Vintage Gardens Will be at the Newark Farmer's Market today.  Come by and taste a sample of our Fresh Peach Bruschetta!

 Fresh Peach Bruschetta

3 large fresh peaches

8 fresh basil leaves

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons maple syrup

2 tablespoons chopped red onion

Peel and pit peaches. Cut each in half, then dice into small pieces. Place in small mixing bowl. Wash basil leaves, then finely dice and add to fruit in bowl. Add onion, balsamic vinegar and maple syrup to mixture in bowl. Mix together.

Baguette:

1 artisan baguette

1 tablespoon olive oil

Cut baguette into 1/2 inch slices. Lay pieces on cookie sheet, brush (very slightly) with olive oil. Place under broiler for approximately 2 minutes. Turn each slice over, and toast for another minute. Remove from broiler.

Place toasted bread slices on a serving platter, place approximately 1/2 teaspoon of peach mixture on each slice.

Serves 6 people

 

May 15, 2010.  The little Robin chicks are now ten days old have gone from fuzzy to feathered,

and the nest is getting a bit crowded!

This mornings breakfast of Spring Eggs Benedict featured fresh Asparagus from our garden, Raspberry Scones and Strawberries with local honey and fresh squeezed Orange Juice. 

Memorial Day Wine Lovers Package 
 Blog Special 

Plan to spend this Memorial Day weekend in the beautiful New York Finger Lakes wine tasting! And get a third night FREE!

• ·        Three nights lodging in one of our elegant guest rooms or luxurious suites

• ·         Chocolate dipped strawberries and cheese platter upon your arrival,

• ·         A Wine Passport for each person.  Your passport entitles you to receive a free flight of wines at participating             Seneca Lake wineries,

• ·         Map of the Wineries

• ·        A Special Wine Lovers Journal

• ·         Fresh baked cookies

• ·         A full gourmet breakfast

• ·         And late Check-out!  

Packages for two, starting at $235.00 plus tax,
 for three night's accommodation in one of our elegant guestrooms.
Tell us you read it on our Blog!

Offer valid through May 28th through May 31st 2010

 

Offer cannot be combined with any other offer, special or discount

Our little Robins are growing and the good mother takes extra special care of her babies!  See more photos on our other blogs below.

Four Sleeping Chicks

Chances are that if you can name the tune, you know the name of that famous Mule.

In the beginning years of the Erie Canal boats and barges were pulled along the ten foot wide the towpath by Mules and Oxen.  Later the canal was widened and boats became motorized.
But most know the catchy song Low Bridges, Everybody Down
written by Thomas S. Allen in 1905.  Here the first part.

 Experience what the historic Erie Canal has to offer in 2010
 Hike it – Bike it – Boat it – Canoe it or Kayak it.
This is a low cost trip you will never forget!
And you can plan your trip in the spring, summer or fall.

For you boaters the Erie Canal has announced the opening dates:

 

May 1st to May 26th, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

May 27th to September 8th 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

September 9th through November 15th, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information go to http://www.eriecanalway.org/

For you Bikers and Hikers plan now for your spring and summer adventures. The Canal Trail is open year round.  It is one of the most scenic and diverse State Parks you will ever ride1 The Erie Canal Heritage Trail is one of New York’s best rides.  The trail includes approximately 70 miles on the historic Erie Canal between Lockport and Newark.  The trail passes through several quaint villages and natural areas and is an easy ride with paved path some stone dust and gravel surfaces. You may choose to do part or all of the trail but plan to start your trip at Vintage Gardens Bed and Breakfast.  Spend the night and ride the start your trip the next morning. We let you leave your car for FREE. Our parking is private and secure. 

Your Park & Stay Package Includes:

• Lodging in one of our beautiful guestrooms,
• Home baked cookies each night,
• Secure storage for your bikes during your stay,
• Gourmet breakfast each morning,
• Bottled water and a nutritious snack for your journey, And you can leave your car at Vintage Gardens for up to one week FREE! 

Park and Stay Special available April 1 through October 31, 2010

Bring your own bike or rent locally. 

Call us toll free

1-877-331-6045

There is always someting to do along
the Erie Canal!
Nature at it's best.
Quaint Villages
Historic Culture
Local Festivals
And much more to Explore.

 

 

Now that tax season is over we invite you to Beat the Tax Blues with Chocolate with half-off your second night! That’s right, stay between April 23rd and April 26th 2010, and you get your second night half-price and enjoy several chocolate treats too!

Chocolate dipped strawberries,

Fresh baked chocolate cookies each night,

A full gourmet breakfast each morning,

And a special Chocolate scented Vintage Gardens Bath Product!

Offer valid April 23rd through April 26th 2010

Offer cannot be combined with any other offer, special or discount

Use code:  Chocolate when making your reservation

Call 877-331-6045 today to make your reservation!

Mrs. Robin's has choosen the hedge off our patio for her nest location


She finished the Nest Sunday, April 18th


                                                                                             
The first Tiffany Blue egg arrived Tuesday, April 20th.  I will continue to document the progress!    

  

and the second today  Wednesday, April 21, 2010 and PaPa Robin sang his song.

                                                                        

Mike and I have spent the last couple of weekends cleaning, weeding, planting and watching the gardens come to life.  Thought I would share a few of the photos of early spring.  I will post more photos as the gardens come to life!


 Mother Robin is building this nest in the Yew hedge next to our back door.  We hope she decides to lay eggs and we will document the hatching.

 Spring Bulbs and cherrie blossoms are blooming  
and Mike and I are getting the garden planted for Summer Butterflies.

Spring has arrived!

This morning our guest started their morning with Fresh Berry and Buckwheat Waffles and Organic Chicken and Blueberry Sausages. 

