Beyond CT

December day at Chatham Fish Pier

I drove to Cape Cod for the day to see the holidays decor in Downtown Chatham and across the Cape. I had to stop by Chatham Fish Pier — a favorite photography spot. I was surprised to see a couple of seals despite no fishing vessels unloading fresh catch (when seals are most active!). I watched two boats come in with no catch.

The pier wasn’t as crowded as it normally is over the summer time — so there was only two other women with me. It was fun to watch their excitement to see the seals pop up. It never gets old to see those adorable faces in the water!

I had a wonderful day of seeing Cape Cod at Christmas time. I’ve officially been on Cape Cod for 3 out of 4 seasons now. Spring in Cape Cod next!

A New England Holiday in Rockport & Gloucester, MA

During Summer 2025, I visited Rockport and Gloucester, Massachusetts for the first time. Don’t ask me why it took this long — I'm wondering that myself. It’s a short 2 hours drive from Mystic, Connecticut so it was a perfect day trip destination. I fell in love with the town so much that I knew I'd be back soon. I decided it would be worth the trip to see the holiday festivities during December.

I stopped at Woodman’s of Essex first for lunch. The entire menu was gluten free (with exception of like two items). It was worth the stop — the fried shrimp was delicious. The staff were friendly! I will be back here whenever I’m in the area.

Rockport is one of the most beautiful towns I’ve seen during Christmas time. There were trees in boats everywhere! I loved it. The town had a tree in downtown, the Motif 1 had a wreath and there were even trees out on the floating dock.

When I wasn’t photographing, I strolled around the town and popped in some of the shops. I was worried that with it being winter, that many shops would be closed. I was pleasantly surprised that it was more of 50-50. All of my specific favorites that I shopped in from last summer were still opened. There were plenty to do so I didn’t find myself disappointed with the visit to Rockport.

Rockport at Christmas time honestly was stunning and I would recommend a visit. I’m even thinking to come back next season — maybe a new tradition?!

Gloucester is nearby Rockport so I had to stop by to see the lobster trap tree that inspired the one in Stonington, CT. It was so similar with a few differences — Gloucester had three entrances/exits while Stonington only had one. The buoys on Gloucester’s tree all were created by children. Stonington’s buoys are mostly from local artists in Connecticut and Rhode Island. Regardless, the tree was beautiful and I enjoyed seeing it in person. I went just before sunset and went back after sunset to see it both ways.

Another reason for my visit to Gloucester was to see the lobster trap menorah. I’ve known about it for years and have been wanting to see it! So worth the visit — it was amazing sight! The menorah is located next block to the Main Street with shops in Gloucester. I popped in some of the shops, the antiques shops were particularly fun to check out.

It was a fun day in Rockport & Gloucester, MA. I can’t wait for many more visits back to the North Shore of Boston.

Explore the Legacy of the U.S. Navy Seabees in Rhode Island

With upcoming Veterans Day, I thought I’d share an idea if you’re looking for somewhere to visit and learn about United States military history. Seabees Museum and Memorial Park is located in North Kingston, Rhode Island.

My Poppop proudly served in the United States Navy Seabees from 1951-1954. He passed away at the age of 89 in 2019. I was inspired by his Navy background to learn more about the Seabees so I visited the museum in 2022.

Seabees Museum and Memorial Park is a museum dedicated to those who served in the United States Navy Seabees. The museum contains many artifacts and tells history about Seabees’ roles. Seabees have been around for a few wars including WW II, The Korean War, The Vietnam War and in the Middle East.

The museum was very well organized, each section focusing on a specific time era. Outside of the museum, there are 6 acres of land with a few Quonset huts, a church and bunkers. There are souvenirs available for purchase inside. I picked up a Seabees coin and carry it around with me. Whenever I look at it, I think of my Poppop.

It took approximately 1-2 hours to look around the entire museum and the property. If you want to make a day out of it… you could visit Naval War College Museum (pre-visit planning needed) and Artillery Co of Newport in Newport, Rhode Island. Newport is a half hour drive from North Kingston.

More information about Seabees Museum:

Address: 21 lafrate Way, North Kingston, RI 02852

Hours: Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9:30am-2pm.

