Indian Head Resort Offers Many Perks

Submitted by Virginia Leighton, Granite State Ambassador
St. Mary’s Bank - American Credit Union Museum Class of 2008

Finally I got to break away and use my Indian Head Resort perk from 2010. They were great when I called to make a reservation for nights of November 17 and 18. Rose S (another GSA) joined me for the excursion. 

NHGSA Rose in Lincoln Woods

We left Concord in the morning on Thursday with a stop at the Tanger Outlets in Tilton. Since I like to give back to those who give to us we lunched at 104 Diner (Common Man property). During a stop at the White Mt Visit Center we realized White Mt Mikey was among the missing. 

Cruised Main Street for a bit and checked in at the Resort. We wanted to try the outdoor pool and jacuzzi, yet, did not want them to open for just us, so we opted for the indoor pool and hot tub. Cleaned up for dinner, I had the prime rib and we took desserts of cheesecake with strawberries back to our room for later. After that big dinner we walked around the property.   

Old Man on the Mountain Memorial

Friday morning we had a great breakfast and headed out to the Lincoln Woods Franconia Falls Trail. There had been a dusting of snow during the night and it was crisp and breezy. We were the only car in the parking lot. As we walked the trail the damage from Irene was still obvious, although many trail repairs were already done. The plan was out to the falls and back an approximate 6 mile round trip. When we approached the intersection of the Black Pond Trail Rose said that her husband had seen many moose out by Black Pond. We opted for Black Pond – the trail was good at first and then narrowed out with a steep drop on one side. That was “ok” until we got to a very steep drop off with a brook crossing and no obviously great way to cross. Remember we were heading to the falls and back (easy hike) so we did not bring our hiking poles. We decided not to risk possible injury and falling in the water – so we turned back to the falls trail. We hiked for about 3 hours and encountered two couples on the return trip.

View from Sugar Hill Sampler

Since the day was far from over we lunched at a sports bar in downtown Franconia, visited Garnet Hill Outlet, went to the Old Man Memorial, Harman’s Cheese, tried some letterboxing near Polly’s Pancake House and checked out the Sugar Hill Sampler (great views from there).  After all that we got back to the Resort and to our delight found the outdoor pool and hot tub opened for some other guests.  It was great until you got out. Dinner was great – I had baked stuffed shrimp. During dinner I looked around the dining room and spotted NHGSA Paul and a friend who had arrived on Friday for his two day stay.

NHGSA Rose on Roaring River Trail

Saturday morning we had breakfast, a stroll around the resort’s pond, a short letterboxing hike on the Roaring River Trail near the Flume and headed home.  We stopped some more at a shop in Tilton owned by my neighbor’s daughter and a stop at Rose’s father’s grave site in the NH Veterans Cemetery.  We also walked the area that has memorials for each branch of the service.  I was quite impressed- it is a great place to visit.

What a great early weekend packed with lots of activities.

All Aboard for the Polar Express!

By Ami D'Amelio, NHGSA Programs Manager, Granite State Ambassador, PSU Ice Arena Class of 2011

The holidays are a magical time of year and what better way to kick off the season but to take the beloved ride to the North Pole on the Polar Express! This year, my sister-in-law Bridget and I hatched a plan to score some tickets for our families on the Polar Express Event of New England, and it all started in September .... which made for a very early start to the holiday season...

For the Polar Express Event of New England, which leaves from either North Conway or Lincoln, your entry and donation must be postmarked by October 1st. (For those of you that are just thinking of the Polar Express now, there are a few tickets which recently became available from the Lincoln location you can click here to see the available dates and purchase online) So we both sent in our entries with donations - hers to Lincoln, mine to North Conway - hoping we could hedge our bets. On the scheduled call days, volunteers for the Polar Express Event work their way through all the entries, calling each person and offering whatever seats are still available. When you receive the call, you have to make your decision on the spot and provide payment. If you don't answer, you lose your tickets. We were lucky enough that Bridget's call day was first and she was able to get tickets for all of us on the same Saturday night. (Consequently, I did get a call the next day but it was quite late in the afternoon and no Friday or Saturday tickets were available) Thank goodness we divided and conquered!