 

 

 We welcome our April guests with a Great Last Minute deal.  Buy One and Get One!  That’s right, stay between April 1^st and April 5^th and you get a second night Free.  And if you can’t stay the second night this time, we will give you a gift certificate for your return trip. 

Package includes:

·         Chocolate dipped strawberries,

·         Fresh baked cookies each night

·         A full gourmet breakfast each morning

·         And an Easter Treat!  

Offer valid April 1^st through April 5th

 

Offer or Gift Certificate cannot be combined with any other offer, special or discount.

Use code:  No April Fooling when making your reservation
Call 877-331-6045 today to make your reservation!

www.VintageGardensBandB.com

                                 New York Maple Syrup! 

Celebrate the taste of spring in the Finger Lakes during New York’s 15^th Annual Maple Weekend.  See, smell and taste your way through the entire process at the many local Maple Farms. 
March 20th - 21st and March 27th -28th
Vintage Gardens Sweet Taste of Spring Special

 We have designed a package just for you.

Stay at Vintage Gardens anytime during March 20^h – 28^th and taste the sweetness of the spring harvest. 

Your package includes:

• Lodging in one of our elegant rooms.
• A gourmet breakfast that featuring the taste of Maple
• A map of Western New York Maple Country and the Maple Farms
• A special Maple gift to take home, compliments of Vintage Gardens!
• No minimum stay required.

Prices starting at $105 plus tax, for one night’s accommodations
in one of our elegant guestrooms, double occupancy. 

 Sweet Spring Special valid March 20^th through March 28^th 2009.

Booking restrictions apply, offers not valid with any other special or discount.

 

 

The snow is gone, we’ve set our clocks ahead and this Saturday marks the first day of spring. The signs are all around us.  The Canadian Geese have been flying over head all week and take time to enjoy a dip on the Erie Canal.


     The Daffodils and Tulips have poked through the soil and the weather have started to warm.  Mike and I spent last Sunday afternoon enjoying some great wines along Seneca Lake and I highly recommend this years releases!

                

                                                

According to Greek Mythology it was the Goddess of Love, Aphrodite that created the first red rose. The myth states that while rushing to her dying lover Adonis, she scratched herself on the thorns of a rose and her blood forever stained the rose red. The Rose in all its variety and color became the State flower of New York in 1955 and the Village of Newark was know as the Rose Capital of America.  Thousands of people came from round the world to see the famous Jackson and Perkins Rose Gardens.  Today, only photos of the once famous arboretum remain and are on display at Vintage Gardens and the local museum.  June is peak season for our Rose Garden. In the spring and summer our guests love to have tea and cookies among the more than 250 varieties in our garden.

 

With Valentine's Day approaching we wish that joy, happiness and love grace your lives.
Happy Valentine's Day
           

 

             Treat your Sweetheart to Romance this Valentine’s Day!

Atwo night romantic getaway for you to surprise that someone special.  Enjoy hors d’oeuvres upon your arrival, fresh cookies at bed time and a sumptuous full breakfast both mornings of your romantic stay. You and your true love can expect a bouquet of flowers and chocolate covered strawberries in your room. Let us make your dinner reservation at one of the areas restaurants.

                                               Two Night Valentine Package from $235 - $325 Double Occupancy.

                                              Valentine Package available February 5th through February 14, 2010.

                                                                     Offer is subject to availability.

Let us help make your stay memorable, ask us about our concierge services.

You may also want to splurge and add on:

♥ Valentine Chocolates

♥ A bubbly beverage

♥ A gift bag of VG bath products.

♥ A romantic picnic basket filled with goodies

♥ Relaxing in-room massage

♥ A professional chauffeured limo wine tour in the scenic Finger Lakes wine country.

 

Our guests often ask us for suggestions of things to do in the area.  Here is another great outing.

While in the Finger Lakes region we would recommend that you add a visit to the George Eastman House www.eastmanhouse.org in Rochester, just minutes away from Vintage Gardens Bed & Breakfast.  Their new exhibition "The Dutch Collection 2010" will be on display From February 12, 2010 through February 28, 2010. Not only great photography, but thousands of flowers too! 

 Also, on Valentine's Day, Sunday, February14, 2010  at 1:15 p.m. in the Curtis Theatre, Landscape Curator Amy Kinsey will provide an illustrated lecture on the history, background, and months of effort needed to coax 6,000 flower bulbs to bloom for the exhibition.

After your day's adventure, return to Vintage Gardens to sit beside the fire , sip something warm and feast on chocolate covered strawberries and some local cheeses.

 

Now that Phil has seen his shadow and declares 6 more weeks of winter, Vintage Gardens will extend our winter special through March 13th!  Book two nights and receive 50% off your second night!  Winter is a great time to visit the New York Finger Lakes.

Package includes:

 

•Lodging in one of our beautiful guestrooms
•Warm beverage, Cheese & Crackers Fireside
•Fresh baked cookies each night,
•A full gourmet breakfast each morning.
Offers valid through March 13, 2010

CALL TOLL FREE 1-877-331-6045 and Request the Winter10 Special!

                         Booking restrictions apply offers not valid with any other special or discount.

A kind review from the Cozy Chicks...

Read it here http://www.cozychicksblog.com/2009/11/magical-mystery-b-tour.html

Do you know the name of the first rose developed by the Jackson & Perkins?
In 1882, Charles Perkins became fascinated with rose propagation.  In 1884, he hired Alvin Miller as foreman of his newly evolving rose business.  Miller, a hybridizer, was given the task of developing a new rose for the consumer market.  To this time, few roses were grown by Americans in their home gardens.  The first Jackson & Perkins rose was introduced in 1901, and was named the 'Dorothy Perkins' rose after Charles Perkins' granddaughter. This lovely rose is a climbing rose that boasts small soft-pink, lightly scented clusters of roses.  
In 1908 the 'Dorothy Perkins' rose won top honors at the Royal National Rose Society.

Today, the 'Dorothy Perkins' rose is no longer sold on the commercial market and is only found in established gardens around the world and including the gardens at Vintage Gardens Bed & Breakfast.  Come stay at the original home of Jackson & Perkins now know as Vintage Gardens Bed & Breakfast and see if you can find it among the more than 250 roses in our gardens!  You can also see a photo of Dorothy Perkins as a child holding the prized roses. 
Yet, another tid bit of historic information.  Garlands of this sweet rose were used when Dorothy Perkins married.  She was wed in the Winter!

 

What does Vintage Gardens Bed & Breakfast have in common with Stickley Furniture?

In the early 1900’s Gustav Stickley was know for the Ammonia fuming which became his traditional process for darkening and richening the color of Stickley oak furniture. George Perkins former owner of the property now know as Vintage Gardens Bed & Breakfast and son of Charles Perkins, (founder of Jackson and Perkins Rose Comapany), remodeled, the house in c1921-22.  The design is credited to E.A.P. Krabbenschmidt, a native of Germany and another prominent New York architect.  One of the rare and unique architectural features of the home is the fumed oak floors throughout the first floor.  The floors are made from hand cut wide oak planks that used the same Ammonia fuming process as Stickley Furniture, turning them to rich shades of brown and amber.  Each of the planks has been adorned with hand cut bow tie and peg embellishments.  These distinctive and beautiful floors are one of the first things you will notice when visiting Vintage Gardens Bed & Breakfast.

 

Vintage Gardens Bed & Breakfast is now connected. 
We invite you to follow us on Facebook, 
Linkedin, receive our tweets!

Last Minute Savings, the snow is back and winter sports abound along with many other activities here in the Finger Lakes. 
So we want to invite you to enjoy the region by offering a great discount!

Book any room at Vintage Gardens from January 19, 2010 to February 4, 2010 and receive 50% off your second night!

* Enjoy a warm drink, cheese and crackers in front of a marble fireplace when you arrive,
* Home baked cookies each night and
*A gourmet breakfast each morning


Offer not valid with any other special or discount.

Call us Toll Free at 1-877-331-6045

Living in a wonderful historic home is special.  One of the special things about this wonderful piece of property are the gardens.  Since moving here to Newark, now three and one-half years ago, we are often told wonderful stories about the home and once in awhile someone sends us a photo of life here hundred or more years ago.  Adding to our collection, I received this photo today of what is now the rose garden.  What surprises me is that we continue to plant tulips and hostas around the circle of the fountain.  Many of the tiny plants in this photo have grown over the years and some have not survived.  Roses are planted now in where evergreens once grew. And the cherub fountain (Cookie) has been replaced by another and now resides inside the home as it is very fragile.  Our thanks to John Z., one of our local historians for sending this great photo to us!  Date Unknown.

Photo Last Summer

Our first snow of the season came on December 1st.  Our holiday season was covered with a blanket of snow and the village was lit with more Christmas lights then we had ever seen.  Vintage Gardens was no exception and  was adorned with colorful lights, holiday decorations and a fire glowed warmly in the fireplace every night. 

 The beginning of the New Year has been busy with guests visiting the area for an array of reasons, relaxation, family as well as business.   Some of our guests last weekend told us how much they enjoyed their trip wine tasting around Seneca Lake.  They said that even though it was cold outside the wineries were nice and warm, crowds were small and they had a chance to spend time enjoying their tastings, talking with the winemakers and owners at many of the wineries.  Mike and I also find this one of the best times to visit the Finger Lakes wineries.  You receive much more personal attention during your visit. See our Wine Lovers Special at http://vintagegardensbandb.com/specials.htm
Our local deer family is still visiting Vintage Gardens, in fact they spend much of their time here in our woodlands.  But they don't hesitate to frequent our bird feeders for a bite to eat.  It's ok with us,  they are cold too. Our little herd has stayed here since early spring.  A doe had three fawns.  They were around throughout the summer months, but this past fall one of the triplets disappeared.  The two remaining babys are healthy and have continued to grow.
                                                                                                                            Nubby outside the dinning room window.

Mike and I have nic-named the little buck "Nubby" and the little doe "Big Sister".   Today we refilled the bird feeders knowing that the birds, squirels and the deer will enjoy. Even in the winter Vintage Gardens is a special place.
 
                                                                                                                                                

