Road Trip! Napa Valley....

My new home in Napa

Let's start off by squashing any rumors about Fig Street Inn closing, selling, or slowing down. Nope, nope, and nope. We are absolutely open for business with the same great accommodations, service, hospitality, amenities, attention to details, and breakfasts. Have you read about our muffins?

Greg is operating the inn solo this winter while I work at an inn in Napa Valley. This was all very last minute but it's a great opportunity. A fellow innkeeper was in need of a nighttime innkeeper to fill in while they look for a permanent employee. Greg and I thought why not one of us. It is our slower season, and if one of us can't run this inn by ourselves after 11+ years of doing this, then we have bigger issues. 

An email to my future "boss" turned into some great conversations about what I would be doing, and within days I was off to Napa Valley (via Washington DC, Chicago, and San Francisco - it is not easy to get in and out of my neck of the woods by plane). 

So as of this week, I am the night innkeeper at Old World Inn in Napa. It is a 35-room property with 3 buildings and 2 multi-room cottages. I am very excited to learn about how larger properties operate and manage that many guests. 

And I'm even more excited to be in such a beautiful area at holiday time. I get one day off each week and I'm hoping for some adventures and exploring, but I just might want to take time to catch up on sleep from being on overnight duty. 

For the next few months our blog will be a mix of Cape Charles, Virginia and Napa, California. Depending on which ocean you live on, come visit one of us and enjoy a spectacular getaway.

A Beautiful Meal

We don't consider ourselves foodies, but we love food, and we finally got to Hook-U-Up Gourmet for a bistro dinner. They have been doing them for over a year now and our guests have told us over and over how amazing the food is. So we made a dinner date with fellow innkeepers Carol & Bruce Evans from Cape Charles House Bed & Breakfast. Little did we know it was their first time too, so that made it even more of a treat.

Chef Tim Brown owns Hook-U-Up and about a year ago, he introduced Bistro Dinners. He started off with wine dinners once a month which would sell out as soon as the dates were announced. He did these in the off-season because restaurant choices can be limited, and he decided to do them mid-week when people are looking for an excuse to get out of the house.

These dinners became so popular, they are now offered every Tuesday through Friday, and trust me when I say you have to have a reservation - no matter the day of week or time of year. And these dinners are reason enough to visit Cape Charles mid-week.

Chef Tim has just announced some additional special events for this year: 

Saturday, November 28 - Bistro Dinner

Saturday, December 5 - Wine Dinner

Thursday, December 31 - New Year's Eve Celebration

Make your reservation by calling 757-331-2275.  

May the Force B&B With You!

Have you seen them? Because we haven't, and the likelihood is somewhere in the range of slim to none. We have one grocery store here and so far, nada.

Star Wars partnered with Coffee-Mate for a line of coffee creamers. They've pretty much partnered with everyone, so why not coffee creamers. Because when you think of Darth Vader, a great cup of coffee with a hint of espresso chocolate comes to mind, doesn't it?

So here's the mission, bring us one bottle of a Star Wars coffee creamer and we'll take 10% off your stay. We don't care what flavor - it just has to be unopened and unexpired. And, no you don't get 10% for each bottle you bring, but if you wanted to bring more than one flavor, we would not turn it away. That would just be rude.

If you have a favorite flavor, or character, or just like getting a discount on your b&b stay, pick one up:

• Darth Vader — Espresso Chocolate
• C3PO — Hazelnut
• Chewbacca — Spiced Latte
• R2D2  — French Vanilla
• Boba Fett — Italian Sweet Cream

Seriously - one bottle, 10% off - it's that simple. We've got the great coffee and now it just needs some force.

Buckingham Palace Scones

Chocolate Chip Scones at Fig Street Inn

We've become known for our muffins (okay, Greg's muffins) but when we first started, we served scones. Every once in awhile we'll still make them, and the reviews on those are really good too.

Why are they called Buckingham Palace Scones? Greg got this recipe many years ago from a woman he worked with who was from England. She had a relative who worked for the Queen and said these were the same scones she served the royal family. So that's our story and we're sticking to it.

Scones

3/4 c. butter
3 1/2 c. flour
pinch salt
1T baking powder
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. raisins*
1 egg
1/2 c. milk

Blueberry & Apple Cinnamon Scones

Cut together butter, flour, salt & baking powder. Add sugar & raisins and mix. Add egg and milk. Add a little more milk if mix is too dry. Dough should be smooth. Roll out to 1/2 inch thick and cut into triangle shapes. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sanding sugar. Bake 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes until bottoms are lightly colored.

*use chocolate chips, dried cranberries, apple chunks, blueberries for other flavors

We scoop them rather than do the traditional roll and cut. If you use heavy cream instead of milk, they are even more decadent.

Art Rocks the Inns - once again!

