Washington D.C. Weekend Getaways with Lilly's Lavender Princess

The Atlantic View Inn

2011-01-03T06:53:00.000-08:00

Winter at the shore can be an enchanting experience. When twenty eight inches of snow falls, the Atlantic View Inn in Avon-by-the-Sea, New Jersey is the perfect place to nest for a few days. Starting with the warmth and hospitality exuded by Chris, the owner, when I call on the phone to make my reservation, the innkeepers will make my stay here similar to the feeling of being with fun, interesting and loving extended family for the holidays. Debbie and Chris are a dynamic couple who have created a space filled with antiques and charm which makes me feel right at home, whether I am sitting by the living room fireplace listening to calming music, having a delicious breakfast in the grand dining room or snuggling up under my featherbed comforter in my comfortable room. From many of the rooms, I can view the rolling Atlantic Ocean and the nearby beach and boardwalk. There is also a nearby pool for summer use as well as badges, provided by the hosts, for beach use.

I have had many challenges as a vegan macrobiotic traveller, but the Atlantic View Inn made staying healthy on vacation a breeze. Chris, the resident chef, is refreshingly conscientious about discussing my dietary needs and makes a concerted effort to meet them. Each day he creates a breakfast repast of baked pears, gluten free porridge, tofu scramble dotted with broccoli and onions, and steamed kale and collard greens. When an afternoon snack of wine, cheeses and crackers is provided for the other guests I can have carrots, guacamole and salsa. I have an urge for chocolate one night and Deb produces some truffles for me! Other afternoon treats were homemade chocolate chip cookies, banana bread, brownies, bags of chips and endless tea and hot water. Additionally the food I bring to keep in my room frig are graciously warmed up by my hosts every day. From home I have brown rice, pea soup, blanched veggies, hummous and sushi rolls. I supplement these with a trip to a local health food store where I secure lentil loaf, sweet potato mash, steamed greens and quinoa. This provides all of my lunch and dinners except for one. As a treat I sample Kaya's Kitchen. They are located in Belmar and noted for their vegetarian and organic menu. I try the lentil soup, quesadilla, and gluten free cupcakes. I am not disappointed.

I am thrilled to find destinations such as the Atlantic View Inn where I am able to be among amazing hosts, and an inviting setting, and still be frugal and healthy on vacation! This century old inn is a "must try" for anyone committing to staying healthy in the New Year.

Good Eatz

2010-12-27T19:03:00.000-08:00

Traveling during the holiday season can be problematic for a vegan macrobiotic person, but with a little planning ahead, you can manifest some amazing eating experiences. With the help of Happycow.com I found myself sitting in Reading, Pa. at the Good Eatz cafe. Surrounded by leafy green plants, brightly colored primitive art, and jade walls, I perused the generous menu.

The mission of this cute cozy refuge is to " be friendly to the environment while featuring local, organic, sustainable resources promoting social responsibility." I have great respect for places that follow their ethics regarding food as I try to do myself.

On the menu I find an abundance of yummy choices. The offerings are vegan, vegetarian, dairy free and gluten free. I settle on a vegan grilled reuben sandwich. It comes on gluten free bread, with tofu and a dollop of dairy free 1000 Island dressing. The build your own omelet has scrambled tofu with broccoli, asparagus, squash, and vegan cheddar cheese. Other options were vegan mac and cheese, five bean chili, vegan shepherds pie, and vegan lasagna. Dishes come with sweet potato hash browns or slaw.

The desserts are all gluten free and look delectable. I choose the Fat Elvis Mousse Cake. It is a chocolate layer cake with chocolate mousse between the layers and a banana peanut butter flavor. It is fluffy and rich and better than any gluten free offering I have ever had. Other choices are mint chocolate chip cake, pumpkin cheesecake, gingerbread cake, cherry crumb cake, peach crumb pie and vegan buttercream cake with eggnog. They ship everywhere and anyone with special dietary needs would be thrilled with these goodies!

The owner, Rick Allenbach, is a friendly entrepreneur with an easy manner. His history before opening this place two years ago, was having a restaurant in New Hope where macro food was served, and working at a center for addicts. He observed the beneficial effect of good healthy food on the behavior of these troubled people and how they changed their diets and changed their lives. In addition he described how gluten free food has improved the lives of the autistic children who come to eat here at Good Eatz.
This restaurant is a wonderful find for a traveler to the Reading. Lancaster area!

Mark's Kitchen

2010-02-28T10:53:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been on a quest for restaurants in the Washington DC, Maryland area that suit special diets. That would include vegetarian, vegan, macrobiotic, low sugar and just generally healthier. The idea is to be able to go to a place and have a lovely time and not to have to drink a gallon of water later because there was so much salt in the meal. In addition, it is nice to have waiters who do not look at you strangely when you ask them to steam something with no oil, no salt and no sugar.

