For the past twelve months, I’ve been on a grand adventure. Maine Features was launched on March 28, 2019. My big goal is to visit and blog about one place in every Maine town. As I reflect on the past year, five thoughts come to mind.

1) I love Maine, more.

I’ve had a lifelong appreciation for my home state, but that has deepened since starting this Maine Features journey. This is a beautiful part of the world. It is a privilege to live in a place that some only consider a vacationland.

2) Maine is expansive.

I enjoy driving. It’s a good thing because this state is spread out over 33K square miles. Even places that appear on a map to be close in proximity take a long time to reach. This stood out to me when I made the trip from Mount Desert to Camden with a stop in Stonington. Though it looks like a “hop, skip, and a jump” by water, it took over three hours of driving. There were lovely views along the way so it was time well spent, but I think the size of the state is easy to underestimate until you are making your way through it.

3) Blogging is complex.

And I’m still figuring it out! I had no idea how much time would be required for each entry on this blog. I need to select a location, research, contact a point person, travel, make the visit, take and edit photos, write, create the blog post, update the social platforms, and send the newsletter. It has been a steep learning curve as new skills needed to be acquired. Thank YOU for being patient with me in this process.

4) Mainers have exceeded my expectations.

I could not have anticipated the level of support and enthusiasm I’ve received over the past year, particularly from those who allowed me to enter their spaces and learn about their world. In addition to them, I so appreciate those who are following the blog. My hope is that each reader will be able to reap a benefit, whether that be virtually coming along on trips they aren’t able to make on their own or learning something new about this Maine way of life.

And to answer one of the most frequent questions I am asked: no, I don’t have a favorite visit! I also don’t have a least favorite one. Each place has been special.

5) The journey has only begun. 

There is a long list of towns that remain to be visited. And I can’t wait to see them all. My enthusiasm for Maine Features has only grown over the past year.

Of course, as I celebrate this one year anniversary, the world has changed drastically with the challenges of COVID-19. My visits are temporarily on hold, BUT…there are exciting plans for the blog throughout April. Before you check out that announcement, a small ask:

Would you be so kind as to help me spread the word about this project? If you have a friend or family member who loves Maine, please send them the blog or invite them to connect via the Maine Features social platforms. You can find the links at the bottom of every page (or by clicking the three dots if you’re on mobile). I so appreciate your support as I grow this community.

And now, for the upcoming April fun…click here for the announcement.

Gratefully,

Elizabeth