Songs & Remembrances May 19, 2012 : Civil War on the Northern Neck

 

Come and share an opportunity to listen and learn about memories of the Civil War as it was waged on the Northern Neck of Virginia. This event will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Admission is $10 adults/$5 children/children under 5 free/FOS free/Donors to Library of Virginia Project free.

 

• Chamber Chorale of Fredericksburg will perform Civil War era music
• Local genealogy expert Laura Hazel will give tips on researching your Civil War ancestor
• Civil War re-enactors will bivouac on the Oval
• Library of Virginia staff members will digitize your photographs and Civil War-related documents and photograph your Civil War artifacts for inclusion in their 150th Legacy Project. Just bring your treasures to the duPont Library and they will be recorded for posterity.
• A tour of the Great House is included in the admission price

 

For a schedule check their website http://www.stratfordhall.org/visit/songs.php

 

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Have some left over roast, here is what to do with it for a delicious lunch.

3 cups roasted beef

1 onion cubed

1/2 cup catsup

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 Tablespoons vinegar

2 teaspoons prepared mustard

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 cup beef stock

Mix all together and simmer for 20-30 minutes and serve on hamburger rolls.

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Spring has arrived and with it fresh asparagus, try this great recipe for dinner.

1 bunch of medium sized asparagus, about 1 lb

2 Tbsp of the most exquisite extra virgin olive oil

2 Tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon lemon zest - freshly grated lemon rind

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

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Make your plans now to enjoy spring in Virginia!

 

Distinctive homes and gardens throughout the Commonwealth open their doors and gates for Historic Garden Week in Virginia.  this year the Northern Neck tour takes place in upper Lancaster County on aril 25, while the Middle Peninsula tour is in Middlesex on the 27th.  Tickets for each tour are $25.  Visit vagardenweek.org for details.

 

Middlesex County – The Middle Peninsula Friday, April 27

Civil War history along Virginia’s waterways is the theme of this tour that features a lighthouse-home built in 2005, complete with a 650 pound Fresnel lens, which once lit Australia’s Perth Harbor. Providence, in Deltaville, boasts over 40,000 bulbs in its formal, sun and shade gardens.

 

Gloucester-Mathews Saturday, April 28

Eight properties include Burgh Westra, considered the oldest home in the county remaining in its original family. Nearby estate, Glen Roy, includes access to an 18th century school house, a pre-Civil War barn, an 1880s carriage house, farm buildings and a pool. Gloucester is considered the Daffodil Capital of our country.

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3 chicken breasts, halved

1/2 cup flour

salt and pepper to taste

2 Tablespoons butter

2Tablespoons cooking oil

1 1/2 cups orange juice

2 Tablespoons vinegar

2 Tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon basil

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1 can (16 oz.)peach halves, drained.

Shake chicken pieces in bag with flour and salt and pepper; brown in butter and oil.  Place browned chicken in a greased 3-quart casserole dish.  Combine orange juice with vinegar, sugar, basil and nutmeg and pour over chicken.  Cover and bake at 375 for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until tender.  Baste often.  Then place peach halves between chicken pieces, baste well and bake uncovered for 15 minutes longer.

Serves 6

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Paddle Trips are scheduled every day from Saturday, 7 April through Sunday, 7 May.  You will be accompanied by a leader famliar with the ecology of the area and may see eagles, nesting waterfowl, prothonotary warblers...who knows? 

Kayaks and gear are provided.  If you are not an experienced kayaker, trip leaders will help you learn.  Trips begin near Saluda, VA at 9:00 a.m. and usually last till 1:30 or 2:00.  Bring a picnic to eat on the river.  You may sign up either as an individual or a group.  All participants must be at least 18 years of age.  Trips are free of charge, however they are the major source of fund-raising for the Friends of the Dragon and donations are appreciated.  to make reservations or receive more infomation, contact Marth Graham by email mgr8040@verizon.net.  Trips are limited to 12 participants, so this is the time to get your name on the calendar.  the Dragon Run Inn www.dragonruninn.com is just about six miles from where you will meet for this great paddle trip.  For more information on Friends of the Dragon and the Dragon Run Swamp go to http://www.dragonrun.org/.

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Virginia ranks seventh in the nation for wine production.  The Travel Industry Association (TIA) rates Virginia 8th for wine tourism and 15th for food-related travel.  There are many reasons for the honors and now you can see for yourself. 

Oct. 1 Yorktown Wine Festival featuring Virginia Wines http://www.villageevents.org/

Oct. 22 Gloucester Wine Festival http://www.gloucesterwinefestival.com/.  Virginia wines, food, live music, art, jewelry, house tours and more.

October 9Sunday Afternoon Music & Wine Saudé Creek Vineyards, 16230 Cooks Mill Rd, Lanexa, VA Sunday at the Winery, 2 pm - 5 pm, rain or shine
http://www.saudecreek.com/eventsin.html

 Nov. 12 Fall Barrel Tasting at Ingleside Winery. http://www.ipwine.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=75&Itemid=40

Plan a Fall Getaway Weekend, we'd be glad to have you stay with us www.dragonruninn.com

 

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Fall is just around the corner and that means apple time.  Enjoy these great muffins.

