July 4th, a timefor national celebration

Holidays have always intrigued me ever since I was child. We all seem to know a lot about "Independence Day" and what it stands for. I like to find those little facts and other tidbits of information that may not be readily know.

John Hancock Was First to sign...

John Hancock, the president of the Second Continental Congress, was the first to sign the Declaration. With its ornate capitals, Hancock's sprawling signature is prominent on the document. Since then, when people are asked for their "John Hancock," they are being asked to sign their names.

All 56 men who ultimately signed the Declaration showed great courage. Announcing independence from Great Britain was an act of treason, punishable by death.

It's a Marvelous Document

The Declaration of Independence itself has become one of the most admired and copied political documents of all time. It was written by Thomas Jefferson and revised by John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Jefferson.

The Declaration of Independence is a justification of the American Revolution, citing grievances against King George III. It is also a landmark philosophical statement, drawing on the writings of philosophers John Locke and Jean Jacques Rousseau. It affirms that since all people are creatures of God, or nature, they have certain natural rights, or liberties, that cannot be violated.

As you can see, a few little known facts can be attributed to the simply signing. I to have been know to coin the phase, 'please put your John Hancock on the receipt', I now know where it came from and so do you. Have a Happy and Safe 4th of July.

Sue and I are no longer the innkeepers at the 1802 House Inn. It was a very difficult decision we made based on health issues that we offered the inn for sale. The new inn keepers are Linda and Jay. There's no doubt that they add a new dimension to the property. Jay is witty and I'm sure he'll amuse you at breakfast time. Both are extremely people oriented and very outgoing. I ask that you join me in welcoming them to the 1802 House Inn.

Sue and I want to tank all those that have graced our doorstep with their stay at the inn.

Warm Regards, Sue and Marc

Want to visit an Island lighthouse?

Did you ever want to visit an island lighthouse? I know I have but never had the chance to do so. Now we all do thanks to the good folks at Wood Island Light just off the coast of Biddeford. Starting June 30th guided tours will be available on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 5 and 6 pm and again on Saturdays at 1 and 2 pm. Plan on taking about an 1 1/2 hours to tour and take the boat ride out and back. And here's the best part, there's no fixed charge for the ride and tour. All they ask is for a donation, I think $10 p/p would be acceptable. After all, you have a scenic boat ride and tour of a lighthouse! It's the Maine thing to do along with eating lobster and blueberry pie.

Wood Island light was built after Thomas Jefferson authorized its construction in 1808. Originally constructed of wood, it soon deteriorated and new granite structures were finished in the late 1830's. There' a lot more I can tell you about the life of this lighthouse but I think it's best left to the people who give the guided tour. I can tell you that the last light keeper left the island in 1986 and the light was automated. For more information please visit www.woodislandlighthouse.org

Sue and I would be happy to make reservations for you. Biddeford Pool is about a 15 to 20 minute drive from Kennebunkport and very accessible. Parking is free.

Arts in the Inns 2007

This years Arts in the Inns a now a memory that all of us at the 1802 House Inn will remember thanks to the graciousness of our 'resident' artist Virgina Souza. Her paintings graced our living and dining rooms for two wonderful days as many came by to see her works as well as visiting other inns to view artists of various mediums. Visitor were also given tours of two of our gardens as well as a room or two in the inn. The rain and lack of steady sunshine may have dampened some of the spirits but the beauty of the art works brought delight and smiles along with good conversations to those who took advantage of this wonderful event. Sue and I want to personally thank Virgina for the wonderful painting she gave us of the inn along with note cards of the same painting. All out guests received a boxed set to take home as a souvenir of their weekend at the 1802 House Inn and having the opportunity to meet such a talented artist! You can contact Virgina by email at ipainttoo@hotmail.com.

Kennebunkport Weddings

Kennebunkport and the 1802 House Inn has been and continues to be an ideal location for seasonal intimate weddings. Whether it's the 1802 House Inn, the rock bound coast with it's crashing surf or on a long stretch of beach with it's gentle waves lapping at the sand, one can find their idyllic location.

The 1802 House Inn offers a wonderful garden with the Cape Arundel Golf Course as a backdrop for an intimate wedding. Maybe you would like to exchange vows in front of a fireplace in either the Windsor or Arundel rooms during the winter months. We also host intimate rehearsal dinners, brunches and showers. Our luxurious three room honeymoon suite can be reserved for the bride and groom. We offer all services you need to make your day a special and memorable one!

