Encil House

Fork Farm

2011-11-12T10:43:00.001-08:00

A few weeks back we ventured to our new farm in the Okanagan an hour outside of Osoyoos in Grand Forks. In the middle of October there were still apples on the trees. We got as many as we could on move in weekend but wow, can't wait to head back up in the Spring to plant the veggie garden. Can you believe my mum-in-law at almost 93? And how cute is little C? Seriously!

Our Belgian Friends

2011-11-12T10:33:00.000-08:00

I know it's been ages and ages but it's been a busy summer. Before I write my next post I wanted to share some photos from some guests that made our summer most amazing. The pictures speak for themselves but I have to say, how many guests come and cook dinner for us?! This was a first and we hope to repay the gesture one day, perhaps this spring when we go to Europe! Miss you guys if you are reading xo T, K, B, W and little C

Salt Spring Island

2011-07-10T20:15:00.000-07:00

I have to say, even though we just took three ferries to return home from Salt Spring Island, it was so worth it. What a beautiful, natural, eclectic place. Keith and I celebrated our 5th year anniversary this weekend. By way of tradition, we take turns on who makes the arrangements to celebrate. This year was my turn. At recommendation years ago from my friend Reine and again from Lucile at Arts Umbrella, I booked us into the Hasting House Hotel. What a treat especially with a farm acreage on our minds. Detailing, charm, great service, delicious food, Molton Brown, spa, garden, garden and more garden, picnic, the most amazing market. Where do I start? A few pics from the weekend.

Off-grid Mountain Somewhere Final part Four

2011-06-19T22:18:00.000-07:00

Farewell off-grid mountain dream. Sweet dreams. x

Off-grid Mountain Somewhere Part three

2011-06-19T22:09:00.000-07:00

Off-Grid Mountain Somewhere Part two

2011-06-19T22:02:00.000-07:00

More of the amazing property

Off-grid Mountain Somewhere

2011-06-19T21:48:00.000-07:00

So Keith and I have been travelling in search of our Mountain retreat in BC or Alberta. There have been many pretty spots but none that compare to this setting. We love this place. Unfortunately they did not accept our offer :( It is everything I had envisioned and more. Five acres by a lake 5 minutes from town. Convenient but completely away from it all. Have it in my head how I would create upon it. Whites, creams, simple and rustic yet extremely considered. A very well maintained log home, an amazing fishing pond and gazeebo for outdoor dining, a chicken coup, a guest cottage, ultimate privacy, a clothes hanger, porches, and the most beautiful barn I have ever seen. The people that own this property have so much house pride and have created something amazing. Swoon.

Have totally lost track of time

2011-06-13T21:06:00.000-07:00

So it's been pretty amazing discovering our own province and now a piece of Alberta. As Keith says, we have driven Europe and back already and we're only about half way through our trip. I'm sharing a few pics of tonights dinner at Sue and Scott's (we're now in Calgary). What an incredible feast! Keith and I are back at our hotel and still talking about it as we lay here ready to sleep. Appies of prawns and stuffed mushrooms, the most amazing tender beef slow roasted on the bbq spit, roast potatoes, fresh as fresh mozarella and tomato salad, arugula flat bread, crab legs done in white wine and garlic and a horseradish dip that I couldn't get enough of. And to top it off, our favourite Rose. How did they know? The weather worked in our favour with the rain disapearing just in time to enjoy our meal outside on their beautiful deck. Christian loved their dogs and we love Sue and Scott. So excited to be spending the rest of the week with them. Hmmmm.. Love life's moments like this.

Good morning Day 2

2011-06-01T11:40:00.000-07:00

Sweet crisp morning on the Sunshine Coast And to think, we're going to get the Hockey Game here too!

Road Trip Day 1

2011-05-31T22:29:00.000-07:00

So really, I cannot imagine a more amazing way to start our vacation throughout our beautiful province starting on the Sunshine Coast. First Stop: Sakinaw Lake Lodge. Christian has loved it so much he takes every opportunity to delay napping. You boat over the lake to the off-grid refuge. Garett and Liza have created the perfect sanctuary for their newest addition to their family, 6 week old baby Safeena where it feels nothing like roughing it. What stories she will one day tell. The crew is with us, Mum, Wela, Cassandra, Keith, myself & Christian. Enjoy the photo's. There will be more taken over the next 24 hours I am sure.