I found such an elusive place in Takoma Park, Md. Mark's Kitchen, at 7006 Carroll Avenue, serves a variety of dishes which include both vegan and vegetarian options as well as meat for our friends. A patron can order delicious miso soup and a vegetarian vegetable soup. The mung bean pancakes, composed of spring onions, cabbage and mung beans formed into a delicate pancake and served with soy sauce, are quite tasty. There is a vegetarian appetizer sampler that has these pancakes plus edamame, and tofu/veggie skewers. After you have whetted your appetite on these, you can sample the bento box comprised of tofu with soybeans, seaweed salad, marinated shitake mushrooms, brown rice and a mung bean pancake. Instead of tofu, chicken or fish can be substituted. The bibimbap is shredded veggies marinated in sesame oil and served over brown rice. A delectable choice might be the stuffed acorn squash with barley and mushrooms, a salad and a side of green beans. As you can see, Mark's provides fresh vegetables and , in contrast to other places, they have diversified away from the baked potatoes and fries offered elsewhere. Another nice feature of this find is that pickled items, steamed vegetables, seaweed and brown rice can be ordered as an inexpensive side dish. This is a great improvement over having to pay extra to get brown rice and only have spinach or french fries or salad as options.
For the non vegetarian eater there is a delicious and ample bulgogi (according to my husband), grilled flounder, crab cakes and enormous triple decker sandwiches. For dessert, they supply Sweet and Natural Vegan treats and some of the choices were carrot cake and peanut butter cake. For the others, a bulletin board boasts the treats of the day which might include gingerbread, brownies and various pies.

The atmosphere at Mark's Kitchen is cafe cozy and the service is swift and friendly. These waiters aim to please and if they can not answer a question about specific ingredients, the owner is brought over to clarify things for you. They are more than willing to steam veggies without oil or salt. The management wants you to be happy and this translates into a patron friendly menu where vegetarian items are marked with a V.

Takoma Park is a nice area to visit for the afternoon. In the spring and summer, the main street is closed off and a busy farmers market takes over the area. There are boutiques and shops and a nice food coop nearby. There is a small town feeling even though it is so close to downtown DC.

If you are looking for a great casual restaurant in a cute town that will allow you to stay healthy while having a very pleasant dining experience, be sure to try Mark's Kitchen.

Gramercy Mansion Baltimore

2010-02-03T04:32:00.000-08:00

On a wintry January day, we set out for the beautiful Gramercy Mansion in the rolling hills outside Baltimore. The snow was falling rapidly and the winding roads were becoming impassable. We careened down the treacherous slides of the landscape and rolled, thankfully, up the bending drive to the Mansion. Inside, a roaring fireplace awaited us and the welcome greetings of the innkeepers. We had prepared our dinner and brought it with us and planned to not venture out again on that treacherous night.

The Gramercy Mansion is the perfect place to hibernate in the winter. Built in 1902 by Alexander Cassatt, brother of the painter Mary Cassatt, the mansion was a wedding gift for his daughter. Alas, she never had the pleasure of living there. Surrounded by 45 acres in the Greenspring Valley, there is a pool, tennis courts and woodland trails to discover. The rooms come with fireplaces, whirlpool baths, refrigerators and microwaves. The public rooms have fireplaces as well and there is a library with DVDs to share. High ceilings, antiques, oriental carpets, and chandeliers complete the picture.

Complimentary to the guests is an endless supply of teas, chocolates and snacks. In addition, the breakfast is totally scrumptious. You fill out a menu with choices and leave it on your door at night. To my delight, vegan and macrobiotic food were among my choices! The inn caters to different diets, including gluten free. In the morning, guests sit in the lovely candlelit dining room and gaze out on the serene scene. Our view was of a winter wonderland after the night's snow. Choices of fare included banana, apple, apple, blueberry or oatmeal pancakes, rice, miso soup, oatmeal, vegan bacon and sausage, traditional bacon and sausage, eggs benedict, omelets, coffeecake, teas and coffee.

The inn boasts a location only ten minutes from Baltimore. Excursions might include the charming Fells Point are with its quaint shops and restaurants, Hampton Town, scene of the John Waters movies, the Aquarium, the Maryland Science Center, Little Italy, the Jewish Museum on Lloyd Street, the Inner Harbor, Lexington Market, the huge outdoor Farmers Market in the summer, a trip on the ferry which takes you to several stops in downtown, the Fort McHenry National Monument, the American Visionary Art Museum, or a game at Camden Yards. Contact me for even more ideas for fun!

The Gramercy Mansion is a perfect place for a birthday or Valentine weekend if you want to really treat yourself or your significant other. I really enjoyed my special birthday getaway with the added bonus of being able to keep to my healthy diet, except for a few of those chocolates!

Speedwell Forge Bed and Breakfast, Lititz, Pa.