Mix together and set aside

2 cups sifted all-purpose flour                                               l

2 tablespoons sugar                                                   

1 Tablespoon baking powder                                    

½ teaspoon salt                                                          

¼ cup butter or margarine

 

Mix together and then add to dry ingredients – stir just until moistened

1 cup milk

1 egg, beaten

½ cup apples, peeled and chopped

 

Fill 12 greased or paper lined muffin tins 2/3 full

 

Top with

½ cup chopped apples, peeled and chopped

½ cup chopped pecans

 

Mix together and sprinkle a teaspoon of mixture over each muffin

¼ cup sugar

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

 

Bake 425 degrees for 25 minutes, or until lightly browned.

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You would be amazed at what you can find in the small town of Urbanna.  Pieces of Peper is one of a kind.  Peper Heunemann has been an artist all of her life and has always enjoyed creating.  She has made and designed plant holders of jute and pottery. Her watercolor and oil paintings have been displayed and sold in a gallery located in Williamsburg, Virginia.

After attending several jewelry making classes she began designing and making her own line of jewelry. Peper’s jewelry was an instant success and several of the local gift shops began offering it to their customers. Soon she was trying to catch up with her word-of-mouth orders.

In 2009 Peper opened her own retail shop called “Pieces of Peper” located in the Taylor Building in Urbanna, Virginia. She wanted a place that she could display all of her designs and to be able to interact with her clients. 

All the jewelry you see is made by Peper in the store/studio and is Hand-Crafted with .999% Pure Fine Silver.  says "I individually mold, finish and polish each piece and add high quality accents and clasps."  All are stamped with “Peper” on the back, thus authenticating the originality and quality of the piece.

Today Peper is a sanctioned instructor of fine jewelry and a member of the Precious Metal Guild. You can find her in her shop working on a new creation or talking with customers and friends.

 

Tags: art, jewelry

It's apple picking time and time to enjoy some great recipes.

                                                          Apple Dumplings          

 

2 cups all-purpose flour                                 ½ cup butter or margarine, melted

2 teaspoons baking powder                            1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon salt                                                4 Tablespoons brown sugar

1 Tablespoon butter or margarine,                  6 tart apples, peeled, cored and chopped

            Softened                                              Apple Dumpling Sauce

1 Tablespoon shortening

1 cup milk

 

Place flour, baking powder and salt in large mixing bowl.  Cut in butter and shortening until mixture resembles coarse meal.  Gradually add milk to make a soft dough.  Roll dough into a ¼” thick rectangle on a lightly floured surface.  Brush with melted butter; sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar.  Spread apples over pastry.  Roll up jellyroll fashion; cut into 10 slices.  Place flat in a greased 13x9x2” baking pa; bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.  Pour apple Dumpling Sauce over top, and continue baking 20 minutes.

 

Yield 10 servings

 

Apple Dumpling Sauce

 

1 cup sugar                                                     1 Tablespoon butter or margarine

1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour                      ½ teaspoon lemon juice

Dash of salt                                                     1 cup hot water

 

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.  Bring to a boil; cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

 

Yield: 1 ½ cups

Enjoy!

Tags: apples

Trainor Roden's work has appeared in publications, videos and websites, selected for juried art shows and galleries, shown at the state capitol and held in private collections.  In Urbanna you will find his work at "Somethimes In" Studio on Cross Street.

Trainor's artist statement says that "Clarity of subject and sharpness of image are the traditional interests of most photographers.   I prefer a somewhat different orientation:  The Subject is Subjective, with intentionally biased views.  These can be based on angle and breadth of view, lighting, movement, hues, and more.  Sharpenss may glide into softness through focus, intentional camera movement or printing.  The original nature of some images may be disguised.  The goal in each image is to create a Mood and transfer that to the viewer.  I seek less of the "wow" and more the "ahh".  Viewers mentally place my images into scenes beyond the mat and frame, into fields of their own imaginationl  Thus the art, created and perceived, is a partnership."

The piece above just says relaxiation to me and it so soothing.  To see more of his work online and get a list of the various studios where his work is currently hanging go to: ww.trainorphotoart.com/index.html

Come getaway to Urbanna visit "Sometimes In" to get a first-hand look at this beautiful artwork and see what a small Virginia town has to offer, there is something for everyone. 

 

Tags: photography

This recipe is good for breakfast, I serve it at the Dragon Run Inn, or a quick dinner on the run.

2 small zucchini sliced thin (can also use half and half yellow squash)

1 small onion thinly sliced

1 Tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil 

1 Tablespoon finely chopped fresh oregano

2 Tablespoons butter

Salt and pepper to taste

3 Tablespoons of bacon pieces and/or a half cup chopped ham

4 eggs, beaten

Saute zucchini and onion in butter until tender, add herbs, bacon pieces and season with salt and pepper.  Add the eggs; cook and stir until set.  Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

Serves 2

 

Tags: Zuchinni

August 8, 2011 will mark the Annual Buyboat Homecoming in Urbanna.  Urbanna will be the final stop on the CBBA, Chesapeake Bay Buyboat Association. cruise.  Much like other reunions this will be a gathering of old oyster buyboats that have gone into retirement.  Buyboats have been around since the early 1900's and average between 55 and 65 feet in length, with the largest still afloat being the O.A. Bloxom, measuring 84 feet.  Buyboats have been used to haul all type of goods before the onset of bridges and modern roads.  The CBBA consists of two fleets - northern and southern - and each year the buyboat cruises switches off traveling either north or south.  This year is the south's turn.  Approximately 30 buyboats remain on the Chesapeake Bay.  Some boats are owned by museums, but many are owned and maintained by members of the Chespeake Buyboat Association. 

