October 28, 2011

First Snow of the Season

Posted to Chrissy Smith, Community Lifestyle

Well, it’s finally happened! We have our first snow of the season last evening/this morning with more in the forecast for the weekend! The seasons in New Hampshire are wonderful, and when the foliage finishes, I love the change over to winter (and I will say, by March, I’m ready for spring!) However, the first snow is one I love to see, as well as our children! I had a nine year old outside this morning creating this mini-snowman near her pumpkin. And her little sister watching from the wings, waiting to be old enough to go out too!

We found our winter clothes this morning, the boots, hats, mittens and more and we’re ready to go! Soon, all of us who love winter will be ready for skiing at Bretton Woods or Cannon Mtn, snowmobiling through the state of NH, snowshoeing, or perhaps staying inside your home watching the snow fall! Whatever your season or sport, enjoy it!

Posted by:  Chrissy Smith



April 18, 2011

Main Street Plymouth NH Bakery Sold!

Posted to Chrissy Smith, Community Lifestyle

A fixture on the corner of Plymouth’s Main Street recently transferred ownership with the sale of Main Street Bakery to Christina LeBlanc. Andy Smith of Peabody & Smith Realty was able to assist Christina realize her dream!

In terms of the bakery, Christina has some great ideas including pushing the counters back to allow for more seating. She will keep selling all the things customers are used to (like those great donuts!), but expand and add even more tasty options. LeBlanc is hoping to capture the crowd that doesn’t want to run off with their coffee but perhaps would like to sit and have a cup, chat with a friend, and maybe utilize the WIFI. In addition, Christina said they currently offer sandwiches and soup, and will continue to do that, with some additional offerings, including desserts and gluten-free products.

For Christina, this is a dream that has turned into a reality. She credits many folks for all the help, including and especially her husband John, daughter Reagan, Kristen and her current and former staff: Jane, Mary, Carolyn, Alex, Mike, Jocelyn, CMae, Esther and Rebekah.

All of us at Peabody & Smith Realty congratulate Christina on her new venture. And we can attest, we purchased some donuts and pastries for a staff meeting at our Plymouth office recently from Christina, and they were fantastic!

Posted by:  Chrissy Smith



March 24, 2010

Spring in Bretton Woods!

Posted to Community Lifestyle, Events & Activities

We woke up this morning to find the trees once again completely snow-covered! Not exactly what one hopes for on the 3rd day of spring – even at a ski area! However, it is great news for those looking forward to this weekend’s Beach Party here at Bretton Woods. Beach Party Weekend is always a fabulous time. Smelling the hamburgers cooking on the rooftop deck (weather permitting) gets your mouth watering! The highlight of the day of course is the “slush pool”, where young and not so young alike attempt to ski, snowboard and some even canoe across the icy waters! The ski area is scheduled to be open until April 11th, but you won’t want to miss out on all the fun this weekend.

While you are here, please stop by the new Peabody & Smith office to say hello and check out current properties listed for sale here at the resort. We are located just at the entrance of the ski area. Not able to make it up? Check out properties on our website.

Posted by:Michele Penner



October 23, 2009

CU 4 Reality Financial Literacy Fair

Posted to Community Lifestyle

CU 4 Reality Financial Literacy Fair was held at Profile High School in Bethlehem, NH. Profile School services the towns of Franconia, Sugar Hill, Easton and Bethlehem.

This was a fascinating program that (from left to right) Beth Horan, Diane Johnson and Steve Gorman from Peabody & Smith Realty participated in. A mix of sorts between career day and real life budgeting. Approximately 170 students grades 9-12 interacted with local business owners and professionals from Franconia, Littleton and surrounding towns. The students role played as consumers with assigned monthly incomes as we helped establish monthly spending guidelines for them with regards to “the real world of housing”.

Each student had a name tag, below was their already accomplished profession such as Veterinarian, dancer, engineer etc. and given an annual salary to work with. At the end of the day it was hoped students would walk away having developed a better understanding of budgeting, and the reality of making real life buying decisions. This included everything from house rentals, home utility costs, home insurance, car purchases, health insurance, clothing for work, the cost of working out at a gym, owning a pet and many others costs they may encounter as they venture out living on their own.