2009-10-25T18:22:00.000-07:00

This weekend, my hubbie and I took a break from our daily stresses to travel to the idyllic countryside of Lititz, Pennsylvania. It was a downcast day that turned into torrential downpours, but these conditions could not dampen the charm of the quaint village of Lititz. We roamed the antique, cookery and clothing shops and then took a break for lunch. We could not resist Cafe Chocolate where hubbie enjoyed a chocolate chili and I devoured a lovely vegan vegetable soup. Cafe Chocolate also features chocolate crepes and a fountain brimming with the dark liquid in which to dip fruits and cakes. They make their own sugar free chocolates and they were beautiful as well as yummy.

Next we journeyed along the winding road to our lodging for the night. Speedwell Forge Bed and Breakfast was built in 1760. It is a stunning structure which stood empty for twenty years and in 2006 was lovingly restored by Dawn, the owner. Dawn prides herself on providing meals for people with special diets in addition to her usual fare. She prepared a delicious warm grain cereal, poached pear and a creamy tofu scramble for me and a hearty quiche, baked apple and homemade granola for the others. Dawn can cater to celiacs, vegans, vegetarians, macrobiotics, wheat allergies and other special diets. In the afternoon we relaxed in the lovely parlor overflowing with games, dvds and books that are available to the guests as well as the menus from nearby restaurants. A glass bowl of Wilbur chocolate buds from town was offered to us as well as a multitude of teas.

Our room was the Boys Room and it boasted two comfortable beds, a private bath and an electric fireplace. The wood floors have been restored to their original sheen and it was comforting to read in front of the fireplace in the two fabric chairs that stand in front of the fireplace.

Dawn suggested Lilys on Main in Ephrata for our dinner. I called ahead and spoke to the chef and he was eager to meet my needs. He prepared a delicate red snapper, a wheatberry pilaf and steamed green beans. The sauce on hubbie's scallops was huckleberry sauce and quite delicious and the warm homemade whole wheat cranberry bread was delectable, or so I am told. There is a dessert tray of selections and they included a pumpkin tarte and deep dark chocolate cake. The atmosphere was art deco, quiet and classy. This place could compete with any restaurant in DC.

The next morning we went on a tour of the Wolf Sanctuary, located on the property. These tours are given every weekend and very well attended. We learned about the forty four wolves that have been rescued and brought to the sanctuary. Some were pets that people thought they could house in their apartments! Thankfully, the workers at the Sanctuary , who receive no pay, have given their time and love to these wolves. There are some interesting stories about many of the wolves who, by the way, are scared of humans. They even have a tour called the Full Moon Tour on Halloween, but we did not see a single werewolf while we were there, but I did hear some howling at night!

Sunday was a sunny fall day and the colorful trees were dazzling in the sunshine. There is a beautiful trail opposite the B and B and we finished with a walk in nature. It was the perfect end to our de-stress weekend.

You can contact Dawn at www.speedweelforge.com or 717-626-1760.

Brampton Bed & Breakfast Inn

2009-02-24T20:25:00.000-08:00

On Valentine's Day, my sweetheart surprised me with a visit to the Brampton Bed & Breakfast Inn in Chestertown, Maryland. Only 100 miles from the Washington area, the ride to Chestertown carries you over the Bay Bridge and onto the eastern shore with its lovely views of the water.

The Brampton Bed & Breakfast Inn is a 12 room stately wonder built in the 1800s on a tree lined estate. As we entered through the porch, lined with columns, a high central hall led us into the home. Rita greeted us with her smile and helpful manner. She is the go to gal for restaurant choices or suggestions on how to spend your time here at Brampton. She led us into a parlor with a fireplace and floor to ceiling bookcases filled with interesting novels, non fiction books, and binders that detail the things to do in the area and restaurant menus to peruse. Across the hall is the elegant dining room where, between four and five, a delicious afternoon tea is served beside a roaring fire. We enjoyed yummy deviled eggs and dark decadent chocolate pie accompanied by a plethora of hot teas. Further down the hall is the living room. My eyes opened wide when I spied the "endless cookie jar" and the homemade marshmallows. We sampled rich chocolate chocolate chip, delicate macaroon, pink iced heart shaped, tiny thumbprint, and buttery checkerboard cookies. There went my low carb diet! A nearby gust fridge is stocked with beer, wine, and a variety of sodas. My husband chose to sample the amber sherry offered as liquid relaxation. Guests can also help themselves to tea and popcorn at any hour and we did, at midnight.

Our room was perfect. We had a converted closed in porch on which to watch DVDs and read our books. Connected to this was a roomy bedroom with a comfortable king bed, cozy gas fireplace, and romantic two person jacuzzi bathtub located in the spacious bathroom. Stress and worries are not an option in this peaceful haven.

In the morning, guests are treated to a three course breakfast. Our meal started with a delectable cherry almond scone with blueberry jam and butter. Next, we sampled a fresh grapefruit and then we had a choice of banana blueberry pancakes, omelets with asparagus and parmesan cheese, or eggs done as we wished and served with sausages. Unlimited coffee, tea, or hot chocolate was included with our meal. Our omelets were light and tasty and the pancake we had to try melted in our mouths.

