Staycation Sunday-Robert Frost Farm Derry New Hampshire

I went to the Robert Frost Farm in Derry,New Hampshire to walk the trail with some co-workers recently. The only downside was we went on a Tuesday and the farm is open for visitors Wednesday through Sundays (May 5-June 27, Daily June 28-September 6 10am-4pm). I wanted to tour the house and get a map to find out what the significance of the numbered markers were throughout the trail.

I plan on going back soon. It is a great way to spend a Sunday at only $4 per adult (NH residents) 18-64 and is free for youth and senior citizens. Non-resident adults are $5 and youths are $3 (0-5 are free). [Read more...]

Have Fun in Boston on a Classic Harbor Cruise

Dedicated to providing the most impeccably luxurious and hospitable sailing experience in Boston, we here at Classic Harbor Line are looking forward to the privilege of escorting you on a breathtaking excursion aboard the most elegant sailing vessel in Boston Harbor: Schooner Adirondack III. Boston’s rich maritime history is best viewed from the water, so why not do it in style? While out on the water on Bostons best boat tour, you will be treated to skyline view and Boston Harbor that cannot be captured any other way. This is the best way to go sightseeing in Boston!  So come on out, kick up your feet, and let the Classic Harbor Line crew do all the heavy lifting (and drink pouring) for you. Sailing on the Adirondack III with us will provide a new perspective on the city of Boston for the first time visitor and the seasoned local alike!

Whether buying tickets for one of our Boston Day Sails, Sunset Sails, City Lights Sails, or privately chartering the schooner for a special family or corporate event, you will be amazed by the comfort and beauty of Adirondack III. Like all of Classic Harbor Line’s fleet, the unmatched Adirondack III was built and is maintained by the Scarano Boat Building Company in Albany, NY.

My Readers Receive $10 off each ticket purchased at http://www.boston-sailing.com/ using ONLINE promo code FAMILY10

 

*Sponsored-No monetary compensation was received. I will be given the opportunity to a complimentary excursion on the Schooner Adirondack.

Staycation Sunday-Paying Homage to the Old Man of the Mountain

It’s been ten years since the Old Man of the Mountain, the symbol of NH, collapsed. Yesterday was a little chillier than we expected so we switched around our Saturday and Sunday plans and went for a drive. That little curve at the top of the mountain was where the profile of the old man’s face once was. While in the area, we went to the Basin as well. I have lived in NH since 1998 (minus my four year stint in Florida) and have never actually stopped to see it. What is a Basin? If you are thinking sink, you aren’t far off!

It’s pretty much rushing water running through a smooth basin-like formation. It’s pretty cool. I took a short video of it too so you can see it in action: [Read more...]

I Bought Individual Health Insurance


(Photo Credit)

My breathing just got short and winded just typing the title because I want to cry about the cost of it. However, hearing of way too many health scares among friends and family the last year or two, I know health insurance is a necessity. A visit to my doctor would be $90 (that is with their paying cash “discount”) and that includes nothing else. So, after months of “living on the edge” without out and debating the extra large dent in my budget, I finally bit the bullet and bought it.

The big downfall to living in New England is how expensive things can be and health insurance is no exception. I compared what I would pay in other states I have lived and I could get individual health insurance considerably cheaper. My options here in New Hampshire started out at $205 and went as high as about $400 per month. The $205 was a joke. It covered NOTHING until the deductible was met. The deductible was $12,000 (no typo there)! I thought to myself, I would almost be better off saving $205 every month toward medical expenses. Of course, the major flaw in that theory is what if something goes wrong and I have a major medical emergency. [Read more...]

Thrifty Thursday-Boston Restaurants on the Cheap

Photo by StartHereBoston.com Travel Guide

I LOVE going to Boston and trying new restaurants! I live in southern New Hampshire and Boston is quick 40 minute trip. It is such a great town and there is so much to do. I’ve traveled through 46 of our 50 states, and in my honest opinion Boston restaurants are the best. Some may ask, how is eating in a major city thrifty?

A day in Boston is cheaper than many other activities. I can walk through the city and experience history for little to no cost.  I can check out cemeteries with famous people from history, walk through Boston Commons, climb to the top of the Bunker Hill Monument, walk along the Freedom Trail, and so much more! So, when the time comes to eat, I have money in my pocket to enjoy a good meal! I also look in advance for any special discounts at my favorite restaurants or a new one I want to give a try. More often than not, I find a discount and save at least 10% off my meal. Also, my husband I hit Boston early and eat by 4 p.m. Many restaurants offer the lunch menu and/or have an early afternoon menu when prices are significantly lower.

For anyone headed to Boston, here is a list of some great restaurants to check out (I’ve included suggestions from friends as well as my own favorites):

Faneuil Hall-Whether you want Italian, seafood, American, Mexican, Greek, or almost any ethnic food you can think of, this is the place to go if your party cannot agree on one restaurant!

La Famiglia in Boston’s North end-Hands down the best Italian ever!

Maluken Japanese Restaurant in Boston’s Back Bay-Yum!

Chef Chang’s House -Chinese food on Beacon St.-Love the crab rangoon!

The Four’s Restaurant and Sports Bar-Canal St. -My husband loves the New England clam chowder.

Union Oyster House-Oldest running restaurant -since 1826, it’s historic-Do not miss it even if you stop in just for a glass of wine! However, I love the food too!

Cheers-The famous original is on Beacon St and there is a replica in Fanueil Hall

These are just a few of the great places to eat in my favorite city! Be sure and check one or two out the next time you head to Boston!

* This is a sponsored post however, all the points and views are my own.