Maine Lobsters and Lodging

Winter Events in Midcoast Maine

2011-11-17T16:32:00.000-05:00

Snowboarding at Camden Snow Bowl

Mid-coast Maine does not have the "severe" weather that many people think of when they consider heading Downeast December thru March. Coastal influences tend to keep temperatures in the 30s-40s. Yes, it snows and some years there can be as much as 10 feet of snow and some years not. A wide range of amazing activities are available in winter for those who wish to fly (into Bangor, Portland, or close-by Rockland) or drive to the region (by car or Concord Bus from Boston).

Upcoming Events not to miss:

32nd Annual Festival of Lights Craft Fair - Rockland Saturday, November 26 - 9:00 am - 3:00 pm. The admission charge is $3.00 per person, no charge for children under 12. There will be artisans & craftspeople selling Maine made crafts & gifts that have been reviewed for the highest quality.

Rockport, Camden, Lincolnville, December 2-4 pm: the 25^th Annual Christmas by the Sea!

Fireworks over the Harbor! Frozen 5k road race to benefit ALS research, Tree lightings in at the Cellardoor Winery Villa in Rockport, Harbor Park in Camden, and on Lincolnville Beach, all with Santa, Christmas parade, beach bonfire and caroling, great food and great deals on shopping.

Holiday Art Show and Sale at High Mountain Hall - Camden

December 16, 2011 - 5:00-9:00pm - D ecember 17, 2011 - 10:00 am - 4:00pm

With works by
Antonia Munroe-painting
Austin Smith-porcelain
Jacob Bond Hessler-photography
Julie O'Rourde-textiles
Laura Balombini-mixed media
Patty Bolz-jewelry

US National Toboggan Championships - Camden Ski Bowl

February 10, 2012 - 10:00am - February 12, 2012 - 4:00pmPeople come from near and far for this event - enter as an individual or group and have fun!

The 25th Annual Camden Conference - February 17-19, 2012 "The U.S. in a 21st Century World: Do We Have What It Takes?" (link)
Join movers and shakers from all over the country in this event that brings in top speakers.

General winter things to do.....

Ski, snowboard, snowshoe/hike, snowmobile, ice skate, explore shops, antiquing, fine and casual dining, cooking classes, museums, galleries, spa, theater, concerts, and more!

Travel Recommendations if you are heading to the Rockland-Rockport-Camden-Lincolnville-Belfast MIDCOAST region:

1. Book your hotel/B&B reservations early as limited facilities are open in Winter along the mid-coast.

2. Specials during the week are often amazing - such as stay two nights get one night free at The Lord Camden Inn.

3. Plan where to have dinner and expect to eat early. Make reservations! Always have a bag of goodies for in your hotel room "just in case".

4. If driving, be sure to have a blanket, working flashlight, water, reflective marker, shovel. Check your car's antifreeze level, battery, and tires. If planning to go to Northern Maine to ski areas like Sugarloaf, consider it will be much colder there than along the mid-coast. Prepare your vehicle and passengers. Always watch for deer and moose along and on the roadways at dusk, night, and dawn... even during the day a moose can be smack in the middle of the road.

Cooking Classes in Midcoast Maine

2011-10-15T11:58:00.000-04:00

There are four wonderful options in the mid-coast area for those who wish to combine travel with culinary interests. Stay at a cottage property, inn, or B&B and enjoy the options:

1. Bay Leaf Cottages & Bistro - www.bayleafcottages.com/bistro
Cook Chinese homestyle dishes, German holiday fare, and learn all about seafood preparationsl
June thru August open-enrollment cooking classes by reservation.

2. Cellardoor Winery - www.mainewine.come
Cooking classes and wine pairings at the winery.

3. Hartstone Inn - www.hartstoneinn.com
Cooking Classes by house chef.

4. Salt Water Farm cooking school - wide range of themes and classes. www.saltwaterfarm.com
Variety of techniques by chef AnneMarie or chef-instructors are brought in to teach cllas.

What's Cooking at Bay Leaf Bistro - 2012 Schedule

2011-10-15T11:49:00.000-04:00

Get ready for some fun cooking, delicious eating, and make new friends!

Make your reservations by email: Jane@bayleafcottages.com or call 207-505-0458.

