tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72283144093517482322024-03-13T08:05:17.787-04:00The Tuck Inn BlogTuck Inn Rockport MA Bed and Breakfast LodgingScott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-64067460128312191432019-06-01T14:59:00.003-04:002019-06-01T14:59:50.938-04:00Our Trip To India<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
We started the year off with a Pack Retreat to India. This short video captures some of the color, customs, food and treasures of this amazing country.
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This group photo was taken on a trekking adventure into the foothills of the Himalayas. </div>
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We started the day at a Hindu temple to watch the sun rise over the mighty Himalayas and with a clear, chilly morning we were not disappointed. With us were other early risers and one small group pulled on our heart strings. They joined hands and welcomed a new day with prayer, song, friendship and gratitude - a lesson for all. Onward to our starting point where we met snowy slippery roads around curving mountain passes. We made it within a mile of the base and found inclines too steep for the car on the snow covered roads, so the men got out and pushed us to the closest safe spot for the car. Climbing to the top we came upon this family from Nepal, now tenant farmers on this farm/orchard. They laid rugs on their stone wall and fed us a delicious hot meal using local ingredients. Our daughter and her friend had a snow ball fight with the children, probably their first time at that. Earlier we met one of the women on our trek to her home and she was up a tree with a machete cutting branches for new family of goats on the farm. I had to remind myself this is not a movie set - this is real world! We could only communicate to the family through our guides, but we understood with the help of sign language, smiles and handshakes. We decided that the day was our top travel experience ever and it left us with an afterglow of new friendship, an amazing new adventure and a satisfied, contentment that people share the same values across the world. We hope to return.<br />
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</span>Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-68711940479763029462016-03-19T18:10:00.002-04:002020-07-11T13:58:55.555-04:00<span class="”fullpost”">
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<span class="”fullpost”">Beginning Our 25th Season at Tuck Inn Rockport</span></h3>
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<a href="https://tuckinn.com/m/scroll.html">SEE MORE PICTURES HERE</a><br />
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Twenty-five years ago July, our lives forever changed. We were happily living in Lynn in a house that was finally comfy and cozy for our little family of five. Scott casually announced that his friend and our best man had found an inn for sale in Rockport. With nothing to lose we set off one Sunday and walked through this foreclosed, decrepit leaky-roofed ark of a house reminding me of the house in "It’s a Wonderful Life".<br />
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Next the parents took a look. Viv and Burt thought it could work while Mary and Bob left without saying a word, not even good-bye Liz. Our three children were at a good age for a move with our oldest about to enter high school, so that was in our favor. For a month we lost a lot of sleep thinking and worrying, but by August we worked up our courage to sign a P & S and give notice to Scott’s employer. Leaving an unfulfilling job with no appreciation or recognition for a job well done made this an easier decision for Scott.<br />
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By October we had passed papers and for the next eight months contractors and a myriad of workmen worked their magic and brought the historic Tuck Inn opened in 1948 back to life. We were ready to welcome our first guests in May, 1992. The role that our family played cannot go unmentioned. Our parents, family and friends stood by us, helped in so many ways and we are eternally grateful for their love and support.<br />
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Our closing comment is this - Aim high, take chances and follow your dreams. We have never looked back!<br />
<br />Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-62477843764025481692013-03-16T13:17:00.000-04:002013-03-16T13:32:50.006-04:00Kitchen Remodel is Complete!<span class=”fullpost”>
<a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/blog-scroll.html" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MjbXI-zOPog/UUSqLvUrIMI/AAAAAAAAAFM/Vl8hya7b9oY/s320/blog-kitch-300.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 5px 0px;"/></a>The kitchen remodel has drawn to a close and we survived. We re-opened on April 20, 2012 and guests are giving the new space 5 stars. After almost 4 months off we were rusty, but rapidly got back into the swing of things. <br><br>Working in a new space with everything but the sink, stove and fridge in a different part of the kitchen takes getting used to. What doesn’t take getting used to is the new light. When we first bought Tuck Inn, there was one long skinny window with an overgrown evergreen just outside obliterating all light. That’s it! In the remodel 20 years ago we replaced the skinny window by the kitchen table with a large three pane casement and added a new one over the sink. Now we have a new banquette with four windows, plus another 4 double hung window and then half the new door is window. In order to maximize the lighting, we opted for small valences above 4 of the new windows versus curtains or shades. We also added an upholstered cushion and decorative pillows in the banquette area for some warmth and added color. The light bathes the entire room, especially the center island marble countertop and marble backsplash around the sinks. When the light hits the marble it shows the depth of the stone and it sparkles. At night when the room is mostly dark, the nightlights make the island stone shimmer like stars. <br><br>
The cabinets are perfect and the mix of cherry and off-white works great. We are happy with the cabinet styles, placement of drawers/cabinets and placement of appliances. A lot of thought went into the layout because there are often three people working in the kitchen at the same time, along with guests passing through. We all needed to keep out of each other’s way. Scott’s baking station with three corner windows gives him a bird’s eye view of our neighborhood and the admirers of his garden. The iris (pink, yellow, blue and purple) will soon be in bloom along with the 1,000 new bulbs Scott planted last fall. To see someone stop and get out the camera to capture a shot of the gardens is fun for the gardener.<br><br>
Wendy works by the sink which has been moved slightly away from the baking station. She gets to enjoy the bigger and better view too. My jobs as fruit platter/rhubarb/applesauce maker for the past 20 years had happened on the center work table. Now I am supposed to be on the other side of the room using the new prep sink and counter area. Old habits take time to break and it took a while for me to get used to the new prep area, but it works quite well for me now.<br><br>
With the help of a lighting designer we have the right type of lighting for each area of the kitchen. No more dark poorly lit kitchen work spaces. The new chandelier above the kitchen table catches the morning sun and leaves rainbows. The lit chandelier at night leaves circular shadows all around the room and especially the ceiling above it. It will remind you of a 60’s disco ball, but it works for this room.<br><br>
Part of the project involved a new guest kitchen as well. Wait till you see the new countertop and backsplash – it is called Spectralight with a royal blue accent that catches the new energy efficient LED lighting below the cabinets. In the new space for guests you will find a microwave, toaster, dishwasher, electric kettle, fridge for leftovers from restaurant meals, along with plenty of ice in the freezer for drinks. There is a selection of teas, instant coffee and hot chocolate. You will also find countertops for picnic preparation (condiments in the fridge) wine glasses, champagne glasses and an assorted variety of drink glasses in various cabinets above the area.<br><br>
The last area needing work was the herb garden below the new banquette. The carpenters trampled all the perennial herbs/rhubarb and with the early spring a new crop of herbs and a few vegetables were planted. We were ready for guests. We look forward to showing off and sharing our home with you. We hope you’ll come to visit to soothe your soul, feast on home-baked breads, relax by our pool or the ocean, stroll by the sea and meet new friends at The Tuck Inn B&B. We are ready as we move into our third decade of inn keeping, and we are looking forward to having you come visit and stay with us!