Circle Farm Tour stops 2, 3 & 4

2011-05-28T22:43:00.000-07:00

After the Blackberry B&B / Farm stop I took the girls to one of my favourite places. You may have recalled a post last year on Mother's Day at the Limbert Mountain Farm. Well, the girls loved it. An herb farm, with a cooking school, tea house, and general store. Our next stop after that was to The Farmhouse Natural Cheese. Bit stinky but I was able to pick up some goats milk for Christian while I was there and the girls got some photos with some horses. We then drove past a beautiful Hazelnut farm that I dreamed Christian might run through one day (secretly I want to run through one day!) and then ended our tour at The Back Porch. There we hung out with the goats and some pigs, the chickens and I got a good look at the coop (I'm really into chicken coops at the moment). They have fresh roasted coffee beans and beautiful pottery. I love how people create livings for themselves based on where they want to live. I love that. Kind of like Keith and I on the Sunshine Coast.

1 of a few posts from spring girls weekend in Harrison

2011-05-27T22:32:00.001-07:00

So I almost can't wait anymore to get our photos together to write these posts. I must start and will by sharing our Saturday with you all. The Agassiz Harrison Mills Circle Farm Tour was awesome. We all had so many "this is our speed" moments. Especially after the crazy Friday we had in search of Sasquatch. Our first stop was to look at the sweetest lambs that had just been shaved. Of course there was just one black sheep in the mix. We noticed a farmer in the field and stopped to say hello. He noticed right away that with a truck full of girls, we must have been up to a girls weekend. He had a sign at the end of his property advertising fresh home made pies so we stopped and bought a few including some fresh eggs and blackberry jam. Fiona bought a lemon meringue, Louise bought a berry one and I bought strawberry rhubarb as a thank you to my Dad for helping to organize the weekend. We fell in love with the property. A good old fashioned red barn scene. Just as you would dream it. Free range chickens, a farm industrial kitchen, a few big dogs on the porch and as luck would have it - they run it as a B&B and call it the Blackberry B&B. Certainly on my list for the next time we're in Harrison.

Proud Parents

2011-05-27T21:53:00.000-07:00

it was such a nice surprise just now to find Christian's First Year captured on Sweet Heirloom's blog. Tanya and Meghan do such an amazing job of the little, intangible, special moments. My mind is racing on what we can create next together. How I would love to have them join us on our road trip! Maybe Mexico? Oooohhh now we're talking!

Sakinaw Lake Lodge here we come

2011-05-23T10:25:00.000-07:00

I'm getting really excited about heading out on our summer holidays a week Tuesday. Our first destination is the Sakinaw Lake Lodge. We've rented the whole thing so trying to get my girlfriend Reine to join us with Cassandra to stay in the tent. We're all on the pursuit of discovering what it's like to live off-grid. Garrett and Lisa (who just had a beautiful baby girl) have taken their entire resort off grid. Lots to learn about. Can't wait!

Old Picnic

2011-05-23T10:14:00.000-07:00

I am sooo excited to write about my past weekend in Harrison Hotsprings with my girlfriends. A H - M A Z I N G. Until I can group together the photos here are a few from a previous picnic to add to my picnic collection. Mum, Keith, Christian, May May and Maricel. Sweet summer 2010 moment. xT

Sleepover tents

2011-05-15T16:13:00.000-07:00

Such a lovely sleepover idea. Found via absolutelybeautifulthings

Function

2011-05-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

How's that for space saving?

The Zetter Townhouse

2011-05-07T15:34:00.000-07:00

So I guess I'm on a bit of a UK kick. Maybe because the football season is coming to an end. Our team ManUnited is playing Chelsea tomorrow and whoever wins, wins the league. We also play Barcelona in Champions League May 28th (ish). Wahoo! So for now I'll share a find called the Zetter Townhouse. We have family in London but we're always looking for a few days away in the heart of it all. This one is on our list. The stuffed bird is weird but loving the Unions Jack!

Daylesford Organic

2011-05-06T15:19:00.000-07:00

I found this amazing Farm in the UK called Daylesford . Their agri-tourism concept features their farm, a creamery, a bakery, a cooking school, a farm school, a spa barn, stores in London and one in Selfridges (pictured). Who doesn't want to be a farmer these days?

A Sunday Picnic

2011-05-05T20:07:00.000-07:00

With Mother's day approaching it's too bad the weather won't be as beautiful as it was last Sunday. We were at Robert's Creek beach and got stuck in, walked the sand and chilled for the afternoon. Soooo nice.