There were some great questions from the students on the housing front:

-Is it furnished or unfurnished?
-Does it cost extra for a pet?
-Do I have to buy my own appliances?
-How long do I have to commit to this apt. for?
-How far from stores is the house? Did they need a car or transportation?

Some on the other hand only cared about who they lived with! Few took note of the aesthetics of the home.

Peabody & Smith hopes this was an enriching day of learning for the students at Profile. We feel privileged for the invitation to take part, it was a delightful way for us to spend the day as a day in the life of a Realtor®!

Posted by:Elizabeth Horan



August 31, 2009

Bretton Woods: Living At the End of the Rainbow

Posted to Community Lifestyle

Just on my way home the other day, I caught a glimpse of this beautiful rainbow. Having my camera with me at all times, I pulled over and took a picture. The rainbow seemed to end just over the Mount Washington Resort at Bretton Woods, which got me to thinking that Bretton Woods truly is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

I feel so fortunate to be able to call Bretton Woods my home. Aside from the obvious bonus of living at a resort with some of the finest skiing in the east, 27 holes of spectacular golf, access to an incredible brand new spa, some great dining options and the back drop of the most impressive scenery – the majestic Mount Washington, there are additional perks associated with life in the “north country”.

We have an abundance of wild life either at or nearby the resort. Just the other night we had a very small bear and her 3 little cubs visit our deck. While I do not encourage the bears visitation (after 4 wooden bird feeders and 2 hummingbird feeders, I have stopped feeding our feathered friends altogether), I do very much enjoy seeing them, albeit from the safety of my home! We also have several fox that visit regularly. The turkeys were daily visitors in the past, but we have not seen them around property much this summer. Perhaps the fox have claimed the territory as their own, forcing the turkeys out along Route 302 where we see them almost daily. While I have yet to see moose or deer at the resort itself, there is a “regular” spot just down the street where the moose tend to hang out, and an occasional deer has been seen.

Great skiing, great golf, great hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing and more, all within the beautiful White Mountains and including a fantastic array of wildlife, creating a lifetime of wonderful family memories…life just doesn’t get much better than this! If you have never visited Bretton Woods, put it on your “bucket list”!

Posted by:Michele Penner



July 17, 2009

The Village at Maplewood Condo Complex in Bethlehem, NH

Posted to Community Lifestyle, Events & Activities, Ski Homes in NH

The Village at Maplewood (VAM) in Bethlehem, NH is an extraordinary condominium complex located “north of the notch” in the breath taking White Mountains of NH. Come enjoy the quiet setting at VAM that offers walking trails throughout, plentiful with green/common space and a rec center with a new indoor pool, hot tub, work out center and meeting room. Homeowners vary from full time/professionals to retirees and those that are passionate about vacationing here every free minute they can.

A beautifully appointed end unit town home with 3 full levels of living has an enhanced landscaping and yard area, hardwood floors, a beautiful oak mantel and a finished walkout lower level. Or maybe you’d prefer a 3 bedroom with unfinished walk out basement ready for you to finish off to suit your own needs. Also a 5 bedroom 3 level middle unit is large enough to accommodate lots of guests or have 2 families share.

In any of these townhouses you will find a 1st and 2nd floor master suite with private baths, large living room with a fireplace, and an open kitchen and dining area with lots of natural daylight shining in. Located just between Cannon Mountain/Franconia Notch State Park , Bretton Woods Ski Area and the Mt. Washington Hotel you’ll have your choice of areas to ski at, plentiful hiking and the White Mountains as your big back yard.

From the Village of Maplewood stroll to town and enjoy one of the most enjoyable dinners at the Chef owned Cold Mountain Cafe and then catch a free concert on the green. The farmers market at Wren has the most wonderful fresh produce, specialty foods and locally made gifts and art, not to mention how warm and wonderful the people are in this community.

The Village at Maplewood in Bethlehem, New Hampshire is definitely worth a look! Email me at beth@peabodysmith.com if you have any questions.