This area of the eastern shore offers many options of things to do. We ambled through the lovely art galleries and adorable stores of Chestertown. There is also a historical walking tour that you can try. Nearby is the Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge and the 18th century schooner, Sultana, which offers sunset sails in the summer. From March to December there is a farmers market on Saturdays. It includes homemade foods and arts and crafts. Free concerts are offered in the park in Betterton.

This 24 hour getaway to Brampton Bed & Breakfast Inn and the Chestertown area was just the ticket to remove those winter blues. What a great place to remember what is really important in life, to renew relationships, or to just veg out when life get to be too cluttered. Give yourself the gift of a visit to this inn any time of the year.

For rates, directions, and reservations, check out www.bedandbreakfast.com

Fallingwater

2008-09-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

Over the Labor Day weekend, my daughter, Sasha, and I explored the southwestern corner of Pennsylvania. This journey took us through the lush Allegheny Mountains, around windy steep roads and up to breathtaking views. On our trip we visited the spectacular Fallingwater, the historic Summit Inn and the expansive Nemacolin Woodlands Resort.

During our visit we stayed at the Bed and Breakfast at Whimsey's Knoll. Located in Hopwood, Pa., this charming inn is in a perfect location for visiting Frank Lloyd Wright's jewel, Fallingwater. The Victorian Room awaited us with its private porch surrounded by the forest's towering trees. The room boasts a queen sized bed with lovely antique lace bedspread and a claw foot tub. We enjoyed our time in the welcoming hot tub located on one side of the wrap around porch that envelops the front of the home.

Food is definitely the centerpiece of Whimsey's Knoll. Each breakfast, we were treated to the culinary expertise of a professional chef. Our host, Chuck, is the chef at the resort Nemacolin. His specialty is the Banana Foster Whimsey Cake, a unique dish that he flames up, right in front of you. Another day he made his delicious strawberry crepes. Every breakfast was followed by a dessert. One day it was smooth cheesecake served on a spoon and the next day it was delectable mini iced cream puffs. Delish! Our hostess, Chrissie, offered home baked brownies each afternoon.

In the evening we drove to the historic Summit Inn. This mountaintop gem, built in 1907, was once visited by Henry Ford and several of our past presidents. It was fun to view the memorabilia of another time and eat in the charming dining room. The food was amazing and we enjoyed the Summit Inn salad, with goat cheese, cranberries and nuts, and a creamy fettucine. Guests can also dine on the porch overlooking the Laurel Highlands at sunset.

About 30 minutes away, Fallingwater is an enchanting destination where you can spend the afternoon. The home was built in the 1930s for the Kauffman family. This family owned the Kauffman department store in Pittsburgh and they were looking for a weekend getaway. Their son studied with Frank Lloyd Wright and the family became friends with the famous architect. They purchased the land and intended to have the home face the waterfall. Wright had other ideas and decided to incorporate the waterfall into the home. Therefore, you can see the waterfall through a hatch in the living room and from many of the verandas and the water assists in the cooling of the home. The cantilevered floors seem to float over the waterfall. There are one and two hour tours of Fallingwater and they are very informative. Albert Einstein was a frequent guest of the Kauffmans and he would have had his own private pool outside of the guest quarters. Wright also built the nearby Kentuck Knob. I recommend the film, the Fountainhead, starring Patricia Neal and Gary Cooper, for an excellent depiction of the Frank Lloyd Wright saga. The book was written by Ayn Rand and is an absorbing read.

We also visited Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. This beautiful expanse of land includes a zoo, complete with lions, bears and mountain goats in a natural habitat, a mini golf course with waterfalls, golf courses, archery games and fine dining restaurants. The price is quite high to stay here, but you can still enjoy the grounds and the restaurants without being a guest.

Nearby is the cozy town of Ohiopyle where many whitewater rafting trips originate. When we arrived there was a free concert and craft show and many people were wading into the rapids. It is a perfect location for a picnic lunch.

As you can see, this area is brimming with activities. It would be best to make this a two day getaway as it takes three and one half hours to reach this destination. It is well worth the effort because you will be rewarded with good food, lovely views and a taste of history.

Bedford Springs Resort

2008-08-20T08:45:00.000-07:00

Recently we meandered to the newly renovated Bedford Springs Resort in Bedford Springs Pennsylvania. Attracted by this resort's amazing history, I was excited to visit a place where presidents and historical figures had stayed. In the 1800s, President James Buchanan made Bedford Springs his summer White House and Henry Ford came to this idyllic place to "take the waters". The three year, one hundred twenty million dollar renovation was well worth the time and expense. It has been restored to the way it looked in the 1800s. There is a Greek style portico with Doric columns at the entrance, wallpaper, fabrics, furnishings, wooden floors and carpets of the era, and a 1905 spring fed indoor swimming pool, one of the first in the whole country. In addition, there are tennis courts, a spa, and miles of hiking and biking trails. The original inn opened in 1809 with twenty four rooms, but now there are two hundred sixteen rooms with goose down comforters, armoires, free standing Chevalier mirrors and marble bathrooms. You can choose from five restaurants including one that has part of an original cabin wall in it. This is the perfect getaway, so what are you waiting for? Treat yourself to age old elegance at the Bedford Springs Resort. Did I forget to mention that they serve afternoon tea and treats every afternoon?

