I am fortunate to have visited quite a few states and lived down south as well, but there are some really amazing things to love about New Hampshire.
1.Lilacs - My favorite time of year is that one week, during Spring, when the lilacs are in bloom. Everywhere, and I mean EVERYWHERE smells incredible. You will see them planted at every house in a neighborhood and in the middle of the city. I can't deny the beautiful colors of Autumn everyone talks about, but just imagine an entire state smelling like a single fragrant flower. I get excited every year when the bushes start to bloom.
2.Santa's Village - A Christmas themed amusement park in North Country sparks some of my earliest memories. I still have a collection of nail rings made to fit my tiny 6 year old fingers. My parents have a collection of photos of us behind the gingerbread cutouts and standing tall next to the igloo. Although smaller than some great amusement parks, the magic is endless. Who wouldn't want to visit Santa in the Summer? Now as a mom of two toddlers, I'm counting down the days till we bring our girls up to meet the reindeer!
3.State Motto - Live Free or Die. Be honest. Have you ever heard of a cooler motto? I think not.
4.Hampton Beach - Mmmmm be sure to roll down your windows when you're reaching the end of 101 to breathe in the salty air. Then, start at the bottom and drive North up the coast in search of parking. Once you find a space enjoy countless activities in addition to a fun day in the sun. There's concerts in the seashell stage, fireworks on Wednesdays, a sand castle competition, an Easter egg hunt on the beach. Head across the way to grab some good eats or obscene T-Shirts and check out the vintage Coppertone clock at Rexall Drug.
5.Vanity Plates - Getting a new car? Are you thinking of gas prices? Learning how to check your oil? If you live in NH, you're usually spending a few days thinking what awesome vanity plate you're going to get. What better way to spend your time at a red light, than to figure out what this guys plate is trying to say, without all the vowels?
6.Driving - It is such a beautiful state with minimal traffic. Hop in the car, on any given Sunday, and just drive. You're likely to end up at a random park, country store or delicious pizza place. Even if you don't, I guarantee the views are not to be taken for granted.
7.Maple Syrup Cotton Candy - Did a more delicious creation ever exist? No. The answer is no. I walk into the Deerfield Fair every year and make a direct route to the maple house.
8.Fritz Wetherbee & Chronicle - There's something really nice about watching a show after dinner that gives you the inside scoop on places, people, and events in your state. It's a great resource for learning what's available in NH and no one can beat Fritz's history lessons.
9.Red Arrow Diner - The original in Manchester is the tiniest, friendliest diner I have ever been to. The second location in Milford is larger, but I love them for the same reasons. Good food at great prices served by friendly staff. Open 24 hours, with a full menu, it's perfect any time of day. Stop on by and check out the celebrity pictures on the wall or enjoy a "Stan the Man" named after Adam Sandler's father.
10.Connecticut River - I've taken many Summer boat trips up and down the river, but as soon as I first took a kayak I was hooked. When my husband first moved here, I took him kayaking and now it's something we look forward to when summer comes. Last year we took baby A out with us and she loved it! We already have two trips planned for this year! Plus, it's cool to have a natural divider between NH and VT.
