THE COOLER STOOL

While at an Eddie Bauer outlet last week. I came across the Cooler Stool. I saw it as a possible "Pack Light" find. It is a foldable stool with an attached soft thermos which includes an outside pocket for a water or beverage. It is lightweight, foldable and easy to store in a car trunk or boat. It is OK for temporary use but I liked it more as a footrest. It folds flat when the thermos is empty but that might prove to be a problem when it is packed with food or drinks. I bought two regardless.

RED GATE FARM

Traveling the charming back roads in New Hampshire is a special treat for me and made even more so when I happen upon a unique shop like Red Gate Farm. Here, Janice Maves stands proudly in front of one her beautifully made quilts. An artist in her own right, she incorporates bold color and contemporary design into the age old craft. Her shop is located at 188 Highland Street in Plymouth, NH and is well worth the trip.

THE COUNTRY COW IN CAMPTON, NEW HAMPSHIRE

I find that one of the joys of travel is the discovery of the unique and charming. Vermont and New Hampshire seem to have cornered the market in this department. Last week while I was enjoying the breathtaking views of mountains, streams, ponds and lakes, I came upon an old favorite, The Country Cow. Honestly, I am not fond of the name, but the views, the views, well, they are spectacular! Overlooking the very scenic Blair Bridge, just sitting at a window table makes one want to return to New Hampshire's White Mountains region every year. Now for the great news, the food is good and very reasonable. Early bird dinners are $11.99 and include a salad and beverage with the house dessert for an additional $1.00. Their are additional specials nearly every day and live music on Thursday.

VIRGINIA'S WINE AND HORSE COUNTRY

Just about an hour southwest of Washington DC, one finds themselves in Fauquier County, home to Virginia's wine and horse country. The rolling hills and breathtaking vistas have charmed the very elite for centuries. So if you are from the Northeast and are thinking Napa but don't have the time, think Virginia instead. Located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this part of the country is unspoiled and reminiscent of when Thomas Jefferson lived there. Wine festivals and tastings just add to the ambiance. For the horse lovers out there, you may wish to visit in October during the International Gold Cup or in May when Virginia's Gold Cup Steeplechase takes place.   

ANIMAL RIDDEN WALLS

My summer meanderings have begun and with my love of novelty in full swing I was delighted when my sister suggested Pub 199 in Mt. Arlington, NJ. The walls of this funky restaurant are adorned with the stuffed remains of what Noah tried so desperately to save. The prices are great, the gawking potential is way up there, but you must pay in cash. We had lobster dinners in the $15.00 range and they were served with actual butter! So if you want something different for yourselves and the kids and you don't want to break the bank, head over to Pub 199 on 199 Howard Blvd., Mt Arlington, NJ 07856 (973-398-7454). No reservations needed