Posted by:Beth Horan



July 16, 2009

Ripley Falls Trail in Crawford Notch State Park

Posted to Community Lifestyle

If you are looking for a good, relatively easy hike for first timers, kids or just a quick hike with great rewards, Ripley Falls is the trail to try.

Located off of Route 302 East just past the Willey House on the right, you can park at the entrance and hike up the road, or drive on up closer to the trail head and park.

The sign indicates that Ripley Falls is a 20 minute hike one way and just about a half mile in length. The time frame is fairly conservative for hiking non-stop, but a good gauge. The trail starts out crossing over the Conway Scenic Railroad tracks and then heads into the woods and up the trail. It is a bit rocky in spots, and moderately steep, but still quite manageable. Should you be feeling a bit more adventurous, there are other longer and more difficult trails just a tenth of a mile in, however, Ripley’s is well worth the hike. The trails are easily identified, but if ever in doubt just follow the blue tree markers. With all the rain we have had, the trail mid-July was still quite muddy in spots, so be sure and wear an old pair of sneakers if you don’t have hiking boots.

If it is a warm day, you will want to spend lots of time at the top, dangling your feet in the pools of water, and enjoying the sight and sounds of the spectacular 100 foot waterfall. Be sure and pack a picnic lunch to enjoy. We hiked a bit later in the day, so we chose to reward ourselves with an ice cream cone at the Willey House! Definitely worth the trip!

Posted by:Michele Penner



July 10, 2009

Golf at the Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods

Posted to Community Lifestyle

I promised myself (and my husband) that the next sunny day that came around I would take off and we would play a round of golf at the newly renovated course at the Mount Washington Resort. We have the pleasure of living at the resort, so the course is readily available to us. I just had not been able to coordinate any days off with a cooperative Mother Nature!

Fortunately there was a break in the weather the other day and we quickly packed up at the office and headed over to the course. I had yet to swing a club this season and was anxious to get out there. I probably should have spent some time on the driving range before getting on the course, but it was an absolutely beautiful afternoon and because it was midweek and later in the afternoon, we had no one behind us.

There are two courses available at the resort – The Mount Washington Course, which is an 18-hole course on the back side of the Hotel, and The Mount Pleasant Course which is a 9-hole course situated in front of the Hotel. We opted to play the Mount Washington Course. The resort completed renovations on this Donald Ross course last August, and we only had the chance to play it a handful of times last season. While my play was not pretty, the course on the other hand is a thing of beauty. The back drop of the majestic Mount Washington on your way out, and the beautiful grand hotel on your way back in, is just breathtaking. One would almost forget why they were out there…. Perhaps I should have, might have improved my game!

To find out what resort properties are available, please click here.


Posted by:Michele Penner



June 19, 2009

Fishing in Northern New Hampshire White Mountains with Trout Unlimited

Posted to Community Lifestyle, Joy Moore

Standing in the rain, on the bank of a private, well-cared for pond with Lupine flowers in full bloom, there I was fishing last night. I saw two, over 14 inch trout being caught, a brown and a rainbow. I wanted to take a picture, but its been rainy here for the last two days and it was way too wet for my camera. The trout were caught by our President of the Ammonoosuc Chapter of Trout Unlimited. Boy, can he fish, I never knew the trout could grow to that size. Last night was our last Directors Meeting until September, topped off with our brown bag grill fare and some planning for next year’s Chapter meetings, films, fly tying demonstrations and more. If you are a fisherman, or think you might like to fish here in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, you should consider joining us! We have a ball! Oh, by the way, I did catch something of my own, a frog by the leg, a first for the pond! New members are always welcome and ladies, fly fishing is terrific! While I work a lot at my real estate profession, I find fly fishing relaxing and fun, and quite frankly it can be good exercise, depending on where you are fishing! To see where the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department stocks fish, they have a website which shows areas of stocking.

Posted by:Joy Moore



May 15, 2009

Historic Homes in the White Mountains of New Hampshire

Posted to Community Lifestyle

Boasting rustic farmhouses alongside lavish early 20th century country estates, New Hampshire’s White Mountains region is a historic homebuyer’s dream come true. Deemed as one of New England’s most beautiful locales, the White Mountains region is rich with more than three centuries of history, and showcases a wide variety of historic properties, some of which even date back to the years of George Washington’s presidency.

