There's no arguing that winters in the Northeastern states of the United States are bitterly cold. However, the summer makes for a good environment in which to grow many crops including apples, strawberries, and raspberries. Having picked apples and strawberries before, it seemed like a good idea to round out my pick-your-own experiences with a trip for raspberries.

When it comes to charming towns, one place instantly comes to mind: Essex, Connecticut. First settled in 1645, Essex is the quintessential New England village with its brick sidewalks, white picket fences, antique shops and boutiques. I love looking at the beautifully restored Colonial homes that fill the town.

All kids love a merry-go-round, and I was no exception. So when my husband, Bob, and I found the New England Carousel Museum in Bristol, Connecticut, we practically galloped right in.

Housed in a renovated factory, the museum boasts one of the country's largest collections of antique carousel pieces. We admired prancing steeds of all kinds. Read the rest of this entry »

While traveling through Old Mystic, Connecticut, my wife, Bev, and I ran across B.F. Clyde's Cider Mill, the last steam-powered cider mill in the United States. Read the rest of this entry »