Chinese Home-style Cooking Classes - make cold and hot dishes typical of regional cuisines in China just like people would cook at home using fresh produce and special sauces. Classes are Sundays evenings from 5-7:00 p.m. Minimum 4 persons, maximum 12. Cost per adult: $12.00, children ages 9 and up $6.00. Reservations required These are very “family-friendly” hands-on classes. June 3^rd, July 22^nd, August 12^th

Cooking Class Dinners ~ Maine Seafood Basics join us at the Bistro for these hands-on cooking classes that includes your dinner. Make dishes using local seafood and produce. Minimum 4 persons, maximum 12. (Bring your own wine or beer for dinner.) Cost per person $25.00. Classes begin at 3:30 p.m. Reservations required!
MSB I. Seafood Appetizers – June 9^th & July 14th
MSB II. Seafood Soups, Stews and Chow’dahs – June 16^th & July 21^st
MSB III. Seafood Casseroles – June 23^rd & July 28^th
MSB IV. Seafood Salads and “Rolls” (such as Lobster Roll) – June 30^th & August 4^th
MSB V. Seafood Side Dishes & Entres – July 7^th & August 11^th

Oktoberfest Dinner – Join us for a German-themed Buffet Dinner on Sunday, September 23^rd. Bring your favorite beer and we’ll serve up typical German favorites – Cucumber/Raddish/Carrot Salat, Beef Rouladen, Spatzel, Red Cabbage, Currywurst, Beirstamps, and a Hot Cherry Desert! Reservations required. Cost per person $25.00.

Mid-Autumn Moon Festival Dinner – Join us for a Chinese-themed Buffet Dinner on Sunday September 30^th to celebrate the traditional fall festival. Learn the story of the Moon Lady! Enjoy fall favorite dishes including pumpkin and squash served Chinese-style. Taste traditional Chinese mooncakes given to friends at the holiday. Reservations required. Cost per person: $15.00 per adult, children $1.00 per year of their age.

Monthly Lincolnville Neighborhood Pot Luck & Bean Suppers 6-8 p.m. (no cost) – open to

Lincolnville residents and anyone from the mid-coast region who would like to get to know other

in the area and join in the fun. Travelers welcome. Bring a covered dish/casserole, salad or dessert.

Meat, beans, and beverage will be provided by Bay Leaf Bistro. May 30^th, June 27^th, July 25^th, August

29^th, & September 26^th.

Just a Few More Days Leaf Peepers!

2011-10-07T11:28:00.000-04:00

Fall is showing it's hot and cold side this weekend as leaf peepers head our way for Columbus Day Weekend. They are coming from all over - we have bookings from Italy to the western parts of the US. Join us as we wind down our 2011 season and get ready for winter. We'll be closing in just a week with most of our units closed from Monday October 10th thru to May 1st. As always, we will be taking reservations throughout the winter and spring months for your 2012 stay at Bay Leaf Cottages. Contact us by phone 207-505-0458, email: info@bayleafcottages.com, and online reservations www.booking.com. For those seeking wedding reservations/bookings, plan ahead and give us a call!

I'll be blogging on and off - don't miss our summer 2012 cooking class dinners - Seafood galore!
Keep checking in!
Jane

Thanks Yankee Magazine!

2011-10-07T11:22:00.000-04:00

Camden Named 3rd Best Foliage Town in New England in Yankee Magazine's Online Poll

Camden has been named the 3rd best foliage town in New England, up from 6th in 2010, according to a poll conducted on YankeeFoliage.com, Yankee Magazine's fall foliage Web site. A seaside town located in the "jewel" of Maine's mid-coast has everything a visitor is looking for, color intensity against the backdrop of the rocky coast, scenic drives, hikes and a whole host of outdoor recreation-adding to that world class dining, lodging, shopping and cultural venues that make Camden and the communities of the Camden Hills definite not-to-miss fall favorites. The voting took place from mid-August and ended on September 28.

"This area brings together the best Maine has to offer, with an explosion of color and activities to delight all visitors, we are proud to continue to be a fall favorite," said Dan Bookham, Executive Director of the Penobscot Bay Chamber of Commerce serving the mid-coast area including Camden, Rockport and Rockland. "Families and visitors come from all over to enjoy the unhurried life that is quintessential Maine-hiking, schooner sails, taking in a museum or wine-, cheese- or chocolate- making-rest assured there is plenty to occupy one's time."

To qualify for consideration, tourism professionals, along with some of Yankee Magazine's writers and editors, came together to determine the Top 25 Foliage Towns in New England. Towns were then scored on a scale from 0 to 5 in 14 areas that make up the perfect fall foliage travel destination: color intensity, scenery, vistas, nearby water, scenic drives, hikes, culture, farmers' markets and farm stands, orchards, covered bridges, state or local parks, the quality and variety of shops to browse, tourism amenities such as hotels and restaurants.

Rainy Weekend in Mid-coast Maine

2011-10-01T08:23:00.000-04:00

Rain Rain Go Away!
We have no less than 9 wonderful weekend events in the mid-coast and it's raining moose and lobsters! The weekend's weather forecast is not good. The movie theaters are going to be full for sure. Head to the Northport Music Theater tonight for good old-fashioned musical theater!

If you have your raingear ready don't miss...Vinfest at Cellardoor Winery
Savage Oaks Winery Fall Festival
Apple Picking and Cidar Making at Hope Orchards
Corn Maze, Cidar and Apples at Beth's Produce
Lincolnville Fall Festival and Parade on Rt. 1
Antique classic car show in downtown Camden
Harbor Arts Juried Arts & Crafts Show in downtown Camden
Camden International Film Festival in Camden & Rockland
Belfast is having a parade today as well

Want to stay dry??Film Festival and Movies
Farnsworth Museum in Rockland
Owl's Head Transportation Museum
Penobscot Marine Museum in Searport
Reny's the Maine 5 & 10 experience
LLBean Outlet store in Ellsworth
Hollywood Slots in Bangor
Dining on seafood or hanging out in coffee shops, wine-tasting, and more!

Good rainy day hangout options (most with WIFI):
Dots in Lincolnville
Market Basket in Camden
Zoots in Camden
Boyton & McKay in Camden
American Baking Co in Rockland
Chase's Daily in Belfast
Lots of cafes/restaurants in Rockland, Camden, Lincolnville Beach, and Belfast

Leaf Peeping Activities in Mid-Coast Maine

2011-09-09T11:03:00.003-04:00

This time of year - Fall and Leaf Peeping is really special in Maine. There's so much to see and do normally but there's so much that's unique to Fall...

1. Arts and Artisan's Tour in Lincolnville/Camden/Hope - this weekend (Sept 9-11) - ride around mid-coast Maine and stop at the galleries and workshops of accomplished artisans of the region. Everything from goldsmiths to pottery, fine art to metalworking.

2. Common Ground Fair in Unity - September 21-25 - get the 60s-70s vibe as you rub elbows with sustainable farmers, eco-friendly power, organic agriculture, artisans, home cooks, canning, unique products, and music/fun galore.

3. Vinfest in Lincolnville at Cellardoor Winery (Sept 30-Oct 1) - get in touch with your inner grape - which one speaks to you. Try 6 samples from a menu of about 20 wines made on-site. All are amazing and there are some unique blends thanks to local blueberries. Gourmet dinner, activities for the family, tastings for the adults, demonstrations/tours - all with a gorgeous fall view.

4. October 1st & 2nd in Lincolnville for our Fall Festival - brings the local parade and activities galore for family and friends. Don't miss the farmer's and artisan's market at the Whales Tooth Pub.

5. Camden International Film Festival (Sept 29-Oct 1st) - Showcasing documentaries from throughout the globe -screenings at various cinemas in the region - Lincolnville, Rockland, Rockport and Camden.

6. Carol Sebold Harbor Arts (Juried) Arts and Crafts Show - October 1-2 in the Camden Harbor. Don't miss this eclectic mix of established and emerging artists.

Don't miss area farmer stands and apple orchards. Pop into the many antique shops.

And there's always a place to stay right here at Bay Leaf Cottages & Bistro www.bayleafcottages.com Book soon!

After the Storm

2011-09-09T10:41:00.000-04:00

Irene left her mark with downed trees and this large split tree which will need to come down so it won't crash into large structures on the next storm - and surely there will be another in our future. The big casualty was the playground. We will reorder and redo the kids playground once the tree is removed. We also lost some poplar trees behind the cabins. Root systems aren't deep here so trees just fall over versus breaking like our 100'+ tree did - rotted in the core somehow. Given we had to take a large dead piece off of it last season, this came as no surprise.

Readying for the leap peeping season, raking leaves already from the butternut tree. Mowing the grass that has really grown up with all the rain makes for a good Friday.
Tell everyone Maine is open for business. It seems people are fearing that the news about Irene and the problems/devastation in Vermont will keep people away from Maine. Come our way - we'll be here!

Calm before the Storm

2011-08-27T14:33:00.000-04:00

It's the calm before the storm - Irene is on her way! We're put away all the chairs, covered the motel windows, removed the plants, and brought the extra water, food, and candles into the house. We're ready for the storm - as ready as we can be. Of course by the time it reaches us the winds will only be 65-70 mph but they can still bring down trees, power lines, and cause havoc. We have no guests at present - everyone heading "home" where ever that might be.

Some neighbors may come stay with us as they fear being isolated in their homes with downed power lines. I reminded them we'll also be without power if they are without power but they are welcome to ride the storm out here if they wish. Being more "open" I suppose is appealing to those living in the woods. However, we have some mighty big trees on the property - who knows what's going to happen. Luckily we had everything pruned last year and most of the dead limbs are long gone. No power means no water so we'll be filling the tub up tonight so we can "flush" the toilet as needed. This is where having guests during a storm is problematic and this is why all of our signage is down. My only fear is that we'll lose the tops of our new lights. Aren't they pretty with the leaves? (If it would only right itself - hmmm). More after the storm! No lobster dinners tonight!