This Sunday, August 9th from 1-4 pm, the bed & breakfasts of Cape Charles will be rocking with "Art Rocks the Inns". The five b&bs will each host local artists on their front porches from all different mediums - pottery, photography, fiber, pencil, watercolors, paint, wood, food, and more.

If you've been to +Fig Street Inn, you know we have a large wrap-around porch and big yard. So we've expanded this year, with some of your favorite artists returning, as well as new additions:

Background Focus Photography

Background Focus Photography - Brand new to the art show circuit is Sharon Silvey. We've watched Sharon share her love of photography on Facebook for awhile and she has an amazing eye. This is her first time showing her work publicly, and we are sure you will find her work just as stunning as we do. She takes a lot of nature images and we can't decide if her dragonfly or water pictures are our favorites.

Cape Charles Confectionery - food is art! Jean Wilson has a home-based bakery here in Cape Charles and offers cookies, cakes, pies, and other sweet treats by pre-order. She'll be selling her beautifully decorated sugar cookies, and you can talk with Jean about how you can order year-round from her menu, or if you prefer something custom, she can do that too. Throughout the year, and usually around holidays, you can purchase her cookies at Gull Hummock Gourmet Market.

Hula Hooping on the Bay (literally)

Hula Hooping on the Bay - We discovered Jennifer's talents when she was a guest at our inn. She was hula hooping in our yard and of course we had to ask. She makes hula hoops using recycled materials, and they come in all sizes, so no matter your size, she has a hoop for you. It's fantastic exercise and even if you don't want to hoop, stop by to watch. She is fantastic! 

Christine Nichols - Christine comes to Art Rocks the Inns via gallery209. Sandy (the owner) mentioned that Christine would be another great addition one day when we were in her shop. She showed us some of her pencil drawings of the Eastern Shore, and we think you will enjoy them too.

Ten Good Sheep

Ten Good Sheep - Karyn and Mark Belknap will be back again this year with their countless handmade items of natural fiber. They'll have felted soap, ornaments, bracelet cuffs, greeting cards, and their famous Muttmellows loved by every dog who is lucky enough to have one. Karyn also makes gorgeous custom winter hats and this is the perfect time to place your order for the holidays.

Red Dog Decoys - Mark Belknap will multi-task and will have his hand carved decoys. Last year, he was working on one while he was here, so we're hoping we just might see another piece of art come to life.

The other four properties also hosting artists are +Bay Haven Inn of Cape Charles, Cape Charles House, Chesapeake Bay View, and Sea Gate. So come to Cape Charles and soak in some art!

Get Thee to Virginia

There is no better time to get yourself to Virginia - specifically Cape Charles - and you will want to do it before Labor Day. We're giving away a Go Virginia Getaways Wine Country Getaway Pass (value $59) with your 2-night stay at Fig Street Inn. Check-in Sunday through Wednesday by September 2 and we'll give you a 2015 card that you can use during your visit to Cape Charles for the following discounts:

• Get 15% off wine at The Shanty
• Take $10 off wearable art at Moonrise Jewelry
• Take $10 off a Heavenly Massage or Amazing Facial at Breezes Day Spa 

The card is valid until the end of the year and offers over 200 discounts and specials at restaurants, events, activities, and shops throughout the state, as well as exclusive online only deals.

Better yet, use your card for $50 off your next 2-night stay at our inn. So come explore and discover Cape Charles. We are sure you will fall in love and will want to plan your return trip and use your card for next visit to Fig Street Inn.

When you book online, you'll see the Getaway Pass package. Select that option and we'll have your card ready for you at check-in.

A Virginia is for Lovers Story...Cape Charles style

If you follow us on social media, you know we're a little obsessed with LOVE. Okay, we're a lot obsessed! LOVE are the art installations you'll see throughout Virginia to promote tourism and the "Virginia is for Lovers" brand. There are over 30 LOVE signs around the state and people "love" to visit and take pictures with them.

Each sign is unique and reflects the culture and history of its location. Ever since I learned about them, I thought we needed one in Cape Charles. Can't explain it. Don't know why, but it was really important to me that Cape Charles have one. 

Things always work out the way they are meant to, and I am grateful for everyone who said "no" because that brought me to the right team to bring LOVE to town. The Cape Charles Business Association was the one to say "yes" and instantly Miriam Elton from brown dog ice cream and Sandy McFall from gallery209 volunteered to help in the efforts. Miriam knows a lot about design and the right materials to use to weather any storm. Sandy is the artist so she knew what materials and colors would look good and complement one another. My role was to work with Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) to ensure we met their requirements, help with funding, and organize events to raise money and promote LOVE. 