</span>Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-37765964973695049492012-03-24T11:02:00.008-04:002013-03-16T13:33:07.092-04:00Week #11 of the Project at Tuck Inn<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bGqmsrGCu2o/T23lLq1-e4I/AAAAAAAAAEw/b3RmsLBQ76k/s1600/garland1a.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 225px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bGqmsrGCu2o/T23lLq1-e4I/AAAAAAAAAEw/b3RmsLBQ76k/s320/garland1a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723482690099772290" /></a><br />We are finishing up week #11 of the project at Tuck Inn. We feel like we have a new family in the carpenters, plumbers, electricians, tile experts and painters who have spent so much time with us this winter. They have all been great and the quality of their work is outstanding. They only wish the stove was hooked up so they could sample Scott's baked goods each morning. On that note, our big news this week is that the stove came back on Tuesday. (<strong><a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/kitchen-gallery4/index.htm">See pictures here</a></strong>) It looks like a brand new sparkling stove and should last another fifty years. Getting a 400 lb.+ appliance out the door (I overestimated the weight previously), onto a truck and back through newly plastered and painted hallways into its slot was no small task. It all went very smoothly on another one of those wondrous 50 degree March days we have been enjoying this winter. It seemed like a historical day here at the inn. We certainly won't foget it.<br /> <br />Also this week, the cabinets arrived on Monday and are now in place with trimwork and hardware going on. In the main kitchen the upper cabinets are cream colored maple and the lowers are stained cherry. A new island is cherry as well. The new Guest Kitchen has cherry uppers and lowers in a lighter shade of stain. Then appliances for both kitchens and the new laundry came in on Wednesday. In the Guest Kitchen we now have a full refrigerator and dishwasher, and there will be a microwave, electric kettle and space in the fridge for guests' snacks and leftovers. <br /> <br />The painters have finished, but will come back in a few weeks to touch up where needed. They found the painting to be a real challenge, as we have a new magnetic chalkboard in the kitchen for our photographs, math problems or maybe even love letters. Despite twenty years of painting, this is the first such project thier crew has tackled. To give you a preview of the colors Laura chose - the Guest Kitchen is Acorn Yellow and Devon Cream; Main Kitchen is Alexandria Beige, Marble White and Hazlenut Cream; Laundry is Whipple Blue and Navaho White, and Scott's office is Corinthian White. Then there are 3 colors of stains, 2 of which are a mixture of several stains - versus right out of the can. Laura is particularly expert at color choices and each room in this house reflects her talent. Unfortunately the people who paint our rooms (many times her father) don't always appreciate that talent. Sometimes each surface and wall seems to be a different color. One guest room for instance has 6 different colors. The finished product is always worth the "tension" in the house though.<br /> <br />Scott's office now is basically completed and needs furniture, which may be second-hand at this point. The laundry is just awaiting hardware on the closet doors. The Honeymoon Suite's new bath has a new tile floor with a gorgeous mosaic rug design, a tub surround is going in today and the roof window is getting its trimwork. The plasterers came last Saturday to finish the walls in the bathroom and the painters will be next in line. Cora (our 9 year old grandchild) wants to be the first guest to stay in that room - maybe we can accomodate her (afterall grandmothers are for spoiling). Lastly the Vermont tile floor throughout the kitchens downstairs (originally installed in the sixties) was cleaned, buffed and received three coats of wax last Saturday.<br /> <br />While the project isn't quite completed (particularly the countertops), at least the goal post is now in sight! Due to time constraints, we've decided to put the renovation of the guest check-in section on hold temporarily.<br /> <br />What do you think? Have we been busy? We will have our families over Easter and they will try everything out like Goldilocks did. It will be the first Easter we have ever been closed and it will give us an opportunity to thank our wonderful families for all they do for us. <br /> <br />With our next (and final renovation blog), we intend to welcome guests back on April 20th and are looking forward to the start of our 21st season (and to begin paying for all of the above). <br /> <br />To all of our guests over the years and to those yet to discover us - we thank you all for your friendship and patronage, and we plan to be here for another 20 years to come. <br /> <br />Happy Easter Everyone.<br />Liz & ScottScott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-64762366793891347532012-02-29T22:10:00.006-05:002012-03-13T22:35:12.000-04:00The Renovation Continues....Part 3<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TG7fEB5v0Bk/T1_-h1VC_-I/AAAAAAAAAEk/nLoDKGOXV4A/s1600/stove-journey.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TG7fEB5v0Bk/T1_-h1VC_-I/AAAAAAAAAEk/nLoDKGOXV4A/s320/stove-journey.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719569908988313570" /></a><br />On Tuesday, the 21st of February, the project enters its 8th week. We are totally rehabbing 4 rooms, an upstairs bath and the work has crept into another bedroom and bath now as well. I am bolting all the doors to the other rooms so we can stop any further expansion and see an end to this project. >>> <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/kitchen-gallery3/index.htm" target="_blank"><strong>See more pictures here</strong></a><br /> <br />Stepping into the kitchen, bared down to its studs brought us back 20 years to what the space looked like when we bought the derelict Tuck Inn. It had been foreclosed and vacant when we found it. We gave the kitchen new life then and it is getting another rebirth now. We feel like caretakers of this historic property and now it will be ready for the 21st century.<br /> <br />The 4 rooms downstairs are now plastered and they await the paint crew this week. More new windows will go in, including a roof window above the new tub in the Cathedral/Honeymoon Suite so you can gaze at the stars as you laze in the tub. We finally found someone to give the GARLAND stove a go-over. It will go to Nashua, N.H. on Tuesday for a complete rehab. Getting the 500-600 lb. stove out the door and up onto a truck will be a challenge. We feel the stove is the soul of Tuck Inn's kitchen. You can't imagine how many repair shops and workmen told us to chuck it and get a new one. Can you imagine replacing this 50+ year old work horse. We want it to be around for the next 50 years baking delicious breakfast goodies as well.<br /> <br />The carpentry should all be completed this week including the remaining doors in the laundry, new kitchen banquette, trim and finish work. As we await the cabinets and the new appliances which are due around the second week of March now, we hope to conentrate on the new check-out area in the guest kitchen. We have yet to decide the layout for this area. This is the space beside the wall map with all the pins noting homes of guests. In that space will be our phone, reservation book, computer, printer, answering machine and all the things that need to be secured nightly as new laws require us to protect guest information.<br /> <br />This past week Laura and Scott chose countertop and backsplash materials. It will be appropriate for a kitchen in Rockport, Massachusetts. We can't wait for all our returning guests to see what we have been creating all winter. Stay tuned for more on the continuing saga....Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-64256960505035616772012-02-05T00:21:00.006-05:002012-03-13T22:35:34.865-04:00Renovation Project Continues at Tuck Inn<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I9rvEspluWY/Ty4Xxk-WoPI/AAAAAAAAAEY/z0Ag5WDdbE4/s1600/kitchen2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I9rvEspluWY/Ty4Xxk-WoPI/AAAAAAAAAEY/z0Ag5WDdbE4/s320/kitchen2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5705523918431232242" /></a><br />The project is now entering it's fourth week, and we are moving away from the wanton destruction with wanton abandon phase and into the (HOW MUCH?) reconstruction phase. Ka-Ching, Ka-Ching! <br /><br /><a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/kitchen-gallery2/index.htm" target="_blank">See more pictures here</a><br /> <br />Mike D'Annolfo and his erstwhile crew are making the most of this cooperative weather and are outside working on the last window today while buttoning up and siding all of the outside work as well (he thinks that is, as he doesn't know yet that we're replacing the back door too). The plumber and the electricians are all roughed in waiting for the end game (of course excepting the daily changes we seem to be making much to their exasperation although adding to their coffers as well). Within another few weeks Mike expects all the carpentry (excepting the trim) will be done and he can sheet-rock/plaster everything that needs it, (and believe me folks that is pretty much everything).<br /> <br />The project (with one major exception) all seems to be falling into place. We expect to finalize the cabinets this week with the counter tops following soon thereafter. And talk about sticker shock, on these we keep shaking our heads and asking each other: (HOW MUCH)?<br /> <br />The one sticking point that we've run into is our stove. This Garland stove was installed in the 50's by the Tucks, and like the energizer bunny - it just keeps on tickin! However, it does need some TLC, some welding and some parts replacement. If you haven't seen the stove, it is a commercial range and it is a monster, with 6 burners, 2 ovens, a griddle and a broiler and it has always been the focal point of out kitchen and we want to make it more so. From the numerous calls we made, we had only two responses and they both told us to junk the stove and buy a refurbished one second hand on the web - which we've adamantly refused to do. We did get one quote however and if ever we needed a wake up call, this was it - Ka-Ching Ka-Ching once again. But as Liz always tells me, it will all fall into place. Meanwhile, my nails are bitten down to the quick (both uppers and lowers) - but rest assured it will all be taken care of before the project is done.<br /> <br />If you didn't know it, our project has somehow become a bit bloated too and I'm praying it won't expand beyond its' current 4 rooms! OUCH!!<br /> <br />Beyond the costs though, with Laura's expertise, when you return for a visit or come for your first time, you're going to discover a kitchen that is not only highly functional (YUM!) but aesthecally beautiful and it is a designer's dream.This project is our daughter 's pride and joy (second only to her kids & our grandkids that is). Laura has such a sharp eye and has added so many decorative details that you'll be amazed. While you can get a feeling for the changes and some of the new features by looking at the attached photos, the only way you can really appreciate our remodel though is up close and personal. Towards that end, we will be having an open house to show it off - so keep your eyes peeled here for more info. Of course, if you can 't make the Open House you can always take this opportunity to book your reservation with us <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/accommodations.htm">here</a> now instead ........... <br /> <br />Thank you - Hope to see you soon,<br />Liz and ScottScott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-30607067275041661312012-01-15T12:26:00.007-05:002012-03-13T22:36:01.986-04:00New Year Brings New Kitchen Project at Tuck Inn<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NAuOlBGDIL8/TxMREK-1utI/AAAAAAAAAEM/-PbZwa4Vtig/s1600/DSC00993.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NAuOlBGDIL8/TxMREK-1utI/AAAAAAAAAEM/-PbZwa4Vtig/s320/DSC00993.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697916716918880978" /></a><br />The New Year is upon us and we've taken on the ambitious project of re-doing our kitchen. Over the many years our kitchen has served us well, but after much consideration it was time for an update. We look forward to serving many more of our valued guests, friends and family once it is completed providing Scott and his daughter Laura (the designer of the whole project) can keep things moving!. As you will <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/kitchen-gallery/index.htm" target="_blank">see in the pictures</a>, we are in the initial stages of the project and will post more photo's as things progress. Happy New Year from all of us at The Tuck Inn Rockport MA. <br /><br /><big><a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/kitchen-gallery/index.htm" target="_blank">See our pictures here!</a></big>Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-75467035728591891402011-10-12T14:06:00.004-04:002011-10-12T14:11:10.065-04:00Come try your hand at baking and enjoy one of Scott's newest recipes this fall<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rmUEEqTkjQQ/TpXXcorVA6I/AAAAAAAAAEA/YxoxEthtTNM/s1600/blog-maple-scone.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 152px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rmUEEqTkjQQ/TpXXcorVA6I/AAAAAAAAAEA/YxoxEthtTNM/s320/blog-maple-scone.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662668993443726242" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Jumbo Maple-Pecan Scone</span><br><br />2 ¼ cups flour<br />¼ cup sugar<br />1 Tbls baking powder<br />½ tsp baking soda<br />½ tsp orange zest<br />¼ tsp nutmeg<br />½ tsp cinnamon<br />½ tsp salt<br />1 ½ sticks butter cut into small pieces<br />¾ cup buttermilk (plus a bit for brushing)<br />1 tsp vanilla<br />½ cup chopped pecans<br /> <br />Glaze:<br /><br />¼ cup confectionary sugar<br />3 Tbls maple syrup<br />Pinch of salt<br /><br />Combine buttermilk & vanilla and set aside. Combine all dry ingredients in large bowl. Cut butter into dry mixture until is like fine meal. Mix in pecans, add buttermilk until mixture is just moistened. Knead mixture gently several times until it forms a ball.<br /><br />Place on a greased and floured baking sheet, and pat into an 8" round circle about 3/4" thick, and brush with excess buttermilk. Bake in preheated 375 oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool 2 minutes, then transfer to rack to cool fully.<br /><br />Drizzle glaze over cooled scone, cut into wedges. <br /><br />From: The Food Network Magazine - May 2011Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-20101517774304704422011-09-27T15:47:00.002-04:002011-09-27T15:56:38.430-04:00Tuck Inn's Mentors<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8jBJOrUQoV0/ToIqaVouGoI/AAAAAAAAAD4/UYFRk8z6SrM/s1600/blog-scott-liz.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8jBJOrUQoV0/ToIqaVouGoI/AAAAAAAAAD4/UYFRk8z6SrM/s320/blog-scott-liz.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657130713903667842" /></a><br />As Liz and I very happily discovered, after purchasing The Tuck Inn, innkeepers in Rockport are highly supportive of one another and it is quite rare to have one inn bad-mouth or undermine another inn.