Happy Tuesday, friends!
I spent a wonderful day and night yesterday at Sheaffer’s family’s ranch with my besties. This year, we decided to FINALLY go check out this amazing property that we’ve been hearing about now for almost 20 years in lieu of a girls trip. It’s always been on our “to do” list, and I’m so happy we finally went and did it. I imagine we will be back very soon to do it again. It was even more fun/charming/adorable than I even imagined. The best part though was a little uninterrupted time with my favorite ladies.
So, that’s what I did yesterday 🙂 .
Today though, it’s PART TWO of Kensington’s birthday trip! Plus, it’s also the 22nd of the month which means that it’s BOOK CLUB DAY! We are chatting all things MADWOMAN on our Book Club post today. If you read that book, make sure you hop on over there.
In the meantime, if you missed PART ONE of our birthday trip recap, make sure you check it out HERE.
Get cozy, y’all. PART TWO is filled with pumpkin goodness and lots of leaf peeping!
I woke up on the second day of the trip, lifted weights in the hotel gym and then hit the streets for a little strolling before we set out on our day…
…you guys, Newport in October is MAGICAL! Look at this church!
Oh my word…
…my pumpkin lovin’ heart was in heaven…
…everywhere I looked, it was happiness…
…I could have stayed forever…
…Newport, you are oh so charming. I am in love with this town.
After my morning of looking at pumpkins, I got ready and the four of us drove about an hour to visit…
…the actual Conjuring house.
This is Kensington’s favorite spooky/Halloween/frightful movie and a “must” on her to do list. The actual movie was filmed in North Carolina, but the real house sits here in Rhode Island. Let me just tell you, the hour long drive across Rhode Island was one of the most beautiful drives I’ve ever taken. I bet we all four said the phrase “look at those trees” at least 100 times. It was STUNNING. We had Starbucks, we listened to a fall playlist on Spotify, and we leaf peeped our way from Newport to Harrisville. It was my idea of the perfect road trip. Short and with foliage 🙂 .
The property where this house sits (now a museum/tourism area) was…
…STUNNING!
Before our tour, we were able to explore the property…
…and my photos do it no justice at all…
We had a one hour tour with about 10 other people through the house. The two ladies who gave the tour were so sweet and very informative. Spoiler alert, the real conjuring house and events that took place here years ago are not nearly as horrifying as the movie. Hollywood for sure “jazzed” up the movie. Nevertheless…
…touring the old home and listening to their stories was fun…
…I mean, clearly, he was terrified 😉 .
When the tour was over, we headed back out to the property to explore a bit more…
These two girls are just the sweetest! Side note, we kept encouraging Ebby Lee to put on pants, but it would have totally thrown off the outfit and who wants that?! Instead, we just bundled up next to her in between photos 😉 .
On the way back to Newport, the girls wanted to stop and leaf peep some more.
We found this beautiful park…
…the sweetest besties.
This is 16. SIXTEEN!
After our equally as lovely drive back to Newport, we headed straight to lunch…
..lunch on the water at The Lobster Bar? Yes, please!
Our table had quite the view!
I had the “bar burger” which was basically a surf and turf burger. It was delish!
After lunch, the girls went off and did some shopping one direction while Andrew and I went the other…
…I’ve talked about Shore Soap Company for YEARS because Andrew and I both use their products daily. They’re based here in Newport.
After we did a little shopping, we headed back to our hotel…
…and enjoyed the rooftop bar!
It was such a lovely way to end our afternoon.
After that…
…we changed and went out to dinner. Clearly, we stopped for a photo. I don’t think we’ve ever looked better 😉 .
Our last meal in Newport was delicious! We loved The Mooring!
After dinner, we headed to bed. The next morning, we were getting up early and heading back to Massachusetts. One more recap to come this week.
Don’t forget, if you missed PART ONE, make sure you read that plus, it’s also BOOK CLUB DAY! So, head HERE to chat all things Madwoman.
I hope YOU have the best day! I’ll see you tomorrow! xx
Jami Romano says
So gorgeous – all of it!