We collaborated with Jen Lewis and Pete Leontieff of the Town of Cape Charles. The Town provided a permanent location (at the corner of Bay and Mason Avenues) and connected us with people who could actually build this thing. Together, we all came up with a design that is truly one-of-a-kind and perfectly represents Cape Charles and the Eastern Shore of Virginia. 

The entire sculpture is made of fiberglass which is perfect for our boating community. And then each letter incorporates materials to symbolize our area:

L - has beach glass and shells for our bayside location

O - is a tractor tire for our agricultural history

V - is made from kayaks to symbolize all the water sports and activities in our area

E - is made with crabpots for our aqua culture and watermen

LOVE is here to stay and be enjoyed by all. Come to the corner of Bay & Mason and take your picture. Post it out with #loveva and #capecharles to spread some LOVE far and wide from Cape Charles!

Mmmm.....Muffins!

We are known for our muffins. Guests talk about them in social media, write online reviews about them, and ask if we're serving them for breakfast when they check in. Our guests debate which is the best flavor and are pretty adamant about which one gets their vote.

Yes, Greg bakes them fresh each and every morning. He times it so they come out as close as possible to 8:30 am so they are perfectly warm for breakfast service. And if you do have a favorite, let us know so we can make sure we have one set aside just for you.

We get asked for the recipe all the time, so here it is:

Ingredients:
2 c white flour
1 Tbs baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 ½ tsp xantham gum (optional)
2 Tbs white sugar
1 Tbs brown sugar
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 c milk
¼ c melted butter

Directions:
Preheat oven to 375F. Mix flour, baking powder, salt, xantham gum, sugars in large bowl. Add egg, milk and butter, stirring enough to dampen flour mixture. Batter will not be smooth and do not overbeat. Spoon into muffin pans (or paper muffin cups), filing each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

And here is the "secret" to how we make a variety of flavored muffins each and every morning....we divide the batter up into how ever many flavors we're going to make (it's usually at least 4) and then you just add whatever you want - chocolate chips; chocolate chips and cocoa powder (for double chocolate); chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and coffee (for double mocha); chopped apples; pecans; walnuts; dried cranberries; orange zest; lemon zest with poppy seeds; blueberries - the possibilities are endless.

Notes: Muffins do not hold well and are best eaten immediately after baking. The xantham gum will help them stay moist for a few hours after baking; otherwise they tend to dry out and get chewy. Xantham gum is usually available in stores that carry gluten free items. I don’t know if it comes in other forms, but we used powdered.

5 Reasons to Visit Cape Charles

We get a fair amount of calls from people planning a getaway and they want to know why they should visit Cape Charles. The first few times we thought this was a strange question. But now we say, "you tell us what you want to do. You can do everything or absolutely nothing. It's up to you."

If you want to check-in and not come out of your room until check-out, go for it. Enjoy the room. Enjoy time alone, or with your travel partner. Relax by your fireplace or soak in your jetted tub. Watch TV. Watch movies. Log on. Read a book or magazines. Play board games or cards. Or just sleep.

(Did you know Fig Street Inn is the ONLY b&b in Cape Charles that offers TVs and fireplaces all from the comfort of your room; otherwise you have to share with other guests in common areas - no thanks.)

BUT, if you prefer to venture out, here is what we think are the must-sees, must-dos for a visit to Cape Charles:

LOVE - Cape Charles has its very own LOVE sign. You may have seen others around Virginia - they are all over, and you will find ours at the corner of Bay & Mason Avenues. We're very proud of this because it took a lot of work by a lot of people to make this happen (including us). We "love" how it reflects the history and culture of our town and region. So go, snap a picture. Everyone needs LOVE in their lives!

Beach - We have an amazing beach right on the Chesapeake Bay. It's about a mile long, with soft, white sand. Sure it's great in the summer, but it's great any time of year. Go for a walk. Look for seashells, beach glass or even sand dollars (They do exist! We've even found one ourselves).

If you are visiting in the warmer months, and you're staying at +Fig Street Inn, leave the beach chairs, towels and umbrellas at home. We've got all of that here for you. We'll even loan you a cooler if you want to pack water, sodas or snacks. And yes, those are included with your stay, too.

And for the above two, combine a visit to LOVE when the sun is setting at the beach. Cape Charles sunsets are spectacular! If you are here in the fall, the sun is positioned so it sets right into the letter O for a picture perfect moment.

Trail Ride - Pfeiffer Riding Stables is about 1 1/2 miles up the road from our inn and you can enjoy a one-hour trail ride along Kings Creek. We guarantee you'll see wildlife and waterfowl as you soak in the natural beauty of our area. Don't worry if you have never been on a horse before because they will pair you will just the right one. Make sure you tell them you're staying at Fig Street Inn so you get our special rate (varies depending on time of year).