Historical Charlottesville

2008-08-20T08:18:00.000-07:00

The Charlottesville Virginia area presents a plethora of ideas to the weekend traveler. Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, James Monroe's Ashlawn, the Michie Tavern and the University of Virgina are some of the locations you can visit to pass the time. For your overnight stay, try the Inn at Monticello. Built in 1856, this English style country manor house has five guest rooms with private baths. Our room had a canopy bed, colonial furnishings and quilts on the walls. Upon arrival we enjoyed wine and cheese presented by the roaring fire while we became acquainted with our fellow guests. In the morning we enjoyed a scrumptious breakfast.
Touring the University of Virginia's sprawling campus was a special treat. It was designed by Thomas Jefferson and has some of the same elements of Monticello. Nearby are the quaint shops of this college town.
For a taste of history and a break from big city life, try Charlottesville and the Inn at Monticello.

L'Auberge Provincale

2008-08-20T08:07:00.000-07:00

The L'Auberge Provincale is an elegant inn located in White Post Virginia. This lovely place captures the essence of Provence with its golden sun drenched walls, cozy oversized furniture and warm log fireplaces. In the afternoons french treats with warm drinks are served by the fire. Gourmet breakfasts are enjoyed in the morning. The dining is an experience that should not be missed. The prix fixe menu includes choices of Maple Farms Duck Breast, Garlic Coated Filet Mignon, Pan Seared Salmon, Butter Poached Lobster with Truffle Risotto, Grilled Quail with Pomegranate or Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes. Do not skip dessert! Indulge in Warm Apple Tart with Creme Anglaise, Bananas Brulee with Pecan Ice Cream or Gingerbread Souflee with Rum Creme Anglaise and Almond Tuile. There is a small town nearby to browse in, but the inn is so inviting that you may prefer to take a book and chillax (my daughter Ari's word) by the fire for the whole weekend.

Hanover, Pennsylvania

2008-08-20T04:28:00.000-07:00

The town of Hanover, Pennsylvania is a scenic ninety minute ride away from the Washington area. Along the way, through Westminster and Littlestown are several interesting craft, antique and novelty stores as well as orchards and nurseries. Gettysburg is a few miles from Hanover and there are state parks for nature walks. In the town of Hanover there are two bridal shops and an inexpensive men's clothing store, so if you are looking for formal attire, the evening dresses and tuxedo prices can not be beat. The quaint town book store is an excellent place to grab a delicious lunch while browsing the unique book selection. Then take a stroll down the main street to read the signs that describe the civil war action that took place here. The house where the terrified women watched the menacing confederate soldiers advancing on the town and heard the shots that are still in the bricks of this home can be viewed "up close and personal". Every Saturday there is a farmers market in a historic building where you can purchase fresh baked goods and fruits and veggies.
Tucked in the historic district is the lovely Sheppard mansion. It was built in 1913 by the cofounders of the Hanover Shoe Company. The mansion is the top choice in town for an elegant dinner, cooked by the chef who apprenticed at the Inn at Little Washington. You may start with the warm pretzel rolls, a delicacy like none you have ever tasted! Continue with the sweet corn fritters or the lump crabmeat salad. For the main course, you can choose from the Crispy Skinned Rockfish, the Roasted Beef Tenderloin or the "Picnic", a buttermilk fried squab. The side dishes are delicious and the chef throws in some surprise freebies as the meal progresses. If you order dessert, he presents you with a pre-dessert and he sends you home with homemade cookies! In addition, the inn offers a bed and breakfast. The lovely rooms complete with oversized soaking tubs and private marble baths take you back to another, simpler time in our history. A gourmet breakfast is included in the rate.
So if you are looking for some civil war history, delicious food, and an amazing inn experience, visit Hanover and the Sheppard Mansion in nearby Pennsylvania.