To Marc and Sue!

Was just browsing through the wedding photos and thought I would send you a note! We had such a lovely time and have very fond memories of our ceremony and stay at the 1802... We did finally tell the families at Christmas and both sides were thrilled! We are extremely grateful to you both for helping us arrange our special day so efficiently and making us feel so welcome! We are planning a return visit some time in the fall so we will be in touch again in the near future!

Hope all is well with you and that you are enjoying our summer season!

Best regards,

Holly and Darren Arlin"

Holiday gatherings, vacation and the beach

We generally gather together to celebrate the seasonal holidays with our family or friends. The summer brings several important holidays to mind. Starting with Memorial Day, generally the kick off to the summer season, then July 4th and ending with Labor Day. People visiting Kennebunkport seem to use Columbus Day as a dropping off point for weekday travel while the weekends allow many to visit the area for weeks after.
We think of good foods including Maine lobster, the beach or ocean, sailing and our long awaited vacations. Whether it's few days away or an entire week, Maine has all the ingredients for a perfect vacation. Kennebunkport is centrally located within Southern Maine and offers a springboard for a multitude of activities and day trips. Whether it's the beach, sailing, kayaking, theater, dining or a trip to LL Bean. We offer Fall Foliage packages that include a picnic lunch and a route you can follow to pick apples and sample the local arts and craft shops and ending with a visit to several lighthouses in the Portland are including the Portland Headlight before returning to the inn.
We invite you to think about your travel plans early for the best choices for your trip. Make Kennebunkport and the 1802 House Inn part of your vacation plans. We closer than you think!

Memorial Day, friends and family get together.

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920). While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.

General John A. Logan Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [LC-B8172- 6403 DLC (b&w film neg.)]

Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee.

I hope all of us take the time to honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice of their lives for our freedom we so lovingly enjoy!

Sue and Marc

Golf and Past President George Bush/Weekend specials

The Cape Arundel Golf Course is a favorite of Past President George Bush for many reasons. One being that his uncle was a founding member of the course . George and Barbara visited the course yesterday after Sunday services and stopped to talk with Sue and I. It was certainly a pleasure to see them back in town and have a chance to speak with them. They both looked well. It's apparent they are happy to be back in Maine for the summer. Hopefully we'll see George on the links many times this year as in years past! The rates are still at the pre-season of $30 for 18 holes...a great savings and I'm sure they'll go up shortly before Memorial Day so grab you clubs, play a round and spend a night or two at our house!

The weather has been grand over the past few days. Let's hope that it continues. Sue and I are offering specials on unfilled rooms on a last minute bases this spring so please call if you anticipate a trip up, you may be able to save a little by doing so. Everything is open and the beaches are in excellent condition for those long romantic walks.

Spring Golf

Spring is the perfect time for golf in Maine. The Cape Arundel and Webhannet Golf Courses are open and were not affected by our recent storms. The Cape Arundel is still offering preseason rates of $30 and $15 for a cart, a very good value at this time of year. The courses are dry and well manicured, ready for a great golf outing. Why not take the time to enjoy yourself along the coast of Maine and play a relaxing round of golf while the preseason pricing is still in effect! We'll take care of everything for you...and remember, we're a mere golf club's length away for the golf course. Golf packages are available with special savings on lodging.

Reunions

Have you ever given thought to a family or friends reunion? The 1802 House Inn was the scene for my family's first reunion in too many years. It's amazing how time seems to pass us by and before we know many years have gone by. Admittedly I haven't seen some of my cousins in over 30 years. This was a perfect opportunity to reunite and 'catch up' with the rest of the family. Friday night was pot luck while Saturday evening we dined at Pier 77. The views were fantastic from the second floor as we looked out over the harbor of Cape Porpoise and beyond to Goat Island Lighthouse. The food and service was outstanding as well. Needless to say everyone had a great time.

Family(or friends)reunions can be a great way to reconnect with those you love or care for deeply. I would like to share some of the thoughts from my relatives who attended...

"I cannot tell you how much this reunion weekend meant to me personally. It was so wonderful to spend quality time with everyone and share the memories and laughs (and we had many of them). It was relaxing and sentimental and brought me back to the time when we were just youngsters."

