One year ago, my book, Inn Mates ~ An Innkeeper’s Memoir was published. It’s a true story based on my life as an innkeeper in Bar Harbor, Maine. It’s also a story about my husband Jeff and I who ditched our corporate lives in the midst of something that felt like a mid-life crisis. We then stumbled on a historic inn that was destined for the wrecking ball. Creative chaos ensued over the course of our 15 year ownership, transforming both the inn, and ourselves in the process.
Dear readers: I owe you a debt of gratitude. You took a chance on a rookie author and learned far too much about hospitality’s less glamorous side, and also a lot about Jeff and me. I hope you had a few good laughs too. You met a few wacky guests and kind-hearted souls. And many of you said you were understandably relieved your life was less chaotic than ours.
But life is a journey, and here’s what I learned as I walked along my path in 2024:
Maine has some of the most beautiful libraries I’ve ever seen. An important community gathering place for readers in the midst of our virtual, digital age.
Libraries, book fairs and book groups gathering are great places to meet people.
Indy bookstores are the beating heart of most small towns in Maine, offering books, music and local culture.
Books weigh a ton and are a pain to haul around to book fairs. The wheelie bag was invented for good reasons!
When you’re interviewed on TV, focus on the host, and never look at the camera (who knew!!).
Theo is a good traveler and he knows how to pose for photos, but he barks at the wrong jokes. More media training may be required!
I hope 2025 brings you good health, hope, and happiness. For Jeff and me, everyday is a gift, and a chance to begin again.