Cruise Schedule:  August 2 will begin at Tangier Island; they will depart on the 4th for Cape Charles Town Harbor where the reunion will take place.  The reunion will be held Aug. 5 through 8 and will include boat tours, live music, food and games.  Next the boats are off to Deltaville where they will dock at the Poquoson Yacht Club before moving on to ther final stop in Urbanna.  While in Urbanna the boats will be open to the public for tours on Aug. 12 from noon to 4 p.m. and on Aug. 13 from 10a.m. to 5p.m.  Come and visit Urbanna and get the feel of a little history as you talk with the boat owners.  Hope to see you there.

Tags: Urbanna, buyboats

Summertime is time to enjoy fresh vegetables from the garden and one of my guests favorites is zucchini bread.

Blend:

            4 beaten eggs                                      1 cup vegetable oil

            2 cups sugar                                        1 tsp. vanilla

 

Add:

            3 ½ cups flour                                     1 l/2 tsp. salt

            1 ½ tsp. baking soda                           ¾ tsp. baking powder

            1 tsp. cinnamon

 

Mix well and add:

            2 cups grated unpeeled zucchini        1 cup chopped pecans

            1 cup raisins

 

Mix well and pour into 2 large or 3 small loaf pans.  Bake at 350 for 45 minutes for small loaves or 55 minutes for large loaves

 

 

Tags: Zucchini

Look for bald eagles at the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge located at 336 Wilna Road, Warsaw, VA.  This is one of four refuges that comprise the Eastern Virginia Rivers National Wildlife Refuge Complex.  It protects 20,000 acres of wetlands and associated uplands along the river and its major tributaries.  Archeological and historic sites are abundant.  At least four federally-listed threatened or endangered species may be found, including the American bald eagle, peregrine falcon, shortnose sturgeon and sensitive joint vetch.  Virginia's largest wintering roost for bald eagles is located within the refuge.  Shorebirds, neotropical migrant songbirds, raptors, and marchbirds rely on the  Rappahannock River's corridors during the spring and fall migration periods.  The Refuge hosts three sites on the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail.  Picture of the eagle was taken by Tina Phillips   http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=503nnock.

For more information on the wildlife refuge check out http://www.fws.gov/northeast/rappahannock/.  Plan a getaway weekend and stay at the Dragon Run Inn in Church View, VA and explore the nature that abounds.

 

Tags: eagle, Rappahannock River

As promised another recipe from Grandma's cookbook.

• 1 pint oysters
• 2 cups sifted flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten

Drain oysters and cut in quarters.Save the liquid and add sufficient water to make 1 cup of liquid. Mix dry ingredients, add egg and liquid, and mix well, add oysters. Drop by tablespoon into hot fat (about ½” deep in skillet). When brown on one side, turn and brown the other. Drain on paper towels.

Enjoy

Tags: oyster

 Scalloped oysters is a recipe I found in my Grandmother's cookbook.  Enjoy!

 

1 quart oysters                         1 pint milk

1 pint oyster juice                    salt, pepper, butter

cracker crumbs                        chopped fresh basil to taste

 

In a buttered dish put a layer of cracker crumbs, then a layer of oysters, sprinkle with salt, pepper, basil and bits of butter.  Add another layer of cracker crumbs, oysters, and seasoning and top with buttered crumbs.  Add the oyster juice and milk which should be enough to cover the oysters and crumbs.  Cover and bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.  Remove cover and brown.

 

Watch for more recipes from Grandma's cookbook.

 

Tags: oyster, recipe

Virginia Grown Oysters, come visit and enjoy locally grown.  The Deltaville Oyster Company is the culminatioin of experience and knowledge gained through hobby-level oyster growning.  Since 2000 Donnie Aberthany has perfected the delicate and slow-process off the pier of his Deltaville cottage (with plenty of help from Marty).  With encouragement from friends the business was born and has grown.  Check them out at www.deltavilleoystercompany.com.

Crassostrea virginica (the Virginia native oyster) can filter up to 55 gallons of water in a single day!  These amazing bivalves filtered the entire Chesapeake bay twice daily back when John Smith first landed.  (Thats 15 billion gallons!)

Oysters can be found in the bay from depths of 8 to 35 feet.  They live in colonies called beds, bars, or reefs.  The oysters attach to one another and form dense reefs, providing a habitat for numerous other life-forms. 

Oysters are filter-feeders.  That mean they open their shells and pump water thrugh their gills to catch plankton, algae, and other particles.  These other particles include the extra phosporus, nitrogen and potassium from agricultural fertilizers which have drained into the bay.  This is the main reason why Oysters are so ecologically sustainable.

The Virginia Oyster is also known as the American Oyster and the Eastern Oyster.

Watch our blog for future recipes using the nutritious oyster.

 

Tags: Chesapeake Bay, oysters, local grown, ecology

1/2 tsp. dry mustard

1 T. Old Bay seasoning

1/4 tsp. salt

1T Miracle Whip

1/4 tsp. sugar

1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 T. chopped fresh parsley

1 T. chopped fresh basil

1/4 cup bread crumbs

1 egg, slightly beaten

1 lb. lump blue crab meat

Combine all ingredients but the crab meat and mix well.  Very gently fold in crabmeat, do not break up the lumps.  Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour.  Remove the mixture from the refrigerator and shape into 4 balls, flatten slightly between your palms.  Heat a skillet with 1 T. oil and 2 T. Butter until hot.  Place the crab cakes in the skillet and cook until golden brown on each side.  Turn only once.    Enjoy.

