When I visit Europe, it somehow seems magical. Although I know that the people there are the same as the people here, the parks, restaurants and homes seem to have a bit more enchantment. As a result, I am now deliberately seeking similar spots here in the United States. To my delight, I’m realizing that it’s not too difficult. Charming places abound — such as this great little coffee/bagel spot we found in Oakville, Ct. The kindness of the people there was inspirational, and I’m also thankful for the experience.

Chris and I had to kill a few hours while our new-to-us car was getting touched up, and the mechanics at the dealer recommended a place up the street where we could work and grab a bite to eat. We headed up the road, past an old mill  that seemed steeped with  history.

Shortly after that, we stood on a bridge to watch some geese swim. Locals have clearly been feeding them since they all started swimming towards us as soon as we stopped.

We made it to our destination and were welcomed like family. The food was freshly cooked, and the Internet was strong. Sometimes when I work at a place of hours on end, I feel a bit intrusive. But at this place, the woman who was running the place actually came over to us and thanked us for working there. She told us that it was so nice to see the place being used like that (then she offered us free coffee–isn’t that amazing?).

As the hours drifted on, we ordered lunch there as well. Equally as good as breakfast. They even has fresh old-fashioned-style ginger beer.

People drifted in and out — each person welcomed sincerely. Some brought gifts such as fresh herbs from a local farmer’s market. The small-town “let’s all work together to make each other’s life better” vibe was certainly strong.

The woman running the place stepped out with a patron for a moment, and they graciously posed for a picture for me.

If I’m ever back in that area, I know I will be stopping in at Baked and Brewed.