The Wayside Inn

2008-01-01T19:18:00.000-08:00

Not so far away, only thirty minutes from Olney, modern homes give way to this eighteenth century gem, the Wayside Inn. My daughter and I treated ourselves to a pre-New Year's gift and stayed in this lovely bed and breakfast for one evening. The congenial hosts, Susan and Dave, who have owned and operated the inn since 1999, greeted us warmly upon our arrival. Dave is the main innkeeper and his cheerful, upbeat manner and entertaining anecdotes entertained us throughout our visit. After we were situated in our room, we ambled downstairs to sit by the fireside to partake in a delicious array of cheeses and wine with the other guests. Following this relaxing time we returned to the Pierpoint Suite where we would spend the rest of the evening. A four poster lofty queen bed occupies the center of the main room and there are large windows that invite the sun to shine on the oriental carpets and wooden floorboards. An adjoining sitting room boasts a music system and colonial wood burning fireplace. Back in the main room, a plasma television sits on the wall, facing the bed. The prodigious DVD library afforded us hours of viewing pleasure while we were warmed by the glowing fireplace. I woke up in the morning and basked in the rain shower in the bathroom. We followed the enticing aromas down to the dining room where we feasted on Cranberry bread pudding soufflé, our choice of juices, coffee, teas and a scrumptious pineapple half.

This inn is particularly attractive due to its proximity to historic Ellicott City, downtown Baltimore and the Mall in Columbia. The innkeepers offer a package deal that includes a room for the night and a multi-course gourmet dinner with wine at Tursiquels, a french restaurant nearby. This is a perfect birthday or anniversary gift for you or someone special in your life. The quaint stores, railroad museum and Ellicott City charm are just minutes from the inn.

If you are looking for an inn only a short distance away, with ambiance, congenial and helpful hosts, and delicious food options, the Wayside Inn is a superior choice. .

Rocky Acre Farm in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

2007-11-01T08:07:00.000-07:00

A visit to the Lancaster area must include a stay at the Rocky Acre Farm. Located in Mt Joy, close to all the Amish sites, the Rocky Acre Farm provides a unique bed and breakfast experience. The 200 year old farm was a refuge on the Underground Railroad and is still a working dairy farm. One of the best features of this establishment is the owner, a friendly, gregarious woman who will welcome you and help you to chart your adventure in Amish country. She will direct you to backroad jaunts along country roads to places the tourists don't always get to go. These include a woodworking shop, a farm where homemade ice cream can be consumed, and a pretzel factory where you can be the chef.

At the bed and breakfast itself you will stay in nicely appointed rooms which are decorated in the Pennsylvania Dutch style. There is a large family room with a complete kitchen, in case you want to bring your grandchildren along. Kids can feed a baby goat with a baby bottle, see cows being electronically milked and play with the multitude of cats found on the grounds. It is fun for grownups too.

The breakfast at Rocky Acre Farm is like no other breakfast I have experienced at any other bed and breakfast! It is a feast to behold. Every morning you will be treated to a multi coursed feast. It includes fluffy eggs, bacon, delicious hash browns, biscuits, hotcakes, fruit and more! The best part is this banquet is all included in your room rate.

By now you must be sold on a visit to Rocky Acre Farm. You will not be disappointed by the food, the hospitality and the surroundings.

Get Away to Cambridge Maryland

2007-11-01T07:04:00.000-07:00

Why not take a relaxing weekend trip to the Eastern Shore of Maryland? A visit to the historic town of Cambridge is well worth the 2 hour drive. A canopy of ancient trees hovers above you and Victorian homes surround you as you enter the restored area of Cambridge.

Many of these homes have been turned into bed and breakfasts and the Victorian Gardens Inn is one of the loveliest. Built in 1890, this Victorian Heritage House is surrounded by landscaped English gardens. The proprietor, Lynette Chase, offers her hospitality and goes out of her way to welcome you and make your stay as nice as possible. The rooms are en suite and the room rate includes a scrumptious breakfast. Lynette will tailor the breakfast to your dietary needs. There are comfortable drawing rooms with fireplaces and you might enjoy a glass of port before you go off to dinner in town.

There are so many diversions in this area of the eastern shore. You might stroll down the tree shaded streets of Cambridge and take in the beauty of a bygone era. In the updated downtown area you will find many shops and galleries. An interesting gallery is the 447 Studio. Up a staircase you will find a bevy of artists working in their studios in watercolors or oils. The paintings on the walls are for sale. Other unique stores in the downtown area include Joie de Vivre, the Sunnyside Shop and A Few of my Favorite Things. Delicious gourmet food items, handmade jewelry, clothing and colorful knitted items can be found in these establishments.

Twelve miles outside of town, the Blackwater Wildlife Refuge beckons. You can take a relaxing nature walk here and view the many species of protected birds. Eagles make their home here as well and you might spy one of their cozy nests. Additionally there are bike paths to discover and you can try kayaking on quiet creeks. The Choptank River can be expored on a Skipjack and there is a company that offers rides in certain seasons.

On the way home are the towns of Easton and St. Michaels. There are shops and historical sites in both of these towns and they can be visited for the day or for a weekend.

Sometimes an overnight or weekend getaway is just what a person needs to refresh and to rejuvenate. This area of the eastern shore takes you back to a time when towns were small, people cared about their neighbors and the pace of life was slower. We all need to experience this from time to time and Cambridge is the perfect place to do this.

