Sometimes designs outlive their usefulness and utility which happened to be the case of the collapse of the arbor at the top of the stairs leading to the Chauffeur’s Quarters. The former arbor was a combo meal deal of manzanita and a live grape vine and when it fell it fell – the grapevine snapped so everything had to be removed and redesigned.

Not wanting to lose momentum and the grace of the fair weather, we forged ahead correcting the design flaw in the back of one set of chairs that caused the back cushion to escape the moment someone sat down.

With the delivery to Mike and Katie of all our new fabric, we decided to launch into painting prep on the millions of pieces of outside furniture – scraping and sanding is paramount and the Captain is replacing all the rubber padding on the glass-topped tables.

Our latest project gives a new definition to a ‘mommy make-over’ and while it will take us several months to finalize, we believe our guests deserve an updated look and feel for summer relaxing in the gardens.

In 2008, I was given the vision to expand the atrium to the size that you have grown accustomed to as it is now. We landscaped the south garden with a couple of main features including a large fountain, a Leo Shakespeare sun dial and a long-awaited Cecile Breuner climbing old-fashioned rose bush, which has flourished there ever since.

As we continue going from room-to-room, it seems we are never without a little something something requiring our attention. Even some of the green snowbirds are getting a refreshing early spring jumpstart.

We continue to SALLY FORTH paying attention to tidying up details and spreading our wings. Alysa, Joshua, and even Miss Krystianna, each tried their hands at leading the breakfast service. Their offerings were all incredibly well-received by guests and further speaking to serving and improvising on our eclectic menu selections.

From our home (your home away from home) and hearts to all of you, please accept our red envelope of blessings and our most prosperous wishes for the new year filled with ADAPTABILITY RESOURCEFULLNESS GRACE INTELLIGENCE and INTUITION

There is nothing quite like starting your day with a breath-taking view and a mouth-watering breakfast. Imagine enjoying your morning meal and cup of hot whatever while basking in a stunning sunrise?!?

My Quaker granny annie continuously asked me during my childhood if I could ‘make myself useful as well as ornamental,’ meaning, “Get with it!”