Sunday, June 4, 2017

Hosting the Red Chair

It all started May 30th, 2017. We picked up the chair from the Peddler's Inn. We had our list of things we wanted to highlight about the area. Little did we know how much fun we would have. Red Chair Travels offered this to the Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast Association and in turn, they offered the opportunity.

We started out with the chair finishing an errand we had to do. On the way back we spotted places to take photos. It was a bright sunny day. The air was heavy with floral scent from the lilac trees. Pamela and I started taking photos. People were wondering what we were doing, so we shared the story of the red chair.

What we did not expect was the reception we received. People loved the concept. They often asked to take photos with the chair. What we got from our experience was so much more.

It renewed our sense of community. We got back how great Racine County is and how much there is to do in this area. There are so many other stories to showcase. We ran out of time.

The red chair is not just about advertising. Its about renewing the connection we have with our community. Its about being proud of where you come from. It is about support for the bed and breakfasts that keep doing what they are doing because they love it and their community.

Take away for me? Racine is awesome. I hope the world will find out now too.





Sunday, April 23, 2017

Spring beauty at the Christmas House Bed & Breakfast

Besides Christmas, one of the most favorite times we have here at the bed and breakfast is Spring. We have worked on the gardens around the house and property since we purchased the house in March of 2014. At first it felt like finding treasure. We would remove vines and debris from around the house and yard and find stone walkways, brick and even a patio. Things then started to come alive after being buried for so long.

Then came the reality that we would have to remove some things that were dead and start over. We added rain barrels to assist with watering and took a look at what we needed. One of the treasures we love is the Magnolia trees. They are in front of the house. One on each side to frame our massive front porch. These trees are so attractive we have people stop just to come and take a look at them. 

Their blooms are shortlived however. So we have to enjoy them the short time they are here. It just takes a bit of warmth to draw out the blooms from those large buds and we have glory. 

If you are in the area, stop by and take in the Magnolias. They are beautiful. The gardens are starting to wake up too.