Vallarta Gardens in La Cruz

2011-05-01T07:58:00.000-07:00

So we just booked our winter holidays today. We're going to our mainstay Puerto Vallarta. Last year Playa del Carmen was super beautiful. I just don't think I can do the long, cross national flight again with the little one. PV is so easy with a direct 4 hour flight that doesn't run at a ridiculous hour. Makes the holiday a bit well, a little more like a holiday. In the past we've stayed at some gorgeous boutiques, waterfront hotels and we've rented a house. This time we've opted for renting a Villa in a gated resort community on the beach. One part house, another part hotel. There's enough room for us all, a spa, a restaurant, but we can also cook for ourselves, a private beach for the kids and three pools right outside our patio. It's located in LaCruz which means we need to drive to restaurants (or walk along the beach) if we want to go local but it's another type of vacation we're up to trying. It's a superb location for getting to other parts of the region - 15 minutes from Punta Mita, 20 minutes from Sayulita, 30 minutes from PV and 5 minutes to Bucerias. We're 8 months away but Keith is so excited about going I had to share it now.

Picnic Inspiration

2011-04-30T22:35:00.000-07:00

I am in one of those moods that I can't seem to shake this vision that I have. Picnics! So much so I have decided to dedicate an entire section to my blog on the subject. The Sunshine Coast has so many beautiful places and hidden coves to seek refuge. In fact I am going to make it my mission this summer to discover as many as possible. I love them because they are spontaneous, they celebrate fine details in their purest simplicity and of course, it's centred around slow eating of decadent food, crisp wine and usually the company of special people. To get me started I found these more urban picnic shots from thejewelsofny - two inspirational girls living their dreams

Hotel Hafa

2011-04-30T11:34:00.000-07:00

My girlfriend Kerry asked me where to go in Mexico that's low key, local and off the beaten track. Although Sayulita is far from a secret anymore there's still a low key Mexican vibe. Last year when we were there my girlfriend Louise drove up to check it out after the storms. It's supposed to be pretty cleaned up now. KDM check out Hotel Hafa. It's owned by one of the Mignot sisters.

Colors of food

2011-04-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

Simple inspiration as we embark on dinner tonight. Beautiful from What Katie Ate and Babylonstoren.

Dressing Rooms

2011-04-02T22:22:00.000-07:00

I know it's a bit random but I came across these dressing room photos and wanted to share. There were many that I found that we're very organized with lots of built in cabinetry but I quite loved the random nature of these ones. Swoon.

Babylonstoren, South Africa

2011-03-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

My friend David sent me this link of inspiration asking me if I wanted to re-design our Encil House website (I am forever gratelful for him designing our current site). I am totally side tracked trying to think of ways that I can make it to Cape Town, Cape Point South Africa. Babylonstoren is one of the best preserved werfs (farm yards) in the Cape Dutch tradition. Not only the manor house from 1777, but pioneer structures all the way back to the founding of the farm in 1690! It's all of my favourite things rolled into one. Lots of land, a working farm, spa, pool with a view, the most amazing garden (OMGoodness!), winery, divine food, sweet accommodations all packaged up into an agri-tourism business no one can resist. Pour yourself a glass of wine for exploring this place. You will need it!

Breakfast in Bed

2011-03-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

As we clean up the house and property for Spring, I am inspired by these breakfast in bed images. The bento box is functional but now that I've looked at it a few times, I don't think it's that appetizing. I prefer things not so organized. Something about leaving things just as they are. The solitary pic is a fave. I often wonder why more women don't travel on their own. I used to love it.

Road Trip

2011-03-25T09:58:00.000-07:00

Keith and I have booked our family holiday this year and we're doing something completely different - we're going on a road trip in June to discover the BC and Alberta Rockies. We're travelling with Christian, our nanny and my 92 year old mother-in-law so we've rented a motorhome of sorts. I didn't want big, but still wanted flexibility with a washroom and little kitchen. Keith wanted a gas saver so we opted for this "agile" RV. While I was searching I came across this old school one too. Love it. For RV information you can learn a lot here. I'm looking forward to writing from the road come June.

Win a two-night stay at Encil House

2011-03-20T10:10:00.001-07:00

Follow my blog and be put in a draw to win a two-night stay at Encil House. Join now until end of day Monday (March 21). The draw will take place Tuesday AM. Best of luck!

The Post Hotel

2011-03-19T10:09:00.001-07:00

While I was writing my entry yesterday on the Dunton Hot Springs property it reminded me of one of my favourite trips Keith and I ever took. We attended the wedding of our friends Sue and Scott in Lake Louise at The Post Hotel. The setting is beautiful. The hotel itself is very understated like most Relais and Chateau properties are but something about this one is special (I am pretty sure the wedding also had something to do with it). I remember them having a great dining room and an incredible wine list. We stayed in one of the rooms but they also had riverside cabins that I remember wanting to return to. Of course you can stay in the famed Fairmont on Lake Louise but the Post is a little more discreet and private. Loved it.