<br /><br />When we began our new careers operating the inn, we were complete "babes-in-the-woods" with no inn-keeping experience or hospitality background for us or within either of our families, so we had no one to turn to for help. But fortunately, there was a wealth of help within town. There were 3 key people who helped us tremendously on our way. <br /> <br />First and foremost was the indomitable director of the local Chamber of Commerce, our friend and ongoing supporter, Janice Ramsden. I think Janice really took pity on Liz and I at our first meeting when she realized how unprepared we were to take on the massive renovations of the derelict inn. Knowing it's recently poor reputation and the uphill battle ahead of us to re-establish it's name and business along with all the local town quirks (and some quacks) to work around. Her help and ongoing friendship has proved invaluable to us. To help us with the "nuts and bolts" of inn-keeping, she introduced us to the "Mother Hen of Inn-keeping ", Penny Olson and the affable yet formidable, Leighton Saville. <br /><br />Penny and husband, Larry Olson ran the Linden Tree Inn in town and had developed a wonderful reputation throughout the area. Following Janice's introduction, posthaste, Penny invited us over for our first class of "inn-keeping 101", where she generously proceeded to offer us advice on housekeeping and laundry, advertising and marketing, reservations and general paperwork, who to know or avoid, and damage control! More importantly though, she shared her exuberance with the business and stressed how important it was to keep everything light and laughable.<br /><br />Leighton, along with his partner, Dwight who ran the Seacrest Manor, also took us under their wings offering us similar advice and help. Leighton made sure we advertised in the appropriate books, magazines, brochures, etc. He even called editors and writers on our behalf to get some free publicity. He made it a point to introduce us to other individuals or organizations throughout town as well. When our renovations were nearing completion, he called us up one day to come get 4 rooms of furniture for the taking to outfit our rooms. Then, lastly, he and Dwight went out of their way to send us any number of guests to help fill our rooms and add something to our coffers.<br /><br />We are indebted to these individuals who helped us find our way towards successful inn-keeping. To express our thanks to them, we've always tried to treat any incoming innkeepers with our help "in-kind" and hope others will be as helpful to our eventual replacements as well. (Not to worry though...as we're shooting for a 30 year stint!!)<br /><br />To Janice, Penny, Leighton and Dwight...thank you for everything!!Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-68517125659263310212011-09-12T11:08:00.003-04:002011-09-12T11:43:03.525-04:00Lighthouses on Cape Ann<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQMnlZpkUHM/Tm4oU2mCNsI/AAAAAAAAADw/9-T6i-QVi30/s1600/blog-lighthouse.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQMnlZpkUHM/Tm4oU2mCNsI/AAAAAAAAADw/9-T6i-QVi30/s320/blog-lighthouse.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651498921114089154" /></a><br />Lighthouses are a very unique attraction along the coastlines. They are sought out by photographers and painters for their artistic value, and their curiosity factor to many mid-land dwellers who've not had any access to a lighthouse before. They are found in abundance on Cape Ann and can be viewed as follows:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">In Rockport:</span> <br />On <a href="http://www.lighthouse.cc/straitsmouth/index.html">Straitsmouth Island</a> - most visible from the tip of Bearskin Neck.<br />Dual lights on <a href="http://www.thacherisland.org/">Thacher Island</a> - visible along Eden Road and Good Harbor Beach.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">In Gloucester:</span> <br /><a href="http://www.lighthouse.cc/annisquam/index.html">Annisquam Light</a> - can be accessed by foot off Leonard Street to Norwood Heights.<br /><a href="http://www.lighthouse.cc/easternpoint/">Eastern Point</a> - can be accessed by foot off Eastern Point Boulevard West.<br /><a href="http://www.lighthouse.cc/tenpoundisland/index.html">Ten Pound Island</a> (Winslow Homer's home for a year) in Gloucester Harbor.<br /><br />If you'd like more information about them please consider the following:<br />For interested guests, there is also a 2 1/2 hour boat tour of the lighthouses from Gloucester, or pick up a brochure on lighthouses at The Chamber of Commerce. Then also, one of the previous Thacher Island Lighthouse keepers lives a few doors up the street from the Inn, and they'd welcome your visit. If you would like to lend your support to help maintain and renovate our own Thacher Island, the Thacher Island Association encourages all interested parties to become a member of the association at <a href="http://www.thacherisland.org">www.thacherisland.org</a>.Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-32639557610218844732011-08-26T11:40:00.002-04:002011-08-26T11:59:46.646-04:00Rainy Day Adventures During Your Rockport Holidays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-roIVxr-R5-8/TlfC2hjBhHI/AAAAAAAAADo/Hfpi9xAi6tQ/s1600/blog-rainy.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-roIVxr-R5-8/TlfC2hjBhHI/AAAAAAAAADo/Hfpi9xAi6tQ/s320/blog-rainy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645194899906200690" /></a>
<br />Rainy Day Adventures During Your Rockport Holidays
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<br />Yes, the skies do have a habit of opening up on occasion in Rockport, unconcerned by the fact that you are on your holidays, but there are things to do here regardless. Many of our guests decide to lounge around in their room for hours after breakfast, oblivious to the weather forecasts, but when you do resurface, here are some suggestions.
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<br />For the hardy soul, if you are equipped with rain gear or umbrellas, we love to enjoy the wild seas along the coast, Bearskin Neck, at Granite Pier, or along Bass Rocks in Gloucester. You can also have a nice <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/dr-din-restaurants-se.htm">lunch or dinner</a> downtown while enjoying the surf through the window. During the winter, we have a nice cozy fire going in the living room, if you like to cuddle up with a good book and a hot cup of tea...you are always welcome.
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<br />Of course, the draw of shopping (or threat, depending on your perspective) is always available downtown as well, because most of the shops and galleries will be open. We enjoy meandering through the <a href="http://www.rockportartassn.org/">Rockport Art Association</a> and the <a href="http://nsarts.org/">North Shore Art Association</a> in Gloucester to view some of the multitude of Cape Ann artists. Then we love the <a href="http://www.capeannhistoricalmuseum.org/">Cape Ann Museum</a> for its vast collection of Fitz Hugh Lane paintings, along with its collection of maritime artifacts. You should check out <a href="http://www.historicnewengland.org/historic-properties/homes/Beauport/beauport-sleeper-mccann-house-history">Beauport</a> and the <a href="http://www.hammondcastle.org/common/index.php?com=HAMM&div=AA&nav=AA&page=A91">Hammond Castle</a> in Gloucester as well.
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<br />For the children , you might check out the <a href="http://www.gloucestermaritimecenter.org/">Gloucester Marine Heritage Center</a>. There are 20 lanes of <a href="http://www.funbowling.com/cape-ann-lanes.html">candlepin bowling</a> to be had in Gloucester as well...over near the first rotary. For theaters, there is a triple-plex in West Gloucester, as well as Hollywood Hits and a huge <a href="http://www.fandango.com/amcloewslibertytreemall20_aabbk/theaterpage">Loews Cinema</a> 15 miles away in Danvers.
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<br />If you're up for a brief drive or train ride (station is just 3 blocks away), you could go to Salem, to see the <a href="http://www.7gables.org/">House of Seven Gables</a>, various witch related attractions, or tour the wonderful <a href="http://www.pem.org/">Peabody-Essex Museum</a> or the Phillips House, all of which are readily accessible. Then a longer ride away (about an hour) will open up all the museums and attractions of Boston as well. Our favorites being the <a href="http://www.neaq.org/index.php">Aquarium</a>, the <a href="http://www.bostonkids.org/">Children's Museum</a>, the <a href="http://www.mos.org/">Science Museum</a> and the glass flowers at the <a href="http://www.harvardartmuseums.org/collection/fogg/">Fogg Museum</a>.