Tags: crab

Visit Stratford Hall Plantation, this is a great time of year to enjoy the backcountry of the Northern Neck of Virginia and discover how the leader's of the south lived.  Experience plantation life as lived by the Lees of Stratford - colonists, revolutionaries, nation builders and secessionists. Stratford Hall offers a tranquil setting with leisure activities for families.  Check their website for a list activities such as wine tastings, concerts, fairs, war reenactments, classes lectures and beach combing for fossils.  Take a tour and hear the "back room" stores of the Lee family and how they lived almost entirely off the land in the first half of the 18th century.  The family occupied the main floor of the 10,000 square-foot home, which is still fully furnished and includes the baby crib of Robert E. Lee.  Plan a week and enjoy the accomodations at the Dragon Inn as you enjoy stepping back into history.

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It has been a tradition in our home to always have Hot Cross Buns during the Easter season. To see more on their history go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_cross_bun. Following is the recipe we have enjoyed.

1 pkg yeast

butter

1/2 cup sugar

1 tsp. salt

1 cup evaporated milk

2 eggs beaten

7 1/2 to 8 cups flour

1 1/2 cup raisins or currants

1 1/2 cup candied fruit

Icing:

10X sugar

vanilla

water.

Dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup warm water. Combine 1/4 cup butter, sugar and salt. Pour in 1 cup boiling wate; stir. Add milk and cool to lukewarm. Add yeast, eggs and 4 cups flour; beat until mooth. Add fruit and raisins. Add remaining flour to make soft dough. Put in greased bowl and turn to grease top. Cover; let rise until double. Punch down and shape into rolls placed in greased baking pan. Cover, Let rise until double. Bake at 450 degrees for 15 minutes. Brush tops with butter. Cool slightly..

Mix icing until workable consistency and use a pastry bag to ice crosses on top of each rool.

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Virginia Motor Speedway 2011 season Just Around the Corner

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tags: Virginia Motor Speedway, auto racing

Warmer weather is finally on it's way and we think of serving cooler foods.  A great dessert is an ice crem pie made with Bits 'O Brickle pieces.

 1 baked 9" graham cracker pie shell

1/2 gal. vanilla ice cream, softened

1/2 cup Bits "O Brickle pieces

Spoon 1/2 of ice cream into prepared shell and sprinkle with 1/2 cup brickle pieces.  Top with remaining ice cream nd freeze.

 To serve, bring pie out about 10 minutes before serving, cut and top with sauce.

 Sauce is enough for 3 or 4 piecs.

1 1/2 cup sugar

1 cup evaporated milk

1/2 cup brickle pieces

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup light corn syrup

Dash of salt

Combine all but brickle pieces and bring to a boil.  Boil 1 minute, remove from heat and cool slightly.  Add pieces, cool, then chill.  To serve, stir well and spoon on ice cream.  Refrigerate remaining sauce in tightly covered container.

Tags: Pie, ice cream

Phil Loftis says "The osprey have arrived and we witnessed a female plunging from her perch in a dead tree that we had positioned the boat under, to a point within 10 feet of us.  She hit the water face down, feet extended, completely submerged then reappeared with a mightly thrust of her wings, fish in talons, climbed slowly for altitude and returned to the very branch she had launched from and began eating........looking down on us as if to say "How'd like that show?"  She was so unpreturbed by our presence that I told my daughter that she must be a trained performer that had espcaped from the circus."

Phil is captain of Urbanna Cruises and would love to take you for a cruise and he is offering a 10% discount coupon on his website, www.UrbannaCruises.com.  Plan a weekend of relaxation at the Dragon Run Inn and reserve a cruise on Urbanna Creek, a great spring treat.  Bring your friends and make it a party.

Tags: osprey

8 slices of bacon, fried crisp and crumbled

1 medium onion, chopped

1 (17oz.) cans cream style corn

1 cups milk

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

2 tablespoons sugar

1/4 cup butter or margarine

1 can drained whole kernel corn.

Fry bacon and remove.  Add onion to drippings and cook until transparent; drain.  Mix corn, milk, bacon, onion and seasonings.  Cook over medium heat until hot, stirring constantly.  Add butter, stir until melted.

Enjoy this chowder with a salad for a great meal, we at the Dragon Run Inn do, it makes for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.

Tags: corn, chowder, Dragon Run Inn

It's Official!  Back in February 2007 there was an article about Dr. Oliver Flint, the caddisfly expert from the Smithsonian Institute who found a new species at Mascot, VA.  The new caddisfly  is called Neotrichia dracacanamalama Harris & Rasmussen - the name means dragon-run swamp.  "Caddisfly, is the common name for certain aquatic insects that resemble small moths.  The wings of caddisflies are covered with small hairs, distinguishing them from the scaled wings typical of moths."   If you'd like to explore the Dragon Run Swamp and explore for yourself we've got the perfect place to stay and enjoy the wonders of nature.

Tags: Entomology

New Year's is just around the corner and you are looking for a punch that is not red or green, white works well for New Year's and it's quick and easy.

Place a 1/2 gallon softened vanilla ice cream in punch bowl.

Mix together:

1/2 gallon apple juice

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon nutmeg

Pour over ice cream; stir and serve.

