As September sped by, it felt like we were caught in a whirlwind of activity. Labor Day weekend found us camping at a friend’s property on the Androscoggin River in Errol. Surrounded by nature and great company, we celebrated the end of summer. It was a wonderful way to connect with new and old friends, share good food, and enjoy the last warm days of the season.
Two work trips took us to the northern Maine towns of Fort Kent, Madawaska, and Houlton where our trusty motorhome became a home away from home. The scenic landscapes and crisp air were the perfect backdrop for our adventures.
One our stays was at The First Settlers Lodge, a Harvest Hosts spot. Perched on a hilltop, it was the ideal place to unwind after a long travel day. The lodge has an abundance of grassy area that resonated with our love for the outdoors, making it a great place for Bell to run and play.
You can see it all in the latest video.
Back home, we continued working on our old house, tackling the ongoing project of replacing rotted wood and giving the exterior a fresh coat of paint. A neighbor’s window replacement project provided us with salvaged windows, which we eagerly added to the backside of the barn, giving it a new life and character.
However, not everything in the garden was a success. Our squash and pumpkin plants fell victim to squash vine borers, leaving us with nothing to harvest. On a brighter note, our hydrangeas were stellar this year, blooming in vibrant shades and providing a beautiful contrast to the fall foliage. The herbs thrived, adding flavor to our meals and a touch of green to the garden.
In preparation for the cooler months, we planted 100 garlic bulbs, envisioning a robust crop for next year. As boating season came to an end, we reluctantly pulled our wooden boats out of the water, signaling the shift from summer adventures to cozy autumn days.
Barn Lounge inspiration started several years ago when we were invited to a party in a nearby barn and we were awed. We recently reconnected with these kindred spirits recently and they kicked it several notches. Here are a few shots. Wow!
We hosted a block party in our Barn Lounge. It was a delightful way to bring neighbors together. The atmosphere buzzed with laughter and the enticing aroma of a potluck spread, as neighbors shared their favorite dishes. One of our neighbors, a talented drummer, set the stage for an unforgettable evening; live music soon filled the air, creating a vibrant backdrop for our gathering. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we gathered around a campfire, sharing stories and enjoying the warmth of friendship under the stars. It was a perfect blend of good food, great music, and cherished company, making for a memorable night.
Reflecting on September, it was a month of balance—between work and play, successes and setbacks. Each experience, whether in the motorhome or at home, reminded us of the beauty of transition and the joys of community and nature. Here’s to more adventures as we enter autumn. 🍂 🍁
Miscellaneous shots from September:
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