Kayak - Southeast Expeditions has many different kayak trips and you don't have to be an extreme or experienced sports enthusiast to hit the water. They'll take you out to a clam bed where you can hunt for your own clams, or on a leisurely tour through the wildlife refuge to observe birds, butterflies (fall season), and take in the scenery of our barrier islands. Or rent kayaks for how ever long you like and go out on your own. 

Or how about kayaking to a winery? The tour is called "Paddle Your Glass Off", and it's a 4-hour excursion that includes wine tasting at the award-winning Chatham Vineyards (try the Cabernet Franc. It's out personal fave!). You paddle there, have a wine tasting, and then paddle back. Yes, there is enough space in the kayak to hold a case of wine if you so choose.

Mangia - Your trip would not be complete without great food! Obviously breakfast is included with your stay at our inn, and we do offer more than enough so you don't really need to have lunch, but there are plenty of great places to eat right here in Cape Charles:

• Cape Charles Coffee House - breakfast and lunch
• Coach House Tavern - breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Hook-U-Up Gourmet - pizza and to-go lunches. Bistro dinner Tuesday-Friday
• Kelly's Gingernut Pub - lunch and dinner
• Rayfield's Pharmacy - breakfast and lunch 
• The Seafood Eatery at The Oyster Farm (formerly Aqua) - lunch and dinner
• The Shanty - lunch and dinner

And if you are here in the summer, you can top off any meal (or make a meal) at brown dog ice cream (open April through October).

Whatever you want to do, we're happy to help you plan it out.

Dear TripAdvisor

Dear TripAdvisor,

I'm breaking up with you. I want to say "it's not you, it's me", but that's not true. It is you. I don't want to be in this relationship anymore.

We had many good years. You won't remember, but we met in 2000 when you first came to town. I was different back then. You were too. I met you in another state, and you were the cool kid. It was sweet. It was new. We helped each other out. But I said good-bye in 2009 when I moved away. 

I came back to you in 2011. I needed you. I knew you were a player, but you filled a need. I was willing to pay for your services. The cost was $288 in 2011; $326.78 in 2012; and $524.14 in 2013. In 2014 you wanted $1,800. We negotiated and you said you could continue to give love for $900. That was too much for my tastes, so I said "no".

Then you called a few months later to say you wanted me back. You wanted $3,450. Nothing changed other than I rejected you and you were insulted. You took away my past client discount. If I wanted to have you again, it would cost - an increase of 558% to be exact. Nothing new, nothing different. Same services but at a very different price. I said no.

You called again, and again, and again.

Each time, I relived and rehashed what I didn't like about our relationship. I told you I was willing to reconsider, but you weren't willing to change. You wanted $3,450. The discussions were heated and sometimes you hung up on me; sometimes I hung up on you. This is not healthy.

This last conversation, I said we are at an impasse. I won't be told how wrong I am, how I'm making a bad decision, how I just don't understand how important you are. I won't be bullied, shamed, or guilted into taking you back.

I belong to a support group with many who have said good-bye to you. We talk....a lot. We share details on how each of us fared in our relationships with you. It's been helpful, cathartic, and reaffirming. We shouldn't be taken for granted. We want to be heard. We want to be with you, but we just can't put ourselves through this anymore. This relationship does not work.

Since we've split, I've grown - by 14.2% to be exact, and I did it all on my own. You didn't like this. You told me I'm making a bad decision. You said I still need you, but I'm doing fine without you.

It's been almost a year that we've been having these conversations but it is time for my exit. I think you have value, but I also know you don't treat me well. This dysfunction has to end.

We were friends once, but things change. Let us part and move on.

With sincerity,
Donna Olney Kohler
+Fig Street Inn 
Cape Charles, Virginia

B&B? What exactly is a bed & breakfast?

I recently attended an innkeeping conference where one of the keynote speakers said that you need to let potential guests know what you are not. Interesting….well, here is what +Fig Street Inn is NOT: 

Although it was a treat to sleep over my grandmas house as a little girl, that is not what you get at Fig Street Inn. We do not have:

·      Wallpaper

·      Doilies

·      Furniture you are not allowed to sit on or use.

·      Matchy-matchy decor with curtains that match comforters and pillows that match wallpaper borders (seriously, there is no wallpaper in this house).

·      Curfews. Come and go as you please.

·      Forced socialization. You want to talk to other guests or us, great. You don't want to, no offense taken. 

·      Small coffee cups. Antique china sure is pretty and we have quite a few sets, but when it comes to having a cup of coffee (or tea), we believe in a large mug. 

Fig Street Inn may be our home, but our #1 priority is the guest. We follow a philosophy that it is your vacation so let's make it what you want, not what we want. What that means is:

When do you want to check-in?

Sure we have scheduled hours, and no, we can't do check-in at 11:30 am (we do have to clean rooms). But if you want to come early, just let us know so we can make sure someone is here to welcome you. Drop off your stuff and if the room is ready, it's yours. If not, drop off your stuff, and then go out and enjoy your day. We’ll call or text as soon as it’s ready, and you can come back at your leisure. 