Enjoy!

Tags: recipes, party

Tied of the same old stark hotel or motel room? Why not choose a B&B? The biggest reason to leave your old hotel behind is… Cha Ching – the added value. Today’s B&Bs are simply a better way to stay for travelers seeking more for their travel dollars. Take a peek at the top ten reasons bed and breakfasts and country inns make a better and a more affordable way to stay.

Reason 10: Put your nickels and dimes away. Heck, put the $5 bill for the bottle of water back in your wallet! No mini bars here! Research from BedandBreakfast.com reveals that more than 92 percent of B&Bs offer complimentary afternoon refreshments, wine and cheese/hors d’ouevres receptions or evening desserts. More than 50 percent of B&Bs offer stocked snack and beverage pantries 24-7 and we’re sure that 100% of today’s B&Bs will offer you a glass or bottle of water and tell you to put the cost toward your vacation!

Reason 9: Stay plugged in. Complimentary wi-fi & calls. Say goodbye to that $20 daily fee for wi-fi access. Nearly 90 percent of B&Bs and country inns offer complimentary wi-fi according to BedandBreakfast.com surveys. The other ten are working on getting it. Nearly 100% of today’s B&Bs offer complimentary local or long distance phone calls. When’s the last time you saw a pay phone anyway? They’re a dying breed.

Reason 8: Great rates! According to the Professional Association of Innkeepers International (PAII – (pronounced PIE) don’t you just love that a B&B organization is named after a yummy treat?) the average daily rate for B&Bs is ???. When we compared this to city hotels of like levels, the B&B rate came in lower, and that doesn’t take in to consideration all the extras.

Reason 7: When’s the last time you met the owner of the hotel? And when is the last time he or she carried your bag to your room? Pick a B&B and read their reviews. Inngoers rave about the fabulous hospitality and friendship that innkeepers offered during their stay. In fact, for many B&B travelers, the innkeeper was what made the stay special.

Reason 6: Free parking. OK, we’ll admit, not all B&Bs offer free parking, but last time BedandBreakfast.com surveyed innkeepers, 95.3% said they did. Even in the city, B&B rates for parking average around $25 vs. as high as $50/nightly in hotels.

Reason 5: Flat screens, fireplaces & whirlpool tubs: Usually reserved for the Presidential Suite in a hotel, increasingly B&Bs offer amenities including flat screen TVs, in-room fireplaces, steam or multi-jet showers and deep Jacuzzi tubs.

Reason 4: Bed is half their name: Looking for fabulous beds? Nearly 100 percent of B&Bs offer high thread count sheets, feather beds, pillow libraries and down comforters at no additional cost to guests.

Reason 3: Breakfast is the other half of their name: Take a family of four to the breakfast buffet at a resort hotel, and you’re looking at upwards of $100 to feed the whole family. Bed and breakfasts all offer breakfast – it’s their signature selling point and half their name. From five course candlelit breakfasts to lavish continentals, most innkeepers offer a breakfast to fuel you for the entire day.

Reason 2: They really will leave the light on! Arrive at 2am, and you may not see a cherry innkeeper greeting you, but you will always find a personalized welcome, no matter what time you arrive from innkeepers who genuinely care about your safe trip and will call you by name.

Reason 1: Cookies, yes! Cookie cutter? No. No two B&Bs are alike. As independently owned small lodging properties, each one offers something new and different. No big box look to B&Bs ranging from urban chic to historically preserved mansions and homes.

Coursety of:http://support.betterwaytostay.com/ Check them out for more information.

Tags: stay, B&B, getaway

• 1 unbaked deep-dish pastry shell
• ½ chopped broccoli or close
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour (can use gluten free flour)
• 6 eggs
• 1-½ cups milk
• 2 Tablespoons chopped green onion
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp sweet basil
• 1 pkg chopped ham (may want to put on paper towel and squeeze so won’t be watery)

Place pastry crust in pie shell. Spread ham, cheese and broccoli in bottom of pie shell. Beat eggs, add milk onion and seasonings and mix well. Bake 350 for 40-45 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting.

Tags: Quiche, breakfast

Urbanna was formered in 1680 and has had a history of a center of commerce since it's beginning with tobacco being the big product at that time. The town thrived off the tobacco trade until 1830 when the custom house was closed by the state. During the colonial period, British ships off loaded goods and supplies at the port of Urbanna in march of each year. The ship then in turn were loaded with tobacco for their trip hoe.

The town was named Urbanna in 1704 for Queen Anne of England, in 1748 it became the county seat of Middlesex. Today Saluda is the county seat for Middlesex. The Urbanna Oyster Festal is a big event the first weekend in Nov. every year and 70,000+ people come to enjoy the festivities. Boaters enjoy visitng Urbanna jarbpir and others come by land to step back in time and enjoy the small town atmosphere. Come and stroll the streets and visit the unique shops, a number of restaurbants, the old drug store with the soda fountain, or just relax on a bench at Waterman's Park with a good book. The first weekend in December is a great time too. Friday night will be the Christmas Parade and kids can visit Santa at the Fire House. On Saturday the Holiday House Tour always brings a crowd as homes, churches and other historic building will be decked out and open for the holidays.

Come visit and stay awhile.

Tags: House Tour, Christmas Parade, Small Town

Cool evenings are the time for a good pot of chili.