Kim in RI says
Ok you were in RI and didn’t tell me!!! I live here and would have given you the must do list! Glad you loved Newport and your visit!
Amanda says
Shay! Did you notice all the creepy blue orbs in your photos inside the Conjuring house? Reflection or ghost? Haha!
Mix and Match Mama says
My money is on reflection 😉 .
Elspeth says
What a perfect fall day! I love the changing of the leaves and the fall like conditions!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Anna says
But did you buy a sweater at Kiel James Patrick!?! I’ve wanted one of their sweaters forever!
Mix and Match Mama says
I can purchase his cotton sweaters, but I have a wool allergy and cannot tolerate it against my skin (I sometimes try and always regret it…I get red and itchy pretty darn fast), so I don’t typically buy his sweaters unless it’s one of his cotton ones (which he has few).
K.K. says
Shay, that’s me too!!! Besides my mom, I don’t know anyone else who has this. Same same.
Dana P says
These pictures are GORGEOUS so I can only imagine how pretty they are in person!
Lisa D says
What a wonderful gift to your daughter and her best friend, and for you and your hubs as well! The Fall colors are lovely 🍁 Thanks for sharing!
Ashley D says
Love all of the Fall photos! Newport is on my bucket list to hopefully visit one day!
Also, thank you for sharing about Shore Soap Company in past posts. I bought some of their lotion, body oil and soap (and gifted some to my mom), and all of the products were fabulous! Especially the coconut body oil — absolutely heavenly!! These products would make great gifts for the holidays!
Marianne Hardwick says
Can I ask where your green jacket is from?? Thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
Isn’t it cute?! It’s Vuori! https://bit.ly/4dQywFV
Kay says
Awwww, love these photos! I live outside of Boston and I will say, I think New England just owns fall! (Though I could do without the winter!). The leaves this year are EXTRA spectacular. I’m so glad you picked this Fall to see them.
I got married (21 years ago!) in Fall in Newport. So it was extra special to see these photos from my kitchen today 🙂
That view of Newport at night with the sparkling bridge is gorgeous.
Mix and Match Mama says
Wow!!! I love, love, love that you shared this, Kay!! This story warmed my heart.
KelseyLedare says
Did Colleen Rothschild discontinue her sunscreen? I always stock up at sales so it’s been a few years since I’ve had to buy more. Now I can’t find it anywhere on the website. I’m going to be so disappointed if it’s gone…
Mix and Match Mama says
So that’s actually one product I’ve never tried. I don’t know the answer to this one??
Emily North says
What a beautiful site for a birthday! Beautiful
Angela says
What a fun trip you guys had!! The leaves, that fall sky with the gray clouds rolling in… all of it looked like such a fall-fabulous time celebrating K!
I love your black boots in the pumpkin picture! Would you be able to give details/links to that outfit? Love it!!
Tasha says
Hi Shay, thanks for sharing! I’m curious with you sharing about the conjuring house/it being Kensington’s favorite movie what your thoughts are on spiritual warfare and watching things that have to do with paranormal/demonic activity? I used to love watching scary movies like that but after I had a spiritual attack I felt convicted not to anymore. No judgement either way, just curious on your take as a fellow believer! Sorry a heavy question for a Tuesday morning lol!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I think it’s a great question! I don’t mind her enjoying movies like this in the fall. When I was her age, I watched Pet Cemetery and Freddie Krueger and of course, a huge one when I was in high school was The Blair Witch Project. I think experiences like this give us a lot to talk about. I don’t ever want my kids to have “my faith” just because I’m their mom. I want them to have their own personal relationships with the Lord and know the Holy Spirit personally and intimately. When they die, they have to face that alone, so I want them to be firmly grounded in their faith. It was very interesting to visit and gave us a lot to discuss which I always think is a great thing to do with my kiddos.
Leticia says
My son, now 21, went through a scary movie phase as a teen, and rather than have him watch alone or with friends, I sat through so many Conjuring movies (so many) and another series I don’t remember at the moment. It did bring up many topics about what the bible says, how the story handled demons/afterlife/etc. I learned more about my son in those times than I would have otherwise. It’s true, as christian parents we model our faith, we teach our faith, but it is up to each child (person) to come to their own faith in Jesus 🙂
Lindi says
I had the same question. As a believer and follower of Christ, I cling to His Word that says there is NO DARKNESS in Him. Zero, guys.
