Trip to Kennebunkport, Maine

My cousin and I went to Kennebunkport, Maine this past week. We both had wanted to go to Maine since we were young girls. Hurricane Sandy was hitting just days before we were due to leave so we were wondering if we would get through as we had to change planes in Newark, N.J. Things improved and we were on our way.

We were in Kennebunkport during the 'peaceful season'. We stayed in a cottage at the Maine Stay Inn which was cozy and the 'big house' was lovely. Warm cookies every afternoon. Yum.

I had my first taste of New England Clam Chowder the night we arrived. It was delicious. For lunch the next day my cousin had a bowl of 'Souper Chowder' which included clams, lobster, and scallops. It was great. I tried my first lobster roll. It was not as good as I thought it would be, but the lobster couldn't have been more fresh. Fried clams were also great.

Sightseeing took us to several lighthouses and the Maine coastline is just breathtaking. It turned very cold while we were there (which was a great respite from the hot Texas weather we are still having) so we were happy to experience that. The night before we were due to leave a Nor'easter came through and dumped a few inches of snow. We woke up to a beautiful sight, although a little anxiety about having to drive to the airport. It all turned out well and we were on our way back home to Texas with great memories.

Cottage at Maine Stay Inn

Maine Stay Inn

Beach in York, Maine

Nubble Lighthouse

Portland Head Light, Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Bug Light House, Portland, Maine

Bush Compound, Kennebunkport, Maine

Going home day.  A Nor'easter blew through the night before we left. 

Lemon Muffins

I found this recipe in the November Southern Living under the Community Cookbook. These are a good muffin, although I thought a little dry. Definitely needs a cup of coffee or glass of milk. There is not a lot of lemon in the muffin itself, but the glaze certainly adds what is missing. Of course, I had to throw in some chopped pecans.

LEMON MUFFINS

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 1/4 cups milk
1/2 cup melted butter
1 Tablespoon lemon zest.

Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.  In another bowl whisk together the eggs, milk, butter and lemon zest.  Add wet to dry and stir just until moistened.  Add pecans if desired.  Spray muffin tin with Pam.  Fill cups 2/3 full. Bake at 350 for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.

Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
1 1/2 Tablespoons lemon juice

Whisk together and drizzle over muffins.