A hint or two about dishwashers

I am so excited - the new dishwasher was installed yesterday, and after today, I should be able to reclaim the kitchen! I'm very pleased with the new flooring, counter top and appliances; just wish (like everywhere in this old house) there was more storage!

I am one of those people who read all the information sent with new purchases, and picked up two great tips for getting the most from your dishwasher (courtesy of Cascade):

1. Avoid running your dishwasher when you also have the washing machine or shower/bath running - otherwise you might not have enough water pressure to get the dishes clean; and,

2. Run your kitchen's hot water tap for a couple of minutes before starting the dishwasher - this will ensure the first water fill is nice and hot.

The first signs of spring!

Yes, I hesitate to admit it, but I think spring has arrived here in Parry Sound!

Late last night I thought I heard a Canada goose honking; then because it was 2:00 a.m., decided I must have been dreaming. But today there were two, flying low over the bay and honking like crazy! Were they looking for playmates? Or perhaps just announcing to the rest of the world that indeed, spring is here!

This afternoon, I noticed tulip leaves poking out of the soil...and the water current is really rolling right across the road from all the water coming down the river, pushing the edges of the ice on Georgian Bay a little further away each and every day...

What's the difference between a B&B and hotel - Part V

In my opinion, sharing breakfast with other guests is a big difference between the two types of accommodation! You just never know who might be sitting next to you at the table; and what a small world it really is....40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast has been honoured to host a number of musicians playing in the Festival of the Sound and at the Stockey Centre. It is always fascinating to hear about the entertainment industry from the other side of the footlights! There is the opportunity to hear about life in other countries - we've had people from Australia, Italy, the UK, Poland, France, Mexico and Brazil; Canadians from all provinces, and people from the USA. And that's just to name a few!

Personally, the most interesting conversation took place between a couple from mid-west US and a gentleman from Russia. They had the opportunity to share observations about their countries, political views and clarify mis-understandings! It is truly amazing how "breaking bread" together can lead to a closer relationship. I've had guests from opposite corners of the world who end up having mutual acquaintances and/or experiences. And, when all is said and done, and the guests have departed, I realize I've been reminded about what a fantastic place Parry Sound is to live, and that I've been granted to opportunity to share a little bit of our wonderful Georgian Bay and the 30000 Islands with others!

What's the difference between a B&B and hotel - Part IV?

In my opinion, nothing can beat the view! If your choice is between the asphalt of a parking lot, or the Parry Sound waterfront, which do you prefer?

40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast has two sun porches, the Bay Room and both front garden seating areas that offer fantastic views of Georgian Bay, the 30,000 islands cruise boats - Island Queen and M.V. Chippewa, Georgian Bay Airways and the comings and goings at Parry Sound Marina, just across the way. The Garden Room offers wonderful views of our perennial and vegetable gardens, and in the fall, the spectacular colours of the huge sugar maple at the back of the house.

Mark your calendars for April 23rd right now!

The Barber of Seville is coming to Parry Sound, and 40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast is pleased to sponsor this performance. Meet history's most famous and engaging barber! Since its premiere in Rome in 1816, this opera - based on the second episode of a trilogy by Beaumarchais - has continued to draw crowds and tickle funny bones around the world. You'll have the pleasure of hearing such famous and familiar music as "Largo al factotum" and "Una voce poco fa".

The singers are from Jeunesses Musicales of Canada which has the dual mission of promoting the performance of classical music; especially for young audiences, and to help youg professional insturmentalists, singers and composers to develop their careers.

40 Bay Street B&B is offering a speacial package to support the efforts of the Festival of the Sound. Priced at $115.00 + GST/per person, based on double occupancy, or $150.00 + GST for single occupancy, this package includes your concert ticket, dinner with wine at 40 Bay Street B&B, and a one-night stay, with our wonderful breakfast the next morning. Book early to avoid disappointment! Call us at 1-866-371-2638 or e-mail us at stay@40baystreet.com if you would like to join us!

Happy Valentines Day! (Better late than never!)

I wanted to thank everyone who booked and/or inquired about our romance package for Valentine's Day. It certainly was popular! And even though there was only one Retreat Room, I didn't hear any complaints from the guests in the Garden and Bay Rooms either!

40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast is the perfect way to help you achieve a stay to remember. Our package includes a one-night stay with gourmet breakfast in the morning, a gorgeous flower arrangement (to take home with you) and fantastic bottle of wine, and a 30 minute back, neck and shoulder massage for both of you, for only $300.00 plus GST.

If you missed Valentine's Day this year, there are also anniversaries, birthdays or other special occasion to say, "I love you". If you're not sure about the timing for a weekend away, why not present a gift certificate to be used at a more convenient time? Romance is always in the air!