The Marston House-Wiscasset, Maine

Driving north along US Route 1 in mid-coast Maine and turning the bend that flows into lovely Wiscasset Village yields a view of the picturesque Sheepscot River, the stately historic homes and charming shops lining both sides of the street that offers me a distinct release of stress.  One of my favorite stops is The Marston House, an antiques and design shop that always takes my breath away with their seemingly effortless mix of gorgeous 18th and 19th century furniture, textiles and accessories.

Shopkeeper Sharon Mrozinski offers an effusive welcome making me want to move right into the shop.  I noodle, I ponder, I convince myself that I ought to try one of her vintage linen farmer work smocks, I engage with few other women, snap a few pics and before I know it an hour has passed.  

The Marston House also offers a guest cottage and B & B accommodations around the corner as well as their stunning guest rentals in Provence.  Maine and France-that is quite the magical combination.

I can hardly wait to wander up that way again and now I really need to make a booking with them for my next visit to France.  I know I will not be interested in coming home after that stay.