I went to September Farm in Honey Brook, PA to sample and buy some of their homemade Cheddar and Monterrey jack cheeses. They are a family-0wned/run cheese shop and a nationally recognized Dairy of Distinction. Since I can make a meal out of some good cheese and a loaf of crusty bread, I was excited about my visit! I was met at the door by the owner, Roberta and two of her adorable children. Roberta explained the cheese-making process to me, the observation schedule (generally Tuesdays and Thursdays) and showed me around the shop where the samples were. In short: It was creamy and delicious and clearly made with love! So delicious that I couldn't narrow down the choices to any fewer than five. I bought their Monterey Strawberry, Sharp and Medium cheddars, Italian cheddar curds, and Monterey Honey Jack. I can't wait to share them with my guests and am excited with what I can pair each of them! To watch the Rotelle family at work, watch the video below:
http://www.septemberfarmcheese.com/content/cheese-making
Better yet, if you are coming for a visit, stop in at September Farm. Your tummy and taste buds will thank you :)
5.19.2009
New peeps :)
We received our new peeps yesterday from the hatchery. They are ADORABLE!!! We already have 10 one year old layers- Rhode Island Reds (RIR), 6 eight week old Ambers and now 6 three day old Arucanas, also called "Easter Eggers" because they'll lay blue/green shelled eggs. Tomorrow should be interesting as we will try to integrate the Ambers outside with the RIR....I have lots of fruit and treats handy to distract the RIR and will try to integrate the Ambers at night while the RIR are dozing. Hopefully the Ambers will realize quickly that they are smaller than the RIR and a new pecking order will be estalished with minimal fighting. Wish me luck...I'll keep you posted. :)
5.13.2009
My favorite local farmers market...
I love Tuesdays! On Tuesdays I get to go to my favorite farmers market: Roots (pronounced Rutz for all the non-native Lancastrians like myself.) Roots is open every Tuesday (from 9 AM-9 PM) and the first Saturday of the month. It is located in Manheim and if you like to shop or just want to watch the Conestoga auction it is FANTASTIC! Being a foodie, I focus on the produce stands at the market, however, they literally have something for everyone.
Established in 1925 by A.W. Root as a poultry auction, Root's Country Market & Auction (its official name) evolved to include a produce auction and 200+ standholders including fresh meats, deli, bakeries, nursery and flowers, handmade crafts, antiques, collectibles and household items of all kinds. So if you are here on a Tuesday or the first Saturday of the month I highly recommend a visit to Roots!
Established in 1925 by A.W. Root as a poultry auction, Root's Country Market & Auction (its official name) evolved to include a produce auction and 200+ standholders including fresh meats, deli, bakeries, nursery and flowers, handmade crafts, antiques, collectibles and household items of all kinds. So if you are here on a Tuesday or the first Saturday of the month I highly recommend a visit to Roots!
5.11.2009
Looking for ideas of things to do while here?????
Wake Up to Local Treasures: When you stay
overnight in Lancaster County, you have the unique
opportunity to wake up to the sun rising over our
plentiful farmlands. This means gorgeous landscape
and lots to do! Farmers’ market stands are already
overflowing with the freshest of produce, meats,
cheeses and baked goods. Sample these local
delicacies and browse our shops and outlets to find a
souvenir to take home. From quilts to canned jams,
there’s something for everyone!
Alive After Five: Let your cultural guru out during
the evenings in Lancaster County! We offer the best in
fine and casual dining sure to suit everyone’s taste.
Enjoy dinner and a show at our dinner theatres or
treat yourself to the variety of performances
throughout the county, from lively revues and
musicals to moving historical and spiritual dramas.
The first Friday of every month, downtown Lancaster’s
art galleries, museums and shops extend their hours
into the evening for your enjoyment!
Fun on Sundays: Sunday is a wonderful day to
spend with the family exploring the scenic countryside
in Lancaster County! Travel through the village of
Strasburg and enjoy the many sights and sounds,
from the whistle of a train to the clip clop of a buggy.
Rise and shine early for antiquing in Adamstown,
where you’ll find many beautiful treasures to take
home. Don’t miss our museums showcasing unique
historical gems from all over the county!
Celebrate Spring: Head outside to soak in the
coming of warmer weather in Pennsylvania Dutch
Country. In downtown Lancaster, hit the streets for art
festivals, or head to Clipper Magazine Stadium as the
Barnstormers go to bat for a brand new season.
Flowers are in bloom for visitors to enjoy via garden
shows and horticultural attractions such as Longwood
Gardens. Grab your sneakers for a bike or hike, and
the binoculars for birdwatching!
Learn About the Amish: The best way to learn
about the simple Amish lifestyle in Lancaster County
is to immerse yourself. Take a tour at an Amish
cultural attraction, or hop on a buggy ride for a truly
unique experience. Take home an heirloom quilt or a
finely crafted piece of furniture created by the Amish
men and women is the community. Don’t forget to see
a theatre performance that’s sure to give you an
inside look at the lives of this unique culture.
