Holiday Greetings

December 2, 2010

I hope this letter finds you healthy and happy. I can’t believe it’s almost the end of the year. Where did the summer go? Well at least it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas here. We got snow this week and last. It’s not a lot but it does mean that the ski slopes will soon be open (they start making snow at the WISP when it gets cold enough). They do have an ice skating rink open this year and you can bring your own skates or rent some for only $10 or so.

Here at the B&B we are busy decorating the inn with garlands and mistletoe. Bobbi (our innkeeper) is busy making cookies because on December 10-11 we are hosting a cookie exchange. Do you remember what fun that was to do. You get together with your friends and everyone brings enough cookies to share and you end up with dozens of wonderful holiday cookies. We are not going to make you bake before you get here (unless you want to). Instead you can bring a beloved recipe with you and we can try to make it here. Either way its fine and while the wonderful cinnamon and spices waft over the inn, we can warm up with hot mulled cider and sing some carols. It will definitely get you in the mood. Or you could even combine this with a Girlfriends Getaway!

There is also a lot going on in the Deep Creek Lake area. If you know what Williamsburg looks like then you will appreciate what we have at the Spruce Forest Artisan Village nearby. It’s a colonial village (obviously on a smaller scale than Williamsburg). They have artisans working in the log cabins (candle makers, weavers, potters etc.) and plenty of gift ideas for the holidays. There are also carolers and cookies and storytelling. That is happening this coming weekend on December 3-4. So if you want to get into the holiday spirit without running into crowds, and pick out some unique Christmas gifts this might be just the thing for you.

Our local theatre is also holding its annual Christmas market in Oakland on December 4th. Again there will be an opportunity to buy local artisans products (pottery, crafts etc) while you are being entertained by local musicians and storytelling. And best of all both of these events are free and you might even be able to buy some unique gifts.

On Sunday December 12 -13 they are going to be celebrating the WISPs 55th birthday. If you always wanted to learn how to ski or snowboard, but didn’t think it was affordable, then this may be what you were waiting for, because there will be discounts on tickets and rentals. By the way lift tickets are always discounted on Wednesdays.

Now that black Friday and cyber Monday have come and gone, and you still haven’t found that perfect gift, then maybe we can help. A Haley Farm Gift certificate is always welcome because it doesn’t take up much space and helps create wonderful memories. To make this decision even easier, I am offering past guests a ten percent discount on gift certificates purchased this month. It’s always great to renew and recharge your batteries and get away from life’s hectic pace. You can purchase a spa treatment, or a dollar amount for the gift certificate. Whatever fits your budget and we can even mail it out for you. Mention this newsletter and you will get the discount.

I’m trying to remember to include a seasonal recipe in my newsletters, so this time I have selected a holiday favorite, Pecan pie. This is a very easy recipe and quite delicious (unfortunately laden with calories), but hey I am going to be offering nutrition retreats next year so you can take it off! And almost anything in moderation is fine. So enjoy.

Pecan pie
4 eggs
3/4 cup light brown sugar
3/4 cup light corn syrup
4 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cup chopped pecans

Whisk eggs and sugar. Add remaining ingredients and stir. Pour into baked pie shell and bake at 375 degrees for 35-40 min until set. Cool before eating.

Well I hope your holiday season is filled with joy and loved ones. If it becomes too much for you and you need a break, come and see us. We’ll pamper you with our great food and hospitality. And if you are still looking for a place to ring in the New Year, we still have openings.

Much love and blessings,
Kam Gillespie