So let's dive right into my long weekend; true to our love of old homes we chose to stay in the Valentine Lodge located in Douglass/Saugatuck MI. The Bed and Breakfast was built at the turn of the century by the well-to-do Campbell family. The Campbell's were early settlers to Douglass and farmed a fairly large territory. Captain John Campbell also commanded a ship that sailed both passengers and cargo between Chicago and Saugatuck. At some point the home was converted into a B&B and still operates as one today. The three-story Victorian sits on two acres of shady gardens and it is absolutely stunning. A huge plus is that the Lodge is also within walking distance to Lake Michigan--and by walking distance I mean that Lake Michigan is at the end of the block; you can hear the waves from the porch :-)
Here's a pic of the B&B:
We stayed in the Francesca room. The bright colored décor with a old timey flair was well received. It felt just like a night at grandma's. Although we've already established that old fashioned décor isn't necessarily my style, it set just the right tone to remind me that we were away from home and to have fun.
Also, the lady of the house, Ms. Margret, is an amazing artist--one of a kind artwork literally covered every wall--it was a very nice touch indeed. Here's a look at one of her creations that hung in our bedroom:
Pretty right? So vibrant! Most of her paintings are of the serenity of nature.
Despite our accommodations, because we were in a beach town, we didn't want to spend too much time in the room; we wanted to get out and see what we could see. Our sightseeing spirit literally led us to 4 different beaches--perhaps more. Unfortunately, the first adventure at the State Dunes Park left me shoeless on a two mile hike through tick infested woods. I suppose that is what happens when you wear $.98 Walmart flip flops to climb a sand dune. In my defense, I was unaware of the long trek. I'll be better prepared upon my return--Timbs would have served me well. At least I have a story to tell, aye? No regrets!
Being in Saugatuck for the warm weather was really a nice change. Although the hubby and I had stayed in the area before it was in the winter--and well, there wasn't too much exploring we could do in this:
Snow was almost up to our knees
At least our room was bomb!
To my surprise it was much better this time around (although I do believe that there is a time and place for everything, the winter was really nice and cozy)--and to think the first go round we had no clue all of this adventure even existed:
Pathway leading to the beautiful sand dunes and Lake Michigan
Gorgeous day, picture perfect!
After leaving the beach we headed to Fenn Valley Vineyards and took in this delightful scene as we sipped on Mascato. Doesn't get much better than this!
I was all the way in my element
African Warrior Princess? Nope it's just me ;-)
The Coast is breathtaking...
Thinking of submitting this one to Pure Michigan, it looks like something right out of their ads!
This is the type of place that you travel to often in your mind...
We soon realized that Saugatuck is also famous for their art (I never seen so many artist concentrated in one spot)--so of course we headed downtown and did a little sightseeing and shopping. Shout out to the hubby for the gorgeous new addition to my jewelry box *Swoon times ten*. The downtown experience is unique and reminiscent of days gone by. There's no chain retail stores, only new places to explore.
Shopping downtown, of course I had to hit up the toy store for the little one
The food was amazing each night and we didn't have to worry about breakfast because we had it at the B&B every morning. Quick Cute Story: When we realized that we would be the only guest in the house come Monday morning we told Ms. Margret that she didn't have to cook for just us, but she was having none of it. We got up super early attempting to check out before she had the chance to cook, but she surprised us by getting up even earlier and having a full breakfast hot and ready--I thought that was really sweet--it was really good too.
On Sunday we decided to drive to Grand Haven (about 45 mins. away) to get a look at their lighthouse. Unfortunately,
Pier Cove...Loving it!
Before the storm rolled in
The lighthouse on a stormy morning
Had to sit that one out! I respect life and really want to continue living it.
Instead we decided that a historic tour on the trolley was much more our speed-- and I'm glad because we enjoyed it. My favorite part was getting a chance to see some actual Sears and Roebucks catalog homes. I've always heard about the catalog homes, but I assumed that you'd browse the pages to select your ready made home. NO! You browsed the pages alright, but once you selected your home they'd send you the materials and directions to build it yourself (kind of like paint by number--only instead it was building)...how freaky is that?! It must have worked out though, because the homes are still standing today...and the going price was right around $4,500 back then. I wish!
Excuse the photo quality, these pics were taken from inside the trolley. Captured here is the oldest house in Grand Haven!
And here is one of those Sears & Roebucks homes :-)
Eventually the sun came out and we were once again able to enjoy our vacay the way we intended--nice and sunny :-) Overall, we had an amazing stay and it was wonderful to get a little quiet time to reconnect with the hubby...things like that keeps marriages moving along, much needed fuel if you will ;-) It's always nice when your only responsibility is to have a good time, those opportunities are seriously too few and far between.
Anyways, for those of you that have inquired why I never post videos (& I've responded that I hate the way my voice records), here's our anniversary trip home movie--I know, it isn't a DIY tutorial, but at least it's something...right? :-P Until the next time...take care. Xo
So much fun! Can't wait to go back .
ReplyDeleteBeautiful pictures! Glad U had a great time!
ReplyDeleteThanks! :-*
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