Now, the D'Amelios are a rowdy bunch so we took the feedback from other families who had attended in the pajamas and decided to all dress in matching PJs - I am sure we were quite the sight! But the kids were excited (the adults, too!) so we headed off in our matching outfits for the 7pm departure from the Hobo Railroad in Lincoln, NH on December 3rd. We arrived early to get to the head of the boarding line, the two little boys were in heaven playing with trains in the gift shop!


Promptly at 6:30, the doors opened and we rushed to board the actual train. True to the book, the train staff came by with hot chocolate for everyone and we enjoyed the yummy treat all the way to the North Pole.

Upon arrival at the North Pole, Santa's elves were standing along the path to help guide us to the theater and played along well with the kids. Our elf "Icecube" was very playful and asked the kids about their Santa lists - delighting each and every one with his attention.

We settled into the theater and enjoyed a reading from The Polar Express. Then the Big Man came out to greet the sea of excited kids and took the time to walk around and greet each one. This was definitely the highlight for our crew! (We had no idea Santa had this kind of time on his hands during this time of year!) After selecting a child to receive the first gift of Christmas, we all made our way back to the train and started the long trek back to NH from the North Pole. During our ride, the train staff came around again, this time to give each child a sleigh bell to take home. My girls were so excited to exclaim that they could still hear it ring!

It was a very delightful evening, and fun to see so much of the book come to life before our very eyes. It was definitely a memory that will stay with us for a long time - hopefully our matching PJs will last as long! :-)

Nuthin' But Good Times a Great Place for Kids of All Ages

by Sharon Ebol, Granite State Ambassador

No,I had no clue, but what a wonderful surprise to see an indoor,innovative play area for kids, carefully divided for specific age groups toenjoy freedom with representation! 


Nuthin' But Good Times is a safe, clean, and healthy environmentfor families to enjoy; yes, families, as children may not be leftunattended. There are designated areasto accommodate crawlers and early walkers with tiny slides, under three have aSoft-Play Structure, and older kids have large indoor play equipment, completewith mazes and obstacle courses to pique - and hold - their interests. Cleanliness is BIG at Nuthin' But Good Times as no one is allowed to enter with shoes from outdoors - socks are IN!  While parents hang out, they can have their'Cup-o-Jo', and even have nutritious snacks with their kids beforeleaving. 

Did I mention specialevents? You name it, and they will hostit! Everything from a ceramic night,movie night, costume party, and yes, Nuthin' But Good Times will alsohost your kid's birthday party in a private room and assist you with allyour needs.  Nuthin' But Good Times isreasonably priced for one time, monthly, and even group rates, based on age,with separate pricing for private parties.

So,if you have children who love to interact (or need to interact) withothers, Nuthin' But Good Times in Merrimack, NH is a fun place to go; and you parents canhave a great time, too! 

Bretton Woods Canopy Tour Great Way to Tour Mount Washington

Submitted by Dennis Roux, Granite State Ambassador Best Western Class of 2005

A very nice Sunday November 13, 2011 found Mariette and I traveling to Bretton Woods. We had reservations at noontime to take-in the Bretton Woods Canopy Tour of tree-top zip lines. Now the decision to do the Tour did not come easy. Both Mari and I have our issues with heights and motion sickness. But this Tour was to celebrate my 65th. So “issues” went out the window.

Our tour included five “young” riders all from Portland, Me. In total our group numbered seven. After signing the requisite paperwork, our guides Carl and Zake set us into harnesses, moved us to a van, and we arrived near the mountaintop for a few minutes of instruction and a practice zip.The keys to Zip Lining are the body curling and the hand braking. If you are bad at either or both your run may come up short or long, A slow run may cause you not to reach the arriving platform. If you fail to brake you may come up too long (read over shooting the arriving platform). Not good!

I came up short of the approaching platform on 6 of 9 zips. However, I mastered the last 3 zips. A short zip means you have to manually pull yourself along the cable up to the arriving platform, or the guide has to extend himself out from the platform to pull you in. An overshoot of the platform means the guide has the challenge of catching and stopping you from hitting the tree that is holding up the arriving platform. It is somewhat embarrassing when you don’t meet the “platform” goal.