NOTE: The museum is non-profit ran by Seabees, their families and volunteers. Be sure to call ahead first if you’re visiting from out of the area.

Southern Maine in a Day

While I vacationed in Seacoast New Hampshire, I woke up one morning for sunrise at Nubble Lighthouse in York, Maine. This lighthouse had been a popular one to be photographed and shared on social media. It perches on its own island and is very photogenic. The morning I went, unfortunately the sunrise wasn’t as colorful but it was still beautiful!

From Nubble lighthouse, I wasn’t ready to go back to the campground so I drove up to Kennebunkport. It is a favorite that I’ve been to before a few times. However, it was first time during summer and in the early hours when the town was quiet. I loved walking around photographing the quietness. Kennebunkport reminds me of where I live — Mystic, Connecticut. Both towns are very different in their own ways but they both are a small town with that charm.

After walking around Kennebunkport, I worked up an appetite so I went to a favorite — Maine Diner located in Wells, Maine. I didn’t want to eat lunch in the parking lot (I had my pup with me!) so I googled coastal access and found Wells Harbor Community Park. There was a pavilion with plenty of tables. After I finished my lunch, I took a stroll on the beach and visited the Wells Harbor pier. I throughly enjoyed the low key day in Maine.

The photos were captured in York, Kennebunkport and Wells, Maine in September 2025. All photos are available for purchase. Please make request here.

Rye Until I Die: A Weekend Along the New Hampshire Coast

I visited the Seacoast New Hampshire for a long weekend. The campground I stayed at was just under 10 minutes from Rye Beach. I was fortunate that I could drive down there every evening for a sunset walk. I was amazed at the beautiful long and rocky coastline.

Each evening I spent at the beach felt like a love letter to the coast. Surfers trying to catch that perfect wave, the skies painted in beautiful pastel colors and the peacefulness. It gave me a sense of calm that I didn’t know I had been craving.

I parked at Jenness State Beach the first night then I realized that you could easily find free parking on Route 1A near any beach access. There also is a long scenic walking trail right by the coastline on Ocean Blvd. If you want to walk the trail, I suggest the parking lot across The Beach Plum on Ocean Blvd.

Rye Beach will be a special spot in my memories as it provided me what I needed at the right time and the beauty constantly took my breath away!

The photos were taken at the beaches in Rye, New Hampshire in September 2025.

Photos are available for purchase. Please make request here.

A Day in Rockport, Massachusetts: September by the Sea

During my camping trip in Seacoast New Hampshire, I made the hour drive south to Rockport, Massachusetts. I can’t tell you how long this place had been on my bucket list of places to visit.

I don’t know why I ever slept on this quaint town! There were photography opportunities around every corner. I was overwhelmed and ran out of time. While I was walking around, I was already mentally planning my return trip.

I visited in mid-September during the week so Rockport was quiet. Some stores didn’t open until near lunch time. I was able to find street parking easily right in the heart of the town square. Lunch was at Roy Moore Lobster Company — it came highly recommended. It is an adorable town full of charm and I can’t wait to go back.

The photos were taken around Rockport, Massachusetts in September 2025.

Prints are available for purchase. Please make request here.

A spring stroll around Wilcox Park in Westerly, RI

Every spring, I hop over the border from Connecticut to Rhode Island to visit Wilcox Park. It is located in Westerly, Rhode Island in the heart of Downtown. Wilcox Park is a 14 acres botanical garden. The park is very spacious with walking paths, benches, and large grassy areas.

I recently took my pup for a stroll around the park to enjoy all the trees and flowers that had bloomed. Often during April, I visit the park multiple times to enjoy the nature. There is a gazebo, a pond with turtles and fishes, a pretty footbridge and more to admire. There is a foundation to the side of the library and a military memorial site.

When everything blooms, it is very photogenic! I’ve seen families and couples use it as a backdrop for their photos. I’ve always left Wilcox Park with so many photos to share. The park is very underrated and a gem in Westerly, RI. It neighbors the Downtown Westerly and Pawcatuck so it’s easy to make a day out of it. There are plenty of local businesses and restaurants to support.