Dunton Hot Springs

2011-03-19T08:48:00.000-07:00

So I've been on a search for cabin inspiration as Keith and I are looking for a Rocky Mountain getaway. I came across this amazing place called Dunton Hot Springs. It's a small and exclusive resort nestled deep in the San Juan Mountains of the Colorado Rockies. It's a restored ghost town that thrives on contradictions which I love. Rugged outdoors and lush interiors, awesome food and spa pampering with hard core outdoor activities! There's obviously the hot springs but a waterfall and outdoor sacred place to get married too. If you have $18,000. a night, you can rent the whole town (I mean it does sleep 42 and include meals). Amazing. Love the Tee-Pee.

Canada Goose

2011-03-05T08:35:00.000-08:00

Found this divine bed albeit I imagine cold on Jonas Ingerstedt (photographer's site). This picture has been fittingly titled Canada Goose.

Impromptu girls weekend on the Coast

2011-02-27T08:59:00.000-08:00

My girlfriend Cassandra dropped by on Friday night and well, hasn't left yet. Good conversation lead to a sleepover and a Saturday afternoon of snacking on baguette, pate, cheese and of course a nice bottle of Cabernet Merlot from Mission Hill. Inspired by my new favourite cookbook, Donna Hay Seasons, we made crunchy pork cutlets with winter slaw and parsnip mash. Dessert was warm, home baked, cinnamon rolled, maple apple cakes that we can't take any of the credit for. Our Nanny Maricel did an amazing job! After dinner we watched the Social Network (crazy!) and woke to a beautiful winter wonderland, climbed in the hot tub and took my little boy into his first experience of snow. Like that wasn't just all amazing, I am writing this now recovering from brunch of soft poached Vitala eggs on top of home made crab cakes, pan fried potatoes and hollandaise. So yum! You probably get by now that Cass is my favourite foodie friend (of almost 21 years!) Love impromptu weekends on the Coast.

Sweet Sunrise

2011-02-13T09:32:00.000-08:00

Little C and I catching the Sunrise from our deck. Love.

Happy Birthday Little One

2011-02-08T07:39:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we celebrated Christian's first birthday in Vancouver. We rented a penthouse suite in the old school Sylvia Hotel. An ancient landmark on the Beach in English Bay. (This place oooozes potential for an exquisite boutique hotel. LIke the Wedgewood but in a waaaay better location!) We baked cookies and served yummy and healthy Vitala Milk. Here are a few teaser pics Sweet Heirloom just sent me. Happy Birthday today Christian. Mama and Dadda love you.

Winter Warmer for Previous Guests

2011-01-28T08:09:00.000-08:00

We wanted to offer something special to our previous guests so created our Winter Warmer. $100./ for bed and breakfast, the same features our guests are accustomed to plus a little extra. As long as we live here, we never get tired of the ever changing views. Winter is so beautiful. Grateful for where we live!

Eau water...

2011-01-26T17:18:00.000-08:00

The beach in Playa del Carmen is really, really beautiful. I haven't been to a lot of beautiful beachy places in my life like the Phillipines or the mico island chains that are on my list. Austrialia is beautiful but i have to say this was really beautiful. (I think I said that already). We also ventured upon a river as well (Keith pictured). Little C and me are just for fun.

Tulum

2011-01-26T17:04:00.000-08:00

So unfortunately I fell ill on the day Keith and I were supposed to go to Tulum but luckily K's son-in-law John quickly stepped in to join him. How beautiful is this place? Really? The postcards you see really don't do the place justice Keith says. The history buff that he is had him loving the tour! John liked the beach and our Nanny Maricel took the day to go see it for herself too. Envious I am but happy to be sharing them here.

Waaaay too long but hey, we've been travelling

2011-01-26T16:50:00.000-08:00

It has been ages since my last post but then again, we have been travelling. We went to an easy all inclusive with family and friends for the holidays which was perfect for ages of 10 months to 92 years old. This was a great vacation with lots of great memories. Tres tres deal too! I'll get caught up and sign a few posts. BlueBay Grande Esmeralda is in the Mayan Riviera/Playa del Carmen. The beach is Mongrove but still nicer than any of the alternative beaches back in BC. The hotel itself was good food (for a buffet, no really it wasn't bad at all) and the resort was more contemporary and quite tasteful for a big huge all inclusive type. We liked it a lot.

Eastern Style

2010-11-20T09:10:00.000-08:00

Oooh love the color!

goergous spread

2010-11-13T09:05:00.001-08:00

This bed spread is soo beautiful. Trying to remember where I found this one but I think this bed is Kate Hudson's bed.