As our busy summer and fall has come to an end, we were able to slip away for a few days and visit our family and friends in California.  It was a lovely trip and we had a wonderful time seeing our family and as many friends as we could.  We found all well and that made us happy.  We spent our first three nights in Moss Beach California visiting Michael’s life long friend and his family.  They we very gracious hosts.  We had a relaxing time and ate as much seafood as we could!  I had longed for some Dungeness crab and fresh fish and chips for the past year and ate my fill on the pacific coast.  Mike and I ventured out into San Francisco and visited the De Young Museum where we say the King Tut exhibit, if you get a chance this is a "must not miss" experience).  We also took a walk through one of our favorite spots the SF Japanese Gardens in the park.
On Halloween we headed north to Chico and spent a lovely day having lunch with Mikes family and the rest of the day with mine carving pumpkins, making caramel apples and helping make my granddaughter up as a vampire for trick and treating.  The next day we spent the afternoon wine tasting at Vino 100 with a large group of our family and friends then dinner at La Hacienda in celebration of Mike's 50th BD.  We are very blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives!  The rest of our quick trip was we enjoyed spending time with our family then it was back home to  NY.  The six days away did us both good.  We returned home just a few leaves left on the trees and snowflakes the next morning.  Winter is on the way.  Today it is suppose to get back up into the 60s and hold there for the next few days. But, we will do the remainder of items on our to-do list in preparation for the snow...it will come. 
As always we have had an exciting busy season.  We are fortunate to meet so many wonderful people and hear all about them and their experiences.  Just last night we had a three couples staying with us.  One couple had traveled all over the world.  They were visiting from Canada and just wanted to see the many sites around the Finger Lakes.  Another couple have bought a house here in Newark.  While waiting for it to close they are visiting friends.  Mike and Petra stayed at Vintage Gardens as part of their journey walking from Paso Robles California to Jerusalem (once they get to NYC they will fly across the great pond as they put it). See their website at  http://www.walkingeast.com. 
Being a B&B owner is never boring!  We can't wait to meet our next guests! 

The colors for fall are still around us.  Last week we had our first frost of the season, but the weather has turned warm this week.  Once we have a frost the leaves turn quickly.  I took my walk this morning and the canal trail was stunning.  Thought I would share some photos with you.
The trail is covered leaves of yellows, reds and orange. After a lovely morning walk, I returned home to make a fall breakfast for our guests.  This morning they feasted on Pumpkin Bread Frenchtoast, apples sautéed with cinnamon and organic chicken and blueberry sausage. Here is the recipe for our Perfect Pumpkin Bread to share with you.
 

Vintage Garden's Perfect Pumpking Bread

 1 C canned unsweetened pumpkin

1 C sugar

2 eggs

1/2 C canola oil

13/4 C all purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp nutmeg

1/2 tsp cloves

1/4 tsp ginger

1/2 tsp salt

 Heat the oven to 350 degrees.  Grease and lightly flour a loaf pan. In a large bowl beat together the pumpkin, sugar, oil, and eggs.  Sift flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices, salt into the bowl and mix together all ingredients.  Pour into prepared pan.  Bake for 60 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool (slice and enjoy or refrigerate overnight for French Toast).

 ENJOY!

 

We are not sure if Vintage Gardens  has any ghosts, but if you want to have some pre-Halloween fun.  Spend some time walking through one of the areas most historic Cemeteries while learning some history!

.

I took some photos this week to share with all of our readers.  We are not yet in full color, so you still have time to see the colors of fall here in the Finger Lakes.  I took this first photo while on my morning walk along the Erie Canal. 


This was a very busy week at Vintage Gardens especially over Columbus weekend.  But this isn't the end of the all the harvest festivities. 
The leaves are still turning and at the farm markets there are rivers of pumpkins to choose from for Halloween.  


The apple harvest is the best in years and so many varieties to choose from.  

                         
The wineries are harvesting their grapes and the wines are great!                                                                                                                                                                   
Plan your trip mid-week to avoid the crowds.  Also for the next two weeks Vintage Gardens is offering "The whole package mid-week special"…fall foliage, wine trails, shopping, dinner, breakfast, and so much more!

One night bookings welcome!

$105 per night, Double Occupancy

 

Book any room, that’s right, any room at Vintage Gardens October 12th through October 15th or book a room October 19th through October 22nd, 2009 and get this great package:

 

Lodging in one of our beautiful guestrooms,

Information on local area attractions and events,

Enjoy cheese and crackers with some spiced country cider in the evening,

An old fashion comfort food dinner to warm you on a chilly fall night,

a VIP Coupon for Waterloo Outlets

Fresh baked cookies at night,

And a full gourmet breakfast in the morning.

  

MUST ASK FOR THE "WHOLE PACKAGE" WHEN MAKING RESERVATION

 

Booking restrictions apply, offer not valid with any other special or discount.

Reserve your room now!

Call 877-331-6045

Fall is surely here.  The sounds of geese flying over head, the leaves are changing, the apples are fallng and it just feels and smells like Autumn. 
It is time to get the gardens ready for winter.  So, fall clean-up has started here at Vintage Gardens.   Thank goodness the village picks up our piles of leaves and spent flowers.  Mike has been getting the equipment ready for winter and  I have planted some mums in the garden.
Our vegetable garden was enjoyed by our local doe and her three fawns this year, so we didn't get much for ourselves.  It has been great fun to watch the three babies grow.  We think we have a little buck and two does.  One has grown larger and has lost it's spots already, so we think  it is a buck.  While the other two are smaller and still have spots.  They are so tame that we can get just a couple of feet away...especially when they are busy eating the garden!  

 Yesterday we havested the last of our tomatoes and basil (evidently deer don't like them) and enjoyed a lovely lunch of pasta with pesto, sun dried tomatoes and roated pinenuts (Yum, Yum) with our garden partners from the Hickcock Center.    Here is the recipe for Vintage Gardens homemade Pesto:
 

VINTAGE GARDENS PESTO

5 cups fresh basil

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan-Reggiano or Romano cheese

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts

5 medium sized garlic cloves, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1/4 cup white wine (optional)

Combine the basil in with the pine nuts, pulse a few times in a food processor. (If you are using walnuts instead of pine nuts and they are not already chopped, pulse them a few times first, before adding the basil.) Add the garlic, pulse a few times more.  Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream while the food processor is on. Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula. Add the grated cheese and pulse again until blended. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.  Makes 2 cups.

Serve with pasta, or over baked potatoes, or spread over toasted baguette slices.