Dinner at the Elkridge Furnace Inn

2007-09-02T18:18:00.000-07:00

Lilly's Lavender Princess and her Prince had a delectable dining experience this evening. We travelled up Route 95 and back a few centuries to the 1744 Elkridge Furnace Inn. The brick Tavern and Manor Home boasts 23 rooms and 12 fireplaces! The diner enters through a lovely garden where, on this particular night, a wedding was in progress. The hostess led us up the tiger maple staircase to the second level where we were seated at a romantic, candlelit table. The warm yellow toned, colonial wallpaper and paintings, along with the lilting jazz music, immediately put us in a relaxing mood. The chocolate martini helped a lot too! Our first course was a mushroom medley which included mushroom caps stuffed with a cheese mixture, a tomato blend filling, and, best of all, a fried cake of risotto stuffed with mushrooms. Next we indulged in a smooth, creamy clam chowder brimming with potatoes and clams, and a cheese covered onion soup. The Princess had an Eggplant Napoleon for her main entree. It had layers of eggplant , tomatoes, cheese and crisp pastry dough and was accompanied by lobster mashed potatoes, The Prince pronounced these as the BEST mashed potatoes he had ever experienced, high praise indeed!. The Prince had a steak covered in a creamy bacon flavored sauce. The generous chef sent us a tiny pastry shell filled with a tomato puree. Last of all, the pastry tray was placed before us. There was vanilla creme brulee, an airy strawberry angel food cake and a luscious chocolate cake. Alas, our tummies were too full to indulge and we just admired the treats from afar. This was an enchanted evening and the Princess highly recommends that you treat yourself to a meal at the Elkridge Furnace Inn .

Cascade Inn in Cascade, Md.

2007-09-02T18:04:00.000-07:00

For a weekend of relaxation, you'll want to pay a visit to the historic Cascade Inn. It is an 1890 Georgian Bed and Breakfast, just 45 minutes from Gaithersburg. From the moment you enter the inn, your hosts, Jan and Duane, will make you feel welcomed and pampered. The spacious rooms are quite comfortable. Our favorite is the Mountain Magnolia Suite. This room envelops you with its blazing wood burning fireplace, cozy two person jacuzzi tub, and cushy queen size sleigh bed. When you awake in the morning, Duane's breakfast of Bluebird French Toast, Carmelized Bacon and Strawberries with Cream, topped with chocolate will tantalize your taste buds.

The inn is located in an area rife with activities. One of the places we enjoy is the Synergy Healing Arts Center. The center offers several types of massage and will even pay a house call to the inn where you can have a relaxing massage right in your room! Other diversions include hiking on the Appalachian Trail or visiting Cunningham Falls, walking the Gettysburg or Antietam battlefields, sampling the wines at numerous wineries, browsing for antiques, and, in the summer, swimming or canoeing at Cunningham Lake.

So, treat yourself, a friend or someone you love to a wonderful getaway to the Cascade Inn Bed and Breakfast.

Key West Florida

2007-08-30T17:20:00.000-07:00

Last week, while visiting my inlaws in Coconut Creek Florida, I had a most charming adventure. I experienced the unexpected, not often felt at my age. On a whim at 8:30 in the evening, my 21 and 26 year old daughters and I, decided to drive to Key West, a 3 and a half hour journey from Miami, down a dim, one lane road. We gathered our provisions at a nearby Walgreens. These necessities included toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and various snacks to fortify us on our journey. With both excitement, and some anxiety on my part, we steered our rental car down the never ending Route 1 towards the southernmost point in the continental US. We travelled on an inky, snakelike road south ward, accompanied by the black, silent ocean on either side. There are atleast 60 bridges to cross including the shoulderless seven mile bridge.
Arriving close to midnight, we wound our way along the deserted lanes to our bed & breakfast, the Nassau Inn. A letter left for us explained that our abode would be around the back and up two sets of steep stairs. On the way, we noticed a deep blue lagoon, open all hours and complete with whirlpool jets at one end. Too tired to try it out, we collasped into our beds. Noone told us that Key West's similarities to New Orleans and Charleston included unbearable heat and humidity which were a worthy match for our malfunctioning air conditioner. Tossing, turning, and giggling, we finally somehow closed our eyes and dozed off for a few hours.
Waking bright and early, as we only had one day before we had to scurry back, we partook of a continental breakfast. It boasted Key Lime pie, a delicacy for which the Keys are famous. We set off to tour the charming town, lined with wooden turn of the century homes. Most of the homes are adorned with eyebrow windows, meant to keep out heat and humidity. Our first stop was the Hemingway house tour. The famous author lived in this home for 30 years. Notable was the lack of fans due to his first wife's love of venetian chandeliers and the 6-toed felines, descended from Hemingway's original 50. The furry cats loll around on the grounds and sport such names as Charlie Chaplin, due to its black mustasche. We viewed the actual studio where the genious penned 9 of his novels. Sadly, manic depression ran through Hemingway's line and along with his father, brother, and granddaughter, he took his own life at the too young age of 61.
The next stop was the entertaining Duval Street for some shopping and a stop at the Key Lime Pie Factory where my daughter relished Key Lime pie, dipped in chocolate and served on a stick! Other hightlights were a visit to an art studio where we had an in-depth lesson on new techniques to get paint on canvas. One innovator uses only pigments that come from nature (saffron, bone, etc.) and then fingerpaints these substances onto his canvasses, forming the most vibrantly colored fruits, animals, and flowers that I have ever seen. Another artist, using bright acrylics, applies the paint with a spatula, causing the colors to run together and form an Escher effect, whereby the negative space forms birds, fish, or whatever your imagination conjures up.
The trip wouldn't have been complete without a visit to the southernmost point in the continental US, only 90 miles from Cuba. The water here is 87 degrees and can only be described as heavenly. Our small group of 3 also tasted local specialties such as conch fritters, Florida lobster (no claws), and fried ice cream topped with Belgian chocolate sauce.
Sadly, we departed at 5:30 pm and, on the way back, discovered a state beach along Route 1. Here, one could walk several football fields out from the shore and only get wet up to ones knees. The water is so crystal clear, we could observe sea anemones breathing in and out and colorful fish circling at our feet.
Arriving back to Boca Raton after midnight, we showered our tired, clammy bodies and fell into bed, savoring the memories of our impromptu journey to Key West. We then realized that we had only been gone for 28 hours.