"Words cannot express my gratitude for the hospitality and love that you shared with all of us. I can only hope that we will get a chance to get together again for a family "Trottier" reunion in the near future."

Why not consider your own family reunion!

Marc

Earth Day 2007

Earth Day was created in 1970 to spark a revolution against environmental abuse and the organizers, including EDN Board Chairman Denis Hayes, would not take no for an answer. Neither should we. Earth Day is a time to celebrate gains we have made and create new visions to accelerate environmental progress. Earth Day is a time to unite around new actions. Earth Day and every day is a time to act to protect our planet.

The 1802 House Inn does it's part with recycling of newspapers, cardboard, metal items and plastic. Beyond that we use as many organic fruits, vegetables and even our coffee. We hope you have a wonderful Earth Day this Sunday!

Girls Weekend and our annual Cooking Domostration

Our annual cooking demonstration led by chef Adam Orm was held this past weekend. Eight women reserved the entire inn for a Girls Weekend where they were able to have massages and shop then attend our cooking event on Saturday afternoon and evening. Our menu consisted of bacon wrapped dates as an appetizer, wild field greens w/cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, red pepper and house dressing, Maine Crab cakes and tarragon chicken, pan seared breast of chicken with caramelized pearl onions, and portabello mushrooms in a cream. sauce. Our kitchen was filled with the sights, sounds and smell of a gourmet restaurant as everyone helped with the preparations. Needless to say, there was plenty to eat and everyone had a wonderful time. Chef Adam is an executive chef by day and also operates his own catering company called The Gourmet Plalate. We're hoping to offer this event once again in the fall and as always in the spring.

A Nor'easter along the coast of Maine

April 16, 2007 will long be remembered by our guests as a Nor'easter rolled in on Sunday evening bringing wind swept rain and gusts reaching near hurricane speed. Admittedly the rains came, the wind howled and the seas churned yet we all remained safe and sound, dry, warm and snug as a bug in a rug in the confines of the inn. No loss of power this time and breakfast was served promptly at 9 AM with everyone present and accounted for.

The picture above was taken around noon on Monday overlooking the Bush compound. The seas were pounding the rocks, the spray was incredible and sound was deafening as it drew many of us the shore line to take a look at the mighty power of wind, sea and surf. There's a simplistic beauty that seems to bring each and every one of us to the coast. Whether it's the pounding surf or the gentle roll of a wave against warm sands of the beach as it tickles out toes, we want to see, feel and take in it's breath taking beauty. We'll soon forget the harsh winter and the wet spring and focus our attention to sunny days of summer. The golf courses are set to open shortly, the days are certainly longer and the birds are making their migration north, A sure sign of things to come.

Great food with home style cooking at it' best

Many of the restaurants have reopened for the season so it's only natural that we test the waters before recommending them to you, our loyal guests. Last week was the opening of the Wayfarer located on the Pier Road in the Cape Porpoise section of Kennebunkport. Sue and I remember going there when we first moved to the area back in the early 80's. We always enjoyed the food and found it be a place many of the local townspeople frequented. It's unpretentious, a little place with booths, tables and counter one can sit on a stool and chat with the person next to you . All the food is home cooked with the exception of a few desserts. They do not have liquor license so it's BYOB and they gladly supply the opener and glasses. The menu is quite diverse with something for everyone and you'll generally find two specials each night.
Now for the good part. I had Crab Cakes with mashed potatoes and a cup of haddock chowda ( that's how we spell it in Maine) and Sue had baked stuffed shrimp with mashed potatoes. They served hot rolls however salad is an extra if one wanted it. The prices on the menu were very reasonable ranging from the mid teens to the low twenties. There was plenty of food on the plates and no one goes away hungry. Everything was outstanding and cooked to perfection. I have to admit, for the first night back from their vacation they have not lost their touch!

Spring is in the air!