I have recently started walking for fitness in the mornings.  My neighbor and I have pledged to keep each other going.  I am normally not one to work out, but as I approach my 51st birthday, I know it is time.  Today was a wonderful day to walk along the Erie Canal.  The canal trail has recently been groomed and is in great shape for bikers, hikers and walkers like me.  The temperature is going down and I am now wearing my warmer cloths in the mornings.  Today, we saw a deer on the trail and you can't help but notice the trees are beginning to change color.  I love this time of year and if you are planning to stay at Vintage Gardens this fall, bring your walking shoes and join us for a lovely walk along the Erie Canal!

Yesterday we spent the day driving around to local farm markets gathering up some yummy fresh produce, cheeses, and farm products that will be incorporated in our gourmet breakfasts as usuall.  The farm markets are bursting with fresh peaches, apples, tomatoes and much more...While on our travels up by Lake Ontario just 20 minutes from Vintage Gardens we noticed that the leaves were beginning to turn.  This is a sure sign for some great fall color.  Our two refrigerators are now filled with local treasures and our guests will not leave hungry!
 

The signs that summer is coming to an end are starting to happen in the NY Finger Lakes Region. The temperature has started to drop to the crisp cool feeling of fall.  Mike and I took a day off and had a lovely day in around the lakes with friends last week.  We started our journey tasting wine at some of the local vineyards and I must say, there are some real treats this year. We began our journey down the east side of Cayuga Lake.  Our friend Barb and Greg packed a lovely picnic basket and off we went.    Our first stop was in the quaint village of Aurora.  Aurora is located on the lake and a great place to take in many  wonderful views of the lake.    Our first stop was at  Mackenzie Child  www.mackenzie-childs.com.  The Mackenzie Childs property is beautiful.  You first enter the property on a brick drive surrounded with rolling pasture, pond and a historic house.  The factory is built of rustic wood  and is adorned with colorful gardens.  Upon entering the door of the retail shop you know you have entered a whimsical world of brightly colored handmade ceramics, furniture and crafts with unique designs.  Mike summed it up by saying he felt like he was in Alice in Wonderland.  The retail shop is delightful and in the next room you can watch a video of how each of there special items are made.  After we watched the video, we took a free tour of the farm house.  Each room of the house is adorned with Mackenzie Childs.  From furniture, ceramics, lamps, even the walls and floors boost their designs.  You can't help walking out with ideas for your own home. After the tour it was time to open that picnic basket and we sat at tables feasting on fresh fruits, cheese and crusty bread.   It is a lovely place and we had a wonderful time. Then we were off to taste some local wines.  There are several wineries along the trail and I can say having live in California and spent time tasting wine in the Napa, Lodi and Sierra Foothill areas the Finger Lakes rank right up there with California wines.  www.fingerlakeswinecountry.com one never knows what will happen at the vineyards this time of year.   There are also breweries and Distilleries along the lake to stop and taste.  Many of them offer food.    During our tastings we stumbled upon one winery where the BBQ was flameing and a band was playing. We purchaced a bottle of wine, bought a BBQ dinner and took in the sounds of one of the areas local bands.  After a couple of hours we continued on our journey.  We traveled around the tip of the lake in Ithaca and up the west side to Trumansburg.  We made a stop at Taughannock Falls State Park. www.taughannock.com  This areas is a must not miss at any time of year.  If you like waterfalls and hiking you will love this park.  We plan to go back this October to view it in full fall color. On the way home we made one last stop which was on the top of Michael's list.  We stopped at Cayuga Creamery www.cayugalakecreamery.com This is a WOW on the ice cream scale.  All homemade and some everyone including great creamy flavors, or ices made from local wine, sugar free ice cream, fat free and they even offer some soy choices.  The day had come to an end and I must say it was a perfect one.  I must add that this was an inexpensive trip.  Local wineries have a very modest charge to taste wines and you can purchase wines at a reasonable rate.  The Mackenzie Childs tour was free. Dinner cost us $8  each and that included the great music.  The park experience was also free and the ice cream for 4 was under $20. 
A great day!

With the start of June, the end of spring is near and here at Vintage Gardens we have had a boom in babies.  Just today we were visited by our little mama Doe and her new fawn.  Not more than a day old, the spotted baby and mom were first seen by guests having breakfast.  I haven't got a photo yet...but I will. 

Here at Vintage Gardens we have had many types of birds hatch and we have viewed the fledglings trying out their wings, baby squirles have been poking their heads out of the nests in hollows of the trees and American Toads have been singing their beautiful song of love.  We actually misses a couple nexting in a bush right next to our back door.  Guess I better pay more attention. Just the next remains now.

We have had a wet spring and the flowers have been spectacular this year.  The Roses and Peonies are now in bud and ready to burst.  I expect to see them in full bloom in about a week. So mid June promises to be full of flowers.  Now that summer is here our guests will enjoy walks in the gardens and woodlands and sipping an iced drink in the gardens. and RELAXING.

Our vegetable garden is in and guests have been feasting on omelets made with spring asparagus, I think we only have one more picking left.  But the basil is on the way and will make a lovely addition to our breakfasts.

On June 11th Vintage Gardens will host the Third Annual Vintage Tea and Wonders of Nature Art in the Gardens Exhibit a benefit for Wayne County Council for the Art.  If you are in the area make sure to stop and see the wonderful artwork created by our local artists.  The event starts at 5 pm and ends at 7 pm.  Entry is just $5 and all proceeds go to Wayne Arts.
 