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<br />If you are a dedicated shopper (one of my least favorite things to do) then you'll be in your glory here, with antiques galore in Essex, two huge malls in Danvers and Peabody (25 minutes away), or an easy drive to the outlet stores in Kittery, Maine (1 hour and 15 minutes from us).
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<br />You'll find all of the above along with a multitude of other things to do here on a rainy day and we'll be happy to give our recommendations and directions. Or you're welcome to sit back with that book by our fire and just relax a bit as well, because that's one of the reasons for you to get away also!Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-43911579307009273452011-08-23T12:11:00.002-04:002011-08-23T12:19:29.905-04:00Tuck Inn's Innkeepers<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bu_QlGNyV9U/TlPTAhLSO_I/AAAAAAAAADg/G4k3KcTPWq8/s1600/blog-history.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 165px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bu_QlGNyV9U/TlPTAhLSO_I/AAAAAAAAADg/G4k3KcTPWq8/s320/blog-history.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644086763884526578" /></a>
<br />The Tuck Inn has been owned and operated by 4 families since it began in 1949. Many of the inn's guests assume that the inn's name was just a cute play on words, but the inn was actually named for Edie and Albert Tuck, the local residents who first purchased and converted the 2 family house and started the inn with the purchase of two abutting properties. Over the next 30 years, the Tuck's expanded their operation eventually to 18 rooms for lodging and full dining. From all accounts, the Tuck's had an extraordinary operation and an exceptional reputation, but in 1979 Albert passed away, and Edie sold it the following year to couple from Sudbury named Carlson.
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<br />The Carlson's ran the inn for a few years, but soon discovered that inn-keeping was not for them and sold the inn after a few years to a family named Tranos.
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<br />The Tranos' briefly ran the inn as well for another few years, parceling off one of the buildings and eliminating the full dining, until, they too discovered inn-keeping was not to their suiting.
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<br />The local bank took back the building in 1989. The then vacant building fell into a terrible state of disrepair until your current starry-eyed inn-keepers scooped it up (or as some of our family members have suggested, were scooped by the bank) and we embarked on our new career in 1991!
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<br />Fast forwarding us by 20 years, we've reclaimed the Tuck's prominence within the town and run a comfortable, hospitable and affordable inn. You'll find us to be a bit older, grayer and broker, but still just as starry-eyed, for there is nothing we would rather be doing than running the Tuck Inn B&B.
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<br />Come visit and meet Tuck Inn's current owners and your caretakers: <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/innkeepers.htm">Liz and Scott Wood</a>.Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-57692150819198685432011-08-16T10:06:00.005-04:002011-08-23T12:23:06.913-04:00Online Guest Reviews!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o0uVxkg03mc/Tkp78kFtdPI/AAAAAAAAADY/E1BwcAjH6mQ/s1600/blog-guestbook.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 192px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o0uVxkg03mc/Tkp78kFtdPI/AAAAAAAAADY/E1BwcAjH6mQ/s320/blog-guestbook.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641457763644962034" /></a>
<br />While our inn has received numerous highly complimentary guest reviews on <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/tripadvisor.htm">www.tripadvisor.com</a> (60+ reviews) and <a href="http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/massachusetts-rockport-thetuckinnbb.html">www.bedandbreakfast.com</a>, those numbers pale in comparison to our in-room guest books which we've now transferred to the <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/guestbook.htm">on-line guest book page</a> on our site. We welcome you to read a bit more about us from our satisfied guests. We conservatively estimate that over the years, we have had at least 6,000 in-room guest reviews. For your reading pleasure, we've included about 300 of them <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/guestbook.htm">here</a>, which we think you'll enjoy.
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<br />Also, as part of this new site upgrade, going forward, our guests can add their own guest book comments to our site via the link on this page or on Tripadvisor at www.tripadvisor.com or on www.bedandbreakfast.com.
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<br />So please take a few minutes now to look at this page on our site: <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/guestbook.htm">Inn Guestbook</a>, and when you next come to visit with us allow a bit of time to read the books within your room. The guest books are generally light and funny and isn't that what you are hoping for when you go away, to have some fun?Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-66477497882409227282011-08-09T16:40:00.004-04:002011-08-09T16:49:30.465-04:00Hollywood Comes to Rockport<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qmST4JrStkw/TkGczD6uKZI/AAAAAAAAADQ/2YOhMOWKvvc/s1600/blog-hollywood.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qmST4JrStkw/TkGczD6uKZI/AAAAAAAAADQ/2YOhMOWKvvc/s320/blog-hollywood.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638960609483434386" /></a>
<br />Did you know that Cape Ann in general and Rockport in particular has become a huge draw for the movie-making industry? In part due to Massachusetts' favorable tax breaks but more so due to the quaint feeling of our town along with its natural beauty, Rockport is a huge hit with the studios, directors and actors alike.
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<br />The last movie which was shot in town was "The Proposal" in 2009, starring Sandra Bullock, Betty White and Ryan Reynolds. This was the movie for which Sandra was nominated for an Oscar, by the way. For the movie, our downtown area was transformed into Sitka, Alaska, with a totem pole erected downtown in our "Dock Square". Many of the retail shops changed their names for the duration of the shooting, and the town magically received a mountain range as its backdrop. All the cast were courteous and very down-to-earth, but Sandra and Betty in particular were favorites among the townsfolk. (Your author didn't get to meet any of the stars, unfortunately, but I did get to see the back of Sandy's head in a truck going the wrong way down School Street, which I thought was pretty special.)
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<br />Some of the other stars and movies shot in town include Matt Damon in "Stuck On You", Cher in "Mermaid", Hal Holbrook in the classic I'll Be Home for Christmas" and McCauley Culkin in "The Good Son". For a complete list of all the movies shot in Rockport and throughout Cape Ann, please link to <a href="http://www.capeannvacations.com/Vacation.cfm?mk=53">Cape Ann Films</a>.
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<br />So the next time you come to stay with us or just come to visit the town, keep your eyes peeled, because who knows, you may be hobnobbing with the stars!Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-26920521677541766592011-08-02T12:14:00.004-04:002011-08-23T12:24:10.414-04:00Tuck Inn's recipes! Tasty treats!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LlckGhp36w8/TjgjOKZPdZI/AAAAAAAAADI/7IWhD8V_JHo/s1600/blog-recipe.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 138px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LlckGhp36w8/TjgjOKZPdZI/AAAAAAAAADI/7IWhD8V_JHo/s320/blog-recipe.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636293659869541778" /></a>
<br />As part of our new <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/breakfast-recipes.htm">website</a>, we redesigned our <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/breakfast-recipes.htm">recipes page</a> at the Inn and included the recipes for each and every one of our baked goods that we serve our guests. The page is fairly extensive as we serve about 75 different baked goods at the Inn. Along with pictures of each item, you'll discover a few different features on this page as well. You'll be able to print a blown up picture of each recipe, and we've even set it up so you can e-mail any recipe to your friends or family as well!
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<br />The file includes about half a dozen gluten-free recipes as well and I've been able to adapt several of my other recipes for gluten-free flour. We will continue to expand on our gluten-free section along with a lactose-free group, and should eventually have a small sub-file of them as two of our grandchildren have gluten sensitivities.
