An Acadian Quickie . . .

As I wrote in my last blog, the Goldsmiths joined Lynne, George, Grandpop, Jon, and Mel for an overnight up on Mt Desert Island. Amanda and I truly rank the area as our favorite place on earth, and this was Callum's first visit (out of the womb, that is). We hope he loves it as much as we do. Even though we didnt have that much time (all the time in the world isnt enough time in Acadia) we still managed to squeeze a few neat items in. On Sunday morning, we met at the Belfast McDonalds and caravaned up to the island. We checked in to the cabin we rented, dropped some stuff off on the porch, and meandered over to the Jordan Pond House, where Lynne and Amanda were able to live vicariously through all the British "high tea" paraphernalia. We made reservations, as it was MOBBED (but understandably so, with such a beautiful place on a holiday weekend). The Jordan Pond House is an inn and a restaurant situated right on beautiful Jordan Pond. People are attracted to its sprawling and lush green knoll that overlooks the pond and some of the Acadia mountains. "Afternoon tea" is a favorite on the menu (and what we got) where they seat you in rustic tables and serve you "tea (or coffee, chai, lemonade, etc)and popovers. Hey, I have a question: How bright is Callum's future???

Answer: His future is so bright, he has to wear sunglasses!

Below, Amanda readies Callum for a walk along the Carriage Roads, while Mel gets ready to do some Ashtanga Yoga. Blow up the picture to notice, in the background, the beautiful view of the pond and then Bubble Mountain. There are actually "two" bubbles (how appropriate!), but the trees are blocking the one on the left. The Carriage Roads were built by the Rockefeller family in the early 1900's (I think it was then) for the general purpose of enjoying equestrian activities throughout the park. Today, the same rings true, but you'll also find walkers, runners, cyclists, and nerds on segues.
Oh, and here we are (minus me, of course, since I am taking the photo) enjoying our tea and popovers--along with everyone else from Mass. Amanda and I used to talk about working at the Jordan Pond House for the summer, since, if you are hired, you get to live in the "dorm" for the summer while you work. Anyone want to watch Callum next summer???
Today's hilight was a trip to the Atlantic Brewing Company, where Callum took his SECOND brewery tour! It was awesome; we did a pretty comprehensive tasting afterwards, and even AMANDA enjoyed the beer--so much so that she BOUGHT SOME . . .to DRINK. And she got a shirt. I bought a pint glass to add to my collection. They make some pretty interesting beer, our favorites being the Scottish Ale (brewed with peat and heather . . .not the people, the flora) Bar Harbor Blueberry Ale, and Island Ginger Ale, which has a wonderful ginger flavor, and would steam up some awesome . . . well . . .steamers. On site, of course, is "Mainely Meat BBQ." And, while I abhor the usage of "Mainely" to describe things in Maine, the quality of the food far outweighs this faux pax. Fantastic BBQ, all made in a 12 foot smoker. I really like this picture of grandpop and I together. We were really happy that he came with us, and I think he had a good time (especially when he got to make me a vodka and tonic . . .or 3) last night.
And this picture is beautiful to me . . .the loving smile of a beautiful mom (which only Callum can see right now), while Callum carefully studies his mommy's face AND eats his hand. Callum was SOOOO good on this trip. We just love him!!!!!