Included along with our usual full house of guests, Mike and I spent the weekend cleaning up the rose gardens.  We unearthed the tree roses and pruned more that 200 bushes.  It is always a treat to see the variety of birds flying around us and drinking from the fountain.  I was never a bird watcher until I moved here to Western NY.  I will always remember my excitement after seeing my first Red Cardinal.  We had only been living here a couple of weeks when I spotted Mr. Cardinal in our Cherry Tree.  Since that time I have kept a list of all of the birds we have spotted on the property.  And it is always exciting each time we spy a new species.  We had long awaited one special bird that we had heard about.
This weekend our special visitor arrived.  For those of you who have spent some time a Vintage Gardens.  Our visitor was in the big Maple tree you can see through the dining room and kitchen windows.  Mike and I were just dishing up our lunch, when I looked out back and to my suprise I saw Woody Woodpecker  himself.  Just twenty feet from the window was a Pileated Woodpecker.  I wislpered for Mike to come see, as it went about its buiness of pecking a bugs or something.  It is an amazing bird the size of a Crow and wears its colors of black, white and red proudly.  I understand from our National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Birds, Eastern Region, that our good friend Kent bought for us, that the Pileated Woodpecker is a very shy bird.  There is always something happening here at Vintage Gardens and we feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to see Woody Woodpecker up close. Next time I will have the camera ready!

It's graduation time of year.  Many of areas colleges and universities are scheduled to have their commencement ceremonies next month in May. Rooms are still available at Vintage Gardens 1-877-331-6045 Call Today!

Hobart and William Smith College.  Commencement Exercises will be held on the Hobart Quadrangle, Sundy, May 17, 2009
http://www.hws.edu/offices/registrar/comm_info.aspx

Cornell University  May 24, 2009 at Schoellkopf Stadium
http://www.commencement.cornell.edu

Finger Lakes Community College May 16, 2009 at CMAC
http://www.flcc.edu/commencement/index.cfm

The University of Rochesterduring May and June 2009 http://www.rochester.edu/commencment

 
RIT May 22 and 23, 2009 http://www.rit.edu/academicaffairs/commencement/ceremonies.php

Can you believe it's already mid April?  Our gradnparens were right, "time goes by faster the older we get". I think it should be the opposite!  Well, tax season is over and the sun is out...life is good!  I am starting to get email updates regarding activities happening in the Finger Lakes Region this spring and summer.  I thought I would pass on the information.

The CMAC Performing Arts Center has announced its 2009 line-up.  It looks like a great year http://cmacevents.com Here is just a few of the performances they have on the calendar; Bad Company and the Doobie brothers, Judus Priest and Whitesnake, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra with the Rochester City Ballet, An evening with Crosby, Stills & Nash, John Legend with special guests India.Arie and Vaughn Anthony and many more great entertainers.  CMAS is located just minutes away an easy drive to Canandaigua Lake.

The New York Wine and Culinary Center http://www.nywcc.com has an exciting list of programs for this summer.  Spend the day or evening learning to create your own culinary masterpiece or just sit back and watch one of the area's chefs prepare some decadent delights while you sip wine and savor the tastes of their labors.

Looking for some action?  Spend the day at the track.  2009 marks the 48th consecutive year of Thoroughbred Racing at Finger Lakes Gaming and Race Track.  The season opened yesterday, April 17th.  http://fingerlakesracetrack.com


NASCAR Racing season is just around the corner.  You don't have to watch it on TV, spend tan exciting day at the Glen watching some of the best drivers in the nation. http://www.theglen.com

If it is relaxation you desire, enjoy a Romantic Dinner Cruise on one of the Finger Lakes. http://ww.fingerlakes.org  Or spend a day soaring or floating among the clouds http://www.vintagegardensbedandbreakfast.com under the attactions tab.

For you who like to enjoy sport fishing the National Lake Trout Derby http://laketroutderby.org is scheduled or Memorial Weekend on Seneca Lake. Dust off your rods and reels and make your reservations at Vintage Gardens 1-877-331-6045 now as it is a very busy time of year.

I promise to keep our guests an dreaders informed as i get more information about area happenings.

Spring is here and the summer is just around the corner. Experience what the historic Erie Canal has to offer.  This is a low cost trip you will never forget! And yu can plan your trip in the spring, summer or fall.

For you boaters the Erie Canal has announced the opening dates for boaters:

May 1st to May 21st,  7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

May 22nd to September 9th  7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

September 10th through November 15th, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information go to http://www.eriecanalway.org/

For you Bikers and Hikers plan now for your spring and summer adventures.  The Erie Canal Heritage Trail is one of New Yorks best rides.  Area civic groups are now doing some trail side spring clean-up.  And I hear we may have some new signage along the trail this year! 

 Start your trip at Vintage Gardens Bed and Breakfast.  Spend the night and ride the start your trip the next morning. We let you leave your car for FREE. Our parking is private and secure. 

Here are some itinerarys you may want to explore:
Make it a day trip from Newark to Pitsford is approximatly 25 miles on the trail or if you are adventurous take a few days and go all the way to Buffalo 114 miles. On any trip you will enjoy the sounds and sites of nature along the trail and the historic architecture in the villages along the way.

Your itinerary may want to include:

Travel through historic Palmya  (9 miles from Newark), stop by the Ailing Coverlet Museum or the historic Church of LDS sites. 

Visit the great shops and places for intimate dining in Fairport and Pitsford (approx. 25 miles from Newark)

Experience Rochester's historic culture (approx. 30 miles from Newark)
The Susan B. Anthony Home, Campell-Whittlesey House Musem, George Eastman House, Rochester Museum and Science Center/Strasenburgh Planetarium, Brighton Stron Museum, Seneca Zoo and much more.

Stay at some of the areas great Bed and Breakfasts along the way and plan your trip during some of the areas great festivals and event!