New England historic homes in the White Mountains feature fascinating architectural details that have been lost in today’s whirl of new construction, such as impeccable woodwork, hardwood floors, stained glass window panels and other artistic touches that make a home truly unique. But while they hark back to a bygone era, these New Hampshire historic properties also offer updated kitchens, bathrooms, garages, manicured lawns and other modern conveniences that today’s homebuyers have at the top of their checklists.

A strong selling point for many historic homes in New Hampshire’s White Mountains is, of course, the stunning scenery of the countryside and the quaint, friendly atmosphere of the region’s towns and villages. Being the longest established residences in the area, White Mountains historic homes—particularly those in the countryside—tend to offer the most beautiful views, overlooking lakes, rivers, streams and open wildflower fields set against the rugged backdrop of the mountains. Historic properties in town—such as those located in Littleton, Bethlehem, Plymouth and other communities—come in a variety of styles, from magnificent Colonials with formal entryways to cozy vintage cottages, and have the added convenience and pleasure of being a part of “Main Street USA,” with unique shops, restaurants, theaters, and events just around the corner.

With so much variety in architecture, sizes, floor plans, prices, and amenities, New Hampshire’s White Mountains real estate is sure to have that perfect New England historic home you’ve always dreamed of.



May 15, 2009

Beautiful Littleton, NH

Posted to Community Lifestyle

Littleton, NH

Littleton, New Hampshire, nestled in the foothills of the beautiful White Mountains range, is one of America’s treasured historic communities. The town was settled on the banks of the Ammonoosuc River just prior to the American Revolution, a site undoubtedly chosen because of its breathtaking natural surroundings and bountiful resources. Littleton was incorporated in 1784 and named in honor of Colonel Moses Little, who fought in the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the Battle of Bunker Hill, and other key struggles of the Revolution. One of Littleton’s first thriving businesses—the Littleton Grist Mill—opened in 1798, and despite its age, continues to operate. The fully restored grist mill, along with the Historic Thayers Inn, the Littleton Opera House, and Chutters Candy Store (home of the “world’s longest candy counter”), together stand as prized symbols of the town’s cultural heritage and economic success.

Today Littleton, with a population of approximately 6,000 residents, is an award-winning community, having been ranked as one of America’s best small towns in both 1995 and 2005. Among its many virtues, the town is ultimately adored for its charming atmosphere, picturesque scenery full of church steeples and historic architecture, pretty tree-lined streets, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Real estate in Littleton is typically affordable, making it easy for new families and first time homebuyers to settle there. Those searching for homes in Littleton may be surprised at the selection of properties they have to choose from; the town offers unique historic homes, vintage ranches, cute Cape Cods, country estates and more. Littleton also boasts a thriving downtown, which has received many accolades for its planning and preservation, including the “Great American Main Street” award in 2003. Main Street in Littleton is filled with unique gift shops, boutiques, bookstores, art galleries, cafes, restaurants, and a two picture cinema all in a quaint historic atmosphere. One block south of Main Street is the Mill Street Riverwalk and covered bridge on the Ammonoosuc River, great for scenic walks, biking, and jogging.

One reason that many people choose to relocate to Littleton, NH is the town’s abundance of recreational opportunities. The Littleton area maintains over 75 miles of trails in and around the towns of Littleton, Whitefield, Lisbon, Bethlehem, Monroe and Dalton, which are used for a variety of activities from snowmobiling and dog sledding to hiking and horseback riding. Also, Littleton is conveniently close to several recreational areas, such as the White Mountain National Forest, Franconia Notch State Park, and Moore Reservoir. Littleton is less than 10 miles away from renowned Bethlehem golf courses—the Maplewood Country Club and the Bethlehem Country Club—both of which are 18-hole championship courses designed by golf legend Donald Ross. The Bretton Woods ski area and Mount Washington Resort are also nearby, offering thrilling year-round recreation.