#1 on Trip Advisor for Top 5 Special Offers (world-wide)

2011-08-24T15:35:00.000-04:00

Yes, it's true! Bay Leaf's special offer on Trip Advisor (2 nights = 2 lobsters) ranked #1 in the top 5 special offers viewed online by travelers! Well - take us up on it - stay two weekday nights and get two lobsters (cooked or uncooked). Coupon (required) available on Trip Advisor!
Or, go to the New England Inns and Resorts Association and see our special offer there: Stay two nights get one free (when you stay M-T-W or T-W-TH). www.neira.com

And if those aren't enough incentives.... try these Labor Day Weekend Specials on NEIRA for Bay Leaf Cottages:

Family Reunion Special - book 3 nights in a cottage for your family and get a motel room for the grandparents for three nights absolutely free! Continental breakfast included daily for all.

Stay 3 nights Receive $50 Gas Special (TH-F-S, F-S-S, or S-S-M) in either a cottage or motel room and receive a $50 Visa Travel Card to pay for your gas.

Dog Friendly Considerations

2011-08-24T11:49:00.009-04:00

What does "Dog Friendly" mean to a lodging establishment? and You?

Yes, for resort properties welcoming travelers with their dogs, being "Dog Friendly" can mean an increase in clients and revenue. For those traveling with pet allergies, it can be a nightmare. Many establishments will designate a small portion of their rooms/cottages for those traveling with their dogs. A real "Dog Friendly" establishment will have the majority of rooms/cottages for clients with canines and fewer rooms/cottages for those who have allergies. By checking the property's website, you can determine a lot about the true "friendliness" of the lodging facility and management.

How many rooms/cottages/units are designated as "Dog Friendly" as compared to the total available?
Do you find the style and size of the rooms/cottages needed for you and/or your family?
What are the nightly pet fees? - typical rates range from $10-$25 per night but can go as high as $150-250 in deposit fees.
How far in advance does this property book up? check on high season availability early.
Are there a minimum number of nights required during high season versus off-season?
Are the grounds suitable for walking your dog and playing with your dog?
Is there a dog-run or suitable place your dog can stay if you need to leave the property - say for a dinner or a wedding? Is the run shaded or does it have a dog house or a water source?
Is there a clean dog crate that can accommodate your dog? Can it be used in the room or on the premises in a designated location?
Is there someone available to walk the dog, feed or provide water for the dog? If so, what is the cost for such services? Like babysitting, guests should expect to pay for such help.
What dog-friendly activities are nearby? - hiking trails, beaches, dog parks, etc.
What human-friendly activities are nearby that will be suitable for a pet to accompany you? Will they allow dog entry to shops/museums/restaurants, for example, or will there be a place for your dog to be on a leash, etc.??
Is the place clean and free of debris that could harm your pet?
Are suitable "pet friendly" chemicals used by the housekeeping staff and yard maintenance?
Will your dog be welcomed as part of the "family" by staff and management - is there a dog living there?
Will dog food and treats be available on-site should there be a need (you ran out, stores are closed, there aren't any stores around selling dog food, etc.)?
Is there a suitable Veterinarian and emergency care facility nearby in case of need?
Are there wild animals in the vicinity that you should be aware of?

What property owners think about but may/may not ask you... this should be your pre-travel check-list:

Is your dog registered in your community? (wearing a color with dog tags or micro-chipped)
How old is your dog - puppies chew and bark and generally aren't as welcome as well-behaved older dogs. However, older dogs may have incontinence issues that should be planned for.
How big is your dog as compared to the space you wish to book for you or your family?
Does your breed of dog have a "bad reputation"? Lodging owners/managers will be concerned about liability issues in terms of how your dog might interact with others staying at the resort. Consider that the "media" has made owning a pit bull "negative" as compared to a cockier spaniel.
Does your dog shed excessively and could this shedding create an added cleaning fee? Should you have your dog groomed before your trip to reduce this possibility?
Is your dog free of fleas, ticks and other parasites?
Has your dog had all of the major vaccinations (to protect others staying on-site and their pets) - Rabies, Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Corona, Bordetella, Lyme, etc.?
Do you have issues of worms or other parasites under control?
Do you regularly use flea control with your dog? (topical or oral)
Do you regularly wash/groom your dog?
Has your dog been spayed or neutered?
How many dogs are you traveling with?
Do you understand that dogs will not be allowed to stay in the room/cottage unattended?
Will you walk your dog on a leash and pick up any excrement (pooper scoop)?
Will you use the "doggie cover" provided (for bed or sofa) so that your dog's hair doesn't get all over the linens or that wet paws don't soil bedspreads, cushions, pillows?
Will you bring bowls for food for your dog instead of using those dishes for humans in the kitchenettes?
Will you bring doggie toys?
Will you ask for suitable towels from housekeeping to use with your dog (in case of rain, beach play, etc.)?