Experience Mud Sales: Named for the condition
of the thawing ground in the fields of Pennsylvania
Dutch Country, these enormous auctions are an
annual tradition like no other! Country farmers bid
against city slickers for bargains galore on everything
from quilts and antiques to furniture, farm equipment,
baked goods and much more! A must see! Check out
the events calendar on www.padutchcountry.com for
a list of mud sale dates and locations.
Sample Food & Drink: Get a sneak peek behind
the foodie products of Lancaster County on factory
tours, where you'll learn how local sweet and salty
flavors are made - and taste them too! Our
restaurants are an experience in themselves, from
fine dining to hearty PA Dutch smorgasbords. Those
with a thirst for fine wines and ales will enjoy wineries
and breweries throughout the county that offer
tastings and special events.
Explore Heritage & History: History and
traditions in Lancaster County are rich and full.
Various museums display everything from fine art,
Pennsylvania Dutch culture and quilts to clocks,
antique cars, children’s activities and more! Lancaster
played a powerful role in the history of our nation; it is
the birthplace of President James Buchanan and was
part of the quest for freedom for many African
Americans traversing the Underground Railroad
during the Civil War.
Take Advantage of a Rainy Day: Enjoy the
many ways to have fun while staying dry here in
Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Find something unique
while shopping in our many local shops, outlets and
malls. Embrace the heritage and history of Lancaster
County or admire unique pieces of art at a museum.
Don’t miss a spectacular lunch at our restaurants,
perfect for a quick bite or a relaxing meal.
Return for more fun this Spring & Summer!
Don’t miss...
• Family Farm Days, June 9-11 at the Oregon
Dairy Country Restaurant and Buffet.
• Fireworks and Fountains, July 4 at Longwood
Gardens.
• PA Renaissance Faire, August 8 – October 25
at Mount Hope Estate & Winery.
• Find lots more events throughout the year at
www.padutchcountry.com
overnight in Lancaster County, you have the unique
opportunity to wake up to the sun rising over our
plentiful farmlands. This means gorgeous landscape
and lots to do! Farmers’ market stands are already
overflowing with the freshest of produce, meats,
cheeses and baked goods. Sample these local
delicacies and browse our shops and outlets to find a
souvenir to take home. From quilts to canned jams,
there’s something for everyone!
Alive After Five: Let your cultural guru out during
the evenings in Lancaster County! We offer the best in
fine and casual dining sure to suit everyone’s taste.
Enjoy dinner and a show at our dinner theatres or
treat yourself to the variety of performances
throughout the county, from lively revues and
musicals to moving historical and spiritual dramas.
The first Friday of every month, downtown Lancaster’s
art galleries, museums and shops extend their hours
into the evening for your enjoyment!
Fun on Sundays: Sunday is a wonderful day to
spend with the family exploring the scenic countryside
in Lancaster County! Travel through the village of
Strasburg and enjoy the many sights and sounds,
from the whistle of a train to the clip clop of a buggy.
Rise and shine early for antiquing in Adamstown,
where you’ll find many beautiful treasures to take
home. Don’t miss our museums showcasing unique
historical gems from all over the county!
Celebrate Spring: Head outside to soak in the
coming of warmer weather in Pennsylvania Dutch
Country. In downtown Lancaster, hit the streets for art
festivals, or head to Clipper Magazine Stadium as the
Barnstormers go to bat for a brand new season.
Flowers are in bloom for visitors to enjoy via garden
shows and horticultural attractions such as Longwood
Gardens. Grab your sneakers for a bike or hike, and
the binoculars for birdwatching!
Learn About the Amish: The best way to learn
about the simple Amish lifestyle in Lancaster County
is to immerse yourself. Take a tour at an Amish
cultural attraction, or hop on a buggy ride for a truly
unique experience. Take home an heirloom quilt or a
finely crafted piece of furniture created by the Amish
men and women is the community. Don’t forget to see
a theatre performance that’s sure to give you an
inside look at the lives of this unique culture.
Experience Mud Sales: Named for the condition
of the thawing ground in the fields of Pennsylvania
Dutch Country, these enormous auctions are an
annual tradition like no other! Country farmers bid
against city slickers for bargains galore on everything
from quilts and antiques to furniture, farm equipment,
baked goods and much more! A must see! Check out
the events calendar on www.padutchcountry.com for
a list of mud sale dates and locations.
Sample Food & Drink: Get a sneak peek behind
the foodie products of Lancaster County on factory
tours, where you'll learn how local sweet and salty
flavors are made - and taste them too! Our
restaurants are an experience in themselves, from
fine dining to hearty PA Dutch smorgasbords. Those
with a thirst for fine wines and ales will enjoy wineries
and breweries throughout the county that offer
tastings and special events.
Explore Heritage & History: History and
traditions in Lancaster County are rich and full.