This is a wonderful way to spend 3-4 hours. The crew is experienced and safety is the name of the game. Being outdoors with the Presidential Range as your neighbor is just the best. Bretton Woods Canopy Tour consists of 9-10 Zip Lines (depending on the season), 2 Sky Bridges, and 3 Rappels down trees. Zip lines range from 120 to 830 feet with the maximum height from the ground of 150 feet. The views were wonderful and much appreciated especially since as “youngsters” we have hiked much of the Presidential Range. Mt Washington was crusted in snow. The Mount Washington Cog Railway stands out and on our day at Bretton Woods there were two train runs to the top of the Mount. A glass of wine at the Mt. Washington Hotel followed by dinner at the Common Man Italian Farmhouse in Plymouth finished a wonderful day.

While working MHT I have only had a couple of inquiries about Zipping in NH. A Zip Line Tour is a great recommendation to our guests. My understanding is that there are 3 Zip Line Tours in N.H. Mari and I will be buying tour gift certificates for our adult kids for Christmas. And certainly Zip time at Bretton/Mt Washington is on my GSA recommendation list.

A Visit to Swan Chocolates in Merrimack NH

By Judi Window, GSA Inaugural Class 1996

Swan Chocolates, a family name (Swan, not chocolates), is a wonderful stop if you are looking for a special New Hampshire made gift before heading home via the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport. It is conveniently located on Route 3 in Merrimack near the new, soon-to-be opened, airport access road. The retail shop is a cozy building with beautiful lighting and comfy seating for coffee and chocolate tasting.

Abbotts Market was located on this spot for many, many years. As Granite State Ambassadors we are used to getting the history and details about buildings and business locations, this tour did not disappoint! I am sure if you asked (especially if you called ahead) they would be glad to tell you about the rich history of the building, the Abbotts and even the ghost sightings (and phone calls) in the building.

Now, down to the real reason we are all interested.... the CHOCOLATE! As someone with a restricted diet I was pleased to see many gluten-free items and the staff was quick to point out the dairy free options as well! All great news... BUT did you know that chocolate is actually a fruit!?! So 5 serving a day will keep the doctor away? Yummy!

Swan Chocolates 
436 Daniel Webster Highway
Merrimack New Hampshire
603-423-5950
www.swanchocolates.com
NOTE: This is their new location

Inn at Pleasant Lake Treats You Like Royalty

Submitted by Bernie Dann, Granite State Ambassador

We arrived at the Inn at Pleasant Lake on a perfectly early summer day. It was only a short distance out of New London, NH, 1.5 miles down a quite paved road. As we arrived the owner and his crew were just finishing the final touches to a beautiful rock wall with a patio and sidewalk to the entry. I couldn't stop myself from walking over and complementing them on their artistic work.

Then into the lobby. We were shown the downstairs where there was a living room, another room with computer with Internet access and TV, the dining room, and indoor patio. We were told dinner would be served at 6:30, but tea was going on now. We then went upstairs to our rooms. I felt like I was queen for a day, the room was picture perfect! As I entered the suite with a couch and chair in the living area, then onto the bedroom. The bed was beautifully made with white linens, so puffy and just waiting for me later that evening. The bathroom was sparkling and roomy with all the goodies to make you feel special.

I next met with my group at the indoor patio for tea. The table was set with a gorgeous big bouquet and linens, special tea, nuts, cheese, crackers and homemade cookies. All delicious! As we had our tea we overlooked Pleasant Lake with Mt. Kearsage in the backround. The sandy beach was private, with chairs, and kayaks and canoes on the side just waiting to be used.

The Inn is a perfect place to relax and unwind, forget the hustle and bussle of our busy lives. Later when dinner was about to be served we were greeted by Brian and Linda the owners, who told us about the area, the history of the Inn, and then Brian, the chef, explained our full five course dinner. The dinner was delicoius with flavors that melted in your mouth, and presented beautifully. Service was excellent and the best treat of all was Brian coming out later and talking to all diners.

After watching the Bruins win the Stanley Cup I went to bed. I got up early the next morning to explore the trails around the area. I was given a trail map and followed the easily marked trails for my early morning hike. When I got back a continental breakfast awaited me with a wonderful selection of fresh fruit, cereal, yogurt, great coffee and I'm sure I'm forgetting what else. Then the waitress came and explained the full breakfast. Yummy! Like I said, if you want to be queen for a day just go to the Inn on Pleasant Lake, a great place!!!!!