The park is opened to the public from dawn-dusk. Parking spots are available around Wilcox Park near Westerly Library or in Downtown Westerly. There are several entrances into the park — one is through the garden next to Westerly Library or on High St x Canal St (near United) will take you directly to the turtle pond. The park welcomes dogs on leash.

Enjoy the beautiful park and remember to keep it clean!

Cod-tober is my favorite season: Fall trip to Cape Cod

I’ve gone to Cape Cod for a few summers now and I knew I’d want to come back to see it during fall. I made the trip during a long weekend in October 2024. This is what my weekend looked liked:

Day 1

Chatham is my favorite town to walk around on the Cape. The downtown was festive with pumpkins decorated everywhere - the church had an adorable pumpkin patch too! I came across the Witch Paddle at the nearby beach which was a fun surprise!

When I stay on the Cape, I’m in Brewster and minutes away from the beach. I’ve always gone to the beach for every sunset. This particular sunset was amazing with the golden hour light AND my pup was welcomed to be on the beach (usually no dogs allowed during summers).

Day 2

Chatham Fish Pier is probably my most favorite spot in Chatham. I had to go there at sunrise. There’s always something to photograph. The fishing vessels, the low tide, beautiful colors of sand/water in the distance, and even the seals! It never fails to see something amazing there.

General stores on the Cape are adorable! I particularly love Brewster General Store and Pleasant Lake General Store in Harwich. Both towns are lovely to drive around. There are plenty of antique shops in Brewster.

It’s a tradition with every visit to the Cape, to do a beach bonfire. You are allowed to do a beach bonfire on Cape Cod National Seashore beaches with a special permit you can get from the Visitor Center (over phone or in person). The seals always make an appearance during the bonfire — it’s so cute!

Day 3

It rained all day so it was a low key day indoors until sunset. The clouds started to break at sunset so I ran over to Brewster Beach in hopes of a colorful sky. I didn’t get one but it was pretty to capture the stormy mood at the beach and I was surprised with plenty of piping plover birds everywhere!

Day 4

Before departing Cape Cod, I had to see a sunrise so I drove over to Bank Street Beach in Harwichport. I was not disappointed! Gorgeous colors in the sky. I’ve never ever seen this amount of horseshoe crabs in my life. There were several piping plovers again.

It was such a memorable weekend! The Cape is truly beautiful during any season. I got a lot more of time on the beach during the fall trip because my pup was allowed. I enjoyed seeing more of the sunrises/sunsets on the Cape. Until next time!

All photos are available for purchase. Please make request here.

Into the Gorge: A Scenic Retreat to Watkins Glen, NY

The “Rainbow Falls” of Watkins Glen State Park.

The “Rainbow Falls” of Watkins Glen State Park.

I have lived in Mystic, Connecticut for years but I still visit my hometown in Upstate New York to see family. Always a good time seeing my family and friends. Luckily the Finger Lakes is only about 6 hours drive from New England.

While growing up, I spent a lot of time up at Seneca Lake, which is one of the 11 that make up the Finger Lakes. The story behind the name (Finger Lakes) came from a Native American story, that the great Spirit blessed the land with his hands leaving an imprint of fingers. Cool, huh?

The Finger Lakes (FLX) is also known for many, many vineyards and breweries. I might be biased with growing up here, but I haven’t found any wine to beat FLX wine!

Watkins Glen State Park often comes highly recommended. I can concur with that! Hiking through the gorges with as many as 15+ waterfalls to see. It’s absolutely stunning. There are several trails but the popular trail is the gorge trail, which is 2.5 miles long. It’s also the most scenic route on which you see most of the landmarks often photographed on social media. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you will trek up some stairs and some wet/slippery spots. There’s a couple spots where you will walk under a waterfall!

The Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen State Park.

The Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen State Park.

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The park is located right in the heart of downtown Watkins Glen. There are many boutique shops, antique shops, restaurants and gift shops. If you walk over to Harbor Hotel there’s a beautiful waterfront park with a pier. The Seneca Lake Station (the red building that sits on the pier often photographed on social media) is located there. The pier is at the mouth of Seneca Lake, beautiful views there!

Seneca Lake pier.

Seneca Lake pier.

Seneca Lake Station.

Seneca Lake Station.

