Middlebury Bagel & Deli. Freshly made bagels, doughnuts, and breakfast dishes. Our girls’ favorite is the chocolate-frosted doughnut, which they’ll custom-make if you ask. (TIP: Look for the teddy-bear-shaped cloud in the ceiling mural!)

Otter Creek Bakery. My favorite place to take the girls for a mommy date. Butter cookies for them, a chocolate croissant for me, and family harmony reigns. Added bonus: outdoor seating in warm weather.

Haymaker Bun Company. A new favorite — the best cup of coffee in town! (And amazing chocolate chip cookies!)

The Vermont Book Shop. I love supporting our local bookstore. They’ll happily order anything you don’t see on the shelves.

Ilsley Public Library. Don’t get me started on how much we love our local library….

Junebug. A nonprofit children’s used clothing boutique. We’ve found beautiful steals here!

Rikert Nordic Center. How we get through the winters.

Elmer Farm. The family that runs this farm are our friends and neighbors. They do a CSA pickup that’s part of our weekly schedule from May-October. I love choosing my own fresh flowers and vegetables, and the girls love playing on the farm while I do!