While the above list may seem exhaustive, it reminds us as pet owners that, just like ourselves, there are welcome visitors and unwelcome ones. When pet owners take the responsibility of having a healthy pet, resort owners are happy to welcome such dogs to their premises and into their rooms.

Bay Leaf Cottages & Bistro welcomes your dog to stay along with you and your family in our pet-friendly cottages and motel rooms. www.bayleafcottages.com

A Dog Lover's Guide to Midcoast Maine

2011-07-06T11:21:00.008-04:00

For daytrips or weekend escapes, Mid-coast Maine offers a great combination of off-highway scenic routes, country roads, destinations worth stopping for - including delicious food. From May thru October, a wide variety of festivals and events make return visits very attractive. Attractions will bring you closer to Maine culture, the arts, great musiv, and the great outdoors. Bring your dog!

Bay Leaf Cottages and Motel welcomes travelers with their well-behaved dogs. Ginger, our 11-year old cocker spaniel, greets visitors and gives each of her new pals a welcome "doggie bag" complete with dog blanket, water bowl and mat, bones, poopie bags, and coupons for pet-friendly businesses in the area.

Our park-like setting makes bringing your dog alone fun. Nearby dog parks and beaches, pet shops, and hiking trails provides your pet with options. We offer an on-site outdoor shaded kennel with dog house and water feeder.

7 motel rooms (with water views) and 8 cottages (some with kitchens, some with water views) are designated "dog friendly". Be sure to book in advance, especially for weekends in July-August.

Ginger will be here until mid-October - we'll close around the 17th.

Questions? email Jane@bayleafcottages.com

What makes the Mid-Coast of Maine a destination for people who traavel with their dogs?

www.downeastdognews.com

dog friendly lodging
dog-friendly businesses (ability to dine outside, shops that allow pets, shops that cater to pets)
dog parks
dog beaches
unique dog walking and hiking routes
training programs, events, fairs
support services (veterinarians, kennels, grooming, training)

Dog friendly businesses in the Lincolnville Beach area (for those staying at Bay Leaf Cottages):

Critter Outfitter (Camden)
The Fertile Mind Bookstore (Belfast)
Friends of Belfast Park (Belfast)
Human Society of Knox County (Rockland)
Loyal Biscuit Co. (Rockland)
The Maine Dog (Camden)
Mr. Paperback (Belfast)
Owl and Turtle Bookshop (Camden)
Perry Greene Kennel and Outfitters (Waldoboro)
The Readin gCorner (Rockland)
The Seagull Shop (Pemaquid)
Sherman's Books (Camden)
Yankee Clipper (Rockport)
Zoots Coffee Shop (Camden)

2011 Calendar of Events for Bay Leaf Cottages & Bistro

2010-09-09T14:08:00.002-04:00

We're ready to host you and your family, friends, even the grandparents in 2011 at Bay Leaf Cottages & Bistro. We've continued some of the activities from 2010 season and added many new programs and special weekends ---- see the details - for general public schedule followed by the schedule for China adoptive families....

http://www.bayleafcottages.com/events/events.pdf

Weekly Wednesday Cooking Lessons - from June thru September join us for a yummy array of hands-on cooking classes in our Bistro. From Chinese homestyle dishes to Seafood Appetizers to Seafood Soups & Chowders to German Salads and Sausages ... and more! You are going to love these lunch-time options for only $20 per person (includes your instructor, lunch made by the class, and beverage).

Saturday night Maine Lobster Dinners for $12.00 per person - includes lobster, baked potatoe, salad/cole slaw and beverage. Bring your bib!

Monthly pot luck supper - the last Wednesday of the month starting in May 2011. Join the Lincolnville neighbors for our monthly pot luck supper. In good Maine form, we'll have casseroles, grilled meat, salads, and desserts - just bring your favorite dish to share. We'll provide the meat, table setting and beverages.

Join in one of our special weeks or weekends - Mom's Adventure Weekend, Dad's Adventure Weekend, Teen Adventure Week, Family Adventure Weekend, Family Chinese Culture Weekend, Grandparents Chinese Culture Week, and more! Also our camp program in conjunction with Hidden Valley Camp nearby.

Hope to see you in 2011!

Leaf Peepers Welcome!

2010-08-27T09:23:00.003-04:00

The chill is in the air (at least for mornings anyway) and the leaves are already beginning to shift in tone - some reds and yellows are appearing.

