Time in New England . . . took me away . . .: Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth is a small New Hampshire town near the mouth of the Piscataqua River ‑ the river that divides New Hampshire and Maine. Settled in 1623, Portsmouth is the nation's third oldest city. The geographic location, historic past and cultural strength of Portsmouth regularly lands it on various "best places to live" lists. In 2009, Portsmouth was listed as one of America's Prettiest Towns.

I randomly stopped in Portsmouth on my way to Maine. I am SO happy I did. I didn't want to leave it. It was one of the nicest small towns I have been to. We went to a small coffee shop and had some hot chocolate, then walked around the town a bit. It was filled with unique little shops and pretty buildings. It was so clean and friendly. I can definitely see why it gets on "best places to live" lists. I want to live here!! Love it.