Off the island ~ Quebec City, Canada

I’m back after a super busy, tiring but invigorating week away!   I love visiting new places and this past week I spent time with New England Photo Workshops and some photo friends walking and photographing the streets of Old Quebec City.  We put in lots of miles taking in its beauty and hope to get back there again some time soon!   I would definitely recommend putting it on your bucket list.   Lots of restaurants, street performers, unique shopping, old world architecture and a very safe & clean.

You can’t really go anywhere in Quebec without a view of the impressive Chateau Frontenac built in 1893 which is one of the most photographed hotels in the world.
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The old world architecture made you feel as though you were in France or Italy with many small neighborhoods.   You could do a book just on the doors of Quebec!

If you go, make sure you tour the Citadel and watch the changing of the guard.

So much to see and do around every corner!

Pet of the week- Sashimi

I was originally rescued by the MSPCA from a hoarding situation. There were lots of us cats and all of us were feeling very shy and under-socialized so several different rescue groups and shelters worked together to find us all spots to go where we could get the extra care we would need. I and 3 of my feline family were able to come here!
As you can imagine when we first arrived we were all feeling pretty shy and overwhelmed. I took a little while to get comfortable but with lots of patience, coaxing and yummy treats I started to trust the people here and came out of my shell.
I am considered a Special Needs adoption because I have a head tremor. This tremor has been present since I arrived and has not changed at all since I have been here. I eat, sleep, play and socialize just like the other kitties only I do it with a bit of a wobble. My veterinarian can’t say for sure what is causing my head tremor without doing all sorts of special and really expensive testing but because the tremor hasn’t changed and doesn’t affect my quality of life he said I can get a chance to find a family to call my own and consider myself a Special Needs adoption candidate! I’m a quiet fellow who enjoys the finer things in life like sunny windowsills, climbing up a cat tower, playing with toys and getting attention from my people. I am looking for a family willing to take home a Special Needs animal and with my shyer nature I am looking for a home with older children or adults. I had a rough start in life and I am looking forward to a bright future with you!
To see all available animals at the Christopher Cutler Rich Animal Shelter please go to our website: capeannanimalaid.org.
 

Looking For a Unique and Awesome Getaway?

The Green Turtle Floating Bed and Breakfast in Charlestown is absolutely one of my new favorite places in the world.

In looking for a quick little getaway, I started thinking that it would be fun to find a houseboat or a “yacht” to spend the night on.  Once I started to think in that direction, I quickly realized that the boats I was finding were either a) super expensive or b) kind of run down or c) far away.

I was beginning to get a little bit discouraged, but then…just when I was about to give up and go a different route…I found the Green Turtle Floating Bed and Breakfast in Charlestown. It was perfect on every note.  Super cute, check. The right price, check.  Close enough to home to allow for a quick getaway, check. Something a little bit different, check. Easy, check.  Done.

The owners of the Green Turtle, Karen and John, actually own two yachts and the floating house (which is home to two nearly identical and separate units).  While I had originally been looking for an actual boat….and while their boats looked really, really lovely…I  was immediately smitten with adorable yellow home on the water.

Booking was a breeze.  I emailed for availability and Karen got back to the me the very next morning.  We cemented a date, I planned our getaway, I called on our way in, and John was in the parking lot of the marina ready to greet us the second we arrived.  He made us feel incredibly welcome from the get go.  He helped us put our things in a dock wagon, gave us our bearings, talked to us about various modes of transportation for getting into the city, and escorted us to our little floating home.  Once inside, he gave us the skinny on the whats and hows of our accommodations, talked to us about nearby lunch options, showed us our generously stocked (and free) fridge, snacks, coffee, and even homemade granola, and shared a big file of brochures about the area.  Just when we thought it couldn’t get any nicer, the lovely and equally as gracious Karen arrived.  Karen welcomed us, asked us about any food allergies, and asked what time we’d like breakfast delivered to our door.  How did a mushroom, onion, and cheese frittata with fresh fruit, cornbread, and chorizo sound?   Ummm….yes, please.