Upcoming for Labor Day Weekend is the Windjammer Festival in Camden and not long thereafter will be the Harbor Arts Festival and the Sept weekend designed to drive through the region visiting all of the artisans and galleries. And, don't miss Lincolnville's Fall Festival and Vinfest at the winery (Cellardoor). All during our Leaf Peeping season.

Yankee Magazine just rated our area (Camden) as #6 in the top 25 places to view the fall folliage. Like the image above from Camden Hills State Park (just 2 miles from Bay Leaf Cottages!!), the season promises to be wonderful.

In the meantime, we're enjoying the restaurants of the region and exploring various "off the beaten path" options. And, we're getting ready for another wonderful round of cooking classes with Renate Tower - September 8th - Lunch 'n Learn is Cooking for Your Pooch and September 15th - Oktoberfest Dinner. Contact us at (207) 706-7929 for a space in these classes.

What I've found recently (food-wise) in Mid-coast Maine.... Conti's 1894 is THE place for amazing Italian seafood. It is totally NOT fancy but it is amazing. Chef John Conti (a self-taught chef and madman) doesn't advertise, has no phone, and won't take reservations at his hole in the wall restaurant in Rockland (south Maine Street - but you didn't hear it from me!). The parking lot adjacent to the white house covered with lobster traps has one small sign which reads: "no fry, phone or freezer" "no cards, no ketchup, no micro " "new menu everyday". It's the latter that is most important - FRESH seafood and creative items fill a 4x6' blackboard as you enter the place - strewn with baskets of plum tomatos, piles of fresh Italian bistro-style bread. The "house wine" was quite good, bowls of salad with freshly made dressings join the table. Speaking of tables - don't expect things to match here - it's an electic hodge-podge of decor but that's not why you are there. Select from the menu all sorts of seafood options with Aglio (oil and garlic) or Marinara sauces over linguini or other pasta of the day. I ordered the Sea Scallops (a small portion) and could not finish it all - there was about a pound of scallops on my plate! Perfecctly sauteed and delicious! My daughter was amazed by her crab and shrimp aglio on linguini entree as well. She too could not finish it all. Containers for take home exist and next time we're going to order the large portions so we'll have plenty to bring home and enjoy a second day! Don't miss this place - it's a lost art, a dying breed, etc. No chain restaurant or fried seafood shack is going to touch the quality of this food experience. And, you'll have a lot to talk about afterwards!

2010-07-13T19:32:00.003-04:00

The Lobster Police Visit

Yesterday when I noticed a someone drive into our property in a pick-up truck and walk over to the door (in uniform, wearing a badge) I thought to myself, boy I hope this is our local police chief because I'd like to talk about the speeding people do in the morning past our business. When he opened the door I could see he was the Marine Police (AKA Lobster Police). With citation book in hand, he asked if we were serving lobster dinners and I said, "yes" (he could see the sign outside advertising Lobster Dinners for $10 on Saturday night). He asked if I had a license and I about laughed but refrained. I said, "you're kidding right? " To which he responded, "that's what most people say." I said that I had recently called to the township office to ask if we needed any further permits or licenses than our lodging and restaurant license and our retail license, our registration as a business with the State of Maine and they said not to their knowledge. Guess that didn't include lobsters (and other shellfish). We just got a "warning" and forms to send into the State of Maine (to pay $87 for our permit to sell lobster dinners). We have to purchase from a licensed dealer and not a harvester unless we want to buy a different and more expensive permit. Given we're only charging $10 for dinner including lobster, potatoe, salad, and beverage, it's going to be a while before we cover the cost of the license. So, we may have to raise the dinner to $12.00 - sorry folks!

Can you imagine that the Marine Police carry guns? Going to shoot the lobster in the tank? or me!?!?!

Things to do

2010-07-11T14:40:00.004-04:00

Here's my home away from home www.bayleafcottages.com! Emily and I have been living in one of our motel rooms. I've been there for 2 months and have been enjoying our mid-coast Maine adventure. This room has a full-sized bed, a twin bed, and a sleeper sofa. And, there's a TV and microwave plus a coffee pot.

Did I mention that Ginger, our family pet, has been staying with us too? She loves sitting by the window and watching the ducks in the pond. Lucky for the ducks she's not outside chasing them. We've been naming the ducks (all females so far) and we're up to 11 ducks. So far we have Lucy and Ethel, Betty and Wilma, Hot Lips Hullihan - well you get the idea. The male ducks are at another nearby pond and the ducklings are down the road. We've decided that since this is Maine, these must be Shaker Ducks since they have self-segregated by gender.

