This October, I celebrated my 28th trip around the sun in the serene Catskill mountains overlooking hues of yellow, red, and orange. As an autumn baby, it is no surprise that fall is my favorite season. Bring me crisp fall leaves and everything pumpkin, please!
While rain graced us most of our first day of the trip, we did not let it rein on our parade! On Day 1, we celebrated with brunch at Prospect, located in Schribner's Catskill Lodge. After reviewing the inn online, I expected it to be beautiful. Nevertheless, I was pleasantly surprised by the eclectic artwork and freestanding fireplace. Hints of black-stained wood and the gorgeous wraparound deck cast the magnetism of a mid-century touch. I felt I was in the middle of an Architectural Digest shoot and I loved every second of it. I didn't want to leave Scribner's. I could've stayed there for a while.
It's the Catskills, so your meal is likely not being prepared by a renowned Michelin-star chef. The fare at Prospect is modestly flavored and wholesome. I ordered the fresh brioche sandwich and sautéed potatoes as my entree and the gluten-free pancakes for dessert. While the pancakes were too nutty for my taste, the group was able to enjoy them! P.S., Order the potatoes!
Scribner's grand room is the perfect place to settle in with a warm drink and a good book. You will find various seating areas and access to the deck on the east end of the inn. Behind the clouds is a breathtaking view of Hunter Mountain. Unfortunately, I missed the view as the rain did not let out until later that evening.
Instead of heading to our original destination, the Kaaterskill Falls, we stayed in and enjoyed a game night. When hosting an event with a large group, always plan an activity to keep guests connected and unplugged. After brunch, my friends showed out for a Create-Your-Own-Shot Competition. Which shot do you think won the competition?
For our last activity of the night, we dressed up as characters in a murder mystery and played Murder at the Pizzeria. While my friends disagree, I think it worked out perfectly that the Crime Boss was the killer.
In the fall, leaves teach us to accept wild rebirth with grace. For year 28, I welcome a new body - a healthy, well-nourished, vibrant, and agile body. I welcome new beginnings. I welcome new love. I welcome a series of new inspiring moments and creative energy. I welcome new adventures. I welcome vitality. Like fine wine, I level up with age.
When I sip, you sip, we sip!
As we headed back home, we could not end the trip without stopping at a winery. Hudson Valley may not be the Napa of the East but, I sure am a fan of the sweet grape and fruit harvesting of Orange County, New York (blog post to follow). Our last stop of the trip was at award-winning winery, Milea Estate Vinyard in Staatsburg, New York (Hudson Valley Magazine's Best of Hudson Valley 2022). I came here for the wine and will forever crave their scrumptious Butternut Squash Hummus. Apologies, the rest of the food was way too delicious to get snapshots of it.
This trip is one I've planned for many birthdays and wasn't able to execute until now. I could have just done it alone but, I have always been the type of person who thrives in community. Having a dear circle of friends to spend the most special day of the year with is the best birthday gift a girl could ask for.
Every birthday is a gift. Every day is a gift. — Aretha Franklin
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