We have certainly being treated to wonderful weather as we usher in Spring this week. It's hard to believe that winter is now officially behind us and a mild winter it was. A few weeks ago we had a fairly sizable snow storm and today, less then a week later, most snow was gone from the grass and the remaining piles left from the plowing are dwindling fast. I know it's a bit premature to think we're 'out of the woods'. A good part of April can bring snow storms with depths enough to make us cringe and wouldn't you know it, it's snowing today. The good thing is we know it will not last and the crocuses will again peek through the remaining bit of snow reaching skyward towards the sun.
Now is the perfect time to visit the area. Long romantic strolls along the uncrowded beaches, great rates and shops filled with new merchandise. Don't forget the antique shops and our weekend events. The next event will be something for the fudge lovers. It's simply called 'English Fudge Tour and Tastings'. You'll have a chance to visit other inns and collect a different fudge made by Roly's English Fudge, then end up at their shop and receive a half pound of your 'favorite' fudge to take home, complements of your inn keeper. On April 28, join us at The Mast Cove Gallery for 'Jazz at the Mast Cove' while you view the fine art collection at the galleries.

Simple pleasures of dining in Kennebunkport

Sue and I recently attended a Italian Market at Grissini's and I must say we were very delighted with the evening. They had set up the dining room with four or five different stations to represent a market area, complete with straw on the floor to represent a farm stand. Each station had different foods and of course a table featuring Piemonte wines from Italy. You could stroll from one station to another and the servers were very knowledgeable about the foods they were serving. It was a 'roaming feast of fine foods and wine of Italy' that everyone there seemed to thoroughly enjoy. The evening included a choice of two entrees. Sue and I chose to each try a different one in order to sample some of each. Dinner was superb! I would say the evening was well received by all who attended. Whether it's a romantic dinner or one of their wine dinners (usually on Friday nights in the spring), you'll find something for everyone in a relaxed atmosphere!

Presidents Day and death of two Presidents

Here's a holiday that's celebrated every year that receives little attention. I always try to learn something 'new' on holidays whether it's a little known fact or how the day became to be. I find it fascinating to dig into the history and find out what I can. Admittedly it's been many years since my school days and history lessons, it's amazing either how much I forgot or never paid much attention to. Some of us probably remember when Presidents Day as Washington's Birthday (also Lincoln's birthday since both were close together). In 1971 President Richard Nixon proclaimed one single federal public holiday, the Presidents Day, to be observed on the third Monday of February, honoring all past president of the United States of America.

I found a web site that list facts and figures about our past Presidents, both dead and alive. We have three past Presidents living among us and of course our incumbent, George W. Bush. I was shocked to read what the causes of death were for many in the early infancy of this country, things no one would die from today with all our knowledge and modern medicines.

The one thing that caught my attention was the date of death of two Presidents, John Adams, our second President and Thomas Jefferson, our third President. Both men lived to be 83 and 90 years old respectively and died on the same day, July 4th, 1826, just hours apart. Not only that, note the date, exactly 50 years from their signing of the Declaration of Independence. One has to ask themselves, what would be the chances of something like that happening again!

I hope you found this little known fact interesting and to those born after 1971, what the original holiday was named.

Saint Valentine' Day

Let me introduce myself. My name is Valentine. I lived in Rome during the third century. That was long, long ago! At that time, Rome was ruled by an emperor named Claudius. I didn't like Emperor Claudius, and I wasn't the only one! A lot of people shared my feelings.

Claudius wanted to have a big army. He expected men to volunteer to join. Many men just did not want to fight in wars. They did not want to leave their wives and families. As you might have guessed, not many men signed up. This made Claudius furious. So what happened? He had a crazy idea. He thought that if men were not married, they would not mind joining the army. So Claudius decided not to allow any more marriages. Young people thought his new law was cruel. I thought it was preposterous! I certainly wasn't going to support that law!

Did I mention that I was a priest? One of my favourite activities was to marry couples. Even after Emperor Claudius passed his law, I kept on performing marriage ceremonies -- secretly, of course. It was really quite exciting. Imagine a small candlelit room with only the bride and groom and myself. We would whisper the words of the ceremony, listening all the while for the steps of soldiers.

One night, we did hear footsteps. It was scary! Thank goodness the couple I was marrying escaped in time. I was caught. (Not quite as light on my feet as I used to be, I guess.) I was thrown in jail and told that my punishment was death.

I tried to stay cheerful. And do you know what? Wonderful things happened. Many young people came to the jail to visit me. They threw flowers and notes up to my window. They wanted me to know that they, too, believed in love.