I grew up religiously going to Jerlandos Pizza. They have the best pizza and garlic knots in FLX region! I think of their garlic knots pretty often… it’s THAT good.

A hidden gem in Watkins Glen is Scuteri's Cannoli Connection. Lemme tell you, the BEST cannoli ever. I never knew what they were until my Uncle stopped there on the way to the lake one day. I was hooked since then.

The racing mural in downtown Watkins Glen.

The racing mural in downtown Watkins Glen.

Watkins Glen is also known for racing. I grew up going to the Watkins Glen International every summer. One year I was lucky enough to get a ride in an Indy Car! One of most memorable times at WGI beside that one other time when I met Patrick Dempsey. Yes, for real! Patrick Dempsey known as Dr. McDreamy from Grey’s Anatomy was there for one of his races. NASCAR also comes to Watkins Glen every year so that is typically the busiest week in Watkins Glen.

My IndyCar experience at Watkins Glen International.

My IndyCar experience at Watkins Glen International.

Patrick Dempsey and I at Watkins Glen International.

Patrick Dempsey and I at Watkins Glen International.

Watkins Glen International.

Watkins Glen International.

There’s plenty to do, things to see, lots of choices where to eat and drink in Watkins Glen.

Christmas in Crystal City

There’s a magical Christmas spirit in Upstate New York in the Most Fun Small Town in America… Corning! It’s the next town over from the hometown where I grew up, so I spent a lot of time in Corning, especially during Christmas. 

The glass tree at Corning Museum of Glass.

The historical Market Street (downtown) is gorgeous with beautiful brick buildings. The Center Square is where the clock tower is, it’s where you will find the Christmas tree and gazebo to visit Santa Claus. It’s always so magical during the holiday season, like a winter wonderland.

The tree in Center Square.

Center Square.

It’s easy to see why Corning was named one of best town to experience at Christmas! 

The Rockwell Museum hosts their annual Gingerbread Invitational. I attended my first event in 2021. I was so excited to see some of gingerbread creations! I particularly loved the one of Corning Inc building with NOEL spelled out in lights. For those who aren’t local, there is a 9-stories tall building visible from NYS Route 17 highway that has the word ‘NOEL’ lighted up every night during the holiday season. It was a fond memory so I loved seeing that gingerbread replica of it! There were also replica of Corning’s Little Joe and Clock Tower as well a couple of the waterfalls in Finger Lakes region. 

Gingerbread version of Taughannock Falls (Ithaca, NY).

Gingerbread version of Corning Inc.’s NOEL tradition.

It’s fun to be a tourist in your hometown. I brought combo tickets to visit both museums in Corning. The first stop was at The Rockwell Museum, a Smithsonian affiliate museum with collections of Western art and Native American art. When I moved to the New England region and mention this museum, everyone assumed it was about Norman Rockwell, but it’s not! The fine art collections at Rockwell is impressive and it’s nice to take a slow paced stroll around to enjoy the artwork. Be sure to check out the gift shop, which had some local Corning souvenirs. 

The Rockwell Museum in a snow globe!

After The Rockwell Museum, I went over to Corning Museum of Glass (CMOG). That’s where you will see the largest collection of art glass in the world! I grew up going to CMOG every year on field trips for school. After going off to college, I grew more appreciation for CMOG, and what it has to offer. Every time I visit the museum, it’s always a must to see a live show of their glass blowing demonstrations. That’s something I’ll never get sick of watching. The museum has many sections, so be sure to plan at least 3-4 hours for a visit. If that’s too much, no worries… the tickets are valid for two consecutive days if you want to break it up. 

Corning Museum of Glass.

Close up of the glass balls on the tree.

Glassblowing demo.

The CMOG gift shop is very impressive as well. I almost always do some holiday shopping there every year! Also, I look forward to seeing the beautiful glass tree during the holiday season. It’s located in the main lobby of CMOG. My family takes an annual photo with the glass tree! Another fun activity at CMOG is to make your own glass. One year, my mom and I made glass snowmen. A few options includes an ornament, tree, mezuzah and many more. It’s highly suggested to buy advanced tickets as the limited spots often sells out! 

Got some holiday shopping done!