Brown: 1 lb. ground beef and 1/2 cup minced onion, drain

Add and simmer: 2 1/2 cups kidney beans and 1 1/3 cup condensed tomato soup

Make into a paste and add to been mixture: 3/4 Tablespoons chili powder, 1 Tablespoon flour, 3 Tablespoons water, 1 teaspoon salt and 1 Tablespoon sugar.

Cook over low heat, stirring frequently for 45 minutes.

I often make 10 times the recipe and put it in my large heavy turkey roaster without the top and put it in the overn for 2 hours on 350 instead of simmering on top of the stove. This eliminates the need to stir often and also make a large batch which is great for a crowd or to freeze for a quick meal later. Sometimes I'll take some and put in my blender and blend to go on hot dogs.

Tags: chili

When was the last time you rode a ferry arcross the river? In the Northern Neck of Virginia you can still enjoy that experience. The Merry Point and Sunnybank car ferries carry their passengers on a leisurely trip. These two vessels are the last two free powered, cable car ferries in Virginia and carry about 30,000 vehicles a year. The Merry Point ferry is at the end of Merry Point Road, Route 604, and operates from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The Sunnybank ferry is on Sunnybank Road, Route 644, and operated from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday. These ferries save drives about a half hour on their trip. Come and enjoy a day in the country and explore the Corrotoman River in Lancaster County or the Little Wicomico River in Northumberland County. Make plans today for a day of relaxation and a step back in time.

Tags: Merry Point Ferry, Sunnybank Ferry

Ingredients 1 lb. sea scallops, 1/2 cup butter, 7 tablespoons lemon juice, 5 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce,1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, one large red pepper, one yellow squash, and one zucinni. Slice squash into 1/4" slices and pepper into pieces about 1 1/2" square and set aside. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay, garlic powder and paprika. Microwave until butter is melted, stir to blend. Set aside 1/3 cup for basting latr. Pour remaining marinade over scallops, toss to coat well, cover and refrigerate for 1 hour, turning occasionally. Drain and discard marinade. Alternately thread scallops, red pepper, yellow squash and zucinni onto soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers, repeat. Grilling can be done on a barbeque grill or on top of the stove in a grill pan. Grill, uncovered, over medium-hot heat for 6 minutes, turning once. Brush with reserve marinade. Grill 8-10 minutes longer or until scallops are opaque.

Tags: Scallops, seafood, grill

The West Point, Virginia Crab Carnival is sponsored by the West Point Tri-Rivers Chamber of Commerce. This year the seafood festival will be held on Friday, October 1 and Saturday, October 2, 2010. Crab Carnival holds a special place in the hearts of all Tidewater community members as a joyous celebration of the Town of West Point's history and a great Fall festival. On Friday, October 1, 2010 •Tour de Crab 5:00 pm Children race their bikes in one of four races for different ages and genders, then parade down Main Street. Registration fee: $5.00 •Firemen's Parade: 7:00-8:00 pm •Entertainment: Live music by Wayne Greer and Groove Tide Sponsored by Elis Olsson Memorial Foundation and Old Dominion Grain, a division of The Mennel Milling Co. •Refreshments: 6:00 - 10:00 pm: seafood, hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream •Fireworks: 9:15 pm Fireworks fill the sky above the York River. Sponsored by Loveland Distributors, Commonwealth Assisted Living,TPMG-West Point Family Practice, and BayLands Federal Credit Union. On Saturday, October 2, 2010 •Breakfast 6:30 - 9:00 am United Methodist Church, Men’s Fellowship 11th and Main St. •Crab Fun Run and Tot Walk 7:30 - 10:30 am 3135 King William Ave., Greater West Point YMCA Registration: 7:30 am; Fun Run: 8:00 am; Tot Trot: 8:15 am; 8K: 8:30 am •Canine Demonstration: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Corner of 9th and Kirby Streets. Watch the specially-trained dogs of the Virginia Department of Corrections search and find various drugs. Witness the skills of handlers and dogs as they demonstrate obedience and different aggressive drills. •Arts and Crafts Booths: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm •Entertainment on a variety of stages West Point Town Square Stage (9th St. between Main & Kirby) Sponsored by C&F Bank and West Point Pharmacy 2:30-6 pm - Wild at Heart 11th St. Stage Sponsored by WSI International Training, Inc. 10 am-1 pm - Churchyard Grass (Flatland Cloggers will perform during breaks) 2:30 - 6:00 pm - Crushed •Children's Activities Pony rides, face painting, balloons •Parade 1:00pm Along Main Street between 1st and 10th Streets, Grand Marshal Frances Thornton will lead bands,antique and classic vehicles, baby buggies, and more! Come stay with us and have a fun weekend.

Tags: carnival; crab, fun

The Old Tobacco Warehouse was built in 1766 and is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the United States associated with the transportation and sale of tobacco.  Sailing vessels from England were manned by British crews and owned by English and Scottish merchants who came seeking tobacco in exchange for goods and supplies.  James Mills, a scottish merchant, purchased the and between 173and 1867 and built a public warehouse.  The warehouse sits on a gentle hillside overlooking the old tobacco rolling road to Urbanna Creek.

Virginians raised tobacco to trade for manufactured goods from the mother country, England; first using the barter system.  The Barrels - hog heads when filled would be approximately 500 pounds.