They excused themselves and allowed us to settle in.  For the rest of our stay Karen and John were available when we needed them, but politely tucked away elsewhere when we didn’t.  They live aboard another boat in the marina and were busy with the hustle and bustle that is involved in maintaining a variety of vessels and accommodations….and yet were always up for a chat when we happened to engage them along the way.  John happily shared his fishing rod with my husband and, upon hearing that we had reservations at the Chart House on Long Wharf, gave me a card for the Water Taxi to pick us up at our front door (well, deck chair) and deliver us almost directly to the restaurant.  It couldn’t have been more convenient or perfect…and the nice little boat ride across the harbor on a beautiful evening was an added bonus!

The photos speak for themselves.  Our room was perfectly quaint and comfortable.  Fully equipped with AC, television, seating area, really comfortable bed, microwave, and refrigerator (full of water, juices, yogurt, milk, cream, and some simple snacks).  While it was the perfect combination of well-equipped and cozy….my favorite place was, without a doubt, the dock.  With 4 deck chairs and some side tables…and some pretty planters with flowers….I could have sat there forever.  In the evening we had cocktails on the dock, read a little, and watched a large variety of boat traffic come and go in the harbor.  In the morning, we drank coffee, ate our phenomenally delicious breakfast….and then read a little more.

My only regret is that our stay was too short.  I will absolutely be returning for a longer stay soon. The question is, stay onboard one of their yachts next time….or return to the floating home that we loved so much?

Check out all of their options, information, and more at the link below.

The Green Turtle Floating Bed and Breakfast

 

www.capeanneats.com Weekly Roundup

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cape ann dining news


Join us for the 8th Annual Cape Ann Brewing Hop Picking Party on Thursday the 25th!

Aside ~ August 19, 2016 ~ The Pub at Cape Ann Brewing / Cape Ann Brewing Company

CROP HOPS PARTY

Join us this coming Thursday as we harvest the hops we’ve been growing on-site at the pub and around the North Shore. Help us pick a mess of cascade & nugget hops. Fill a bucket and get a free Cape Ann Brewing pint glass!

We’ll use these hops in our Brew The Charles entry, our Homeport Pale Ale. We’re also pulling out our “Hopulator” and will load it up that night for some freshly infused beers. We’ll have live music, a homebrew seminar and, of course, great beer!

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These hops, grown on-site at the Pub at Cape Ann Brewing, along with other locally sourced hops will be harvested and picked.

Serenitee Rewards Card Pays Back Over And Over- The Salmon @LatFortyThree

August 19, 2016 ~ Joey C

The Salmon At Lat 43

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Every time I look at my rewards by logging on online there’s more free stuff that magically appears. Sign up here (for free) to get yours and enjoy the gift of free awesome food from The Serenitee Group.

Serenitee Rewards Card

Here’s the info from The Serenitee restaurant Group website-

Account for your good taste.

The Serenitee Rewards Card allows you earn points towards free food and experiences every time you dine at one of our restaurants. You earn 10 points for every dollar spent. All you have to do is put your Rewards Card next to your credit card when you pay. Here are the standard rewards:

2,500 points = Free Appetizer, Salad or Dessert
3,500 points = Pizza, Sushi Roll or Sharing Platter
5,500 points = Free Entrée
10,000+ points = Tickets to special events, like wine dinners and cocktail parties, plus some fun rewards we’re still dreaming up.

But there’s more…

  • We also add surprises through the year. You might find a free appetizer show up on your card for Latitude 43, or brunch at Alchemy, or sushi at Opus.
  • You always get a free entrée and dessert on your birthday.
  • We run specialty theme diners throughout the year that you can attend for free with points.
  • We give you double points Monday nights & lunch Mon-Thurs.
If you already have a Blue Rewards card…
  • Click here to create an on-line account.
  • Click here to log into your account and see what’s on your card.
How Do I Get a Rewards Card?