Therefore, I fervently avoid dark, scary movies, books, etc. Not because I’m afraid, c’mon Jesus overcame, but because there are very, very real spirits alive and well in the earth looking for an open door into our lives. I’ve seen too much to believe otherwise. It seems harmless until it’s 100 percent not.
No judging either. The Light of Christ – that’s where it’s at.
Mix and Match Mama says
Of course and this platform has been nothing but a vessel for me to point others to Christ.
SarahBeth says
So fun! Have you ever compared a pic of K at this age to A’s mom? She looks so much like her to me- an absolute beauty!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I haven’t specifically done it with these exact ages, but they do look a lot alike!
Sonya Derczo says
Ok, where is your crossbody bag from? I love the style & color! This recap makes me want to visit Rhode Isand!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s from Louis Vuitton!
Sonya Derczo says
Which LV is it? Love it!
Mix and Match Mama says
I just looked it up, and it’s the Saumur BB.
Sonya Derczo says
Oh I think I found it…Saumur BB…thank you!
Megan says
After your “Top 10 US Summer Vacation Destinations” post earlier this year, I was inspired to take my family to Newport. We went in August and loved it! It’s fun to see your pictures of it in the fall, as well. We also had lunch at The Lobster Bar and dinner at The Mooring- both delicious! The Mooring was one of our favorite meals!! Hope you tried the “donuts”! 😋 Thank you for sharing!
Mix and Match Mama says
It makes me so happy to know you got a destination off of that list!! Thank YOU for sharing!!
Jessica says
This post makes me want to book a trip to Newport ASAP!
Happy Birthday to your wonderful girl! It’s been so fun watching her grow up!
K.K. says
As I was reading, I was thinking… Maybe there should be fall trip to the Northeast annually! Maybe that’s on our trip list for next year!! Gorgeous photos!
Also, hope you can do a ranch re-cap too!
Jeanne Cobianchi says
The pumpkin pic with you and Andrew. Bahahahaha!!!!
Deborah Leland says
What a fun trip, I am glad you enjoyed our little state of RI. Next time you are in town, try Matunuck Oyster Bar in Wakefield, RI. It is one of the best restaurants in RI and they have their own oyster farm which you can also sign up to do a tour: https://rhodyoysters.com/ Also, go to Bristol, RI which is a gem!
Penny Giesecke says
The trips you take and the pictures you share are inspiring. As breathtaking as these latest pictures are I can imagine the scenery is absolutely more beautiful in person. As always, posts of glimpses into your vacations are my favorite and nothing could be sweeter than a fun trip for two best friends.
Karah Stracener says
I love that your kids choose experiences over presents. This looks like such a fun trip. I have added Newport to my bucket list of places to travel to.
Lauren says
I’m loving these Newport posts! I went to college in Newport at Salve Regina University and had the BEST years living there! It’s definitely a special place for me, and so magical this time of year!
sandi says
As the mom of a boy who wears shorts year round… at college in the mountains, with a hat and sweatshirt, I didn’t think twice about her wearing shorts. 🙂 He has also done some cliff jumping in Rhode Island which I am glad I did not know about ahead of time… the video prove he lived.
Such a beautiful state and a great time of year to visit. Glad you had a great time with your girl. Happy Birthday!
Katie Hahn says
Looks like an amazing trip.. and those two girls, talk about the sweetest friendship!
Laci says
Such a fun (and beautiful) trip!
Katheen McLeod says
I am in route to the airport. Taking my 3 girls to Boston, Salem, Newport, and Mystic. This Florida girl can’t wait to experience fall. Perfect timing for this post.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my goodness, HAVE THE BEST TIME!!!! I was just there and yet, I would go with you today too. Have the best time!
Deb says
Newport is now on my list! It looks beautiful. Thank you for all of the great travel ideas – traveling our number 1 passion!