The warehouse served as a private residence for a time; and also was the Middlesex County Library until 1991 when the new library was built.  The Town of Urbanna took control of the Old Tobacco Warehouse in the mid-1990's and restored it back to its original condition and made it into the Urbanna Visitor's Center lending support to historic preservation showing its importance as a 17th century Colonial building connected with tobacco and water transportation in the develpment of our nation.  Behind the structure, the Historical Gardens Preservation group has started an English Kitchen Garden or otherwise known as an herb garden.

We would love to have you come and spend a few days with us at the Dragon Run Inn and explore historic Urbanna, www.urbanna.com.

Tags: Urbanna, historic, tobacco

This is a recipe I've used many times for wedding receptions or for parties.  Cucumbers are in season this time of year and it makes a refreshing nibbler.

• 1 (8oz.) package cream cheese
• 1 large cucumber, shredded and drained extra well
    (I spread it out on paper towels and squeeze the water out.)
• 2 teaspoons chopped chives
• 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1/8 teaspoon salt and pepper

Mix well.  Makes 1 3/4 cups.
Use a pastry bag with large star tip and squeeze a star of spread onto 1" rounds of bread or spread on crackers.  One cup will make 50 open face bread rounds.

Tags: cucumber, cream cheese

Looking for "Something Different"? You can find it in downtown Pine Tree. Our guests love to visit the deli and experience all the many flavors of real country cooking. Here you will find the best country ham you can sink your teeth into, she crab soup, barbeque on their homemade buns and of course homemade cakes and ice cream for dessert. One of our guests wanted to try their soup, but it was their anniversary and thought they should go somewhere a little more upscale, so they decided to stop at Something Different for soup and then go into town for their main meal. Wrong, once they experienced the soup they ended up spending the rest of the evening and had their complete anniversary there. "Righteous Ribs and Bodacious Butts - We do slow food fast", is one of their slogans. If you see an item on the menu you are not sure about trying like "HOT Chocolate Ice Cream w/ Chili Peppers", just ask for a sample, they will be glad for you to try it.

Check out their website, http://www.pine3.info/, for hours of operations, take a look at their menu and so much more. Subscribe to their facebook page if you want to know what's on special for the weekend or when the raisin bread is coming out of the oven.

When you're visiting the Urbanna area this is a must see and try for yourself!

Tags: Country Ham, She Crab Soup, Homemade Ice Cream, Deli BBQ

Growing up we raised blueberries in our back yard.  Mother created this recipe and it was always one of our favorites.

Mix together:  1 cup sugar, 1/2 scant cup shortening and 1 egg.

Stir in: 1/2 cup milk

Stir in:  2 cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla.

Sprinkle: 2 1/2 cups of blueberries with a little sugar and flour and add to mixture.  Batter will be stiff, spread in a greased and floured 9 inch square baking pan.

Bake 25-35 minutes at 375 degrees.

Tags: blueberries, cake, dessert

You'll never know what you'll discover exploring the uniquely beautiful waterways of the Middle Peninsula.  Enjoy an extraordinary sunset, wild life or a beautiful home just around the bend.  This is the ideal way for a family to enjoy an afternoon or sunset cruise.  Get a group together and call 804-366-1778 and they will help you plan a cruise suited to your special interest. 

Visit them at www.UrbannaCruises.com for rates.  The Dragon Run Inn would love to also host your group at our B&B just six miles from Urbanna.  www.dragonruninn.com

Tags: Rappahannock Rver, Urbanna, Cruise charter

This is one of my most often requested recipes!  It's good as a pastry for breakfast or dessert for dinner served warm with ice cream. 

Ingredients

• 1 tube (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent rolls
• 2 small Granny Smith apples, peeled, quartered
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup Mountain Dew soda
• Cinnamon sugar

Directions

Unroll crescent rolls and separate dough into 8 triangles, spread lightly with butter and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon sugar.  Cut each apple into four wedges. Wrap a crescent dough triangle around each apple wedge. Place in a greased baking dish or small pie pan.

In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar and 1/4 cup butter; spread over rolls. Slowly pour the soda around the rolls (do not stir). Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.

Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.  Yield: 8 dumplings.

Tags: apple, dessert, pastry, dumpling

Experience the thrill of feeling the air rush by as you take a ride in our beautifully restored 1943 Fairchild PT-19.  The Fairchild PT-19 was designed as a replacement for the PT-17 biplane primary trainer.  This aircraft offered flight characteristics more similar to the combat aircraft those aspiring pilots would later fly in the war.

This Pt-19, N323CJ was built in 1943 and went through a full 11 year restoration that included an upgrade to the 200HP Ranger engine and an electrical system.

Michal Kuhnert, pilot, is originally from Germany, has logged over 4,000 hours of flight time.

To arrange for a flight or flight training check out Mike's website at
http://www.bayaviationonline.com/

Come plan a getaway weekend at the Dragon Run Inn and enjoy a flight over the Chesapeake Bay with Mike.

Tags: PT19, World War II, flying, pilot

• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel
• 1 1/4 cups fresh lemon juice (seeds removed-4 or 5 large lemons)
• 1/2 cup crushed raspberries
• 1/2 cup raspberry vodka

Make Lemonade base, in a saucepan heat and stir water and sugar over medium heat till sugar is dissolved, remove from heat; cool 20 minutes.
Add peel, juice, sugar, and vodka to sugar water, refrigerate for up to 3 days.

When ready to serve combine equal parts of base and water and serve in ice-filled glasses, stir. Makes about 8 cups.

