As a New Englander, there are a few early-September traditions and “must-dos” that I truly cherish and look forward to every year. Stopping by the annual Seafood Festival in New Hampshire is a big one, for sure (and that’s happening next weekend!) along with having one final cookout for Labor Day Weekend- which I’ll be heading out to a little later on this afternoon!
Another time-honored tradition is traveling to local orchards and cider houses for some apple picking and cider tasting before we fully dive into all things pumpkin spice-flavored. I had mentioned last week that my friend Stef and I are embarking on a “Cider Day” later on this week (I took time off from work- that’s how much I’m looking forward to it!) where we’ll be traveling down to Mystic, Connecticut for a mini-road trip to visit one of the most historical cider houses in New England, grab some lunch, and do a little shopping in one of our favorite coastal communities.
But this past weekend, I got started a bit early. At the recommendation of a friend, I made the trek to Burlington, Connecticut to visit Hogan’s Cider Mill. I was told, specifically, to try the “Drunken Donut” (a cup of chilled, hard cider topped with an apple cider doughnut and whipped cream) in-between browsing their general store/shop, relaxing outside or in one of their multiple tap rooms, or playing a round of mini-golf- and it did not disappoint! I easily could have had a few more while I was there- or any of their other seasonal beverages for that matter- but I took it easy.
I’m hoping to head back to Hogan’s before I leave for California in a few weeks- although I’m thinking I might make a detour home while Stef and I are out and about so she can experience it for herself, too!
And yes, I recently got an ‘Apple Cider Manicure’ to kick off the season properly- including a brown sugar scrub massage and this beautiful, sparkly brown shade with golden flecks. I’m as basic as they come and I fully own it!
I think it goes without saying that extra long weekends are my favorite!
xo
Coffee & Chiffon 