

Pulling out of the water in Thomaston put us right near Billy's Tavern, a great Irish pub just behind the main drag. Time to stop for a pint of Boddingtons and a mound of handcut french fries (chipotle mayo and curry ketchup on the side). Hey, we earned it!

Done for the day, reward time

If you are looking to paddle around Midcoast – perhaps during a stay at Birchwood Motel in Camden – my only recommendation is Ducktrap Kayak in Lincolnville. Whether to buy or rent they have the best gear, great prices and offer sound advice.

Nothing like a great neighbor

Welcome Dot's Market, our new neighbors up the road from Birchwood Motel. We certainly felt welcome today when we stopped by to pick up lunch.

The woman at the counter was so lovely, informed and helpful it was hard to believe she wasn't the owner. The owner, Melissa — also working the counter — was equally engaging.

Eric enjoyed a grilled panini, Miss e crafted her own sandwich from selections off the colorful chalk board and I opted for a pre-made sandwich (which tasted as though it had just been prepared). We're talking quality oven-roasted meats, homemade flavored mayonnaise, fresh veggies, artisanal breads.

Stop in not just for lunch but for other prepared foods, great coffee, decadent baked goods, artisanal cheeses, beer, wine and soft drinks. While foods are made to go, there are a few tables where you can enjoy your treats in their open beautiful space.

Better check it out now. Come summer business should be so brisk it may be hard to make it in the door.

you know me by now...have to showcase the sweet stuff!

Paddling season begins!

Memorial Weekend sure was busy at the Birchwood Motel in Camden. Typically, things don't get rolling here until June. So a big thank you to all our guests — both the new and the loyal returns — for coming out. Mother Nature did her part, too, with some glorious weather. Great spring deals are still available. Call us at 207-236-4204. Midweek rates start as low as $60/night.

Devoted innkeeper, Jenny, snuck away for a few hours to paddle with Sean. Sean is a beloved guest, returning for his seventh annual visit to Camden, Maine and the Birchwood!

What a fella! 

Sean hauls Jenny's new boat "Sweet Pea"

to the edge of Lake Megunticook

Additional gratitude is extended to Ducktrap Kayak in Lincolnville. Dan Henry is certainly one of the most knowledgeable paddlers around and really knows his gear. Years ago, when we first arrived in Camden — and before we knew better — a bigger outfit really took advantage of our kayak ignorance. Dan not only righted that wrong for us, but his commitment to making a personal connection with his customers made me a lifelong fan. If you need to buy or rent a kayak, your first call should be Ducktrap Kayak at 207-236-8606.