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.

Big things in small packages

Two wonderful packages came my way that warm my small business-loving heart. First, my dear mother sent us some Easter treats from our favorite chocolatier, Harbor Candy Shop in Ogunquit — a must-stop on your next trip through Maine.

dark and milk chocolate non-pareils. guess how long they lasted?

Second was soap. I regularly purchase my soap from local makers right here in Midcoast Maine (Trillium and Sisters — check out their soap eggs!). But Facebook recently reunited me with a soap-making friend from my childhood. CATSOCO is her small family business in the foothills of the Catskills with a mission to "keep the Earth clean one body at a time!" Annie included a few extra treats with my order. My fave — "soul cleanser." The punniness made me smile as did my long, soothing soak.

This is "soap the way it should be" with soothing natural fragrance and a luscious lather that leaves your skin feeling great. Unlike commercial brands I've used in the past, small batch soap lasts longer and lathers all the way through the bar. Its long-lasting quality cancels out any additional expense. Besides, your skin is an organ, treat it well! Use natural soap.

"Soul cleanser" and other soapy goodness from CatSoCo

P.S. Birchwood Motel is now on Facebook. We'd be honored if you'd become a fan and spread the word.