When would you like to eat breakfast?

We serve breakfast from 8:30 to 9:30 am so come to the Dining Room any where in that hour and we'll make you a hot, made-to-order breakfast. If you need to start your day earlier, let us know the day before and we can typically accommodate an earlier breakfast.

What would you like to have for breakfast?

We do a made-to-order breakfast. We do not believe in the "you get what you get, and you don't get upset" that far too many b&bs serve. We wouldn't want to eat salmon and green salad or a double stuffed French toast with chocolate covered bananas, so we would never tell you that’s what you’re eating either. We have an entrée of the day (eggs/omelettes to order, pancakes, French toast, waffles or crepes) and there is always a choice of at least 4 preparations. It is made hot, specifically for you – not in a one-size fits all casserole dish that is only hot at 9 am. And if the entrée is not what you want, we can always make fried or scrambled eggs, or choose from a selection of cereals, yogurts, or oatmeal. 

Stay connected, or disconnect - you decide.  

Many guests choose a b&b because they want a relaxing getaway, but it is not for us to decide what that means. Each room has a large, flat screen TV with Bluray player (and we have a video library with 300+ movies), and far too many satellite channels to choose from. If you want to watch TV, great; if you don’t, great; but it’s your choice. And our WiFi signal rocks! If you want to watch a movie on your laptop or tablet, go for it.

Want to recharge?

For some that means disconnecting, so turn off that phone, computer and TV. For others, it means being able to plug in all their gadgets. All of our rooms have ample and accessible outlets, including USB ports. You don’t have to move any furniture to get to the one outlet that’s somewhere behind the bed.

The beauty of b&bs is that each one is unique and we encourage potential guests to do their research and ask questions. There is a b&b out there for everyone, and Fig Street Inn may not be the right fit for you. And that’s okay. We don’t pretend to be the end all and be all. Our goal is a great, personalized hospitality experience where you feel welcome, comfortable, and relaxed. You are the guest. Let’s make this about you!

Pear Valley, an Unknown Treasure on Virginia's Eastern Shore

Last year, I had the opportunity to visit Pear Valley for a "private tour". When you see the small structure, you might ask yourself "And.....?" But the history that emanates from this building is amazing. It was exciting to see how people once lived, and you could feel the souls that occupied that house and worked the surrounding land.

Pear Valley is located in Eastville, Virginia, just 15 minutes from +Fig Street Inn. It's one of Northampton County's oldest landmarks and recently came under the tutelage of the Northampton Historic Preservation Society (NHPS).

It's not clear how it got its name, or who even built it for the Nottingham family, a common name here on the Eastern Shore. This yeoman's cottage dates back to 1740 and was occupied as late as the early 1900s. A yeoman was an independent, subsistence farmer who may have grown some crops for market.

One of the draws of Pear Valley is its unique architecture like its enormous chimney which spans the north gable end of the home and exhibits Flemish and Common bond brick laying techniques. Glazed header bricks form a chevron pattern that mirrors the slope of the roof. The other noticeable and notable feature is the tilted false plate and wooden peg joinery used on the roof. The wooden pegs also add a decorative element and are still intact.

Although these elements of high-quality craftsmanship were characteristic of the building techniques used in 1740, thirty-six years before the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Pear Valley is one of only two structures surviving in the state of Virginia that exhibit these now exceptional features. It is also one of only two U.S. National Historic Landmarks in Northampton County - the other being Eyre Hall which dates to 1760.

Pear Valley is currently open only by appointment, but we can make arrangements if it is something you want to experience on your visit to Cape Charles. Or you may contact NHPS directly at 757-999-1299 or visit their website at www.northamptonhistoricpreservationsociety.com.

Pear Valley is located off State Route 628 (Wilsonia Neck Drive) near Eastville, Virginia.

Romantic Carriage Ride for 2

Valentine's Day is just days away and it's a great reminder to take some time for yourself. This winter has been particularly cold so how about warming things up with a new adventure. If you've never been to Cape Charles, it's the perfect time to discover our town. It's quieter but many of our shops and restaurants are open which usually means you'll get personalized attention.

This year, Aqua Restaurant, Kelly's Gingernut Pub, Hook-U-Up Gourmet and Coach House Tavern are each offering special dinner menus for the Valentine's weekend. And because it's a holiday weekend, you can enjoy these menus Friday, Saturday or Sunday. You'll definitely want a reservation no matter where you choose to go, or on what day.

New to town this year is a horse-drawn carriage ride with Pfeiffer Riding Stables, and you definitely need to reserve your time for this treat. Miss Angie (as we affectionately call her - we are big fans of her and what she does) will take you on a 30-minute ride up and down our charming bayside streets. She is always happy to talk about her horses, the history of our town, or just let you be while you enjoy some time with your loved one.

