Ever have that feeling where you just need to get out of town for awhile, slow things down and enjoy a change of scenery? That’s how I’d been feeling all during the month of February, which has been incredibly busy for all of us.
Thankfully, we decided months ago to rent my cousin’s condo in North Conway, New Hampshire for a long weekend getaway. Dr. G. decided this was the year for Buddy to learn to snowboard (I think he wants someone to go on the slopes with, since I don’t ski), but my goal was to unplug for three days and focus on my kids, my family and myself. So in some ways, for me, it was more of a mental health retreat than anything.
We had a blast.
Some of our recommendations:
- Moat Mountain for dinner: As a vegetarian, it’s kind of difficult eating in North Conway (although there is also a delicious Indian restaurant, Shalimar, that we went to over the summer), but Moat Mountain had several options (the tofu curry wrap was excellent) AND an interesting beer list. Plus the place has that whole “ski resort” feel while also being very family-friendly.
- Mt. Washington Valley Children’s Museum: I admit, I was a little worried how Mimi and I were going to fill an entire day while the boys went snowboarding, but it turns out I was silly to worry. We started with a few errands at the outlet mall (including some outfits for Mimi for our Disney trip) then hit the Children’s Museum. It was only a $5 donation to get in, and there was definitely enough there to keep Mimi entertained until lunch time (although I wouldn’t recommend it for older kids; I’d say its probably geared toward kids under age 6. I think Buddy would have been bored). Even though there was a pretty cool area with dress-up clothes and a tree house, her favorite thing to do was sit in a big yellow tractor wearing a hard hat. That girl always keeps me guessing.
- White Mountain Cupcakery: Wow. As you know, we love cupcakes around here, so trust me when I say these are So. Freaking. Yummy. We got a four-pack of mint chocolate (me), their special chocolate chipotle (Dr. G.) and vanilla spinkles and uber chocolate cupcakes for the kids to split. I think all four were gone in minutes.
Not to sound like a total cliche, but I do feel like this weekend was exactly what I needed. It felt amazing to slow down and really be there – in mind, body and spirit – with my family, and not be making a mental to-do list or checking my email or brainstorming my next blog post. We lounged around most mornings, we played games of Go Fish, I read an entire book (!), I drank beer and ate cupcakes and pizza and didn’t think twice about the gym. And it was heavenly.
Michele C. says
Not cliche at all, we all need those weekends to just BE – be with ourselves, our families, and just take a step back from it all. This crazy age of constant connectedness takes its toll on everyone. So glad you had a wonderful weekend!!
Jessica says
Thank you! It’s funny, I didn’t realize just HOW much I needed it until I was actually there. Ahhhh …
Joanna {Baby Gators Den} says
Glad you had a nice weekend! My friend Heather goes up to North Conway all of the time and wrote about it on her blog too at http://housewifeheather.com/things-to-do-in-around-north-conway-nh-winter-edition/
Jessica says
Yay! Great minds think alike π
melissa at filling our bucket says
Sounds like you had lots of fun!
Jennifer (Savor) says
We go to NC every June and love it!!
jen @ keekoin says
Big North Conway fans here, too. We always go during the winter, but looking forward to checking it out in the summer, too. π
Heather @ Housewife Heather says
I’m glad my recommendations worked out so well for you!! Looks like you had a great time!!
Jessica says
Yay! Your recommendations were soooo helpful!!! Thank you!!
Chelley / AisForAdelaide says
We definitely don’t have the time or money to go away, but this post made me smile the whole way through. I love taking vacations “with” friends- almost makes you feel like you were there- a brief respite from the daily grind. You have such a beautiful family, and I felt like I was eating cupcakes with you (does Cupcake Merlot count- I’m having a glass!).
What a sweet post. Thanks for sharing!!!
Jessica says
Thank you π And I think Cupcake Merlot TOTALLY counts! I could go for one right now.
candice says
Its is so nice to have such beauty to explore here in New England. Glad you had a wonderful weekend. Love the photos. No cupcake for me? π
Jessica says
You would have had a fight on your hands if you wanted one of our cupcakes. We’re pretty ruthless when it comes to our baked goods π
Courtney Buteau says
I could totally use a weekend like this. I’m on maternity leave with a 7 week old and 2 year old and I have cabin fever! I’ve always wanted to do that sleigh ride, looks like you all had a great time!
mel says
How fun!!! We have a house in Loon and visited all these spots. I am so glad you had a great time!
Jackie Hennessey says
Not cliche at all. You so deserved this getaway with your family. New England rocks, but the winter can get tough. Good for you! I LOVE North Conway. Haven’t been in ages and you have inspired me to refresh my fond memories of this gorgeous place. So great to finally meet you in person the other night by the way! π
Kameron @ My Wrinkle in Time says
We had fun when we went there last summer. We really just went to go to Storyland and visit a friend, but we’ll have to get soe cupcakes next time!
Jessica says
Oooh, definitely grab some cupcakes … you won’t regret it π
Dollops of Diane says
So glad that everyone was feeling well and you got your weekend away! I’m thinking a weekend away is needed for my family next month!