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<br />So we invite you to <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/breakfast-recipes.htm">page through these files</a> and then roll up your sleeves and break out the spatula! Of course, if you don't want to bake yourselves, you can always come visit us here at The Tuck Inn for the treat...and no dishes to clean!! Happy Baking!!Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-54687612759912064222011-07-28T10:23:00.006-04:002011-07-28T14:07:24.882-04:00Come View Tuck Inn's New Web-Site!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GU98a9M7wGA/TjFy6nR9fBI/AAAAAAAAADA/5yv8Np06ZOI/s1600/blog-sign.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 170px; height: 193px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GU98a9M7wGA/TjFy6nR9fBI/AAAAAAAAADA/5yv8Np06ZOI/s320/blog-sign.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634410960119495698" /></a><br />Following months of development, we are thrilled to unveil our new <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com">web site</a> today. Although we had done preliminary work on the site in 2010, we had an intense winter of editing while redesigning and proofing the entire site over the last few months. The new site is comprised of roughly 200 pages of useful information for visitors & vacationers alike to The Tuck Inn B&B, or to Rockport MA, or throughout Cape Ann.<br /><br />Some of the new features include the use of a "flash" presentation on several of the main pages in the site. We have updated our <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/attractions.htm">Cape Ann Visitors Directory Pages</a> to include approximately 1,000 visitor related listings along with links. We have vastly expanded our Guest Comments Page, including approximately 300 out of an estimated 6,000 of our guest reviews. Then we've completely changed and updated our Recipes Page, and offer all of our favorite recipes for you to try (about 75 of them), along with an expanded Staff and a new Innkeepers "Bio" page. These and more have all been included in the new site!<br /><br />Then with urgings from John Richards (our new website mastermind), our children and others, we will be making regular additions to our Blog. We now have a Facebook Page as well and incorporated computerized availability and reservation forms within the site.<br /><br />Lastly, the photography has all been re-vamped and re-sized to give Clark Linehan's extraordinary artistry it's just due - wait until you see the new pictures!<br /><br />So please, do yourself a favor and <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com">jump right into the site</a> to spend some time reviewing it - because you're going to love what you'll find here!!<br /><br /> Thank You,<br />Liz & Scott Wood (owner/innkeepers)<br /> John Richards (web-designer)Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-23934132645689634102011-07-25T15:41:00.002-04:002011-07-25T15:47:46.363-04:00What to do on Cape Ann - Whale Watching<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o7W-_WTm-4A/Ti3IMyUcJyI/AAAAAAAAACo/b7a33hRFJTk/s1600/blog-whale-watch.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 148px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o7W-_WTm-4A/Ti3IMyUcJyI/AAAAAAAAACo/b7a33hRFJTk/s320/blog-whale-watch.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633378830901847842" /></a><br />Perhaps the most popular attraction on Cape Ann is our whale-watching and the sight of one of these magnificent animals just feet from your boat is incredible! <br /><br />My wife and I have gone several times and had a spectacular time with a dozen whales just a few yards from the boat, submerging and resurfacing near us, some with their calves and some breaching. A truly once in a lifetime experience that you must do when you get here. <br /><br />There are 4 whale watch companies operating our of our neighboring town of Gloucester, 4 miles away. Each company has a naturalist on board to help you name and spot the whales, give a narrative about them and to answer your questions. The rates this year run $45 for adults, $38 - $40 for seniors, and $29 -$30 for children per person. Based on the time of year, they will run once or twice daily, 7 days a week, especially in the summer, weather permitting. <br /><br />All 4 companies run good operations and we can't recommend one over the other, although I have been partial to Captain Bill's simply because "Jodie" has always been so pleasant to deal with. To learn more about them or to see their schedules, rates, or to make a reservation, please click on their sites below:<br /><br /> Captain Bill's Whale Watch @ <a href="http://www.captbillandsons.com">www.captbillandsons.com</a><br /> Cape Ann Whale Watch @ <a href="http://www.seethewhales.com">www.seethewhales.com</a><br /> Seven Seas Whale Watch @ <a href="http://www.7seas-whalewatch.com">www.7seas-whalewatch.com</a><br /> Yankee Fleet @ <a href="http://www.yankeefleet.com">www.yankeefleet.com</a><br /><br />If you choose to reserve with Captain Bill's, tell Jodie The Tuck Inn says "hello" and she may give you a slight discount!<br /><br />The Tuck Inn, of course, is happy to accommodate you when you come to Cape Ann to see the whales and we'll always prepare an early breakfast for any guests taking an early morning trip. Come and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime trip, which is truly a humbling experience.Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-65061989700439449752011-07-21T13:37:00.003-04:002011-07-21T13:40:47.439-04:00Breakfast at the Tuck Inn - Ooh, la, la!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HkyPE86s3RY/Tihkd7uA8gI/AAAAAAAAACY/TSWaqEqWKXY/s1600/breakfast-blog.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HkyPE86s3RY/Tihkd7uA8gI/AAAAAAAAACY/TSWaqEqWKXY/s320/breakfast-blog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631861799436481026" /></a><br />The one thing that makes Rockport's Tuck Inn stand out from nearly any B&B that you'll ever visit is our home-baked buffet breakfast! Breakfast is truly an extraordinary event and unfolds thusly:<br /><br />Scott typically begins his baking around 3:00 - 3:30 a.m. every day that we have guests. Depending upon the number of breakfast diners, he'll generally bake 5-8 items with everything made from "scratch"; no packaged goods or store-made stuff warmed up - all from the individual ingredients, to our oven to our dining room for you to savor and enjoy.<br /><br />With an ever expanding repertoire of recipes for baked goods (currently about 75 of them), you'll seldom get the same item served over the course of your stay. For all the bakers or neophytes among you, all of our recipes are available online on our website, so feel free to print them out and take a stab at them yourself!<br /><br />Liz enters the picture around 6:30 - 7:00 a.m. When she'll prepare either stewed rhubarb or applesauce from scratch as well to serve piping hot that day. Then she will prepare the huge fruit bowl, again all freshly cut that morning. We'll put on freshly brewed coffee as soon as our first guest comes in, usually around 7:00 a.m., but sometimes as early as 4:00 a.m. once the baking aromas begin wafting into your room.<br /><br />After our prep work, Liz, often with the help of Wendy or Margie, will begin serving breakfast which lasts usually from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m., during which Scott will usually come to your table with the final baked good fresh out of the oven, before helping with serving. (Although often Scott will prepare a few items quite early for departing guests who need to catch an early flight or who are going fishing or whale-watching at some ungodly hour.)