But before you start your ride, you will want to stop at Gull Hummock Gourmet Market to pick out your bottle of wine and handmade chocolates by Cape Charles Confectionery. Enjoy them during your ride, or take them back to the inn for later. These are included with your ride, and you will also receive a $25 gift certificate to Moonrise Jewelry and olive oil tasting at Drizzles....all for $100. It's a unique, one-of-a-kind experience, found only in Cape Charles.

Don't worry if you can't make it this weekend. You should celebrate with your Valentine as often as you can, and you can enjoy this great package with Pfeiffer Riding Stables through the spring. Give them a call at 757-331-0828 to schedule your visit.

Birds Nest Cookies

This is a new cookie we made for Santa last year, but in my never ending list of things to do, I never posted this recipe. My delay actually works out because these make great Easter cookies. To be honest, they are not my favorite, but they are so easy to make. If you have little ones, they'll have fun helping, and the best part is that their fingers get dirty from forming the nests so they'll just like being able to lick their fingers when they're done.

The recipe calls for a mix of chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. I think the reason I don't like these are the butterscotch chips - they just don't taste natural. Perhaps I need to find a better butterscotch chip. But there's no reason why you couldn't make these with just chocolate or white chocolate chips. White chocolate would make a pretty cookie for Easter and spring time. And then fill with pastel M&Ms or little foiled eggs - pretty!

Ingredients:
1 bag of chocolate chips (11 ounces)
1 bag of butterscotch chips (11 ounces)
1/4 tsp vanilla
1 bag chow mein noodles (12 ounces)
candy for decorating/filling

Directions:
Melt chocolate and butterscotch chips in double boiler and stir until smooth. Remove from heat and add vanilla. Stir in chow mein noodles until completely coated. Drop coated noodles onto parchment of wax paper. Make a little "well" with a spoon or your fingers in the center and add candy of your choice. The chocolate set ups fast so you need to work quickly.

Eastern Shore Artisan Trail - Benefit Auction

Living in a small town, you don't get to be anonymous and you really can't not be involved in your community. I am astounded by how much gets done in Cape Charles, with so much of it being done through volunteerism. The latest initiative I'm volunteering for is the Eastern Shore Artisan Trail. I feel out of my comfort zone because I don't know a thing about art. I like what I like, and I can't explain why. 

But this trail is so much more than art. It's about bringing together "artisans, venues, galleries and retailers, while connecting points of interest, restaurants, and accommodations in the related communities to create a “trail”, according to the Artisans Center of Virginia (ACV), which coordinates these trails throughout the state. Discussions have been in the works for awhile, and the Eastern Shore is now at the point of assembling their "team" to make this happen.

This is a true grassroots effort and we're kicking things off this weekend with a Benefit Auction on Saturday, April 5 at Island House Restaurant in Wachapreague (about 40 minutes north of Cape Charles). A silent auction will run from 11 am to 8 pm while the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and a portion of proceeds from meals served that day will go to the Trail. At 8 pm, a live auction will feature items retailing at $200 and over. Items, for both the silent and live auctions, include decoys, paintings, antique maps, jewelry, gift baskets, local theatre tickets, overnight stays, and gift certificates to restaurants and a variety of services and outdoor activities such as fishing charters and horseback riding.

Come during the day to enjoy a great meal - have I told you about the Island House crab cake and their sweet potato fries? Or come later at night for drinks and to enjoy live music by Van Lewin and Melinda & The Benders. Reservations are highly suggested for dinner service and can be made by calling Island House Restaurant at 757-787-4242. We'll be there at some point during the day for lunch - yes, I'm having the crab cake with sweet potato fries - and we hope to see you there. 

Follow the Eastern Shore Artisan Trail on Facebook to see pictures of some of the amazing artwork that will be auctioned off that evening. 

I want to thank the Cape Charles businesses who are supporting this effort either through financial contributions or donating items for the auction: Arts Enter Cape Charles, brown dog ice cream, gallery 209, Gull Hummock Gourmet Market, Moonrise Jewelry, Nancy Vest (artist), Pfeiffer Riding Stables, and Wendell Distributing.  

If you can't make it but still want to support this effort, you can make your donation online. 

Pesto Goat Cheese Quiche

There are 3 things in cooking that make anything better - bacon, butter and goat cheese - at least in my mind they do. I didn't discover the beauty of goat cheese until I went to culinary school and learned this recipe. You can make with or without tomato and you can cut back on the goat cheese, but why would you.