Manning House Example of NH Philanthropy

Submitted by Lorry Young, Granite State Ambassador
Radisson Hotel Class of 2006

The Manning House once was a private residence, but upon Mrs. Manning's death, the home was donated to the church. The chapel and church were added later. The property is on ten acres of land currently owned by the Brookside Congregational Church, which is located at 2013 Elm Street in Manchester, NH. The second floor of the Manning House is office space for the church, and the downstairs area is used for gatherings for many functions.

But I find the history so compelling. The Manning House and Carriage Barn was built as a wedding gift for Mary (Carpenter) Manning from her father, Mr. Frank Carpenter. Frank Carpenter was a philanthropist and owner of the mills. Both Mary and her father were longtime active members of the Franklin Street Church.  By the mid-1950's, the Franklin Street was weakening structurally and major renovations were needed to make it safe.  A decision had to be made either to fund expensive and extensive alterations or build a new church on another site.  Mrs. Mary Manning offered her 10-acre estate on North Elm St. known as "The Brook" to the church if the congregation wanted to relocate and build new. The congregation voted to accept Mrs. Manning's offer. The Manning House and carriage barn were adapted for congregational use and connected to the sanctuary. The original chapel from Franklin Street was then incorporated into the Manning residence. 

I find this to be an interesting anecdote. A friend's uncle was married in the Franklin Street Chapel... many years later his wife passed away. He re-married in the same chapel, but it was moved to it's new location in the Manning House about a mile away.

There is a Children's Memorial Garden on the property, a place of peace and serenity located at the South lawn of the Manning House. It is a place in honor and memory of all our children, grandchildren, and siblings. It is open to the public to visit anytime. In the fall, an annual butterfly release is held in the Memorial Garden. Mrs. Manning was also a bereaved parent, having lost her son at the age of 14.

The overall architecture is beautiful, and the interior carved wordwork is beautiful. There is so much to see in this lovely home. One interesting feature of the house is a classical temple like porch entryway. Somewhat out of character with the rest of the house and reflects an interest in Colonial Revival architectural style that existed side-by-side with the Queen Ann Revival during this period. The dining room even has leather wallpaper.

Can't Go Wrong with the Kanc!

Submitted By: Ed Gartland, Granite State Ambassador Franco-American Centre Class of 2007

One day at the Big E two women came up to me and started thanking me profusely. While I was trying to figure out what magnificent act I had performed, one of them got a little more specific and said they were so happy that they had spoken to me at last year's Big E and when they asked what they should do on an upcoming visit to NH I recommended a drive across the Kanc. (I always recommend a drive across the Kanc. How can I go wrong?)  Well, following my advice, they did drive across the Kanc and the Bear Notch Rd, as well. They were still aglow with the experience! The thing that really caught their attention was an inquisitive red fox who approached them at one of the lookouts along the Kanc. They were drinking water and munching on rice cakes. They offered some to the fox and he (she?) was only too happy to share lunch with them.

So, remember ~~~ always recommend the Kanc and notify the wildlife that you're shipping in some tourists.

Dexter's Inn Offers Plenty of Indoor and Outdoor Activities

Recommendation Submitted by Jean McGiffin and Pictures Submitted by Lorry Young, Granite State Ambassadors
Radisson Hotel Class of 2006

The Sunapee area revels in their quiet, unhurried, hassle free environment and rightly so. A consummate example is Dexter's Inn, a special country resort-inn blessed with an idyllic setting on a 20 acre estate. With three tennis courts, an outdoor pool and many other sporting activities, relaxation isn't all that the Inn is about.  Other, more involved sports, are just minutes away.

What immediately strikes you is the tree lined approach and the magnificent, manicured lawns, which are all maintained by a minimal number (but very talented) of staff. The view from the parking lot is amazing...panoramic views of Mount Kearsarge, Mount Sunapee and the surrounding countryside....and yes, even some very comfortable chairs await you to relax and take in the view even before you unpack.

My favorite indoor sport, reading, is well handled by a living room featuring a fireplace and an entire library of books...and you can even enjoy your favorite (well mannered, of course) pet by your side while you read.  Probably unheard of in inn keeping is a "BYOB" policy and they will provide the glasses, ice and openers. A book, a purring cat and a glass of wine....what a life!!

