Osprey Real Estate

Rhode Island has become a haven for ospreys and other birds of prey. One of the reasons is the great real estate opportunities. Who wouldn't want to have a nest overlooking two ponds? Sure the roads might be a little loud at times but the wife and kids will get used to it. Clean air, fresh fish, and no DDT, what's not to like?

An enterprising bird decided that this was a spot that couldn't be ignored. The landlord thought he would be discouraged by those ugly traffic cones but weaving is the name of the nest game. Unfortunately the landlord didn't like the effort but offered a solution (as required by federal laws.)




In a few hours time National Grid installed a new pole and nesting box to encourage the first time home owner to "move it on up to the west side" of the rotary. Four different ospreys kept a close eye on the procedures. I was surprised to learn that the old nest was completely destroyed. I thought that they would transfer part of it to the new platform.





The new digs look extremely solid. The little guard rail seems to be a particularly nice touch. Those projections will give the parents a place to get away from the kids and plan their next fishing trip. Although I waited about 20 minutes after National Grid left none of the birds actually landed on the new platform. They all buzzed it and screamed a lot but no one laid claim to the space.

Twenty four hours later someone had claimed the prize. No one was home when I went by but clearly the new apartment was occupied.

Tell me: what is romantic?

Every winter I spend the slower times working on something around the property. There are no end of projects to choose from no matter how many winters pass. One winter I rebuilt the porch. Another I remodeled the Hideaway. Last winter the Seashore bath was overhauled.  Painting something is a given.  But what about this year?

My first major project was foot surgery. Or as I like to think of it, the pirate-in-training extravaganza . It has been nine weeks and I might be leaving my peg-leg and crutches behind soon.

One of my next projects is to refresh our Whirlpool Suite. Although I still love the red walls and cherry furniture, it may be time for a change. The suite is the only room in the house that pays homage to Victorian decor.

Many guests tell me that they love it. They say it is romantic and cozy. Some think it is dated. One gentleman thought it was "too fussy." (We have cut down on the number of throw pillows since this photo was taken.)

So you tell me: keep the theme with red and gold or move on to something else?  Is something more modern more appealing? Something less red?  Although I don't find starkly modern hotel rooms particularly romantic, I will also admit that I am an old fart that might not know anything about what people find romantic these days.

I am wide open to suggestions. Give me your two cents worth. If I follow your suggestion I'll make it worth your while to come and check out the finished product.

02/14/15 Could be Your Special Date

I know that is is only January but thought I should put an idea into your head before the advertising industry gets into full swing. Valentine's Day. Or if you prefer, President's Day Weekend.  This is the traditional weekend of fun and relaxation with a little bit of pressure to assure your significant other of your deepest feelings of love and commitment.  Don't panic. Blueberry Cove Inn can help.


Wouldn't it be wonderful to come to relax, enjoy some fine dining, comb a winter beach and possibly pop "the" question?

Can you imagine making your anniversary so special that it is unforgettable by tying the knot on Valentine's Day?

If those ideas are too cliche, no problem. Ignore (if you can) all the hearts and roses and think of Presidents. I can't be certain that Lincoln frequented our area but Washington sure did. Not to mention that his favorite portrait painter lived less than five miles from the inn. We have history galore in the area. That history could include visiting colonial era pubs and taverns, the Sons of Liberty distillery, or any of the other national treasures in the region.

If you and your companion are shoppers, take advantage of all the sales and save big time as clothing and shoes are not taxed in this great little state.

If you are an intrepid fisherperson, there are creatures in our deep waiting to take your bait.

So, now you have some reasons to get out of your town and into Narragansett. What could be sweeter than an extra incentive from your innkeeper?  Book before February 1, 2015  for dates between February 12 and 16, 2015 for these specials:

Our Elopement Package will include a two-night stay instead of a one-night stay.

Our Family and Friends Wedding Package will be discounted by 14%.

Two-night stay guests will have their choice of a Fudge Cake or Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Sweetie Package at no additional charge. (Must be booked on-line.)

I'll be waiting for your calls. Remember, the whirlpool rooms always book quickly so don't dilly dally.

Newport Folk Festival 2015 Presale Tickets

From our friends at RI Monthly Magazine :

Hear Ye, Hear Ye: Newport Folk Fest Tickets On Sale This Week

Want to go to this year's festival? Better get your tickets early.

BY CASEY NILSSON

 

Published: 2015.01.06 04:11 PM

 

Early bird tickets to the 2014 Newport Folk Fest sold out in minutes. Minutes! And to think George Wein, grand master of folk, almost sold the biz in 2008.

This year's dates are July 24, 25 and 26. No, we don't know who's playing the Fort. But does it matter? Last year was awesome; here's a little reminder: (see link above to RI Monthly for the video)

Don't be one of the suckers whining on the festival's Facebook page at 10:30 a.m., and get your tickets the minute they go live. The date is this Thursday, January 8, at 10 a.m. sharp. We suggest you start hovering on Ticketmaster around 9:55, and refresh like a madman. Limit is four tickets per purchase.

Here are the links you need:

Three-Day Pass: Early Bird and Regular Priced Tickets ($199; early bird tix are discounted)

Two-Day Sat./Sun. Pass: Regular Price Tickets ($159)

Friday, July 24: Single Day Tickets ($64)

Saturday, July 25: Single Day Tickets ($85)

Sunday, July 26: Single Day Tickets ($85)