Ingredients:
6 eggs
2 egg yolks
1 1/4 cup milk
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 cup pesto
8 oz goat cheese
1 tomato, sliced thinly

Preparation:
Whisk together eggs, yolk, milk and salt and pepper. Add pesto and combine. Place egg/pesto mixture in crust that has been blind baked for 10 minutes. Mixture should not come to top of crust, and this is fine, because as soon as you add goat cheese, the mixture will come up higher. Break goat cheese into small pieces, about quarter size, and drop into mixture. Place around to different spots because where you drop it, is where it will set up and you don't want a huge blob of goat cheese (or maybe you do). Place thinly sliced tomato directly on top of egg/pesto/goat cheese mixture. Lay them flat around in a circle - they should sit right on top but the edges may sink a little.

Alternative is that you can put a base of thinly sliced tomato right onto your blind baked crust BEFORE you put in the egg/pesto mixture. The advantage to putting them on the bottom vs. the top is that sometimes they can dry out a little on the top.

Or you can completely forget the tomato.

Put quiche in 350 degree preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. Egg mixture should be set and not look wet and runny. There should still be a little bit of jiggle to it. If there's no jiggle, that means it's overcooked. It will still have great flavor, but just be a little dry. Allow quiche to cool 10 minutes before slicing so that it will continue to set up and slice more neatly.

If you want to make individual quiches, bake for 20 minutes.

Make It Special with Moonrise

I love Moonrise Jewelry! You don't know what Moonrise Jewelry is? Well, neither did I until we moved to the Eastern Shore, and once you discover it, you are in for something truly special.

I first saw Meredith's work about 3 years ago - Meredith is the owner and designer - at a street festival and I was stunned by the beauty of her work. She's known for her "real orchids" which are literally real orchids preserved in resin. They come in all sorts of colors and sizes and you would think they would be heavy but they are about as light as a feather. We were so excited when Meredith opened her retail store here in Cape Charles and you can go in any day to see her amazing creations of necklaces, earrings, bracelets, cuff links, hair combs, and pendants. One of the great things about her work is she has something for all budgets - from $19 for Easton Earrings up to $349 for her Plantation or Bonaire Necklaces.

We've partnered with Moonrise for an exclusive package for guests of Fig Street Inn that can be added to your reservation and waiting in your room upon arrival. You'll receive a Mini Orchid Necklace (retail $54) and $25 gift certificate to Moonrise Jewelry for $75. Your someone special will have a spectacular gift waiting to be opened, and then they'll get to go to the store with their gift certificate to pick out another beautiful piece of jewelry. Or they can exchange the necklace and have a total of $75 to spend in the store.

What a great surprise and you'll look like a star - and we'll do all the work for you. We just need 2 days notice…it's as simple as you telling us when you make your reservation by phone at 757-331-3133 or when you reserve your room online, just select the add-on option. If you have a color preference, let us know. Necklaces come with an 18" sterling silver chain, or you can have a 16" or 20" chain. The necklace comes in a keepsake tin gift box that will be gift packaged.

If you're not sure what she'll like, we can have a gift certificate waiting - you tell us the amount - and then she can pick out her own handmade creation. Or if you find something on the Moonrise Jewelry website that you know she'll love, we can have that waiting instead.

It's all about making your visit to Cape Charles and Fig Street Inn a wonderful, unique experience - so you tell us what that something extra is that can make your time here even more memorable.

Moonrise Jewelry is located at 22 Strawberry Street in Cape Charles, Virginia. They are open Monday through Saturday; and have Sunday hours Memorial Day through Labor Day, and in December. Visit their website or follow them on Facebook.

"H" is for Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies

Our weekly recipes have become something some of our local businesses here in Cape Charles, Virginia look forward to each week. We usually have more than enough for the students and teachers at the school we make them for, and we don't need to eat all the "left overs" ourselves, so we bring them around town. Some ask, "what are you making next week?"

When it came to planning for the letter "H", we tossed around a few ideas and then the owner of brown dog ice cream (who is always first stop for our leftovers deliveries) offered us hazelnuts from her shop. Sure! We can do something with hazelnuts. 

Well, who knew that hazelnuts need to be husked. Apparently a lot of people because there are plenty of articles online about the "best" way to do it. Not sure if there is a best way, but I will tell you that there is no easy way. So the process to make these cookies took quite a long time. If you want to make these, find hazelnuts that are already husked, or don't wait until 11 pm to make them like we did because it will take a lot longer.

 
Ingredients:

• 3 cup all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cup (3 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 cup finely ground, husked, toasted hazelnuts
• 3 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 8 ounces milk chocolate, chopped
• 2/3 cup coarsely chopped husked toasted hazelnuts

Preparation:

Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in medium bowl to blend. Using electric mixer, beat butter and sugar in large bowl until smooth. Beat in 1/2 cup finely ground hazelnuts and vanilla. Beat in flour mixture until just combined. 

