Mother said she was having new shots taken for the advertisements we run in the bride and travel magazines. The gardens are in full bloom. It’s a great day for pictures. I smile at the words on our Bramble Board: Summertime And the livin’ is easy. — Gershwin It’s my job to post inspirational messages on the board. I keep a collection of quotes in a blank book my stepfather, Sam, passed on to me. Sam started the tradition of the Bramble Board. It’s one of the things that makes our inn special. The Bramblebriar is a beauty if I do say so myself. The main house is three stories high; white with green shutters; four chimneys; thirty rooms; large, wide front and side porches wrapped around; all framed with pretty trees and flowers—deep blue hydrangeas, Cape Cod’s signature flowering bush, cascading pink roses, and happy Shasta daisies dancing in the breeze. There are seven other smaller guest lodges on the property; a big, old converted barn where we host receptions and dances and other events; acres of groomed grass for croquet and badminton and boccie; Sam’s amazing labyrinth walking circle; fields of wild-flowers; a swing set, sliding board, and seesaw in the children’s area; a pond for summer swimming and winter ice-skating; hammocks and benches; and wicker chairs and chaise lounges set casually about in relaxing spots.