The sap is flowing here in western New York. Celebrate the taste of spring here in the Fingerlakes during New Yorks 14th Annual Maple Weekend. Visit some of the area's many maple farms and sugar shacks this special weekend and see, smell and taste your way through the entire process of making the golden treasure, Maple Syrup.  And you can even help on many of the Farms!  Visit www.mapleweekend.com for more information or make your reservation to stay at Vintage Gardens Bed and Breakfast during March 27th through March 29th and enjoy our Sweet Spring Special!
                                         Lodging in one of our elegant guestrooms
                                            A gourmet breakfast featuring Maple
                        A map of Western New York's Maple Country and Farms
            and a Special Maple Gift to take home, compliments of Vintage Gardens.

                                                               March 27th - March 29th, 2009

                        No minimum stay required, pricing starting at $105 per night.
                        Call us toll free to make your reservation 877-331-6045

Now that the time has changed we are getting the first indications that spring is in the air.  "Knock on wood", it appears to be an early one! The sun has come out and this past weekend was a glorious warm 57 degrees.  I've noticed that several of the varieties of flowering bulbs have broken through the earth in the gardens and the finches visiting our feeders are starting to get a yellow tinge to their feathers. It seems that everything is starting to come to life.  When I walk Baxter (our resident Basset Hound) in the mornings the songs from the early birds are almost deafening.  We are having trouble keeping enough seed in the bird feeders. 

Mike and I are planning to begin our spring garden clean up during the next few weeks so that the gardens are ready to make way for our wide variety of spring flowers that bloom throughout the next several months.

Along with the garden clean up we are planning our spring projects.  The first project will be to build a Horseshoe Pit.  Many of our guests like to use the gardens for outdoor games.  We have several available for use by our guests; bocce ball, lawn bowling, croquet, badminton, binoculars for bird watching or some guests prefer to just sit in the gardens and take in the sunshine, read a book, sip a cool beverage and enjoy the sounds of nature. It is a wonderful time of year here in the Finger Lakes. I have admired that once the snow is gone life begins again.  Things start to happen around the area.

Spring is the beginning of many things here in the New York Finger Lakes. Vintage Gardens is centrally located and just minutes away from many area attractions.

A walk or bike ride along the Erie Canal is a must do during the spring and summer months. Newark is on the Erie Canal Heritage Trail and the trail is located just two blocks from Vintage Gardens. If you plan to Bike or Hike the trail for a few days, we have a special Park and Stay Package that includes leaving your car at vintage Gardens while you bike the trail and we will also pack you some goodies to eat along the way.

For birdwatchers, this region is rich in a wide variety of birding opportunities and habitats. From the shores of Lake Ontario, to the wetlands of Motezuma National Wildlife refuge to the woodlands that boarder the Erie Canal and many more wonderful state parks that are home to an array of flora and fauna. You can also just sit in the gardens or take a walk in the wooded area at Vintage Gardens to see our local wildlife. 

If you enjoy the arts, the Finger Lakes Region is rich in both live and fine arts. Here are some you might want to add to your visit. Check out the 1939 Film Retrospective at the oldest theater in the United States, The Ohman Theater in Lyons http://www.ohmanntheatre.com The Syracuse International Film Festival is scheduled for April 24 through May 3 http://wwwsyrfilmfest.com the Landmark Theater in Syracuse http://wwwlandmarktheatre.org The Constellation Brands Marvin A Sands Performing Arts Center in Canandaigua http://www.cmacevents.com The Rochester Broadway Theater League in Rochester http://www.rgtl.org The Smith Opera House in Geneva http://www.thesmith.org Rochester boasts an inspiring symphony orchestra - the Rochester Philharmonic http://www.rpo.org and visit the many art galleries and museums in the area.

Western New York is rich in history from the architecture of local buildings, roots of the Women's Rights movement, birthplace of the Fox Sisters and Modern Spiritualism to the Underground Railroad Heritage Trail and many, many more great educational historic places to visit.

For he Nascar Fans, Watkins Glen International opening day is April 26th http://www.theglen.com

Wine lovers spend some time visiting one of hte many wine trails in the area and be the first to taste some of their new releases!  Check out their websites for the many events held at the wineries.
http://www.senecalakewine.com
http://www.keukawinetrail.com
or visit the New York Wine and Culinary Center in Canandaigua nywcc.com

               Plan now for the summer.  Believe it or not, it's just around the corner!
Get your tickets for these exciting events. 
The Wegmans LPGA scheduled for June 25 and 26.  www.lpga.com
The Hill Cumorah Pageant is scheduled or July 10 - 11 and July 14 - 18 for more information www.hillcumorah.org
The Rochester International Jazz Festival June 13-21 http://www.rochesterjazz.com  If you haven't been to this event, it is a must not miss and it lasts all week long.  So get your tickets and call us to make your lodging reservations.

For more information on area attractions, events or festivals visit fingerlakes.org

It is best to plan early to attend many of these events. Give us a call to book your room at Vintage Gardens Bed & Breakfast.  See our specials for seasonal discounts or ask us about designing a special itinerary and package just for you!

