Coast Line Wonders
We are a water family. Any chance we get, we head to where water meets land, be it a lake or the ocean. This holiday season was no exception. With so much extra time on our hands we wandered quite a bit and stumbled into new places we’d never seen before.
Our adventure started at Salem, MA. A town we’ve been to many times, although never for Halloween. What can I say, it’s just not my holiday. Our first destination was the A & J King Artisan Bakery, which I mentioned in the November 30th post. We sampled their goods at the Green Briar Inn before Thanksgiving and we wanted to try their full menu. Their egg sandwich, which I added avocado to, included light fluffy eggs and bacon done just right. I felt full without feeling heavy or greasy. They also make a very nice Chai latte. A bit of spice, and not too much sugar. From there we wandered around the coastline into the Salem Willows. Although the temps were uncharacteristically warm, in the 50’s, this summer hotspot complete with arcade and waterfront vistas was more winter hibernation than screaming heat of summer.
Then we took a left onto the windy, tree lined road that led to Winter Island Park where we discovered a classic New England lighthouse along a tranquil rocky shore. The tall pilings felt mystical, rising high above the water like giants reaching toward the sun.
With our springlike weather continuing into January we headed to Salisbury Beach for a New Year’s Day Polar Plunge. The beach was a hive of activity, everyone taking advantage of the beautiful day. The air was warm, but the water was frigid. A few years ago, I would have told said polar plunging was crazy but I’m becoming a convert to the health benefits of cold water.
Finally, we ended the vacation with a trip to Coolidge Reservation in Manchester-by-the-Sea. The property is part of the Trustees of the Reservation, a truly magnificent group of properties. When the wooded trail opened up onto the ocean lawn, I couldn’t help but wonder how the Trustees managed to obtain such a sought after piece of land. Sidestepping the goose poop on the lawn was the only detractor from the spectacular seascape. We ventured out onto the rocks and breathed in the moody gray sky and gentle swirling seas.
Just when I thought I’d seen enough of Massachusetts I find I’ve only really seen a tiny fraction of it. One of the things that I love most about New England is that you never really have to go far to find something new and the ocean is never too far away.