Probably the nicest part is the Innkeeper, John Augustine. He is what the quintessential NE Innkeeper should be....warm, welcoming and accommodating and he even wears a green (GSA colored) shirt!! We all agreed that this would be a wonderful experience for our NH visitors!!

Weeping Willow Fine Arts is a Special NH Crafter

Submitted by Kate Bashline, Granite State Ambassador
Great Bay Class of 2001
Jewelry and fine art objects made by Diane Bennett of  Weeping Willow Fine Arts are simply resplendent. Her jewelery is a delight to wear for its design and rich colors that highlight whatever you are wearing. It can be worn to work and play. The dichroic glass changes colors in a magical way. There is added enjoyment in the fact that you will always meet a nice person who just has to speak to you about your lovely jewelry. Diane and her process of dichroic glass have been featured on NH Chronicle. Her items are a true gift to yourself or others. Her prices are affordable. Her business and her art are a special NH story.

Weeping Willow Fine Arts
www.weepingwillowfinearts.com
Diane Bennett
1635 Hopkinton Rd
Hopkinton, NH 03229
603-496-9121

Rosewood Inn Celebrates Unique NH In Unexpected Ways

Norma A. and Anita M "Love It Here!"

Submitted by: Norma A., Granite State Ambassador

"Winta" Class of 2001

During our Granite State Ambassador Educational Tour of the Sunapee Region, I was fortunate to have my name chosen in the lottery for The Rosewood Country Inn in Bradford, NH.

Although the Inn is 8 minutes off the main track in Bradford, and was a half hour drive from our meeting place in New London, we found ourselves to have been blessed with a wonderful overnight diamond. As we approached along the quaint and scenic Pleasant View Road we couldn't help but wonder what kind of place we must be headed for, but soon we found this was definitely a delightful place where one would definitely go for a relaxing time away from the world.  The acres of manicured, sculpted, picturesque land dressed in flowers was breathtaking. And sitting in it's midst, lying so quiet and lovely was a gorgeous three storied Victorian home with several gables and surrounding Farmers porch with wicker furniture, an artist's painting to behold with a subtle green wooden siding and rose-colored shutters beside all it's many windows.

We immediately felt welcomed as "Dick" met us at the paved drive with his feline friend (who was NOT allowed into the guest area doors) and helped us with our luggage. Inside, we saw the charming guest Living Room and Game/reading room so tasteful and immaculate in Victorian charm with a wide staircase going to the second floor of beauty. There we met "Leslie" and our host owners explained how they had moved from the big city and purchased this "run-down farmhouse and land" about 20 years ago and had done all the renovations and additions slowly over the years, Dick doing the landscaping and helping with the guests, and Leslie doing the Interior Decorating, cooking and collaborating with the architectural designing. She related that she had purchased all hand-made laces and other linens.

And what a fine job they did! Each of the twelve guest rooms are luxuriously decorated and uniquely and aptly named for an American Statesman, an honored woman, or a historical theme. (Abigail Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Whispering Pines, Nathanial Hawthorne, Williamsburg, Sturbridge, Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, Moondance, Dreamcatcher)

We were speechless as we viewed our guest rooms. Mine was romantically adorned with Rose covered vintage style wallpaper and matching quilted chintz window coverings and contrasting pillows on a high posted, queen-sized, hand laced canopied bed with special touches that would have suited Nathanial Hawthorne himself. And the large, full bath facility with all of one's needs was entered via a smaller room containing a corner Jacuzzi decorated with rubber duckies. One could not want for anything, and could feel welcomed and comfortable with a room like this - TV, gas fireplace, electric clock radio, extra bed pillows in a separate closet,  (no wi-fi!), windows that opened to the fresh air,  a perfectly wonderful mattress, and all the little touches like an ongoing journal for the guests found on the side table and a copy of a self-made book called "Return to Rosewood" by a local NH author.

I slept beautifully and awoke to the sound of the birds through my window ajar as they sang from the surrounding greenery, so beautiful with the upcoming sun.

Our morning breakfast was called and we entered a beautiful large dining room clothed for a gourmet banquet in white clothes and rose-colors napkins, candlelight and crystal, silver settings in front of a fully glassed window overlooking a small pond. We certainly were made to feel extra special as Dick served us graciously with a delightful menu of fruit, muffins, juice, coffee and quiche. Breakfast will never be the same again!