                             Call us toll free at 877-331-6045

Summer is just around the corner and many events will be happening in the Finger Lakes and surrounding area.  It is best to plan early to attend many of these events.   Give us a call to book your room at Vintage Gardens Bed & Breakfast.  See our specials for seasonal discounts http://vintagegardensbandb.com/specials.htm

Golfers get ready and get your tickets for the Senior Open iat Oak Hill County Club in Rochester, May 22-25.   The website is http://www.pgatour.com/s/schedule/
The Wegmans LPGA scheduled for June 19-22. The website is
http://www.lpga.com/tournament_microsite.aspx?id=13679

The Hill Cumorah Pagent is scheduled for July 11-12 and July 15-19 for more information see their website http://www.hillcumorah.org/Pageant/

The Rochester International Jazz Festival June 13-21, http://www.rochesterjazz.com/



Newark Rose Parade and Family Festival complete with fireworks over the Erie Canal! 
http://www.newarkfire.org/3rd_annual_rose_parade.htm


Spend a day visiting one of the many wine trails in the area
http://www.senecalakewine.com
http://www.keukawinetrail.com
http://www.keukawinetrail.com


And take some time to visit some of the many Historical Sites in the Area!
http://www.keukawinetrail.com/events.asp

For more information on area events and festivals go to http://www.fingerlakes.org/events.htm

We look forward to seeing you!

The first signs of spring have come to the Finger Lakes and Erie Canal.  The last of the snow is melting, birds are singing, Robins have returned, daffodils and tulips have poked through the earth (which the deer are watching closely), and yesterday we spotted "Chucky" the wood chuck for the first time.  Needless to say, our shovels and trimmers are sharpened and we are itching to get out and do some spring gardening. We have many plans for the gardens this year. 

First, we will be re-landscaping the Gazebo area.  It will have the elements of a traditional Japanese Tea Garden.  This will include a natural stone floor, plantings such as Japanese Maple trees. Wisteria, Azaleas, Hostas, some other colorful plants, Asian statuary and a water feature.  This will all be completed by June 1st and this new garden will surely become another colorful setting for weddings and events at Vintage Gardens. 

We will be improving our Butterfly Garden.  We have ordered many colorful perennial and annual flowering plants that specifically attract a wide variety of butterflies and birds. 

We also plan to co-mingle our vegetable garden with many old fashioned annual flowers that will be used to brighten the indoors and our guest rooms all summer long. 

With the new plantings put in the ground last year, the Rose Garden will be particularly aromatic and beautiful this season. 

And last but not least, we have planted several fruit bearing trees, bushes and vines that will mature in a few years and produce lovely fruit that will be used in our gourmet breakfasts.  In the meantime, we will continue to use the bounty of fruit and vegetables grown by local farmers here in the Finger Lakes region  www.fingerlakesculinarybounty.org

So Far winter has been mild here in the Finger Lakes.  It has been easy to get outdoors to enjoy nature.  Mike just finished putting up some bird houses preparing for spring.  We still have away to go until then and I'm sure we will get more snow before we see things begin to turn green.  

Even in the winter when the green is gone and most of the trees and flowers are sleeping there is always a lot to keep you busy out and about in the Finger Lakes. 

Many of the wineries stay open during the winter months and it is really fun to spend time tasing when you don't have to deal with the crowds.  Sometimes some of the wineries host events on weekends during the winter months.

Although we don't have leaves on the trees, we still have wildlife here in the area.  A visit to Montezuma Audubon Center is amazing.  Wether joining one of the nature series presented by the Audubon Center or snowshoeing around the wetlands you are sure to have a great day. They also rent snowshoes! Since there are no leaves on the trees it is easy to spot many of the birds and other animals that winter over.  For information visit their website at www.friendsofmontezuma.org

Many people like to come and experience the winter sports such as ice fishing (provided the ice is thick enough), just a few miles away at Sodus Point.  There are fishing updates on www.waynecountytourism.com or you can call 315-946-5466 to hear the latest reports on fishing hot spots and where the fish are biting.

For the snow bunnies there are many snowmobile trails that are open to the public and those interested can contact the phone number listed above to receive a free trail map.  Snowskiers  and boarders enjoy hitting the slopes at Brantling Ski and Snowboard Center. For information call 315-331-2365 or visit www.brantling.com.

What ever your winter pleasure, remember to ask us about our winter picnic basket including hot cocoa.  

I can assure you that you won't be dissapointed when visiting any of these great places. 

Winter has returned to the Finger Lakes area with a light covering of beautiful white snow.  The sky was blue today after the snow.  We got about an inch yesterday and the town is draped in a blanket of white. 


We have many animals here at Vintage Gardens.  Yesterday Mike saw several Mallard ducks at the back of our propert down in Millitary Brook.   I still hear Canadian Geese flying over head making their way south to warmer climates.  We keep the feeders full for the Squirrles and other birds that brave the stay.  Recently we have seen:

Red bellied Woodpeckers
Downey Woodpeckers
Northern Cardinals (there red bodies are beautiful against the snow!)
Dark-eyed Junco
Black -capped Chickadees
White breasted Nuthatch
Tufted Titmouse
American Crow
Wild Turkey
Deer

It is always exciting to see a new bird or animal on the property.  Yesterday we saw our first Nothern Flicker.

Tuesday was a glorious day to work in the garden. Mother Nature gave a reprieve and granted us one beautiful day of 68 degree weather.  I spent the whole day in the sunshine planting spring bulbs.  By days end I had planted more that 1000 tulips, daffodils and other assorted spring flowers.  That makes a total of more than 1500 new flower additions to the garden since this past fall.  All will begin to burst into bloom in May.  Something to look forward too!

Welcome to our new Blog.  We strive to keep our website updated with the latest technology, recent photos, information and specials.  By adding a Blog we can let you know what is happening at Vintage Gardens and around the Finger Lakes more often.  Another recent addition is our Guest Book.  Our guests have been very thoughtful about sharing their experiences at Vintage Gardens on other bed and breakfast sites, so we thought we would add a special place on our website for guests to comment.   We hope you enjoy reading our Blog updates and Guest responses. 

Thank you for considering Vintage Gardens Bed & Breakfast as a part of your visit to the Finger Lakes Region of New York. We look forward to meeting you.