Various museums display everything from fine art,
Pennsylvania Dutch culture and quilts to clocks,
antique cars, children’s activities and more! Lancaster
played a powerful role in the history of our nation; it is
the birthplace of President James Buchanan and was
part of the quest for freedom for many African
Americans traversing the Underground Railroad
during the Civil War.
Take Advantage of a Rainy Day: Enjoy the
many ways to have fun while staying dry here in
Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Find something unique
while shopping in our many local shops, outlets and
malls. Embrace the heritage and history of Lancaster
County or admire unique pieces of art at a museum.
Don’t miss a spectacular lunch at our restaurants,
perfect for a quick bite or a relaxing meal.
Return for more fun this Spring & Summer!
Don’t miss...
• Family Farm Days, June 9-11 at the Oregon
Dairy Country Restaurant and Buffet.
• Fireworks and Fountains, July 4 at Longwood
Gardens.
• PA Renaissance Faire, August 8 – October 25
at Mount Hope Estate & Winery.
• Find lots more events throughout the year at
www.padutchcountry.com
5.04.2009
Local things to do June 22-28
Mud Sale: June 26 in Bird in Hand. Don’t miss this
opportunity to experience a truly authentic aspect of
Lancaster County. Stop across from Bird in Hand
Family Restaurant for some local color and farm fare
as you check out everything from antiques and quilts
to buggies and carriages! 717-399-9722 or
www.padutchcountry.com/member_pages/mud_sales.
asp.
Celebrate Lancaster: June 26 at Binns Park in
Downtown Lancaster. Start off your Independence
Day Weekend with a bang! Enjoy outdoor festivities,
food vendors, a concert by the Lancaster Symphony
Orchestra, and a huge fireworks display! Admission is
FREE! 717-291-4758 or
www.lancastercityevents.com.
Celtic Fling & Highland Games: June 26-28 at
the Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Manheim. Kick off
this annual event on Friday evening with a Celtic rock
concert. The rest of the weekend, experience the
sights, sounds and tastes of Celtic nations with great
entertainment and food! A family event worth
attending! 717-665-7021 or www.parenfaire.com.
AACA Museum’s 14th Annual Car Show: June
27 at the Antique Auto Museum at Hershey. For all
car collectors and weekend cruisers, check out this
year’s show featuring antique and classic cars, street
rods, motorcycles and more from 1984 and earlier!
Don’t forget to take a ride in an antique car!
717-566-7100 or www.aacamuseum.org.
DJ’s Sock Hop: June 28 at DJ’s Taste of the 50’s
in Lancaster. Test your skills at our limbo, hula hoop
and bubble gum blowing contests, then see how many
people you can fit into a telephone booth! Brush up on
your dance moves, and dress in 50s garb. Prizes
given away every ½ hour. 717-509-5555
opportunity to experience a truly authentic aspect of
Lancaster County. Stop across from Bird in Hand
Family Restaurant for some local color and farm fare
as you check out everything from antiques and quilts
to buggies and carriages! 717-399-9722 or
www.padutchcountry.com/member_pages/mud_sales.
asp.
Celebrate Lancaster: June 26 at Binns Park in
Downtown Lancaster. Start off your Independence
Day Weekend with a bang! Enjoy outdoor festivities,
food vendors, a concert by the Lancaster Symphony
Orchestra, and a huge fireworks display! Admission is
FREE! 717-291-4758 or
www.lancastercityevents.com.
Celtic Fling & Highland Games: June 26-28 at
the Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Manheim. Kick off
this annual event on Friday evening with a Celtic rock
concert. The rest of the weekend, experience the
sights, sounds and tastes of Celtic nations with great
entertainment and food! A family event worth
attending! 717-665-7021 or www.parenfaire.com.
AACA Museum’s 14th Annual Car Show: June
27 at the Antique Auto Museum at Hershey. For all
car collectors and weekend cruisers, check out this
year’s show featuring antique and classic cars, street
rods, motorcycles and more from 1984 and earlier!
Don’t forget to take a ride in an antique car!
717-566-7100 or www.aacamuseum.org.
DJ’s Sock Hop: June 28 at DJ’s Taste of the 50’s
in Lancaster. Test your skills at our limbo, hula hoop
and bubble gum blowing contests, then see how many
people you can fit into a telephone booth! Brush up on
your dance moves, and dress in 50s garb. Prizes
given away every ½ hour. 717-509-5555
5.03.2009
Spa Party
We hosted our first Spa Party this past weekend at the Bed and Breakfast. It was great fun and made me want to go on vacation myself! The occasion was a ladies weekend for a bride, her mom and her bridal party. I mulled over the menu and decided (since they all had to fit into their respective dresses at the wedding) to prepare a healthy menu. They dined on shrimp and vegetable spring rolls, peanut gingered soba noodles, chicken & pineapple skewers, crab, shrimp and fruit cocktail and for desserts: fresh fruit with an orange curd dip and crepes with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. That, combined with massages, manicures and paraffin treatments made for a perfect weekend. It was such a happy occasion and I was so thankful I got to be a part of it, to help a great family celebrate such a joyous event!
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