HITTING THE BEACH-THE CROW'S NEST IN MONTAUK

With a decidedly laid back, beach vibe, the Crows Nest Inn in Montauk is the perfect retreat for those looking for a rustic summer vacation, Hamptons style. The hotel features 18 rooms, each decorated in ethnic summer casual: batik print coverlets, dhurrie rugs and driftwood framed mirrors create a laid back, "don't worry about the bringing in the sand" feel to the rooms. The carefree attitude follows you into the stylish restaurant which features fresh, off the boat fish and local produce. The resorts lakefront views and sandy beach will have you pining for a longer vacation!

Even if you don't spend your vacation at the Crow's Nest, a visit to the new Mercantile is certainly worth the trip out East. Bob Melet, the former vintage buyer for Ralph Lauren has recently opened a small shop at the Crow's Nest and filled it with fabulous finds from his extensive travels. Eclectic antiques, old school photos, and vintage summer apparel await those looking for a little summer retail therapy!

SAND IN MY TOES

I'm back from vacation remembering the feeling of sand in my toes.  Lovely warm sand that stretched for miles and met the cool Caribbean water.  Sand in my toes and now sand in my head.  Sluggish, stubborn, my head feels like its full of sand, fighting the realities of returning from a vacation-wishing for another day in the sand.  As I told my daughter, you have to go home from your vacation to remember how lovely it was and to have something wonderful to look forward too! 

Our flight home was canceled because of the snow storm and secretly I was thrilled. A few more days away from home-no Blackberry, no computer, lots of rum. We finally arrived back in the city on New Years Eve at 11:40 pm,  just enough time to throw our bags in the hallway and tune in to Dick Clark.  With nothing in the fridge for a proper toast we opened a Christmas box of cookies and went to town. It was spontaneous and fun and I hope our impromptu party reflects a lighthearted tone for the New Year. 

Those extra days in the sand have left some things delayed- work, resolutions and wishing you, my dear readers, a Happy and Healthy New Year!