November 2014 Karen Bowe, advertising account manager

Freeport has a special place in our hearts. My husband Scott’s great-grandfather purchased a large piece of oceanfront property years ago. It’s been in the family ever since. Many special events have taken place there, including several weddings, our own among them. Now my in-laws have a year-round property next door to the original cottage and we’re thrilled that our two-year-old twin daughters have the same great opportunities to experience the fresh air and simple pleasures of Freeport.

Friday

7:00 p.m. @ Harraseeket Inn
We’re getting a late start, but we’re so excited to see our room: the Thomas Moser suite. It’s like we’re kids on Christmas morning. The suite features the company’s gorgeous furniture, a Jacuzzi tub, a fireplace, and a welcome card from the Gray family with a complimentary cheese and fruit platter. We order room service from the Broad Arrow Tavern, and they deliver the best lobster chowder, lobster rolls, oysters, and, to top it all off, chocolate brownie bread pudding.

Saturday

7:30a.m. @ Harraseeket Inn
Yes, this is sleeping in when you have two-year-old twins. We’re still stuffed from last night, so we order coffee and muffins to our room while we plan our day.

10:00 a.m. @ Georgetown Pottery
Every time I speak with Jeff Peters, the owner of this beautiful shop, he always tells me, “I’m bursting with creativity!” And so he is! I can’t believe the array of artworks this gentleman creates. You could spend hours looking at all the details in his work.

10:30 a.m. @ Bridgham and Cook, Ltd.
I don’t think we’ve ever laughed so hard in our lives as we did here. We show Samantha and Fotini baby photos of our daughters and chat up a storm. I purchase a pair of the cutest itty-bitty Paddington Bears, which come in little suitcases decorated with the British flag. I know my daughters will love them. Scott could have stayed for hours trying on hats and looking at all the unique British items.

11:30 a.m. @ Maine Woolens
I can’t decide which blanket I like best. There’s a rainbow assortment of colors and textures to choose from. Then I notice they have an entire baby blanket line and toys as well. They’d make a memorable newborn baby gift to cherish for a lifetime.

12:00 p.m. @ Linda Bean’s Perfect Maine
Both Scott and I order a grilled chicken sandwich and French fries since we stuffed ourselves with seafood the night before. But we can’t pass up the fun, delicious Lobstickles, which are grilled split lobster tails on a stick. The other great thing about this restaurant is the outdoor patio, with great people-watching of all the bustling shoppers.

1:00 p.m. @ L.L. Bean
The flagship store never disappoints; we get all our outdoor gear from here. This time, we head to the children’s department to look for wind jackets and slicker boots for toddlers. A gentleman helps us pick out the cutest matching jackets and orange boots. The girls are ready for any rainy day ahead.

2:00 p.m. @ Brahms Mount
I noticed that one of the gorgeous throws in our room was from Brahms Mount, and I had to find it for myself. It was so great to cozy up near the fire, curled up in that throw. And talk about quality—this 32-year-old company is internationally recognized for its heirloom luxury brand.

2:30p.m. @ Mechanic Street
I can’t make a trip to Freeport without stopping at my favorite jewelry store, Brown Goldsmiths. Ever since I saw my friend’s custom engagement ring and wedding band, I’ve been a big fan. There’s a style for everyone, and the quality is exquisite. Just next door is RD Allen. I love popping in to see their Maine tourmaline. Someday…

3:00p.m. @ Island Treasure Toys, Mexicali Blues +Sunglass Hut
Island Treasure Toys brings me back to my childhood. There are so many toys that are perfect for learning and fun. Scott and I are always drawn to Mexicali Blues, with their selection of fun, colorful clothes. I try on a flowy skirt, while Scott browses for unique tees and hoodies. Finally, we duck into Sunglass Hut. Father’s Day is tomorrow and I promised Dada he could pick out a pair from our girls. He’s in his element and ends up with a light pair of sailing glasses.

3:45p.m. @Coffee By Design
Refuel time! The aroma is calling our name from its prime location in front of L.L. Bean.

4:00p.m. @ Harraseeket Inn
We head back to the Harraseeket Inn to relax with a Jacuzzi bath after all the walking we’ve done, and get ready for our dinner plans.

8:00p.m. @ Conundrum Wine Bistro
Right under the Big Indian you’ll find Conundrum. I’ve only been here once, but I remember the atmosphere being amazing. It doesn’t disappoint this time, either. We sit outside where woodstoves, candles, and garden lights make the perfect amber glow. As we sip our glasses of Prosecco, we decide on the filet mignon, garlic mashed potatoes, and asparagus. Perfection!

Sunday

8:00a.m. @ Harraseeket Inn
We start our day in the dining room with a huge breakfast spread. Eggs, bacon, sausage, muffins—you name it, they have it.

We head back to collect our belongings from the room. We hate to say goodbye, but this afternoon we’re headed off to a barbeque at my in-laws’ house in South Freeport. It’s been great to have adult time, but we’re very much looking forward to big hugs and kisses from our girls when we arrive.

10:00 a.m. @ Main Street
We have to make a few stops before we leave Main Street. The perfect dessert to bring to any family gathering is from Wicked Whoopies. Annette is so kind to explain how to slice an extra-large whoopie pie that could feed an army. It’s one of my favorite desserts, so I’m positive it won’t go to waste. Right next door is Lovell Designs, a unique jewelry shop. I have a beautiful dragonfly necklace that Scott bought me a few years ago, which has stood the test of time. I admire the new sand dollar pendant, which is such a simple statement piece.

11:00 a.m. @ When Pigs Fly
If you want fresh bread, When Pigs Fly is the place to go. The minute we walk in, the aroma takes me over. I learn that the bakery is housed in the second-oldest building in Freeport. We leave with several specialty breads, which will be gobbled up at our afternoon get-together.

11:15 a.m. @ Chilton Furniture + Rapid River
Just a few more stops, please? Chilton Furniture is having a barn sale. I can’t help myself from browsing the showroom and taking pictures of pieces I think would fit our new house perfectly. At Rapid River, I love the beautiful summer dresses that are on display. I stop in to see what pieces I need for my summer wardrobe—one of each will do!

12:00 p.m. Lunch at my in-laws’ Scott’s parents, brother, sister- in-law, and our girls are excited to hear about our trip. Meanwhile the grill is hot, cooking up some Bell & Evans chicken from Bow Street Market. What a relaxing lunch, looking out at the ocean, hanging out with family, and enjoying great food. It doesn’t get better than this!

2:00 p.m. @ L.L. Bean Paddling Center
Not far away is the L.L. Bean Paddling Center, where there are classes on paddleboarding, kayaking, and more. There’s a crew of paddlers just coming in. I can’t stop snapping photos from every angle.

3:00 p.m. @ Wolfe’s Neck Farm
Last on the itinerary is a trip to this farm. The girls are so excited to see the horses, cows, pigs, and chickens. In the fall, we’ve been on hayrides for pumpkin- picking. There’s also an amazing campground here that we’ve stayed at in the past, and even a camp for kids. I know we’ll be spending a lot more time
at the farm in the future. We wrap up our weekend here—scrumptious food, outlet shopping, family, views, fresh air, and lots of laughter. Best weekend ever!