This was a perfect spot for a getaway, and we sincerely thanked our owner hosts for their generous hospitality and offering. I wished we could have stayed longer but our Ambassadors were awaiting us for another day's adventure.

Dick and Leslie can rest assured that I will definitely recommend their lovely Inn and hospitality to our NH visitors that wish to visit their area or even a NH resident that wishes to get away from it all for awhile.

I have no doubt that they will once again "Return to Rosewood".

Discover More With Seacoast Segway Tours

Submitted by Richard Russell, Granite State Ambassador
Concentra Urgent Care Class of 2009

Discover MORE of Portsmouth -- the most fun you will have touring the City.

Experience historic Portsmouth, NH in an exciting new way. Take a guided tour on your own personal Segway PT through some of the most beautiful and history-rich places in Portsmouth.

Tours start at the Portsmouth Historical Society's John Paul House. There are two guided tours that you can take.  Historic Homes and City Tour or the Historic City and Waterfront Tour. With Segway's amazingly intuitive riding, the better vantage point from up on a Segway, and the distance you can cover with a Segway, you will never do another tour of Portsmouth like this. Sightseeing on this guided Segway PT tour is a unique and fun way to get to know and appreciate a truly historic seacoast city.

Visit Seacoast Segway Tours online or call 603-828-5280 to schedule the tour of a lifetime.

Franklin Pierce: New Hampshire’s Only United States President

Betty's Travel Planning Tips
Submitted by: Betty Gagne, Granite State Ambassador, First in the Nation Class 1999; Customer Service Assistant NH Division of Travel & Tourism Development


Franklin Pierce was the only United States President who hailed from New Hampshire and served as the country’s 14th president. There are several points of interest in NH that relate to Franklin Pierce, including his childhood homestead in Hillsborough, the Pierce Manse in Concord, and his burial site in the Old North Cemetery, also in Concord.

Source: City Profile

The Franklin Pierce Homestead in Hillsborough is where Pierce spent most of his childhood; it was constructed by his father the year Franklin was born. Here Daniel Webster was entertained in the ballroom on the second floor, and Franklin Pierce drilled local militia groups. The mansion is maintained and operated by the Hillsborough Historical Society. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1961, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The home is located off Route 31; New Hampshire residents are admitted free of charge, while others pay a small admission fee. Guided tours are offered. For information, please call 603-478-3165, or visit the New Hampshire Parks and Recreation webpage dedicated to this historic site.

Source: Wikipedia

The Pierce Manse is located at 14 Horseshoe Pond Lane in Concord, and is the only house ever owned and occupied by Franklin Pierce, his wife Jane, and their two children. Constructed in Greek Revival style, the home is open for tours from June through October. Threatened with demolition in 1966, it was saved and moved to a site in Concord's Historic District. The house has been restored and many of the furnishings either belonged to Pierce or other members of his family. Group tours may be scheduled by appointment.

Source: Wikipedia

The Franklin Pierce Burial Site is in the Old North Cemetery in Concord. Pierce is buried there with his wife Jane and two of their sons. The gravesite was refurbished and the deteriorating markers were replaced by a single granite spire with all the names inscribed. The first child was buried elsewhere at the time of death. The burial site sits toward the rear of the graveyard and is marked by a tall marker. There is also an historical marker in the cemetery with more information about Pierce’s life.

A distinguished statue of Franklin Pierce sits proudly on the lawn of the NH State House on Main Street in Concord. The dedication took place on November 25th, 1914. You can learn more about Franklin Pierce’s legacy and see a photo of the statue by visiting the New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources.

Polly's Pancake Parlor is Delicious Any Time of Day

Submitted by Sue Geyer, Granite State Ambassador
Currier Museum Class of 2010

Last fall when my folks were visiting, we took a drive upnorth. Since two of my Father’s favorite foods are maple sugar/syrup and pancakes, I decided to take them to Polly’s Pancake Parlor. I hadn’t been there in a long time and was delighted that it had the same warm rustic feel I remembered.