Takoma Park Farmer's Market-Lilly's Lavender Day Trip

2007-07-16T19:20:00.000-07:00

Every Saturday from 10-2 the farmers in the area gather at the Takoma Park Farmers Market in the middle of the downtown area. Vendors line both sides of the street offering glorious sunflowers, dahlias and zinnias for sale. A plethora of fruits including sweet and sour cherries, dark blackberries, and juicy peaches can be sampled and purchased. The aroma of cookies, breads and fruity pies circulates through the air to tempt your tastebuds. The cheeses from the organic farm are especially smooth and creamy, flavored with various fresh herbs and spices. Even meat pies and organic chicken and beef are being sold out of large coolers. A visit to this farmers market will take you back to a long ago memory of life when food was fresh, life was simple and summer meant munching into a fresh peach and feeling its delicious nectar dripping down your cheeks.

Hickory Bridge Farm-Lilly's First Lavender Getaway

2007-06-25T05:36:00.000-07:00

For your first weekend getaway try the Hickory Bridge Farm in Orrtanna, Pennsylvania, the first bed and breakfast that Lilly and her family ever visited. Only one hour and fifteen minutes from Rockville, Md. the Hickory Bridge is the perfect jumping off place for sightseeeing, antiqueing and hiking in the Gettysburg area. The Hickory Bridge offers lodging in an old Civil War era farmhoue or in private one bedroom cabins by a babbling brook.

The rooms in the farmhouse include the use of the antique filled living room on the first floor and are ideal for families or couples. The rates vary from 125 dollars and up depending on the accomodation. The rooms in the cottages are for two and have wood burning fireplaces and extreme privacy for that romantic interlude. All the rooms boast private baths.

The delectable breakfast includes the innkeeper's sticky buns and the scrumptious aroma as you awake is overwhelming! There will be hot oatmeal with brown sugar, fruits and a specialty main dish. It is a delicious and ample repast to set you on your way. One of Lilly's favorite things about the inn is the farm dinners which are provided every Friday and Saturday night and Sunday afternoon in a huge rustic barn with shiny wooden floors, antique lanterns, blue and white graniteware and a model train that makes its neverending journey around the perimeter of the barn. This family style meal includes three main coures such as country fried chicken , crab imperial and glazed ham. The homemade sides might be hush puppies, candied carrots, cheesy broccoli and salad topped with sweet and sour bacon dressing. Desserts are ice cream sundaes and homemade pies and cakes. The cost is $21.95 a person and it is well worth it.

The area around the inn offers many choices for diversions. Nearby Emmitsburg boasts a trinket filled antique center, the Land of Little Horses is right around the corner, New Caledonia Park has wonderful, flat hiking trails and an outdoor pool, the Totem Pole Playhouse presents plays during the summer months and there is always the rich history of the Gettysburg battlefields and Eisenhower's home.

Lilly has many fond memories of this inn. When her children were small Dr. Hammett,the owner and local pediatrician, would place baby formula outside her door for her fussy baby to try and Mrs. Hammett always greeted Lilly with a warm hug. One night when the Lilly family took a wrong turn on the windy country roads, Mrs. Hammett was following right behind to point us in the right direction. Lilly's children played with the kittens that always were lurking about and the family walked along the meadow and stream to visit the corn fields that grow near the cottages. They even had an extended family reunion and took over the cottages and farmhouse for a weekend. So Lilly wishes you might bathe yourself in lavender relaxation and partake in a brief respite from your hectic life to visit the Hickory Bridge Farm.