I was particularly excited when the show ‘Blown Away’ was added on Netflix. A Canadian based reality show about glassblowing competition, with the grand prize of a year residency at CMOG. The glassblowing demonstration at the museum is only 15-20 minutes long but watching this series is even longer! It’s just so fascinating to watch glassblowing. Last week, while at CMOG I saw some art pieces from the show which it was cool to see in-person. I highly recommend you watch this show.
The Gaffer District (downtown Corning) has so much to offer with all of the local shops, businesses, restaurants and more. I love to take a stroll through downtown year-round but especially at Christmas when Market Street is all decorated.

My plates, bowls and baking dishes are all Corningware, a piece of home with me always! There are several antiques shops on Market Street where you can find some vintage Corningware or Corelle pieces.

There are plenty choices of where to eat in the Gaffer District. My most favorite is Atlas Brick Oven Pizzeria, I’ve always stopped here every time. Their gourmet pizzas are just out of the world! Aniello’s Pizzeria is another popular locals favorite pizza joint on Market Street. The locals argue about who is the best — Atlas or Aniello’s. My family was divided so I grew up going to Aniello’s too, it is really delicious and the best spot for a quick slice to grab! 

Atlas Brick Oven Pizzeria.

I’ll always suggest that people visit this beautiful historical small town! It’s not a far drive from New England region for a long weekend getaway!

A firetruck passes by the tree in Center Square.

CMOG had a glass Hanukkah display too!

Market Street at night.

A Fall Weekend I’ll Never Forget in Jim Thorpe, PA

I took a camping trip up to rural Pennsylvania to a small town called Jim Thorpe, tucked in the Lehigh Gorge Valley. I grew up on the border of New York and Pennyslvania so I was missing those mountains during the change of the foliage!

Jim Thorpe also made many of “best” or “must see” lists from Town & Country, Expedia, Country Living, USA Today, National Geographic, etc. I was intrigued by the description that Jim Thorpe was a Victorian style town/European village. It’s even been nicknamed as “Switzerland of America”.

Jim Thorpe Main Street.

Jim Thorpe Main Street.

Driving into Jim Thorpe, you immediately see the beauty of the buildings! Many historical buildings were colorful and had a lot of detailing. The downtown was very walkable with many shops, restaurants and businesses to check out. Many of the historical buildings had been converted such as an old fire station that was turned into a bar, an Irish pub went into an old hotel, and so on. Jim Thorpe is also full of history which you can see bits everywhere in the buildings, the names of businesses, the museums and more. I noticed the name Mauch Chunk everywhere in downtown which I had found out at the library was the old town name. Jim Thorpe was a Native American athlete so they renamed the town in his memory in 1953.

Many beautiful buildings on the Main Street in Jim Thorpe like this one!

Many beautiful buildings on the Main Street in Jim Thorpe like this one!

Saw many trolleys giving people tours around Jim Thorpe!

Saw many trolleys giving people tours around Jim Thorpe!

A hotel in downtown Jim Thorpe, very New Orleans.

A hotel in downtown Jim Thorpe, very New Orleans style.

The town of Jim Thorpe focused mainly on the railroad and also mining. There was a museum with history of mining in Jim Thorpe. One of the biggest attraction is the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railroad. While I was visiting, I saw steam locomotive trains circa 1900’s offering train rides. The train was even dog friendly!! Unfortunately my dog doesn’t like loud noises (horn/clacking of wheels) so it wouldn’t have been a fun ride for us. I was really bummed! I only can imagine how gorgeous it would’ve been with the foliage.

The trains.

The trains.

I loved the uniforms of train employees!

I loved the uniforms of train employees!

Gazebo near the train station gave me Star Hollows vibes, am I right?! (Gilmore Girls)

Gazebo near the train station gave me Star Hollows vibes, am I right?! (Gilmore Girls)

The view of the train station from the gazebo.

The view of the train station from the gazebo.

