The Maine Event Part 1

Written by Jaqui Lividini

For this week I thought I’d take you on a turn through my trip to Coastal Maine. Now that I’ve taken you through much of the technical renovation talk I figured it was time for something a bit more fun…home shopping!

To kick off my first shopping day in Boothbay Harbor, as a New Yorker, I of course contemplated where to get a super big decaf/skim cappuccino. 

Those of you who know me know this is my morning ritual. Lo and behold, I ended up finding the BEST cappuccino outside New York at The Red Cup Coffee House.When it comes to a cappuccino, it’s all in the foam – no air. Yes, I have it down to a science, and this spot’s coffee absolutely hit the spot. Hats off to Dominic and Jackie, the terrifically talented baristas who kickstarted my day not only this day, but every day while I was in Maine.  

After that I was off to Wiscasset, also known as “The Prettiest Village in Maine," for shopping. Our first stop: my favorite antique store in New England (maybe even the world) -The Marston House.

I've shopped here for twenty summers and I can't think of one trip when I've left empty handed. Sharon and Paul Mrozinski (the proprietors) live in France during the winter, and in Wiscasset for the summer. As a result, their antiques are American country mixed with a Provencal feel. Their taste is perfection, and being there for me is literally like being a kid in a candy shop.

We actually met Erica Soule (the owner) on one of our first visits to the Marston House years ago.  She was a student working with Sharon for the summer. I could spend days in her shop.

It’s a treasure trove of unique and interesting items, each a wonderful discovery. I spotted a perfect pink and sea-foam blanket for Calliope's room, as well as an enchanting papier-mâché bunny and a linen pillow with an embroidered heart.

At this point we needed a snack to refuel! To Mac's Place we went for fresh homemade lemonade and the most inventive cupcakes I think I’ve ever encountered! There were little ice cream cones with cupcakes inside. And there were Twinkie style cupcakes with little faces on them – Calliope and I were hooked! The lemonade was my favorite. No added sugars just made fresh from lemons and ice water; something sweet to end a sweet day.