To get a new card or replace an existing card:


525 In Magnolia Is Worth The Trip- Classy Comfort Food At Reasonable Prices

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August 18, 2016 ~

As an East Gloucester Guy Who Rarely Leaves The Shire In The Summer I Can Say Without Question That The Drive Cross Town To 525 IS Definitely Worth It!

Get The Stromboli!  The crust in the Stromboli was outrageously good.  The Strawberry Cove Salad Delicious.  Solid Pour On The Drinks.

If you haven’t been, I would not hesitate.  525 On Lexington Ave In Magnolia.

Check Them Out On Facebook @Magnolia525

525 is also committed to using local Seafood and host Local Seafood Nights every Wednesday.

 

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Tonno Lobster Roll Made with Fresh Off The Boat Lobster

Image ~ August 17, 2016 ~ Tonno ~

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Emerson Inn is Hiring!

August 13, 2016 ~ krystenreilly

Emerson Inn and Pigeon Cove Tavern are now hiring!  If you’re looking for a fun, energetic place to work with potential growth opportunity, then this is the place for you.  We’re now reviewing applications for Servers, Hosts, Dishwashers, Front Desk Associates and Housekeepers.  Both full-time and part-time hours available.  To apply, please fill out an application on our site (http://emersoninnbythesea.com/employment.html) or come visit us at 1 Cathedral Ave. in Rockport to fill out an application in person.  We hope to speak to you soon!

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Cape Ann Community Bulletin Board Listings for 8/22/16

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Welcome To Cape Ann Community Bulletin Board

Joey C ~

A place where non-profit Cape Ann organizations can post press releases directly and then those press releases will be reposted to http://www.goodmorninggloucester.com . This is not an advertising space for businesses, fitness or wellness organizations, or music listings.

The web address will be http://www.capeanncommunity.com

To have your community organization news posted here, contact Joey C who will grant access for you to post directly.


Mums 2016

August 22, 2016 ~

THIS IS OUR TIME TO SHINE

ESSEX COMES ALIVE EVERY FALL WITH MUMS EVERYWHERE

LET’S DECORATE THE TOWN

LET’S MAKE MAIN STREET COME ALIVE

LET’S ADD SOME DRAMATIC LOCAL COLOR

LET’S ATTRACT SOME ATTENTION

LET’S SHOW SOME LIFE…SOME TOWN SPIRIT

LET’S MAKE THIS A GREAT EVENT

THIS IS OUR OPPORTUNITY  TO LOOK OUR VERY BEST

The Essex Merchants Group, the Essex Division of the Chamber of Commerce, the Essex Enhancement Committee and the Essex River Cultural District will be sponsoring this event again this year. Thousands of colorful potted mum plants will be delivered to the parking lot of Main Street Antiques on September 19th. These locally grown plants will be sold for $5.00 each to those taking part in the MUMS THE WORD campaign. (Checks payable to Essex Merchants Group)

Decorate your store front, porch and yard. Everyone is invited. Please let us know that you, your business or organization will be participating and how many plants you want us to order for you. In addition, if you are an individual, a business or an organization and would like to adopt a site or make a donation to the Mums Fund you can send it to

For more information call Bob Coviello (978-768-7039) or email robertcoviello@hotmail.com

www.VisitEssexMa.com


Lighthouse Harbor Tour

August 20, 2016 ~ Cape Ann Museum

Join Harbor Tours of Cape Ann and the Cape Ann Museum for a cruise around the Cape.

Saturday, August 27 at 10:30a.m.

Tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours. $30 Museum members. $35 nonmembers. Advance tickets required. Participants meet at Harbor Tours on Harbor Loop. Please call (978)283-0455 x10 for more information or to purchase tickets. Tickets can also be purchased online at Eventbrite.

