It is always such a refreshing change of pace to take a weekend and just get away for a while! That’s exactly what we did over this past three day weekend. We had circled the dates on the calendar a while back, knowing it’d be cold, but looked forward to a chilly and snow-filled weekend exploring some of upstate NY. We ventured through lake country — notably Saratoga Lake and Lake George — to find a much needed dose of nature, quality mom and daughter time on the road, and lots of new finds and inspiration to take us right into spring.

Our base was a quaint lakeside cottage near Saratoga Springs, NY (a town we found to be equally adorable and picturesque). We mosied our way up Route 9 with the guiding rule that we usually follow on road trips: spontaneous stops are not only encouraged, but required! Who knows where we will end up on trips like these!

On the first full day of our trip, we woke up, got coffee at Stewart’s, and headed to Lake George. My favorite moment of the whole trip was getting up close to the lapping, frozen lake front. The water was extremely unsettled and choppy, but it was the most beautiful shade of deep and rich cerulean. It reminded us a bit like Maine, but somehow, friendlier, a little bit softer, and welcoming. We found a little spot called “Cotton Point” that was spotted with tiny lake cottages and docks, stopping here to take some pictures. Luckily for us, there was not a soul in sight! The reeds and grasses along the water were frozen over, coated in ice. It was really very beautiful, but very stark and cold! Soon after we enjoyed a hearty breakfast of eggs, sourdough toast, bacon and potatoes and a chai latte. It was scrumptious and warmed us right back up!

We spent the rest of the day antiquing and honestly, I don’t really indulge in antiques but it always makes impressions on me and forces me to think how I’d incorporate antiques into my own home. The “item of the day” (aka the things we KEPT SEEING!!) were ironstone pitchers which I really liked. I saw one with a bouquet of faux tulips and it just screamed spring! It makes me so excited for the season to come! Now that I am thinking about it, I wish I bought that pitcher of tulips.

I can only picture what this lake looks like during the summer, with glorious sunsets and 4th of July fireworks reflecting its lapping shores. It must be a sight! We are toying with the idea of making a family summer trip up there, so if you have any recommendations, let me know.

In the mean time, this road trip was absolutely perfect. It was truly a gift and a treasure to be able to take in a brand new place for the first time! Road trips with my mom are the best, and I am so glad we make a point to take them together to create new memories and laughs. It does my soul good!

Winter Lake Getaway

A. Taylor Studio