Shape dough by tablespoonfuls into 3-inch-long logs onto cookie sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake 325°F until light golden brown around edges, about 20 minutes. Cool on baking sheet 5 minutes. Transfer to rack; cool cookies completely. 

Chocolate Topping:

Stir milk chocolate in top of double boiler over barely simmering water until melted and smooth. Remove from over water. Place 1/3 cup coarsely chopped hazelnuts in small bowl. Dip 1 end of cookie into melted chocolate, then into coarsely chopped hazelnuts. Return to rack. Repeat with remaining cookies. Let stand until chocolate is set, about 1 hour. (Cookies can be made 2 days ahead. Store in airtight container at room temperature.) 

We scooped our cookies and dropped about a teaspoonful of chocolate on the top, then sprinkled the chopped nuts. 

"G" is for Gingersnaps

Greg will usually look at a recipe and then start changing it. Drives me insane because he just seems to wing it and things always turn out pretty darn good. For this recipe, he takes no credit. It comes from "Cookies Unlimited" by Nick Malgieri, page 194, published in 2000. Chef Malgieri takes no credit either, but received the recipe from the winner of a baking contest he judged. Greg's gotten rave reviews when he bakes these so it's no wonder these were the winning entry.  


The Good Cook's Gingersnaps

Ingredients:
2 cup flour
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
12 Tbs unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks)
1 cup sugar, plus 1/2 cup for finishing
1 large egg
1/4 cup molasses


Directions:
Combine flour, baking soda, salt and spices in bowl and mix together. In electric mixer with paddle attachment, beat butter and 1 cup sugar on medium speed for about 5 minutes until light and fluffy. Add egg and mix. Lower speed and beat in half the dry ingredients, then molasses. Scrape down sides of bowl and beater. Add remaining dry ingredients and mix. Remove bowl from mixer, scrape and do one final mix of dough by hand.

Place remaining 1/2 cup sugar in small, shallow bowl. Use small ice cream scoop to make 1-inch balls of dough. Round out balls of dough by rolling in your hands, and then roll each dough ball in sugar. Place on cookie sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes until cookies have spread, colored and surface crackles slightly. Cookies should be firm to touch. Slide paper from cookie sheet onto cooling rack, but leave cookies on paper for 5 more minutes before removing. Cookies will crisp up as they cool. If you try to pull them off immediately, they usually stick to the paper.

We recommend using a coarser sugar for rolling so that you can actually see the sugar after they've baked. If you use a extra fine or even just regular sugar, it soaks right in.

Okay, Greg couldn't resist making an adjustment, but that doesn't mean it's his recipe. He adds 1/4 tsp vanilla when he adds the egg. Greg likes adding vanilla to lots of things, but that's a whole other blog post in itself.

"F" is for Fudge

This recipe comes from Greg's grandmother. She used to make it all the time and I don't even want to think about how many pans we ate over the years. She would pour the "mix" into 2 metal pie pans and we'd watch it set up so we could cut into it as soon as we could. One pan would be gone pretty much instantaneously, and the second pan would stay around long enough for us to cut into the next morning for breakfast. That second pan was usually all gone by the end of that second day. You might be thinking fudge for breakfast sounds gross - but with a cup of coffee, yum. Give it a try (you know you want to).


Grandma G's Chocolate Fudge

Ingredients:
4 cup sugar
1 - 12 oz can evaporated milk
3/4 cup butter
1 lb chocolate chips
15 ounces mini marshmallows
1 tsp vanilla

Directions:
Bring sugar, evaporated milk, and butter to a boil. Stirring constantly, continue to boil until soft ball stage (235 to 240 degrees). Take off heat.

We boil until 237 or 238 degrees.

Add chocolate, marshmallows and vanilla and stir until smooth and marshmallows are completely melted (there should not be any white streaks of marshmallow). Pour immediately into a buttered dish.

Add in chocolate and marshmallows.

Immediately pour into buttered pan.

Allow to cool before slicing. You will want to slice the entire batch at one time. If you let the batch set completely and slice only as you need, it becomes more difficult. We let it sit for about 2 hours and then start cutting. But leave it in the pan and only take out the pre-sliced pieces as you serve. If your batch will last a few days (meaning you won't eat it all by yourself for dinner), you don't want to pull it all out because the sides can dry up.

When we make it, we use a 13x9 glass baking dish and cut into small pieces - about 3/4 inch square. Now that we're older and can't eat absolutely everything in sight without repercussions, it sticks around for a number of days. You can store in the refrigerator and then take out for about an hour before serving (or snacking). It softens as it comes up to room temperature. You can also store in air tight containers in the fridge for about one month. It will dry out a little.

It sets up quickly. Don't use a knife to spread out, or your top won't be as smooth.

Muffin papers add a nice touch for serving or if you want to give as a gift.