<br /><br />To complement the baked goods, fruit compotes and fruit platters, we also include our home-made granola (again from scratch), a variety of cereals, yogurts, preserves, honey, and a never ending cup of coffee, tea, cocoa or juices. <br /><br />Our extensive breakfast is a culinary feast and, although we may take exception to being pigeon-holed as serving a simple continental breakfast, that's how we are categorized withing the town. Consequently, our victualer's license restricts us from serving egg dishes, bacon, or pancakes and the like. That being said though, rest assured that you will not leave our breakfast table hungry!<br /><br />A growing concern from our guests are an increase in food sensitivities and allergies for which we can happily accommodate you. We have a handful of gluten-free recipes along with some prepared without milk and we can even prepare vegan baked goods, so please remind us when you arrive, should you have any food restrictions.<br /><br />We go through an enormous amount of food each day and to insure that we never run out, we bake and prepare every breakfast in abundance and usually have quite a bit left over each morning. Guests often inquire about what happens to the remainder, which we don't re-serve? Any excess after breakfast usually becomes our parting gift to you before you start your day, so don't forget your "to-go bag" folks!!!Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-44749746231523575862011-07-18T12:24:00.004-04:002011-07-21T13:52:16.665-04:00Inns of Rockport<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KJynwGMJQFk/TihnRf4ROeI/AAAAAAAAACg/icttbKKN5NU/s1600/inns-blog.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KJynwGMJQFk/TihnRf4ROeI/AAAAAAAAACg/icttbKKN5NU/s320/inns-blog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631864884339751394" /></a><br />If we can't serve you, someone else can! That's our intent at The Tuck Inn and the other inns of Rockport. In our town, we have a very close-knit organization of 25 inns, including B&B's, apartments, cottages, hotels, and motels as well. Collectively, we represent about 350 rooms for lodging and we should be able to handle anyone's accommodation request, from small, intimate B&B's to larger complexes with full dining, handling wedding venues or medium size meetings. <br /><br />As every innkeeper has discovered, there are often times that we are unable to fill a reservation request, and we work with each other and are happy to refer you to another inn. So if The Tuck Inn is full, please view The Inns of Rockport site, because, most likely, one of our other member inns should be able to accommodate your lodging needs.<br /><br />Our group site, where all our members are listed is: <a href="http://www.innsofrockport.com" target="_blank">www.innsofrockport.com</a>. Please feel free to explore your other options for lodging in Rockport, MA, but wherever you stay, come enjoy our little village on Cape Ann and stay at one of our inns.Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-70966133308972828802011-07-12T13:37:00.003-04:002011-07-21T22:35:52.791-04:00Easy Day Trips From Rockport<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ub2eSo5OTe8/ThyI96QjYrI/AAAAAAAAACI/uSn0Z-JXVDs/s1600/seven-gables.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 140px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ub2eSo5OTe8/ThyI96QjYrI/AAAAAAAAACI/uSn0Z-JXVDs/s320/seven-gables.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628524231498359474" /></a><br />Rockport is located on the tip of Cape Ann (Massachusetts' other Cape) and is just 35 miles north of Boston. Some of the day trips that we suggest to our guests are as follows:<br /><br />Gloucester: drive to Gloucester to whale-watch, visit the Cape ann Historical Museum, walk along the boulevard and visit the famous Gloucester Fisherman's Statue.<br /><br />Essex: Drive to Essex (20 minutes away) to go antique shopping at over 40 shops.<br /><br />Ipswich: Drive to Ipswich (30 minutes away) and visit the Crane Estate, or go to Crane's Beach with 8 miles of coastline and sand dunes to explore. You can also visit the Audubon sanctuary for some glorious walking or great bird watching. A point of interest is that Ipswich has more 1600's homes than any other town in America!<br /><br />Salem: Drive or take the train (25 minutes) and visit the House of Seven Gables and the Peabody- Essex Museum, and the Phillips House.<br /><br />Boston: Drive or take the train to Boston (1 hour) and visit the museums, take the Boston Harbor water taxi, visit the Public Gardens or take in a baseball game.<br /><br />Drive to Rowley for Todd Farms Flea Market on Sundays with over 200 dealers. Go to Newburyport to bird watch along the sand dunes of Plum Island and Parker River Estuary, and Maudley's State Park. <br /><br />You can also visit the Lexington and Concord area in just over an hour if you're a history buff. You can also visit the famous Walden Pond, where you can re-walk Thoreau's famous paths. While there, pop over to the Wayside Inn in Sudbury for a memorable meal. Pilgrim Plantation, the Mayflower and the famous Plymouth Rock are about a 90 minute drive away. In Quincy, John Adams' homestead can be visited in a little over an hour as can the J.F.K Library as well. <br /><br />Then there is always the shopping lure of the outlet stores in Kittery, Maine, about 90 minutes away as well. We've also had guests that have driven to Cape Cod, the Sturbridge area in Western Massachusetts and some of the scenic towns in Maine a bit farther up the coast all for a day (though they're all a bit farther than I'd undertake, about 2 - 2 1/2 hours away).<br /><br />You'll find that there really is a multitude of readily accessible historic, scenic or interesting things to do within a short drive from Rockport. We suggest the you consider making The Tuck Inn your home base while visiting the area, as you can still return later in the day and relax in our quiet little village before more exploring during your holidays.Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-39893778720303908062011-06-28T10:01:00.002-04:002011-06-28T10:10:30.146-04:00Rockport Music Performance Center<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wjJg55rVY8E/TgngmrNSnAI/AAAAAAAAACA/IOVLyCo1Ce0/s1600/shalin-liu-200.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 140px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wjJg55rVY8E/TgngmrNSnAI/AAAAAAAAACA/IOVLyCo1Ce0/s320/shalin-liu-200.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623272564786895874" /></a><br />Everyone in Rockport is thrilled about our new Performing Arts Center on Main Street. The 20 million dollar Shalin Liu Center was just completed in June 2010, with special acoustics, a seating capacity of 330 and an extraordinary backdrop of Sandy Bay. It is quite a jewel for our town. The center offers Chamber Music, Classical, a new Jazz series and simulcasts of the operas from the MET, along with a number of productions for our local high school plays. The Center even has a fully catered function room, which can be rented for weddings or meetings to boot!<br /><br />The Tuck Inn is conveniently located just two blocks away from the Shalin Liu, and as we are open nearly year-round, we would be happy to accommodate your lodging if you come up for a performance. <br /><br />To look at a complete list of their upcoming performances, ticket prices, or to purchase tickets, please click to their website at <a href="http://www.rcmf.org/">www.rcmf.org</a>.<br /><br />Come enjoy the music in our beautiful little village!Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-18102849549157064832011-06-23T09:51:00.003-04:002011-06-23T09:59:26.388-04:00What to Do In Rockport - The Innkeepers Picks!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xZ15GmZOLF0/TgNGpht-5SI/AAAAAAAAAB4/Sz5nM736ZI4/s1600/halibut-point-small.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xZ15GmZOLF0/TgNGpht-5SI/AAAAAAAAAB4/Sz5nM736ZI4/s320/halibut-point-small.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621414439128327458" /></a><br />The following is just a list of things that Liz and I like to do in town and often recommend to our guests. It's in no way complete, but just our personal favorites.