Tags: Lemonade, raspberry, drink

Do you enjoy great wine!  If you do the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail is for you.  Our guests enjoy taking the loop and visiting the wineries, participating in their tasting and bringing some home to enjoy later.  The Trail has a passport program too!  Visit one of the wineries to pick up your passport map and get it validated as you travel the trail.  Once you have visited 6 wineries on the trail your passport becomes a 10% discount voucher.  The passport is valid for the rest of the year at each winery for wine purchases.  When you receive that 6th stamp on your passport you qualify for a chance in their Getaway Drawing.  You need not be present to win.  So what are you waiting for checkout their website www.chesapeakebaywinetrail.com, it'll give you directions and a list of special events coming up, so start your tour.  We would love to have you stay with us at the Dragon Run Inn www.dragonruninn.com where you can relax in the country after your busy day.  Cheers - Enjoy!!!

Tags: wine, getaway, bed and breakfast, Chesapeake Bay

Tis the season for local fresh strawberries Oh My!  Here is a good recipe for fresh fruit salsa I hope you will enjoy

• 2 Golden Delicious apples
• 2 Kiwi
• 1 lb strawberries
• 3 Tb strawberry preserves
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 Tb brown sugar
• 2 Tb white sugar
• 10 tortillas
• 1 cup cinnamon sugar

Dice up all of the fruit. Mix sugar w/preserves. Pour mixture over fruit and mix.

Chips: Cut tortillas into triangles, like a pie. Lay tortilla triangles on cookie sheet and spray with Pam. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and bake them at 350 for 8-10 minutes until crisp. Cool chips and eat with salsa.

Enjoy spring and summer's bounty.

Tags: Salsa, strawberries

Enjoy the splendor of exploring Virginia's River Country with Captain Laura Lohse aboard the Schooner Serenity for a 2 hour afternoon or sunset sail on the Rappahannock River.  The cruise will depart from the Town Marina in historic Urbanna, tickets need to be purchased in advance to make you don't miss this special event.  The Serenity is a 65' gaft rigged schooner certified to carry 30 passengers for daysails.  You feel like you've stepped back in time to the old sailin ships.  Six and relax and enjoy the breath taking scenery with your favorite beverage or become a sailor and lend a hand at setting sail.  Each cruise is different with the possibility of sighting dolphins, osprey, or watermen working the River.  Have a special occassion coming up call 757-710-1233 and make plans for a private charter, what better way to enjoy your birthday or anniversary with friend.  The Serenity will begin running the end of May or early June call (800)979-3370 or (212)209-3370 for tickets.  We at the Dragon Run Inn would love to have you stay with us while you enjoy your special weekend.

Tags: Urbanna, sailing, Serenity, Chesapeake Bay

Warm weather makes you want something light and delicious for dessert.  Here is a recipe I've found that really hits the spot and is not too dangereous to your figure.  It can be made ahead in just a few minutes, my kind of cookin.

Ingredients

• 1 pkg. (.3 oz) sugar-free lime gelatin
• 1/4 cup boiling water
• 2 cartons (6 oz. each) key lime yogurt
• 1 carton (8 oz.) frozen fat-free whipped topping, thawed
• 2 reduced-fat graham cracker crusts (8 inches)

Directions

In large bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water.  Whisk in yogurt. Fold in whipped topping and pour into crust. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.  Yield 8 servings.

You can make it fancy with a little cool whip piped around the edge and some berries on top.  I have done this with several flavors of gelatin and yogurt, but the key lime or lemon are my favorites.  Do not use the gelatin with sugar, it will not turn out the same.

Enjoy!

Tags: Key Lime, pie, dessert

The unique character of the Dragon wilderness and its awesome natural beauty exist primarily because it is remote. Several highway bridges cross its 35 mile run to the Piankatank River. Most access points are, however, only reached by way of nearly a mile trek over rugged back country. This natural protection of the million year old swamp has contributed to its abundance of wild life.  Concerned land owners, who over the years have exercised good land use judgment, can be credited with the conservation of this threatened gem.  Learn more about the Dragon Run at http://www.dragonrun.org/.

Wildflower Walk on May 8

Mark Chittenden will lead a wildflower walk on the Big Island Preserve,  Saturday, May 8.  Meet at in the Food Lion parking lot, Route 17 in Saluda, at 9:30 AM.  Bring a lunch and something to drink.  There are about 3 miles of forest roads and trails in this preserve.  To sign-up contact Mark at (804) 642-6060, or email markc@vims.edu

Tags: swamp, cypres

Bikes, Bands and Bay Festival is May 14-16, 2010 in Matthews, VA.  "This year Bike Walk Virginia, Matthews County, and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation are partnering to make the Tour de Chesapeake even better", said an event spokesperson.  Don't miss this fun-filled weekend of pleasurable bike riding, great music and water activities that embrace the scenic beauty and precious ecology of the bay.  A few things participants can choose to do include:  Friday evening music and fiesta dinner; 4-mile family fun ride suited to young riders; full tour routes from 12-80 miles depending on your level of cycling, green education exhibits and farmers market, evening bluegrass concert; riders recovery yoga; "Cyclist for the Bay Ride" on Sunday; and a guided canoe trip provided by Chesapeake Bay Foundation.  For more details check www.bikechesapeake.org. Sign up early.  Make your plans and come stay with us and then go out and enjoy a weekend in nature.

Tags: cycle, Chesapeake, bands