When I was living in the city (Chicago for me, Evanston for Steve), I lived for a winter escape to the Caribbean for a break from the cold and slush; a few days of warmth, sun and sand to get through the dark days. But then we moved here and opened the inn. Yes, I still want to travel, but it doesn’t feel like a mental health requirement! Living here brought me back to when I was a kid in winter; no worries, snow was welcome, just another season to play, totally engaged and present, no complaints unless your boots leaked or your gloves froze and you had to go inside and thaw out your digits.
From the first cool days of fall through St. Paddy’s, we do winter here! Yes, its cold outside, but warm at the inn…radiant heat! SO, Dave Letterman style, here are the top ten reasons to celebrate winter in Saugatuck:
10. No crowds. Its November and soon December, then January and February & March. You can find a parking space! …and a room!
9. Shop small for Christmas. No big box or franchise stores here. Artists, artisans, tasting rooms, clothing, shoes, unique gifts, foodstuffs, restaurants. You’re probably meeting the owner.
8. Off season rates. Same gorgeous rooms for less! November: write your Christmas/holiday cards. Someone just told me today that they bring all their holiday/Christmas cards to write over the weekend.
7. Small town Christmas. Yes, the Christmas parade lasts 10 minutes, is led by the mayor and includes a marching band and a snow shovel brigade. Pets welcome in costume. Tree lighting after cocktails and before dinner.
6. The town looks like a Norman Rockwell painting all winter. And they plow our sidewalks when it snows!
5. Winter sunsets are stunning…it’s the angle of the sun… AND the beach is free. Walking the dunes on a sunny day is a spectacular…bring your boots
4. Welcome in the New Year. Its not just a summer party here. Make a reservation early at your favorite restaurant.
3. Groundhogs Day! No, not the movie…it’s my birthday 😉
2. Celebrate Love. Its Valentines day!
1. St Patrick’s Day. Get out your kilt (Steve!) and pace yourself. Music, parade (pets in costume again!), music and possibly some drink
Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, Ground Hogs Day, Valentines Day and all the days and weekends in between. We welcome you to our inn! Happy Winter!
Jenn & Steve