Fave meal

2010-10-11T20:40:00.000-07:00

So we took a few days and went to Punta Mita for Canadian Thanks giving and landed ourselves at a sweet little place on the beach for dinner on Saturday (and Sunday) night. Mexican food done traditionally like art. Rosa Mexicana I could only find a few images shown through google but took some myself. Guacamole made table side, organic tequila, Lobster tacos, cream kahlua afterdinner drinks made like a milkshake and more. Beautiful view and amazing service. The owner used to be the manager at Cafe des Artiste at the namesake hotel (we stayed at) and opened his own with another chef. Amazing. Well worth the drive and a night over in Punta Mita for those staying in the PV area.

Dugarels

2010-10-05T14:52:00.000-07:00

We (Keith, Mum, Maricel, Sara, Kayden, Christian and Louise) decided to hit dinner early to take in some of the sunshine (and get our boys to bed somewhat early). Good thing we did. The views, the light, it was stunning. A great night at Dugarels in Bucerias.

Sweet Serenade

2010-09-28T10:53:00.000-07:00

Last night we got rained in at Sandrina's. It's a great courtyard restaurant in the centre of Bucerias. The owner, Sandrina, remembered Mum as we celebrated her 90th birthday there almost 2 years ago (she's also got a picture of us on her site)! Best part of the night was watching Christian see the rain pour in literal buckets off the tarps they had set up. Well actually that was next to watching him be serenaded by some local musicians. He could not keep his eyes off of them. Mezmorized.

Hacienda Del Puente

2010-09-11T15:40:00.000-07:00

So Hacienda San Angel has finally launched a site that is soon to be the gateway to yet another extraordinary property. I've just signed up for their waiting list. I'm not sure what I am waiting for exactly but to be notified of the completion of their two year renovation of Casa Kimberley - Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor's Gringo Gulch abode - Hacienda Del Puente Janice Chatterton always amazes me. I am sure it's going to be beautiful. Why I love PV and Gringo Gulch!

Bucerias Bound

2010-09-11T08:01:00.000-07:00

Next week we have family arriving for our son's Christening and then we're off to PV. We've rented a house for almost 6 weeks in a little fishing village north of Puerto Vallarta called Bucerias. It's the first time we've tried this and for an extended amount of time. Looking forward to living like the locals. We usually stay at our friends B&B and looking forward to seeing them again. Friends will also be joining us. Sara and Jay for two weeks, Louise for one, Bette and Brad for the last two weeks. Can't wait to show them our favourite haunts and to also hook up with Peter and Deb in La Cruz who have rented a villa on the beach for 6 months! Sunshine, sand, guacamole here we come. Maybe Christian can learn a little spanish too!

A bed of roses

2010-09-10T10:06:00.000-07:00

How much do you love this bedspread? Maison Moschino. Must check out this hotel in Milan totally aligned with the Moschino brand and the platform of "fairy tail"...

Sweet & Serene

2010-09-05T11:37:00.000-07:00

As we near the end of summer (ok, it is end of summer but I am in denial) I found this image of a floating bed on a lake. Reminds me of Lost Lake in Whistler although I cannot wait to visit my friend on Sakinaw Lake at his Lodge. Sweet & Serene. For more pics of this photographer go here.

Princess and the Pea

2010-08-29T10:44:00.000-07:00

One of the most famous beds in literary history. I think it would also make a great sleep over idea for a little Girls Party.

Chasing Clean Air

2010-08-27T14:08:00.000-07:00

We recently had the pleasure of meeting a fun woman from California who writes a blog called Chasing Clean Air . She stayed with us as her jumping off point for the rest of the Coast. Her article just came out (thank you Donna from the great mentions!) and I highly recommend getting versed on what she has to say about clean air in general. Good luck on the movement Donna!

pasture bed

2010-08-22T19:40:00.001-07:00

Chalkboard painted backdrop bed

2010-08-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

Found on Poppytalk (Canadian design blog and marketplace). V. Fun.

potting shed inspiration

2010-08-11T11:29:00.000-07:00

I have been bugging Keith to allow me to re-do our potting shed and collecting lots of inspiration - "not until next year", unfortunately. Check out the floor of this one pictured. For me I see a big chandelier, a gold embellished mirror and lots of organization!

Fashion stylist's bed

2010-08-10T12:08:00.000-07:00

Love the Asian nature. A hint more turquoise would make it perfect. Maybe some fresh roses with a golden yellow hue.