One of these young people was the daughter of the prison guard. Her father allowed her to visit me in the cell. Sometimes we would sit and talk for hours. She helped me to keep my spirits up. She agreed that I did the right thing by ignoring the Emperor and going ahead with the secret marriages. On the day I was to die, I left my friend a little note thanking her for her friendship and loyalty. I signed it, "Love from your Valentine."

I believe that note started the custom of exchanging love messages on Valentine's Day. It was written on the day I died, February 14, 269 A.D. Now, every year on this day, people remember. But most importantly, they think about love and friendship. And when they think of Emperor Claudius, they remember how he tried to stand in the way of love, and they laugh -- because they know that love can't be beaten!

The rest is history as we have come to celebrate this holiday filled with 'love'.

May you and yours have a wonderful Valentine's Day

Snow, snow everywhere you go

Experience the magic of the 1802 house Inn this winter in Maine


Yes, the snow is all around us! We received an unexpected 3 to 4 inches of snow yesterday and the golf course out back looks all together different then just a week ago. I can attest, golfers were out two weeks ago, who could believe the warm weather we were having? Regardless of the weather outside today, our rooms are warm and cozy, especially those with the wood burning fireplaces. I spoke with the stables today and they will be offering the weekend sleigh rides. The cost is $10 per person and we sometimes include the rides with a two night weekend stay so please check our emails and specials page from time to time. A private ride can also be arragned.

Oh, by the way, Kennebunkport does not require a 'passport' for those already living here is the States to visit us, I can guarantee it. The last time I checked, there was no one at the town line checking I.D.'s. Did you know that anyone traveling to the Caribbean now requires a passport to return to the U.S.? And it won't be long that the same will be true even to cross the Canadian border. New security regulations will go in effect over the next year or two as a result of 9/11...an event in U.S. history none of us will ever forget.

We had the entire family here at the inn for Christmas along with several guests who were here visiting their families as well. The Christmas tree is long gone along with the Christmas decorations that adorned the inn, both inside and out. The winter is such a tranquil time of year. The new fallen snow blankets the yard and golf course. It remains unbroken, not a single foot step or tire track. Amazingly the moon cascades its beams onto the snow and casts shadows of the tall, leafless trees, It's a picture perfect postcard for those who take the time to notice.

We invite to make a visit to Kennebunkport and the 1802 House Inn this winter. The hot coffee and cocoa is always on and there's a fire in common living room for those who want share the stories of their day.





Sue and Marc

February is for Lovers

Here's what's happening at the 1802 House Inn for the month of February.

Did you know 'February is for Lovers' in Kennebunkport? What better time to show your love! We're offering several options for you to surprise your loved one, one simply call and it will be done, he or she will thank you for it. Good all February 2007
Two nights and the third is $50...spend two nights and the third is just $50 regardless of room selection or stay dates.
Can't get a third night away , we'll offer you any midweek stay of two nights a 'half off the second night' certificate by email when booking and mentioning this special.
Dinner and Theater...dinner at Windows on the Water or Varano's and tickets to the Movie theater in Wells. Package prices start at $229 Live theater is Portland is also available.
Private fireside dinner for two...enjoy a private, romantic three course dinner for two in front of a crackling fire along with beverages. We'll delight you with the personal service and wonderful food created just for you. Call for details!Add$75 to the room price.

Winter finally arrives, midweek savings

It's hard to believe that two weekends ago our Saturday temperature was in the mid sixties. Sue and I walked the beach that afternoon and found many people doing the same, some even taking a mid winter 'dip', a bit too cold for my body however. Today we have ice and snow on the ground. Snow total was about 1 inch and not much to write home about. The ice certainly made it very slippery for our guests who ventured out on Sunday yet everyone still had a good time The inn was warm, the food was good and the company was great. The return of La Nina cycle has been confirmed by the National Weather Service. They are predicting it may last right through the summer. It looks like we're in for one of those warmer winters! One good thing will be less heating oil being consumed and hopefully helping to keep the gas prices down. We've included a picture of the inn with our winter lights however there was no snow at the time. I'll be taking new pictures now that we've had a dusting and posting them in the next blog.

We're offering a special for those who can take time off during the week. From now until January 26th, simply bring a copy of the blog and mention when booking for a $25 off coupon off the regular rate. Applies to mid week stays only.