Espresso or Cappacinos anyone?

40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast guests can now look forward to espressos and cappacinos!

For Christmas. Chef Simon presented me with an espresso maker. Upon opening it, I was completely daunted to discover that it came with an instructional DVD! As a late-comer to coffee drinking (OK, and DVD's!) I was so overwhelmed that I left everything in the box until fairly recently. Set up in the kitchen, this gleaming stainless steel machine reproached me every time I walked into the room.

Still avoiding the DVD, I got out the manual...we all have our preferred learning styles, and mine is to have someone show me how to operate something first....so reading the manual was like trying to learn Latin for me. My sister used it to make cappacinos for the Girl's Weekend Away, and tried to show me, but it was finally guests who taught me how to work it! (Thanks Britt and Guy!)

Proud to show off my new-found skills, I purchased decaf espresso powder, because I figured I'd be drinking more than a few before I got it right! My first attempt was with friends, who beat a hasty retreat from the kitchen when I started spraying hot water everywhere, trying to steam the milk.

I think I've got the hang of it now, although presentation is a bit sloppy (Chef Simon would never allow it out of the kitchen if he saw it), but even I must admit it tastes great! Perhaps having the right types of cups will make a difference...stayed tuned for an update!

Protecting a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

I have had the opportunity recently to meet people who are really committed to protecting and improving our environment. It is amazing to see and hear how they are making a difference!
Chef Simon and I are honoured that these guests pick 40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast because of similar beliefs.

The environment is very important to us, and as part of the UNESCO Biosphere, we try to do our part to sustain it. Therefore, we utilize eco-friendly Proterra bath products made from natural ingredients in packaging made from recycled materials; have ceiling fans in all the bedrooms to limit the need to turn on the central air conditioning; and hang the bedding on the line to air dry whenever possible.

When setting up the B&B, we purchased energy and water efficient appliances, practice conservation and utilize low energy light bulbs. We are avid recyclers and composters, and we are working on having our gardens certified organic. Therefore, the vegetables, herbs and fruits served from our gardens at breakfast are guaranteed to be pesticide and chemical free.

It is amazing how all the little things we do can make a difference to making the world a better place for us all!

Enjoy the Parry Sound Waterfront!

When you live on Georgian Bay, the view can't be beat! Guests now have their choice of two great seating areas to sit back, relax and watch the world go by! We worked with Sohm Country Gardens to create two patio areas, each surrounded by bright, fragrant flowers and comfortable seating areas to enjoy.

Parry Sound's waterfront includes protected natural areas as well as vibrant people places where residents and visitors can enjoy its' unique character all year round. 40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast is so close to many of the local attractions that you can now sit outside and see the Island Queen cruise boat come and go, watch the bustle at the marinas, or feel the excitement of Georgian Bay Airways float planes taking off or landing. Can life get any better!!!?!

The view from the Garden Room

In some ways, it's hard to believe that we are heading into our 3rd season here at 40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast. In other ways, when I look at the back garden, it is so well established now with self-seeding annuals (primarly poppies in colours of red, orange, pink and mauve), and all the different types and colours of daisies and day-lillies, that it makes you think it has been growing there for years! And, just like our berry, herb and vegetable gardens, we embrace organic gardening, and don't use any pesticides or chemical fertlizers.

The private deck off the Garden Room has always been a favourite place for guests to relax and enjoy the sunshine. Now, the view of these wonderful flowers rivals that of Georgian Bay!

Sports Bike Rally a tradition!

The Thunder Run is considered a highlight of the Sport Bike Rally, held annually in Parry Sound. Bikers parade on their bikes around the town, waving to residents who line the sides of the route. 40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast guests enjoy the run, comfortably seated in the sun porches, or this year, sitting in our new gardens.

Bikers come from the northern States, from across Canada and throughout Ontario. They say our roads are wonderful to ride on, and the views of Georgian Bay can't be beat! Our B and B is popular with couples who ride up together - our safe, off-street parking and interest in people from all walks of life make them feel this is the perfect place to enjoy the rally!

Happy Canada Day!

Parry Sound outdid itself for Canada Day this year. The day-long celebration included music at the bandstand, from native drumming to Elvis himself; ice skating and a shoot-out on synthetic ice; food and local vendors; and lots of sunshine!

The Festival of the Sound hosted their annual Island Queen cruise with the "Shores of Newfoundland", and the finale of the evening were the incredible fireworks that were set off on the shores of Georgian Bay, right across from 40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast.