Vermont Life: Doughnut Traditions and Scenic Drives

There’s something about sharing your favorite local gems with visitors that makes you fall in love with them all over again. Every time someone comes to visit me here in Vermont, there’s one place I always bring them: Cider Bellies in Meredith, NH.

The made-to-order apple cider doughnuts are the draw—especially the ones drizzled with maple glaze and topped with crispy bacon. Watching them fry the doughnuts fresh while you wait, the scent of cider and sugar in the air... it’s an experience.

Because it's located at Mouton Farm, there is also a farm market with loads of fresh fruits and veggies, fabulous canned goods, baked treats, and even a seafood stand with fresh (Friday) seafood. Moulton's Hay Wagon, located behind the farm market, offers a seasonally inspired menu featuring items we're growing on our farm. They have a nice seating area outside to enjoy your lunch.

Today I took a little solo (well, plus David, Bailey and Ollie) road trip and couldn’t resist stopping by. The pups had their usual window-seat joy ride, a walk and lots of sniffs and we got our doughnut fix.

It’s not fancy. It’s not far. But it’s one of those small joys that feels like a little slice of New England magic.

That same warmth and coziness is what I try to capture in my autumn jewelry — rich copper tones, warm golden brass, and textures that feel as comforting as your favorite seasonal tradition. Vermont has a way of weaving itself into everything I make, and maybe that’s why my designs — like these doughnuts — are best enjoyed in the moment.