It's raining today and people often feel like they should not travel when it's raining or avoid Maine if the weather forecast is for rain. Here are a few recommendations for things to do when it rains:
1. Owl's Head Transportation Museum
2. Farnsworth Museum in Rockland
3. Antiquing in Searsport
4. There's nothing like a trip to Reny's - it's the quintessential Maine 5 & 10.
5. Roadtrip to LL Bean (open 24/7)
6. Bowling - try Candlepin bowling - a New England tradition! Local lanes: Oakland Park in Rockport.
7. Take in a movie at Flagship in Thomaston, Strand in Rockland, or Colonial in Belfast.
8. Learn how to make a Windsor Chair in Lincolnville.
9. Wine taste with Cellar Door Winery in Lincolnville (tasting shop on Rt. 1 in Camden)
10. Tour Camden's many art galleries.
11. Visit local artisans at their studios and homes.
12. Used books abound with booksellers from Camden to Searsport.
13. Theater - Camden Civic Theater, Northport Music Theater, and Belfast Maskers are sure to please.
14. Concerts abound in the region - check out the Bay Chamber Concert series or local bands at restaurants and clubs.
15. Purchase a day-pass to the YMCA and get fit!
16. Visit the Project Puffin Welcome Center in Rockland and see their movie about puffin preservation.
17. Visit the Hollywood Casino in Bangor
18. Visit the Children's Discovery Museum in Bangor
19. Make a trip to the Bangor Mall.
20. Explore the Penobscot Marine Museum.
21. The Maine State Museum should grab you in Augusta.
22. The Schoolhouse Museum in Lincolnville is a great attraction.
23. Belted Galloway cows will greet you at Aldemere Farms as you drive Chestnut Street out from Camden.
24. Stop by and taste Maine cheese at the State of Maine Cheese Company on Rt. 1 in Rockport.
25. Visit the Ross Center at Merry Spring Gardens.
26. Learn about woven traditions at the Swan Island Blanket Company.
27. Tour Fort Know in Bucksport and go atop th Narrows Bridge Observation Tower.
28. Stop by the Sweetgrass Winery and Distillery for some local made spirits.
29. Stop by Young's Lobster pound to witness hundreds of lobsters in large tanks.
30. Ride on the Islesboro Ferry back and forth!
31. Explore the shops of Camden and Belfast
32. Take a hands-on arts/crafts class at Bay Leaf Cottages & Bistro
33. Take a How To Class at Home Depot in Rockport.
34. Take a How To Class at Lowes in Thomaston.
35. Work with an artisan in their studio - create!

Have fun no matter what the weather! Eat Lobster! Visit us!

2010-07-10T07:28:00.004-04:00

It's Blueberry Pancake Weekend at Bay Leaf Cottages's Bistro!

http://www.bayleafcottages.com/ - see our weekly menu and weekend specials!

This week's cooking class (14th) is Seafood Appetizers. When you're in Maine there's nothing like cooking with fresh seafood.

Bay Leaf Cottages & Bistro

2010-07-06T11:01:00.003-04:00

All the charm of a B&B without the cost!
www.bayleafcottages.com

The last two months in Maine have flown by! We're enjoying this vacation property so much. Since our purchase and closing (early May), we've accomplished a lot. For example:

1. Opened the property once again (it had been closed for 1.5 years and was in foreclosure) - plumbing, heating, water tests, electrical work --- basically EVERYTHING was checked out and turned ON.
2. Removal of waste, dead trees, bushes, and all sorts of "stuff" - old this and thats - a huge yard full (behind the fence kind of thing) and at least a garage and building full of "stuff".
We had 3 garage sales and saw lots of old bedding go to those in need. Not to mention "decor items" made by prisoners from Warren's Prison Shop in Thomaston (circa 1982).
Painted and revived four important rooms open to the public - our welcome Office with Gift Shop (stop by and see what neat items we have available including Put a Lobster in Your Kayak T-shirts and Lincolnville Sweatshirts), our Bay Leaf Bistro (now serving Breakfast daily, lunch daily, and Lobster Dinners for $10 on Saturday night with special dinners on Wednesday night), our Library with resource materials on what to see and do in Maine, and our Living Room - open to our guests. Remember, we're trying to create "all the charm of a B&B without the cost". See our website for our weekly breakfast and lunch menus.
Hosted a contest for interior design majors at Illinois State University - winners were brought to Maine in May to spend 4 days redecorating 11 cottages. See the interior photos on our website http://www.bayleafcottages.com/ "view the cottages". We also have our our Facebook page before and after photos. There's a link to an article about the Cottages by Design that appeared in the Bangor Daily. Each and every cottage and motel room has new bedding and new decor! All cottages are on our herbal theme and motel rooms are Maine-coast themes.
Held a ribbon cutting ceremony with three Chambers of Commerce - Belfast, Camden-Rockport-Lincolnville, and Penobscot Bay (Rockland). Open house was fun!
Painted the interior of the main house - kitchen and living room, bedrooms - someone has to watch the place!
Cleaned out the garage and set up the workshop. One can now play ping pong inside! Yeah!
Painted the railings of the decks, fences, bridges and set up a nice Pergula for picnicing and grilling.
Added a dog run for our 4-legged friends.
Added a play ground with Step 2 Swingset and Crabbie sandbox
Created a kids play cottage with games, arts and crafts, and MORE!
Scheduled and offered seminars - see our summer class schedule for kids and adults - you don't need to stay on-site to participate in the many fun things we're doing here!
Started planting gardens and replacing grass as needed.
Gained a flock of ducks and added our own 2 jumbo rubber duckies to the pond and stream (which were dug out earlier in the summer).