Although they have a lot of other things on the menu, we were set for breakfast and that is one of their strengths. The fact that they have a tray on the table with maple syrup, maple cream and granulated maple sugar was a big hit. My Dad ordered a full stack of pancakes while my Mom and I did the half stack along with some meat. They have a variety of batters along with different add-ins. And you can opt for up to three different combinations. So I think I had blueberry buckwheat, walnut buttermilk and coconut cornmeal. They are 3-inch pancakes and you get either 3 or 6. What’s really nice if you order the full stack is they bring you three to begin with and then after a little while bring you three more hot from the griddle. And everything was delicious!

The dining room overlooked the mountains and is beautiful. Someone happened to spot some bears playing and clued in the rest of the dining room.

They also have a wonderful little gift shop, which includes Polly’s pancake mix and lots of maple products. You can also order off their website year round.

However, they are closed in the winter, so don't hold off a visit of your own! Once they close for the season, they won't open again until the beginning of May 2012 (check their website for seasonal details). Whenever you do visit, it’s a great destination any time of the day.

Candlelite Inn is All About the Personal Touches

Submitted by The Mighty Candlelite Foursome:

• Rita G, Inaugural Class of 1996
• Leo G, Red Spotted Newt Class of 1997
• Judy L, St. Mary's Bank Class of 2008
• Ron L, Concentra Urgent Care Class of 2009 

The distance from the Lake Sunapee Region Chamberof Commerce seemed long in that we went down the interstate that took us eastsouth east and then we cut to the west to get to the Candlelite Inn. When we reached Bradfordand made the last turn, there it was. Ourfirst impression of the late 1800s building was that it looked like a convertedfarm house. Instead, the Candlelite Inn wasbuilt as a guest house (inn) with what we thought to be a barn but was a stableand carriage house. Marilyn and Les Gordon,who visited NH over the years from southern New Jersey (NJ Turnpike Exit 3), bought theinn in 1997 and have done extensive work to bring it to its pleasant andpresent state.

The Candlelite Inn, Bradford, NH

Having never stayed at a B&Bbefore, we did not know what to expect. Whenwe arrived, we were delighted that Marilyn was outside greeting and welcomingus with her warm smile! She made us feel like we were returning guests.

Marilyn gave us a tour of the Inn. Rita and Leo were in The Mini Suite on thefirst floor with access to a gazebo porch, cute front glass stove in thesitting area and a beautiful queen sized bed and large bath. Also, there was a decanter of sherry with twoglasses for them to enjoy a pre-meal drink (aperitif). The finishing touches were outstanding, evendown to a rubber ducky to float in the bathtub while bathing.

Ron and Judy were in the Peach Room onthe second floor with four posted bed, a sofa, decorative trunk and a mirroredarmoire. Again, there was a decanter ofsherry there for their enjoyment. The bathroomwas large and spacious. A variety ofamenities (including a rubber ducky) were provided.

The rooms were warm and cozy, Rita,Leo, Ron and Judy were all very happy to be there.

Marilyn was so accommodating withour special request as Leo wanted to see the Bruins in the final game forthe Stanley Cup on Wednesday evening. She set up the TV in thebreakfast room tuned to the correct station and all we had to do was hit the"on" button. Our leisurely dining experience in New London thatevening took much longer than anticipated. We felt badly because we weregreatly delayed in returning to the Inn. Because of Marilyn's kindness, we were able to see the most important part ofthe game....the last 5 minutes... and all the celebratory happenings andpresentation of the trophies. As an Inn Keeper, Marilyn is thetops!! 

Our Breakfast Main Course

Nextmorning, the gourmet breakfast that Marilyn Gordon served was extraordinarilyDELICIOUS and NOT the usual bacon, eggs, toast and cereal. Instead, we enjoyed the starter of biscuitswith butter; main course of mascarpone stuffedFrench toast and dessert of home made pound cake with crème fraiche and berries.

Dessert for Breakfast!

This stay was our first Bed andBreakfast experience!  It was pleasurableto have the personal touch, to actually talk to the people who run and are theoperation. To learn about the work thatwent into restoring the building, the recipe and the effort that went intopreparing the breakfast that we had. Itwas an experience that only offered by a Bed and Breakfast not the chains.

The Candlelite Inn will be adestination for us some time in the future. We surely will recommend itto our friends and visitors to New Hampshire we encounter as Granite State Ambassadors.