Enjoy the history and beauty of Cape Ann’s coast, up close! Presented by Cape Ann’s longest-running sightseeing company – since 1969! See parts of the Cape you can’t reach by car – or on any other boat trip! Bring your camera – you’ll see historic lighthouses, Gloucester’s fishing fleet, lobstermen, drawbridges, islands, and Cape Ann’s spectacular natural beauty. Learn about some of the names of famous artists and poets that spent time here painting and writing. Hear about the great granite industry that flourished here for many years.

Restrooms, snacks and drinks are available on board.

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Trip Advisor reviews of Harbor Tours:

“This trip should be taken by anyone visiting the Gloucester area! The breathtaking sights seen from the boat are ones that can’t be seen by car.” – JB

“What a great way to introduce the younger kids to boat travel, some history, and where their food really comes from! The crew was very good with the children abroad, aged 3-8. The rest of us enjoyed the ride, and learned a few things about Gloucester and its history in art, the fishing industry, and interesting earlier inhabitants. ” – MP

Image: Collection of the Cape Ann Museum Library & Archives.

 


Rockport Countdown To Kindergarten Tuesday August 23

Image ~ August 19, 2016 ~

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Sawyer Free Library Week of August 21, 2016

August 19, 2016 ~ sawyerfreelibrary

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Anime Club Flyeraug 25 archeology

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THE YEAR OF THE MONKEY, BRASS MONKEY THAT IS!

IMG_2256Master woodcarver David Calvo shares his work in progress, this exquisite sign he is creating for Gloucester’s newest gift and antique emporium, The Brass Monkey, located on Main Street in the old Pallazola building. For more information about Calvo Studios and David’s woodworking classes, visit his website here.

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DSC_0070All Photos David Calvo

DAYBREAK AT THE JONES RIVER SALT MARSH

Happy Late Summer!

Jones River Salt Marsh Gloucester copyright Kim SmithI hear lots of unhappy exclamations that summer is ending. No need to despair, the last day of summer is September 21st, still five weeks away. We’re just coming into the most atmospheric and beautiful season of all–September and October being two of the best months anywhere in New England–especially on Cape Ann!

Jones River Salt Marsh Gloucester -2 copyright Kim Smith Jones River Salt Marsh Gloucester -3 copyright Kim Smith Jones River Daybreak

Busy day on Saturday

Rick and I went to the Rotary Breakfast, the Waterfront Festival and of course Kayaking from Corliss Landing down the Annisquam to Little River and back.  Coming back from Little River and coming onto the Annisquam River the tide was changing and also the wind.  At times going backwards.  Lots of exercise and building muscle on the arms.  Love it.

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Randy and JD are Back To Pimp The 40th Running of The Magnolia 5K Road Classic

Randy and JD are Back To Pimp The 40th Running of The Magnolia 5K Road Classic

Register here- www.magnolialibrary.org

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HOW DO YOU SAY PLOVER?

Piping Plover Fledglings copyright Kim Smith .Sweetly beautiful birds and full of personality, whether called ploh-ver or pluh-ver. This pair of fledgling siblings was photographed at Wingaersheek Beach.

How do you pronounce plover? Do you say ploh-ver, like clover, or do you say pluh-ver, like lover? I was convinced the clover pronunciation was correct until having dinner with friends recently who were equally as convinced that the lover pronunciation was accurate. The conversation reminded me of that old film, Shall We Dance and the potato song, or “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off.” A quick Google search offers both pronunciations!

2017 Rotary Calendar call out for Photographers

It is that time again for the call our for Professional and Recreational Photographers.

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Another gallery moving to Main Street in Gloucester

122 Main Street-I had a peek at brand new hardwood floors. Coming soon next door to goodlinens.

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At 196 Main Street (the space where Green Life used to be) the Copley Society of Art is also coming along with its build out, paint, floors and a line of studios.

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Who will be their neighbor next door (in the old Common Crow space)?

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