I was drawn to all of Victorian homes around Jim Thorpe. Two well known landmarks were the Asa Packer Mansion and Harry Packer Mansion. Both mansions had the Italianate style. Asa Packer was the founder of the Lehigh Valley Railroad. And guess what?! Packer is connected to Mystic! How?? He was born here in Mystic, Connecticut in 1805. He moved away at the age of 17 to work, which he ended up in Mauch Chunk, Pennsylvania. Harry Packer Mansion was perched next to Asa Packer Mansion overlooking the town of Jim Thorpe. Harry Packer, the son of Asa was gifted the home as a wedding gift. The Harry Packer Mansion also inspired Disney to model for the movie ‘Haunted Mansion’. The Asa Packer Mansion is opened for tours and Harry Packer Mansion is a bed and breakfast but offers weekend tours (Murder Mystery events). I was obsessed with the beauty of the porch at Asa Packer Mansion, and the views of the railroad, mountains and downtown Jim Thorpe were amazing!

Harry Packer Mansion with Asa Packer Mansion in the background.

Harry Packer Mansion with Asa Packer Mansion in the background.

The stunning view of Jim Thorpe from Asa Packer Mansion.

The stunning view of Jim Thorpe from Asa Packer Mansion.

And this gorgeous porch!

And this gorgeous porch!

There were plenty of shops, restaurants and businesses in downtown! Some of the favorites were:

Nature’s Trail - the best collection of Jim Thorpe ornaments! 

Nature’s Trail shop.

Nature’s Trail shop.

Sellers Books - I’m a sucker for any bookshops! This was a cute small bookshop but great selection of the newest (and old) books.

My pup isn’t thrilled that mammy found another bookshop to explore!

My pup isn’t thrilled that mammy found another bookshop to explore!

Curiosities Coffee and Ice House - the interiors! I loved the gothic touches and purple wallpaper. I grabbed some delicious blueberry lemonade. 

That wallpaper! I need it.

That wallpaper! I need it.

Dimmick Memorial Library - I almost passed up on going inside the library. Boy, am I glad that I stepped into Dimmick. This Victorian library interiors blew me out of the water! I could spend all day in every nook and on the balcony! 

The library.

The library.

Loved how they incorporated the books in Halloween decor!

Loved how they incorporated the books in Halloween decor!

The view from the balcony.

The view from the balcony.

Jingle Bells Christmas Shoppe - a shoppe with everything Christmas. It was fun poking around this shop. I loved how they incorporated Christmas in their exterior fall decor! 

Muggles’ Mug - calling all Harry Potter fans, this is a must see. The best part? It’s dog friendly! My pup got a puppuccino (pumpkin, whipped cream and milk bones!). I enjoyed a delicious pumpkin pie latte. 

Patiently waiting outside of Muggles’ Mug.

Patiently waiting outside of Muggles’ Mug.

The puppuccino.

The puppuccino.

The Molly Maguire's Pub & Steakhouse - I enjoyed lunch outside since I had the pup. Good food and friendly service! The owners are even from Dublin, Ireland!

Molly Maguire’s Irish Pub.

Molly Maguire’s Irish Pub.

There were many more that I wanted to see but were closed. If you plan a day in Jim Thorpe, check with the hours of places you want to see. Many of them had unusual hours. As I mentioned earlier, there was a converted firehouse into a bar… Marion Hose Bar that I hoped to visit. They had a huge outdoor patio offering bar bites and drinks. Also in downtown, there was a vintage bookshop and an Irish goods shop that were closed when I visited. I still enjoyed strolling around downtown for the day. 

Marion Hose Bar - the converted firehouse.

Marion Hose Bar - the converted firehouse.

Jim Thorpe would be a wonderful weekend getaway if you’re ever in Poconos Region/Eastern Pennsylvania. It was under 6 hours from Mystic, Connecticut.

The oldest and unchanged house from earliest history of Jim Thorpe (then Mauch Chunk).

The oldest and unchanged house from earliest history of Jim Thorpe (then Mauch Chunk).

Old Jail Museum.

Old Jail Museum.

Molly Maguire also was executed in Jim Thorpe.

Molly Maguire also was executed in Jim Thorpe.

Those doors!

Those doors!

Enjoyed the Halloween decor on some homes like this one.

Enjoyed the Halloween decor on some homes like this one.

Historic Race Street - more shops and businesses on this street which was right off the Main Street (Broadway).

Historic Race Street - more shops and businesses on this street which was right off the Main Street (Broadway).