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Walking:</span><br />1. The Headlands - (2 blocks away)<br />2. Marmion Way / Garden Path - (3 1/2 mile loop)<br />3. Halibut State Park - (60 acres of coastal park - 3 miles away)<br />4. Dogtown - off Curtis Street (over 3,000 acres of woodlands)<br />5. Kelly's Pond & Cape Pond - (2 hour woods hike just 3 blocks from the Inn)<br />6. Atlantic Path - (2 mile coastal walk from Emerson Inn to Halibut Point)<br />7. Throughout the residential neighborhoods to enjoy the gardens and architecture<br />8. Granite Pier<br />9. Steel Derrick Quarry Walk<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Beaches:</span><br />l. Front Beach - ( 2 blocks away with grandkids)<br />2. Back Beach - (2-3 blocks away with grandkids)<br />3. Old Garden Beach - (3-4 blocks away with grandkids)<br />4. Long Beach - (2 miles away - great body surfing without grandkids!)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Train Rides:</span> (Rockport train station is just 3 blocks away)<br />1. To Salem - (20 minute ride to museums, House of Seven Gables)<br />2. To Boston (1 hour ride to museums, sporting events, Boston Pops, and "ugh"-shopping)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Retail Stores:</span><br />1. Shopping - (150 plus shops/galleries to chose from - 2 blocks away) (window shopping only for Scott and the real deal for Liz)<br />2. Art Galleries / Studios - (approximately 20 - 25) (window shopping only for both Scott and Liz)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Dining:</span><br />1. Roy Moore's Lobster Pound - (boiled lobsters - freshly caught and boiled, yummy and inexpensive)<br />2. Brackett's Oceanview - (nice full-service menu with great views)<br />3. Nate's at Front Beach - (best lobster roll around)<br />4. My Place By The Sea - (exceptionally prepared food, a bit on the expensive side, but we suggest you go for lunch for the same wonderful food at a significant savings over the supper menu)<br />5. Fish Shack - (good hot meals, mainly fish and a bit less expensive than other)<br />6. Lograsso's - (4 nights a week, Wednesday - Sunday, Italian food...mmm, mmm, good!)<br />7. Emerson Inn - (in Pigeon Cove, 1 1/2 miles away, exceptional dining and setting for a special meal)<br />8. Ellen's Harborside - (great prime rib and lobster bisque...dee-lish!)<br />9. Molly's Sweet Tooth - (Richardson's ice cream - decadent!)<br />10. Top Dog - (the best hot dogs around!)<br />11. Bean & Leaf - (great coffee and dessert shop)<br />12. Hula Moon - (soups, wraps and take-out orders)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Playgrounds:</span><br />1. Behind school complex on Jerden's Lane (1/2 mile away)<br />2. At Millbrook Meadows - (2 blocks away for swings and to feed ducks)<br />3. Pigeon Cove on Story Street - ( 1 1/2 miles away)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Museums & Attractions & other:</span><br />1. Rockport Art Association - (1 block away)<br />2. Sandy Bay Historical Society - (3 blocks away - local history)<br />3. Local Library - School Street - (2 blocks away - we've spent lots of time in Children's department).<br />4. Shalin Liu Performance Center - (2 blocks away, extraordinary setting with multiple productions). (The last one we saw was Chad & Jeremy - "Who, you say?")<br />5. Little Art Cinema - (1 block away - old time movie house with equally old seats - ouch!)<br />6. Visit the Paper House in Pigeon Cove - 1 1/2 miles away (historical oddity).<br />7. Walking the grandkids to school, or the park or reading to them, whenever possible.<br />8. Bird-watching along the shore or local woods (without binoculars, because with them we never spot a thing!)<br />9. Our in-ground pool - (40 feet away for my daily 10 minute dip and then back to the salt mines!)<br /><br />When you come to visit with us, Liz and I and our staff will gladly cover all of the above with you and give you some suggestions of things to see and do or eat within town or throughout Cape Ann. We are all fairly knowledgeable about our town and will be glad to handle any of your other requests as well...just ask!Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-82924287821519454802011-06-02T15:41:00.006-04:002011-06-02T15:58:30.585-04:00Spring Has Sprung In Rockport & Here At The Tuck Inn!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m8vrInJp_6A/TefpRi_pRgI/AAAAAAAAABs/Cbi_EL05PVw/s1600/tulips.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 218px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m8vrInJp_6A/TefpRi_pRgI/AAAAAAAAABs/Cbi_EL05PVw/s320/tulips.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613711948201412098" /></a><br />We had one tough winter in Rockport this year along with most of New England. We’re relieved though, that the snows have finally melted, that we could put away the shovels, and can now happily turn our attention outside to the gardens around the inn.<br /><br />You’ll find that our fall plantings are now in bloom, and that although the squirrels had a feast at our expense last year, it appears that the majority of our bulbs escaped our hungry adversaries. Thank heaven, as I planted <span style="font-weight: bold;">1,000 tulips</span> along with <span style="font-weight: bold;">200 each of crocuses and daffodils</span> along the front, the sides and lots of both of the buildings – What a Show!<br /><br />While we may still be in the midst of our spring clean-up outside, our comfortable rooms and hearty breakfasts still await you inside, so come visit us and our beautiful little town this spring to enjoy the annual re-awakening!<br /><br />Towards that end, to entice you at this time of year, we invite you to take advantage of our <a href="http://www.tuckinn.com/specials.htm">Spring Mid-Week Special</a> (Mon-Thurs) which will be run from May 1st to June 23rd. The rate is $199 + tax for 2 people for 2 nights lodging (including breakfasts of course)!!<br /><br />So shake off your “winter doldrums”, and come enjoy Rockport with us this Spring!Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-81185752342306692412010-06-10T16:16:00.004-04:002010-06-14T15:59:40.649-04:00Spring Fling in Rockport<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OXp_jZlctI4/TBFIv9OSW2I/AAAAAAAAAA4/qcstlmDSyik/s1600/motif-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 147px; height: 220px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OXp_jZlctI4/TBFIv9OSW2I/AAAAAAAAAA4/qcstlmDSyik/s320/motif-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481242210212141922" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Motif No. 1 Day proved to be a fantastic day in Rockport - weather included.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Pictures of the Sidewalk Chalk Art, the Try-Your-Hand Art Event, the Kids' Art Zone, the music throughout downtown, the face-painting, the excited concert-goers entering the Rockport Music Performance Center for the first time (amazing!), the photographs of the Motif at the Rockport Art Association, the movie of vintage Rockport and much, much more</span></span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;">If you were there, you know what a great time we had. If you weren't able to make it, see you in 2011!</span></span><br /></div>Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7228314409351748232.post-28979087540054161612010-05-10T16:40:00.004-04:002010-06-14T15:58:20.441-04:00Relax and Refresh!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OXp_jZlctI4/S-hwSpPbnfI/AAAAAAAAAAs/Zv-N0Q5ZdLg/s1600/pool.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 132px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OXp_jZlctI4/S-hwSpPbnfI/AAAAAAAAAAs/Zv-N0Q5ZdLg/s320/pool.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469745213052001778" border="0" /></a><br />We have officially opened our outdoor pool and it is refreshing! Come join us this summer at our quaint and historic inn.Scott Woodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11887528567994473885noreply@blogger.com0