Introducing the Daily Bed

2010-08-09T11:51:00.000-07:00

In honor of our beloved shut eye, Encil House will now scan the globe for that sacred place we call bed.
Relevance? The bed in "bed & breakfast". For this one you can find it at this photographer's site here.

breakfast

2010-08-02T08:04:00.000-07:00

I found these great food shots of breakfast and posting it relevant to the "breakfast" in bed & breakfast... The first shot is Vanilla Goat's milk yogurt, homemade granolla and lemon curd. Jen Causey the food photographer has a book dedicated completely to my favorite meal of the day. It's on my list to get for our guests.

Date Night

2010-07-30T09:23:00.000-07:00

Keith and I had our first date night in a while. Didn't go far but we didn't really have to. Basically pulled up some loungers, sat out on the deck and ordered a movie off itunes and enjoyed a big huge bowl of cherries our neighbour brought us back from the Okanagan. Oh yes, and the view. Sweet summer moment. Why we love the Coast.

Ah Italy

2010-07-29T15:13:00.000-07:00

My friend David who owns a great luxe designer store in the city called Provide (we splurged and got some of our accessories for the lower carriage house suite from there) just sent me this link as he knows how much I love Tuscany. This place is called Castello di Vicarello - beautiful. Another fantasy is to convert a farmhouse there. Good thing, renting one is much easier!

A pinch me moment

2010-07-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

The other evening our neighbour and good friends, Brad and Bette Sterling invited us to dinner. Our combined homes are really just one big home. They are actually why Keith and I moved to Coast in the first place. Keith and Bette used to work together and we would visit them often. They have the most amazing orchard. It was a pinch me moment it was so beautiful. The top picture is the view taken from the middle of it. The plum tree has gone crazy. Bette and I looked up a bunch of yummy plum recipes to get us inspired. I'm trying to convince her to join the Fiddlehead Farmer's Market with me and bring her fruit. We also got brainstorming as they too operate a bed & breakfast called the Ocean Ridge Retreat. Combined we can accommodate 5 couples so we will probably do some joint marketing. I am so inspired right now.

Chaster's Restaurant

2010-07-25T18:49:00.000-07:00

My first time ever to the Sunshine Coast brought me to Bonnie Brook over 13 years ago. As I drive around the bend to discover the bay I still get goose bumps with anticipation. Luckily for Gibson's, Lina, the new owner of the Inn and Chaster's Restaurant have turned it into a "must" for anyone's Sunshine Coast bucket list. The only true fine dining in Gibson's in a charming waterfront setting. However as a local, I frequent their Sunday brunch - the best eggs benedict anywhere although I take turns with their chicken tarragon crepes that are really to die for. The weekend before last Keith and I took Christian. We always love it.

Laughing Lemon at the Fiddlehead Farmer's Market

2010-07-25T00:41:00.000-07:00

It's been a week since my last post. I've been busy launching a little venture called Laughing Lemon. It's a hand made delicacy company focussing on everything to do with Lemons. Today was opening day at the Fiddlehead Farmer's Market. I'm looking forward to sharing some of the treats with our guests.

Best ice cream outside of Italia

2010-07-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I've touted Gibson's horn about having the best drinking water in the world. How can I possibly do it again about the world's most beloved dessert? Tucked in a little hole in the wall in lower Gibson's is Mike's Place that sells Mike's Gelato that is amazing. The creamy texture, the exacting flavours. Their dark chocolate is in our books, the best ice cream in the world. And trust us, we've had a lot of it!

Molly's Reach

2010-07-16T05:08:00.000-07:00

How could anyone have a blog about Gibson's and not mention Molly's Reach? The Beachcomber icon offers daily breakfast, lunch & dinner. A great place to sit and enjoy the harbour view. Not so well known is their carrot cake but it is the absolute best. You cannot go their without trying some (or buying one in its entirety and taking it home) or one of their other yummy desserts . This establishment knows how to bake! So much so we ordered a couple hundred truffles for our wedding a way back.

Relais & Chateau in Mykonos

2010-07-13T06:08:00.000-07:00

This past Fall we went to Mykonos at the recommendation of our good friends. We stayed at a R&C boutique called the Myconian Ambassador, a stones throw to the beach. It had a great pool (although frightfully chilly in Oct) and a beautiful spa we frequented a few times. They also had really great bath products - a Greek organic line called Korres (nice packaging) and our favourite mainstay Molton Brown. Keith thinks it's ridiculous I even mention bath products but it was a really good feature and I think most of you out there would probably appreciate it. I know I would!