Arlene says
You got my hooked on Shore soap company with the scent Endless Summer! After being in the store, did you find any new faves?! Newport looks amazing!! Love all the fall foliage!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I always buy their Jack Frost this time of year (it’s seasonal for Christmas), so that’s what I came home with this time. I love it!
Carly says
This is a silly question bc your posts will probably answer it 😂, but how many total days did you spend, including flying?
Thinking about this for our next year’s Fall break, but we only get 4 days off.
Mix and Match Mama says
Great question! We left Saturday morning and stayed in Newport for two nights and then one night in Boston and then flew home Tuesday morning. So three nights total.
Carly says
Thank you!
It sounds like we’d have time to do it then!
~B~ says
I was wondering about this also! Thank you!
Melissa says
This post makes me want to visit RI even more now! So glad it was such a fun trip for you all!
Kara says
We just got home from Newport on Saturday and it was the most lovely fall vacation! I have some of the EXACT same pictures of the pumpkin patch at the church!! We had a reservation at The Mooring but cancelled it and decided to go to Clarke Cooke House instead.. which we really liked! I have to admit, my favorite was the chowder and lobster roll from Luke’s! We stayed for a bit on the Seafood Festival and it was SO crowded! So fun to see your pics too! We will definitely be back b/c we loved it so much 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh Kara, thank you for sharing! I’m so happy to know I’m not the only one who loves it 🙂 .
Alison says
I’m so glad Kensington got a fun birthday getaway trip! Love her and Ebby Lee’s friendship! The Fall foliage is beautiful. So unlike down here in Georgia.
Gina Mitchell says
I love these pics!! What a beautiful birthday trip. It made me laugh to read your note about Ebby Lee’s cute overall shorts outfit. It made me cold to look at her, but I knew you would have bought her pants if she really needed them. lol! Your ‘fit was adorable, Ebby Lee! Have the best year being 16, Kensington!
Lisa says
What a fun trip.
Holly C. says
Former Texan transplanted to Southern Maryland 20 years ago. I still miss Texas all the time but being by the Chesapeake Bay and having “fall” (a lot like your pics) makes it better! So enjoyed the content!
Emily R says
How was it for Andrew with walking post surgery? I remember one of the tipping points was walking issues in Ireland. I’m curious about his recovery!
(My mom is debating spinal surgery)
Mix and Match Mama says
Walking is where he feels the best now. He stands and walks almost the entire day (he even works from his desk now standing). Sitting is trickier for him but getting better. He’s movin’ right along with his recovery!
Emily R says
This is great news! Thanks for sharing.
D Jackson says
Such a fun trip that you all could enjoy together!! Memories for a lifetime!! I can’t watch scary movies anymore…loved them when I was a teenager though! I might’ve had to skip the conjuring house tour bcuz I’m a big chicken!! Beautiful scenery though!
Tiffany B says
I’m loving this trip of yours. Our youngest son is a junior at Brown (we live in the Bay Area) so I’ve become really fond of Rhode Island. It’s our new favorite place. There is so much history – it’s so interesting. Thanks for sharing with all of us.
Mix and Match Mama says
Amazing that your son is at Brown!! That’s fantastic! Good job, Mama!
Alana says
Haha, I love that Ebby Lee stuck with the shorts! I remember doing this as early as kindergarten, so I definitely can relate. Maybe not at this age anymore, but style used to come first for sure!
Sheaffer says
THOSE LEAVES!!!! And I love the pics of the girls!
Marisa Patel says
That church with all of the pumpkins was glorious! The more you show off the area, the more I ache to visit, hopefully sometime soon. I LOL at the pic of you and Andrew with the pumpkin heads, thanks for that 🙂
Michelle says
Could you please share where your shoes are from and if they’re comfy?
Mix and Match Mama says
Of course! Which ones?
Heather says
I just love it so much that K & EL are still besties after all these years! Those teen years are super hard on girl friendships. Glad they stuck together all this time. I’m betting they’ll be college roommates here in a few years.
Laura Holmes says
What a fun idea for a fall birthday trip! Love giving experiences!
Lisa Elliott says
What a wonderful birthday trip!