Well - we've done a lot and still have more to do!

Along the way we've met many of our neighbors (even had a picnic with many of them last week) and hope to meet more!

We hope to meet you too! Come visit!

Jane in Maine

Why Maine Lobsters and Lodging?

2010-04-26T15:17:00.006-04:00

Hello readers -
Welcome to the story of Maine Lobsters and Lodging! About 65 years ago my parents were married and the first place they lived as a couple was Bath, Maine. I could have been born there but for some reason my life in Maine would start a bit later. My dad was stationed at Bruswick Naval Air Station and each day hitched a ride to the base from Bath. My mom remembers helping to care for the children in the home where they rented a modest room. My grandparents as I recall, made annual trips from Pennsylvania to Maine and returned to visit us in New Jersey with maple sugar candy, pine needle-stuffed pillows to freshen our drawers of clothes, and wonderful photos.

As I grew up I always wanted to see Maine but was destined to spend my summers on the Jersey Shore - an adequate substitution for a young child I suppose. When I was out of college and off teaching high school in NJ I took up skiing and found many a weekend trek to Maine to be much fun. Imagine driving from central NJ to Sugarloaf on a Friday night, skiing Saturday and half of Sunday and then riding back to NJ in time to teach classes on Monday morning. I believe I was more interested in winters in Maine than whether or not my Monday morning classes would be engaging for my students.

When my master's degree was almost completed I saw that a position was open in Maine at USM-Gorham. I applied and was invited for an interview. While my classmates thought I was crazy to head so far north to teach, I was excited at the opportunity to live and work in Maine. My interview was a typical Maine experience. I flew into Boston and it was too foggy for flights into Portland so passengers were bussed to Maine. I couldn't see anything throughout the ride and awoke the next morning to an equally dense fog. While I met my future colleagues and had a great campus visit, I just could not see anything of Maine. In the end, it just didn't matter - I wanted to be there and the opportunity was wonderful.

Two years in Portland-Gorham and lots of ski time at Sunday River kept me happy in my early career. Lobsters and treks along the coast, midnight runs to LLBean, and mountain adventures made for a wonderful experience. When I left for graduate school in the midwest I knew I would want to return. Well, careers have a way of twisting and turning and fast forward many years since 1980.... world travel, living and working in China, accomplishing much in my professional career, adopting a wonderful daughter from China, writing and editing books, and providing support for orphans.... it's retirement time! And with that, I can help my daughter plan for college and I can plan for my return to Maine.

Along the way I thought an ideal place to be would be a small town in Maine along the coast - a place where I could get to know people and enjoy time there. I started thinking about a place to live and that turned into a quest for a lodging property to purchase. While the first attempt to secure a purchase of a desired property didn't work out due to the local banks and economy, I was able to gather some exceptional friends to join in the process and purchase what we will call Bay Leaf Cottages and Bistro - 2372 Atlantic Hwy, Lincolnville ME.

This blog is about us - the trials and tribulations of starting up and reviving a resort property in Mid-coast Maine. What happened with the bank anyway? How did property #1 fall through at the last moment? Why we're happy with property #2 anyway. Who are our investors and why are people from China coming to Maine for their vacations? What challenges have we faced in rennovating a house that's 150 years old? What are we serving at our Bistro? Where are we eating in the region and better yet - what is there good to see and do and why? Who are these Midcoast Mainers and what have I learned from them?

These questions and a whole lot more will soon be a part of this blog. Please join us on our journey! Come join us at Bay Leaf Cottages and Bistro!! We have 12 cottages and 9 motel rooms all being rennovated starting next week - we've even brought a Design Challenge to Maine! 14 winners of an interior decorating constest have redesigned our cottages and motel rooms to make them more suitable for family travelers, couples/partners, and even your loving dog! See www.bayleafcottages.com for more info! Stay 2 nights and get 2 free lobsters! We're cooking up a storm on Wednesday and Saturday nights too!

Jane in Maine