Punta de Mita Mexico

2010-07-12T08:00:00.001-07:00

Our honeymoon was a three-parter. One part Gringo Gulch, one part Sayulita and a third Punta Mita. We stayed at this really lovely place right on the beach in Punta de Mita called fittingly Casa de Mita. Not the Four Seasons Punta de Mita but the more remote, however just around the corner on a beautiful stretch of residential private beach, and no $15. drinks, Punta de Mita. It's a very small, few room boutique all inclusive. Great value back in 07 however I'm guessing a few people have caught on as its a little heftier these days. Regardless of the increase it's fantastic. Be sure and book a night of dining on the beach.

Food

2010-07-11T15:28:00.000-07:00

As many know, I prepare a fixed Italian dinner out on the deck Saturday evenings for guests who want to take advantage of the weather and view. Since I am home this summer with our baby Christian I've been doing it other nights as well. Last night was fun. I prepared a grande platter of antipasti (wish I had a pic) as well as other really yummy food including Tiramisu for dessert that I have the best recipe for while spending part of a summer in Italy many moons ago. Pictured: Base for Spaghetti Vongole ( I put a mass of Savoury Island Clams on top), Home made fried Polenta with Rosemary, White pizza that I turned into Flat Bread with pear, pine nuts, mushrooms and a hint of truffle oil and my favourite of the evening, Italian sausage kabobs. These I skewered using fresh Rosemary sticks and flavoured with sage from the garden and pieces of marinated pancetta. Sooooo good! (I thought I'd start the pics with my Mum-in-law who deserves all the clean up/sous chef kudos - she's 91!)

Best water in the World, no seriously

2010-07-05T06:49:00.000-07:00

When we first visited Gibson's people would keep telling us they had the best drinking water in the world. Being from BC we were "well, of course" however we didn't realize they meant literally. Very conveniently located in lower Gibson's beside the Museum is a place to fill up bottles. Our guest Kevin Glenney did this before he left on his biking adventure.

2010-07-02T14:09:00.001-07:00

If you take a drive up the Coast along the way before you hit Seachelt you will drift through a little coastal community called Davis Bay. There's a beach that many frequent that overlooks Vancouver Island but one of our summer favourites is to visit Feastro's - a bistro on wheels. These kind of trailers usually offer greasy goods but this one is all about Fresh. My favorite items are the fish taco's but they also do a mean pulled pork sandwich. Not your usual walk-a-long fair.

Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach

2010-06-15T08:00:00.001-07:00

Cabo always makes a great destination. More American than the rest of Mexico but nonetheless has enough Mexican flavour to feel like a real holiday. I was reminded of this place the other day when our friend Tanya asked me where she and her family could go on a hot holiday this winter. It's on the Pacific side so the bonus is it's more remote (which we like) and more understated than some of the big huge hotels downtown. The downside is you can rarely swim in the beach (which is sad as it's so beautiful) as the Pacific side is very rough and sometimes dangerous. Rooms are really generous (we had a two bedroom suite that was very nice). Their huevos rancheros are still on my crave list. Image courtesy Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach.

Sita's Spag Shack

2010-06-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

In lower Gibson's is Sita's Spag Shack an Itallian eatery serving you guessed it spaghetti and other primarily pasta creations. They have a lower take out window as well as a great deck overlooking the water perfect for sunny summer nights. Portions are generous and two can usually share a salad and a pasta and be very content.

coqui coqui

2010-06-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

The big picture fantasy for our retirement is to run Encil House in the summer and run a boutique place in Mexico during the winter. There have been many Mexican vignettes that inspire us but nothing like the colonial architecture and haciendas of the Yucatan. Pictured is Coqui Coqui in Tulum created by Nicolas Malleville. I first found this on The Selby. So inspiring I can't stop dreaming about it. Keith and I are going to venture to their spa when we are in the Mayan with family and friends this December. Cannot wait! - Photos courtesy Coqui Coqui.

Hotel Kamandalu, Bali

2010-06-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite personal memories was finding this place back in 99 during a sabatical from work. My friend Jen and I arrived in the middle of the night to this place. We cried it was so beautiful. I swore I would return and did with Keith in 08 (it was the best place to finish Eat. Pray. Love). The photos cannot possibly capture the air. It is breathtaking. Hotel Kamandalu in Bali. Oh and did I mention the s p a?

Smitty's Oyster House - Gibson's Marina

2010-06-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

When our guests ask us where to go for eats in GIbson's, the first place we tell them is Smitty's Oyster House down in Gibsons's Marina. It's low key with fresh seafood. They have a sign above the bar "Eat or we both starve". We love to sit outside at their one long bistro table in the summer - a great place to get stuck in.

Gibson's Organic Honour Farms

2010-06-08T06:41:00.000-07:00

Honour shopping is one of the best things on the Coast. Whether you are in search for fresh cut flowers, biscotti, eggs, honey or in this case fresh organic vegetables, Reed Road in Gibson's has a host of different organic veggie farms that sell their freshest in season local fare. The Green Room, Backyard Bounty (love this name) and the original mainstay, Henry Reed. It's easy - drive up to their road side stand, pick your pleasure, leave your money in a box and be on your way.

Yes, more herbs

2010-06-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

Ok so I got a little flack from my friend Darci who commented on the fact I did an herb garden post the other day but failed to mention the amazing Mother's Day brunch (my first as a mother) we had at a BC herb garden this year called Limbert Mountain Farms. She's right. It's the most lovely spot close to Harrison Hot Springs on the Circle Farm Tour. We took our Mum's to the 12 o'clock seating and savoured amazing chicken tarragon crepes and herbal teas. The setting is very pretty with food service taking place in a yellow barn. It's also where I got all my herbs I potted as centre pieces for our wedding. I told you I was into herbs!

Herbs, herbs, fresh herbs

2010-06-05T11:49:00.001-07:00

I'm really into herb gardens at the moment. I have one (pictured with pots) but I keep asking Keith if we can build a "real" herb garden like the one at The Herb Farm in Woodinville Washington. This place is sweet. It's what most romantic domesticated types dream of. Fresh herbs, local ingredients from the Pacific Northwest, pot belly pigs. And although they have a great neighbouring boutique hotel, the Willows Lodge (which is where we stayed when I ventured upon it) they also have a guest house. It's one of the most celebrated restaurants in the US and it all started with a few chives. Zagat says it will be the best 4-5 hours you will spend in your life. It's definately on my bucket list.

Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa

2010-06-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

We received the most generous gift from our friend Jim for Keith's birthday. A few nights at the Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa. It's a very understated boutique hotel. The spa is petite but very good. The rooms are well appointed paying special attention to textures and design details. The restaurant food was also very good - both the fine dining and the pub. We were there during the month of February so the air was crisp, the pool steamy and the rooms cozy. It's a small property but very tasteful. Anyone wanting an authentic BC west coast getaway, this should be on your list.

our guest kevin

2010-06-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

This morning we saw off Kevin Glenney who is biking across Canada to raise awareness and money for Huntington's Disease. Check out his site (this guy is so interesting!) and wish him the best of luck. We were honoured for Gibson's to be his starting point and for Encil House to be his last night of luxury before his 3 month adventure!

Olivia Plaza Hotel - Barcelona

2010-06-03T09:30:00.000-07:00

Barcelona is our favourite European city. The Port, Gaudi, Picasso, Miro, tapas...The Gothic district is so inspiring. It's the perfect blend of old and new. The Catalunians have the best design taste (my humble opinion). We've stayed in a number of boutiques (B is full of them!) but the Olivia presented us with the best view and location so far. We have it on our list to stay at the Camper Hotel next!

Dave Coyle Country Woodwork in Gibson's

2010-05-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

When we first moved to Gibson's on the Coast I couldn't get enough of Dave Coyle's furniture. I think we have over 15 pieces in (and outside) our house! Visiting his store became a bit of a hobby and for those visiting us. It only made sense when we needed some custom pieces for the B&B Carriage House we got him to help. Pictured is the kitchen and bathroom sink for both the lower and upper suites. I love how he was able to do his traditional country look but also a contemporary one too. We were really happy and would recommend our Australian friend to anyone.

The GB - Athens Greece

2010-05-23T17:01:00.000-07:00

One of the best views ever lives on top of the Grande Bretagne in Athens, Greece. Keith and I first stayed in 04 where we had the best pool lounge day ever overlooking the Acropolis. The time pictured was taken Fall of 09 when we took our good friends and Mum to enjoy their rooftop restaurant views. Generally the hotel is a little more snooty than I would prefer (beware the glares if you aren't carrying LV luggage) but when in Athens why stay anywhere else?

Our PV Hideaway

2010-05-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

Well it should only be fitting that our first post honors our favorite little boutique hotel inPuerto Vallarta. Perhaps our favorite little boutique anywhere - Hacienda San Angel. We first stayed here on our honeymoon and then kept coming back (4 times in 3 years!) We fantasize about staying in every one of their 8 room hotel but Janice Chatterton the owner keeps building! We can't wait to see what she has done with Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton's place - Casa Kimberley. This woman's attention to detail is unlike anything we've experienced including the 4am wakeup call to hot pastries and coffee. Very, very romantic.